Why Would You Need to Call AAA?

The AAA, or American Automobile Association, is a nonprofit federation of motor clubs that are independently owned and operated. This federation is known across the United States as the go-to place for help with travel planning and directions and roadside assistance. In order to take advantage of its many benefits, you need to be a member. You should make sure that you know the basics of AAA, the extent of assistance that they can offer, and the other benefits of membership. Make sure you contact your regional AAA office to find information that is pertinent to your area.

When You Need Roadside Assistance

One of the things that AAA is most widely known for is the roadside assistance. Members are able to call the regional office to get help if your car breaks down on you. Your membership will cover you even if you are not in your own car. If you are riding with someone who is not a member, you can still use your membership status to call for help for the vehicle in which you are a passenger. Roadside assistance would include towing service, battery charging, and provide referrals to auto repair shops that have been approved by AAA. Be sure to check with your regional office because since each office is independently owned, the terms for these services will vary. For instance, one office may provide towing service for up to three miles free while other offices will provide over three miles. The approved auto repair shops would include auto glass specialists, collision and body repair services, and other mechanical repair shops. You may also be able to find shops that provide general car maintenance to members free.

When You Need Directions or an Itinerary

Many people contact AAA for driving directions or for an itinerary for family vacations. You will be able to determine the amount of time it would take to reach your travel destination and which routes would be the best ones to take. You may be able to get information about the weather conditions of your destination as well as information about lodging, attractions, dining, and entertainment. Some offices can even give you information about road closings and detours and offer alternative routes you can take.

Other Things You Can Contact AAA About

This motor club has grown to include other services to its members, such as discounts from various retail partners such as hotels, restaurants, and other stores and retailers. You will be able to save money through your membership on items such as shoes, eyeglasses, toys, shipping, jewelry, and furniture. Since the organization already offer travel assistance, they also have a travel agency. Members can use the travel benefits even without driving to their destination by having access to discounts on car rentals, hotels, and airfare.  If you are arrested for a traffic offense, you can use their bail bond service, or their emergency cash acceptance program, which secures your written check if you need to pay for automotive services. The thing that most people appreciate is that the AAA provides a toll-free number that you can call around the clock so that you will be able to get assistance at any time you need it.   

The Training Regimen of ASE Master Technicians

Since technology keeps advancing in the automotive industry, it is important that mechanics remain knowledgeable about the changes. If your mechanic is an ASE master technician, you can be assured that they have the proper training, experience, and knowledge needed to provide you with the service that you need and want. This field continues to grow as the need for more mechanics grows. People are buying more than one car for their families. With all those cars on the road, you may be thinking of making a career change to capitalize on this growth. You need to know the steps that are involved in this career so that you can make the right career choice for you.

What is ASE?

ASE stands for Automotive Service Excellence.  The mission of this nonprofit organization is to certify mechanics with a series of tests so that the consumer receives the best repair service. Automotive shops that have ASE-certified mechanics will have the logo displayed on the premises. Since a car has several systems, ASE provides several certifications for each car system. If you need steering and suspension work done, you should look for a mechanic who holds an ASE master certification in suspension systems. If you are having electrical problems, you can look for a mechanic who holds an ASE certification in electrical systems. Although you will find mechanics that provide service that will rival a master technician, certification will assure you that the work will be approached with professionalism and proficiency.

Is School Needed for This?

To enter an ASE master certification program, you must possess a high school diploma. While there is no formal post-secondary school education track or training required, you could enroll in some mechanics courses at a technology school so you can become familiar with the basic tenements of vehicle repair. Some colleges offer associate degree programs in automotive technology that you may find beneficial to you. The degree program will help you to better assimilate the information you will learn in the certification training. The education and training you get at the technology school will give you a good foundation and will prepare you for the certification training. One of the most important things you can do before you take your exam is to get as much experience as you can. You will need at least two years of experience before you can obtain certification. Some employers will train you or offer you an apprenticeship where you will work closely with a mentor. 

How to Be Certified

In order to become an ASE master technician, you need to be able to pass eight examinations. The examinations will cover engine repair, steering and suspension, automatic transmissions, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, brakes, engine performance, and manual transmissions. You need to retake each exam every five years in order to maintain your master certification. You can conduct a search online or check with your local ASE-certified mechanics to get more information about the program and to find out testing sites, dates, and the cost of each test. Be aware that you will have to pay a fee for each specialty you choose to obtain certification.