How to get a MINI dealer certificate

You might want to start earning an auto mechanic salary or find training that can lead to a job as an automotive technician, but where do you start? While many people look to learn a skill or improve their current knowledge, your journey should start with your choice of vehicle. For example, if you want to be certified as a MINI Dealer, you must first explore the training options in your area.

Although the MINI brand is part of the BMW Group, it is so unique that the company has created a separate training program. The MINI STEP or Service Technician Education Program is only open to those already enrolled in an automotive school or college. This indicates that the program is very selective, accepting only the "best talent".

MINI STEP programs

The MINI STEP program is available at BMW STEP Training Centers (currently nine in the US and Canada). This is an 11-week program that requires the student to be flexible in terms of geography for both study and subsequent work. Students are required to be available for job offers with dealers prior to the last week of training.

Specially targeted at MINI vehicles, those who complete the MINI STEP program earn a MINI Level 1 certification and are considered among the most highly trained entry-level technicians available for hire at MINI dealerships.

MINI STEP at the Technical Institute

The BMW Group cooperates with many higher education institutions and colleges from which they recruit employees to participate in the MINI STEP program. A complete list of these programs can be found on the BMW STEP website. They have also teamed up with UTI to offer students the opportunity to earn a MINI level 1 certification in an 11-week program identical to that offered directly through BMW.

This program has the same rigorous selection process and students will be required to meet the same requirements and requirements. Training is provided by the sponsoring MINI dealership and also by MINI through the BMW Group. Since it is a partner of UTI, most graduates have many job opportunities after graduation.

Highlights of the MINI STEP program

During the training, graduates will receive four factory certificates, making them MINI level 1 technicians. Training is conducted in a classroom and hands-on environment, as well as eight online sessions that introduce various MINI systems. There are also special sessions dedicated to the latest MINI models. Upon completion, students will learn:

• MINI Basic

• MINI Drive Line - trains two car engines - W10 and W11, as well as transmissions (automatic and manual), engine management, suspension and steering, brakes and traction control.

• MINI R56 - allows students to learn about transmission, vehicle electronics and modules, driver information systems, bus systems, chassis dynamics and information and communication technologies in the latest models.

• MINI R60 - Introduces students to the new N16 and N18 engine technologies, as well as diagnostic equipment, bus systems, chassis dynamics and infotainment systems.

Whether you are currently studying at a technical institute such as UTI or just planning to become a MINI Dealer Certification, you can choose from one of the BMW programs or an affiliate program.

Regardless of the path you take to become a Certified MINI Dealership Technician, you will gain the necessary skills and knowledge to easily find employment with your sponsor or through a MINI Dealership.

If you are already a certified mechanic and would like to work with AvtoTachki, please apply online for the opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.