Carfax or Autocheck? Which one is better? There are two options. Carfax collects data from every car on the Internet and compiles it to create a single report. This report includes everything from title transfers to theft reports, odometer readings to accidents and repairs. It's an excellent tool for comparing different cars. But there's more to the report than meets their eye.
Autocheck
Autocheck or Carfax is the right choice if you're looking to buy a used car. There are some differences between these two services, though, so it's important to choose wisely. AutoCheck's database has extensive information about nearly every car in the US, starting in the 1970s. This is useful for cars with a lengthy history, as well as those that have suffered recent damage.
The quality of the information provided by both services should be considered when comparing them. Carfax often provides more detailed information than Autocheck. It also has more data sources. Autocheck's data base includes information from more 34,000 sources. It also includes every Canadian province. The service also includes data from police, fire, and auto auctions. Additionally, both services comply with federal guidelines to disclose past accidents and thefts.
While the Carfax is the gold standard in vehicle history reports and may include a lot more information than an Autocheck report, it does not always provide the same level of detail. A small body shop might not report tree-damage accidents, but a large insurance company will. These reports include detailed information on the car's condition. For example, a 2008 Lexus ES 350 with a salvage title spent its life in Texas. Its Carfax report showed 25 service records, including a drive belt replacement. AutoCheck however only listed four.
Carfax
CARFAX and Autocheck are the two most important sources of information for used car buyers. The first is the most popular and longest-standing. It was founded in Columbia, Missouri in 1984. Founded with a play on the word "facts", the service quickly grew, reaching fifty states in 1993. Meanwhile, Autocheck is the second largest service, quietly growing for years. Experian is the owner of Autocheck. The company does not spend much time marketing. Instead, it focuses on building relationships and working with state motor vehicle agencies as well as car dealerships and auctions.
Both services provide a vehicle history report. Carfax can provide more detailed information, while AutoCheck is less expensive. It provides more precision and brand recognition than AutoCheck. You also get auction information. It doesn't matter which service you choose, having both options is a good idea. After you've decided which service you want, you should consider your budget and goals. The amount of detail that you need is what will determine the price.
An excellent way to learn about the history of a car is to use a vehicle report. Unfortunately, there are many ways to lose important information. For example, a body shop may not report a tree-damaged vehicle to Autocheck, while a prominent insurer will send these reports. These types of incidents are more likely to be ignored. You won't find the accident on your report if an auto shop doesn't submit it to an auto history.
FAQ
To be a car mechanic, do you need a degree? What about part-time study?
While a degree is not required, it does help. Employers are more likely to hire candidates who have completed a complete degree. It shows that you've put the effort in and have done everything possible to succeed.
However, it doesn't mean you can't still work while studying. Some universities allow students the flexibility to finish coursework during summer vacations and resume their studies later in year. Students can also take classes part time throughout the academic year.
What is the length of an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic?
It takes approximately three years to complete an automotive mechanic apprenticeship. It includes two years of school and two years as an apprentice. The first year teaches you all aspects, from theory to practical skills and safety procedures. During this time, you'll also learn how to use tools safely and efficiently. You'll spend the second year in on-the-job training, where you will gain experience in various trades. You'll have the opportunity to attend formal courses during these periods too.
The last year of your program will be spent earning qualifications and becoming certified. These include NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), that are given after passing specific industry exams. You can also get HNCs (Higher National Certificates), that cover subjects such as customer service, business administration, management, and business administration. City & Guilds certificates can be obtained for individuals who want to learn certain trades.
What type of job is there for a car mechanic?
There are three major areas of employment that car mechanics work in:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
Most people think of this as the first step to becoming a mechanic. In fact, it's probably the easiest way to get started. Either you can work in a shop that is owned by another person or start your own business.
If you plan to work in a shop, you must apply to join the union. Once you have been accepted into the Union, you'll be given training by the union.
Once the training is completed, you can start working.
Register with the government if you want to open your garage. You'll need to meet certain standards after you register.
When you've registered, you'll be given a license to operate your garage.
Your license allows you to sell spare parts and make minor repairs. It will not allow you to repair major engine problems.
As well as selling spare parts you will need to offer advice and direction to customers.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships only employ mechanics who have a specific skill set. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
However, some dealerships also hire general mechanics who can handle all aspects of car repairs.
These positions may require applicants to complete specific training before being allowed on the job. This means employers can choose which candidates are best suited for their role.
Some dealerships will even hire graduates right out of university. These graduates already have a basic understanding of mechanical engineering, so they are able to learn all about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages do not belong to any dealership. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Independent garages can pay higher wages because they aren't associated with any company. These jobs generally pay better than those at dealerships.
Independent garages can be just as good places to work, but this does not mean they are better. Many owners prefer to control their businesses themselves, rather than delegating it to employees.
You might find yourself working long hours but having no control over what happens in the day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
You can switch jobs easily. If you want to work at a dealership, then you simply need to ask your current employer if he would consider hiring you as a mechanic instead.
Alternativly, you can apply directly to the garage owner if you are interested in working at an independent garage.
The bad news? Finding a new position isn't always easy. Many other factors can also influence the amount you earn.
It could be the type and cost of labor you use to repair your vehicle.
How do I fix my car for a hobby?
You might be interested in cars as a hobby. It is possible to learn about cars, repair them, purchase parts, or simply enjoy them. This would be a wonderful hobby if you're looking to find something completely different.
But it is not easy to turn this into your full-time occupation. This requires dedication and hard work. Also, you will need to put a lot of money into it.
If you don't have any good reasons to be involved in cars, it may be better to just let it go.
What are the requirements for an automobile technician?
High school graduation or GED is required with excellent grades in English and math. Additionally, you will need to be proficient in reading and writing. You will need to pass a written test and then go through a series of practical exams before being allowed to start work.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
External Links
How To
How to become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she is employed at automobile dealerships, garages, service centres, and auto shops. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. A technician in automotive must be able diagnose and repair problems quickly, safely, accurately, efficiently, and effectively.
An associate degree should be obtained from a vocational school if you wish to work as an auto technician. After completing the program, he/she must pass ASE certification. ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. One section tests mechanical knowledge; the second section tests practical skills. To take the test, you must visit one of the approved testing locations. You can find these locations online or through your local automobile dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. This process is different depending on where you live. Some states require that applicants attend a training class, while others allow them freedom to study at their own pace. Some states permit technicians to work immediately after they are granted their license. Others require them to wait at least six consecutive months before they can be licensed.
To get started as an automotive technician, a person should apply to a local automotive dealership. Once hired, most new employees start out working as apprentices. Apprenticeships last for three years. Students learn basic repair skills such as changing oil and adjusting brakes, changing tires, cleaning spark plugs and inspecting engine compartments. Some students learn how to do advanced repairs, such as installing air filters, replacing shocks, repairing engines, and replacing transmission fluids. Schools offer classes during business hours. Some schools offer evening classes, however.
Once a student completes his/her apprenticeship, he/she becomes a journeyman. Journeymen typically spend four to five years learning how to install major systems, such as transmissions, differentials, steering gear, suspensions, and drive shafts. You will also learn how to repair complicated electrical components, as well as how to remanufacture engines and rebuild transmissions. Many employers prefer hiring journeymen because they know the job well and understand what the customer expects.
After passing the exams, candidates may be eligible to open their own shop if they pass all requirements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 1.7 million automotive mechanic jobs were available in 2010. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this number would rise by 18% from 2009 to 2020. The candidate should expect to invest thousands of money in equipment and supplies if he/she decides to start his/her shop.
The salary for an automotive technician depends on several factors, including the type of employer, location, education level, and experience. On average, an unemployed person could earn $20,000 annually. An individual with a high school diploma can earn about $21,000 per annum. Earnings for those with an associate's diploma are approximately $24,000/year. Technicians with a bachelor’s degree made about $27,000 annually. Master's degree holders make around $32,000 annually. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.