Knowing the difference between the different types of certifications will be very beneficial to you being able to make the correct choice on where to take your vehicle. In this article we will break down the different types of certification and help you choose where it is best to take your vehicle.
What Are The Different Types of Certifications?
Let’s take a look at the various certifications auto body repair shops can hold in New Jersey.
ASE Certifications
ASE, short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, is a trusted non-profit organization that sets the bar for excellence in vehicle repair. Their rigorous testing and certification methods ensure that auto professionals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide top-notch services to customers. When you see technicians with ASE certifications, you can rest assured that you are in good hands.
These certified professionals have gone through two years of training while working, or have completed a one-year automotive repair degree and one year of work experience. This means that they have a solid foundation and practical experience in the field. The process of becoming ASE certified involves technicians applying to take one or more of the 40+ certification tests available, covering a wide range of specializations such as collision repair, automobiles, trucks, and school buses, among others.
These tests are designed to assess the technician’s competence and proficiency in their chosen field. Thanks to ASE, consumers, auto shops, and technicians are protected from any guesswork in auto repair. So the next time you need professional auto services, look for the ASE certification and trust that your vehicle is in capable hands. Here at Elmer’s Auto Body, all our technicians proudly hold ASE certifications to serve you with the highest quality of workmanship.
I-Car Certifications
I-Car, an acronym for Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repairs, is a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting safer auto repairs. With the rapid advancement of technology in the automotive industry, it is crucial for technicians to stay updated and well-trained on repair techniques. That’s where I-Car steps in, providing a range of specialized training programs and certifications for technicians and other professionals in the auto repair community.
From welding training to reparability technical support and an introduction to collision repair services, I-Car covers a wide variety of classes across different categories. These courses are regularly updated to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of the auto repair industry. Additionally, shops can earn their own I-Car programs, such as the prestigious Gold Class or Platinum Class certifications. These signify that all structural technicians must meet Gold class standards and at least 50% of estimators, refinishers, and non-structural technicians must also be trained to these standards. This means that the shop has made a commitment to excellence in training and delivering high-quality repairs to their customers. In order to maintain these standards, shop technicians must complete a number of additional training requirements every year.
This ensures that they are up to date with the latest repair techniques and equipped to handle any job that comes their way. Ultimately, I-Car sets the benchmark for excellence in auto repair training, and their certifications serve as a testament to a shop’s commitment to providing top-notch repairs and ensuring the safety of their customers on the road.
Dealer Certifications
It’s important to choose an auto body shop that has the proper certifications in place. These certifications show that the shop has been approved by the vehicle manufacturer to handle repairs on their specific cars. Being certified by the manufacturer means that the shop has met and surpassed high standards for quality and precision in repairs. To maintain this status, the shop must use specific tools and have technicians trained to the vehicle’s exact specifications. Additionally, dealerships often require the use of OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts for repairs, ensuring the best fit and quality for your vehicle. So, when searching for an auto collision repair shop, it’s crucial to pick one that has received the stamp of approval from your car’s brand. This not only guarantees top-notch repairs but also supports the longevity and performance of your vehicle.
Why is Certification Important?
Auto manufacturing and repair have evolved significantly. In the past, an auto body shop was successful solely based on its excellent customer service and reputation. However, times have changed, and customers have become more informed and demanding. They now understand the value of additional certifications when it comes to choosing the right shop for their vehicle.
While customer service and a good reputation remain crucial, these factors alone are not enough. Customers want to ensure that their car is in the best and most capable hands. This is where OEM certification shines. It assures customers that the technicians working on their vehicle are highly trained and qualified. Moreover, this certification also guarantees a superior repair, which ultimately leads to satisfied customers and a trustworthy reputation for the shop.
But why is certification so important? It’s simple. It demonstrates the shop’s commitment to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest industry standards.
This dedication translates into providing customers with the highest quality repairs and services. By going above and beyond to achieve OEM certification, a shop is not only gaining the trust of its customers but also securing their satisfaction and loyalty. So, in today’s competitive auto market, certification is the key to gaining a competitive edge and sustaining a successful business.
How Can Elmer’s Auto Body Help You Today?
Deciding on the best place to take your car for repairs can be a daunting task, but keeping an eye out for certifications can help. Be sure to look for auto body repair shops in NJ that have I-CAR and ASE certifications, as well as good ratings and reviews. With these helpful tools, you can confidently choose the right place to take your vehicle!
If you need any repairs to your vehicle call in at Elmer’s Auto Body today. The team at our auto body repair shop in South Jersey are ready to repair your car back to its original form using quality parts and skilled labor. Give one of our locations a call to schedule an appointment or send us a message using the contact form.