How to get a Volvo Dealer Certificate
Auto repair

How to get a Volvo Dealer Certificate

Since 1927, Volvo has been synonymous with the Swedish automotive industry. Their cars are known for their impressive engines, elegant aesthetics and comfortable interiors. Despite being a luxury car, the Volvo is also quite affordable. For these reasons and more, there are countless people in the United States who cannot imagine ever buying another type of car.

However, being a foreign car, they also need specialized technicians to keep their favorite cars running smoothly. That's why you shouldn't have too much trouble finding a job as an automotive technician if you're properly trained and certified to work with Volvo in a dealership.

Obtaining a Volvo Dealer Certificate

Like many car makers, especially foreign luxury brands, Volvo understands that their success depends on whether customers can find reliable mechanics to fix their cars when things go wrong. However, conventional mechanics will not help. Instead, Volvo needs someone who specializes in their unique brand.

That's why they teamed up with the Universal Technical Institute. UTI is known as the leading resource for mechanic education here in the United States. Their reputation spans over 50 years and includes the production of over 200,000 mechanics. It is well known in the industry that it is much easier for a UTI graduate to earn an auto mechanic salary far in excess of that of his peers.

So it makes sense that Volvo trusts this reputable organization with a dealer certification course. Known as SAFE (Service Automotive Factory Education), the training is one of the most elite you'll find on the UTI website. Again, this makes sense when you consider how demanding Volvo owners are about the well-being of their beloved cars.

To be accepted, you need:

  • Fill out an application
  • Meet specific requirements
  • attend interviews

In order to go through the application process and in particular to meet the aforementioned requirements, we recommend that you first apply for other technician jobs. You'll need enough real world experience to get a better chance of being accepted, as many other mechanics will be vying for the opportunity. Obviously, if you gain this experience while working for Volvo, it will only improve your chances.

SAFE course

If you are accepted into this exclusive course, you have 14 weeks of study ahead of you. Tuition is only available at UTI's Avondale, Arizona campus, so you will need to plan accordingly.

During your stay there you will take the following courses:

  • Engines
  • Engine management
  • Batteries and Charging Systems
  • Volvo automatic transmissions
  • Volvo climate control systems
  • Volvo System Tester Diagnostics Guided Diagnostics
  • MOST Network Diagnostics (Fiber Optic)
  • Car suspension

Best of all, after you complete this course, you will be able to get a job as a car mechanic focused on this luxury brand and earn money that those who work in a dealership for five or more years usually do not see.

Of course, there is also job security to think about. Volvo continues to gain popularity. The company is even releasing new models such as the XC90, S90 and V90. Combine this success with their enthusiasm for the market and you shouldn't have too much trouble finding a steady stream of work.

While the above may seem like a daunting task of learning - not to mention that many of you have to travel out of state - remember that Volvo Cars of North America pays for your education. In some cases, participating dealers will also participate subject to established terms and conditions of employment.

Volvo Master Technician Course

Many of you will be completely satisfied with the SAFE program and are reaping the rewards you deserve. However, for others, you may want to continue working towards becoming a Volvo Chief Technician, which will mean even more pay and security. However, it will take many more years to reach this level and you will need experience with Volvo cars in a real dealership, so there is no need to rush on your part.

That being said, if you're determined, try finding a job at a dealership that already has a Volvo Master Technician you can learn from. They will also be able to answer any questions you may have and make sure this is what you really want to do.

There is no shortage of auto mechanic jobs for those willing to go the extra mile and find an area to specialize in. While there are countless opportunities for this, focusing on Volvo will take you into a more niche market where owners are willing to spend big on their favorite cars. In just 14 weeks, you can be years ahead of your fellow mechanics in terms of pay, safety and satisfaction. Start the application process today and you will be much closer to a better future in the mechanical industry.

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.

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