What is ASE?
ASE is short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Since 1972, the independent non-profit organization has worked to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service by testing and certifying automotive professionals
Why ASE certification?
ASE certification is a method of validating the ability of automobile service professionals. Participation is completely voluntary, as there is no government regulation of who performs passenger motor vehicle service or repair. Many people assume that
there is regulation that governs us, but reality is that we are only subject to the general requirement of OSHA and EPA, for safety, health, and environmental concerns.
In order to establish qualification, all technicians at Cascade Automotive are ASE certified.
How does ASE certification work?
Certification is for a specific area of knowledge. There are many categories, tests, and certification levels. In order to become certified, a person needs to provide proof of actual related work experience, and pass the test specific to a certification.
The tests must be taken in a professionally monitored, controlled testing center. That’s right, ASE tests cannot be completed anywhere except in authorized test centers on dedicated test computers. Certification expires 5 years after the test is passed.
“ASE-certified” simply means that the certificate-holder has met the work experience requirement and pass one test within the last five years. The various categories of available certification include Automobile and Light Truck, Medium/Heavy Truck, and
Collision and Refinish. The list of over 40 tests is available here.
“ASE Master Certified” means that a series of certificates related to one vehicle type are currently held. The required tests for each Master Status are available here.
“Advanced Level Specialist” means that a combination of specific regular tests and a more extensive test have been passed, relating to knowledge of Engine Performance, Electronic Diesel Engine, or Hybrid/Electric Vehicles.
What does this mean for you?
It means that your automobile will be serviced by a professional who is educated and committed enough to validate his ability by getting tested and certified.
Does this make our service more expensive?
Some people think that this means that they will pay more for service. That is a valid concern, as we all know that vehicles are expensive to maintain and repair. However, that would go against the premise of Cascade Automotive, the desire to make your
vehicle costs as low as possible while keeping it in satisfactory condition. We have found that knowledge enables us to do better work and give you better information of your vehicle’s needs, which actually saves you money and frustration (not to mention,
makes driving safer)!
Cascade Automotive Repair and Services- home of ASE certified technicians in Estacada!