You may have heard us talking about how our master mechanics are ASE Certified. We're darn proud of that and it means our customers can trust that our guys really know what they are doing. But then we thought, "what if our customers don't know what the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is?" Well then, it's our job to let you know. So here’s an explanation and a link to the ASE website if you want to know more.

ASE Profile ( http://www.ase.com/)

Until the early 1970s, consumers had no way to distinguish between incompetent and competent mechanics. In response to this need, the independent, non-profit National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was established in 1972.

ASE's mission is to improve the quality of vehicle repair and service through the testing and certification of repair and service professionals.

At present, about 400,000 professionals hold current certifications. They work in every segment of the automotive service industry: car and truck dealerships, independent garages, fleets, service stations, franchises, and more.

Here's how ASE certification works: Prospective candidates register for and take one or more of ASE's 40-plus exams. The tests are grouped into specialties for automobile, medium/heavy truck, truck equipment, school bus, and collision repair technicians as well as engine machinists, alternate fuels technicians, parts specialists, auto service consultants, and collision damage estimators.

Upon passing at least one exam and after providing proof of two years of relevant work experience, the test taker becomes ASE certified. Certification, however, is not for life. To remain certified, those with ASE credentials must be retested every five years.

Paper/Pencil tests are conducted twice a year at over 750 locations around the country and are administered by ACT, known for its academic and occupational testing programs. In addition, selected tests are offered in a computer-based testing (CBT) format at 200 sites for two five-week periods each year. The exams stress knowledge of job-related skills. The tests are no cinch to pass; approximately one out of three test takers fails.

Motorists benefit from ASE certification. It is a valuable yardstick by which to measure the knowledge and skills of individual technicians as well as the commitment to quality of the repair facility employing ASE-Certified professionals.

ASE-certified professionals usually wear blue and white ASE insignia and carry credentials listing their exact areas of expertise (brakes, engine repair, etc.), while employers often display their technicians' credentials in the customer waiting area.

Motorists should look for facilities that display the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence® logo.

So the next time you see the blue ASE patch on the sleeve of your favorite Gatto's mechanic, you'll know you are getting the best service possible. And remember, these are also the guys who will conduct FREE inspections (see details here) and let you know if your ride is ready to go.

So come on in, say hi and get your
FREE STUFF from ASE Certified mechanics.

You can't beat that deal.

Pam