Trade Schools
If you live in Pennsylvania and you want to turn your passion for cars into a rewarding career, the auto mechanic profession is worth exploring.
Pennsylvania Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics can earn anywhere between $31,000 or less and more than $73,000 per year, with the average calculated at $50,380.
Salaries vary depending on experience, education, location, and a variety of other factors.
Before being ready to apply for your first position as an auto mechanic, you have to learn a few skills, such as:
- Performing diagnostic tests
- Conducting routine maintenance tasks
- Replacing worn and damaged parts
- Explaining vehicle problems to customers
- Maintaining records of the work performed
- Ensuring safety procedures are followed
Auto mechanic programs that combine classroom and hands-on training are offered at several colleges across the state.
Program duration ranges from a few months to two years, depending on the program and the credential it leads to.
To help you choose the program that best fits your needs, on this page, we have compiled information about the best auto mechanic schools in Pennsylvania.
1Automotive Training Center
About the School
Automotive Training Center offers programs across five fields of study at two campus locations in southeastern Pennsylvania.
ATC students learn vehicle diagnosis and repair from instructors certified by the ASE Education Foundation, I-CAR, the American Boat and Yacht Council, and MOPAR CAP.
Courses Offered
Students can enroll in the following programs of study:
- Automotive Technology (Day and Evening Programs)
- Automotive and Diesel Technology
- Automotive and Hi-Performance Technology
- Collision Reconditioning Technology
- Marine Service Technology
Automotive Technology students spend plenty of time learning key concepts and principles in the classroom, but about half of their time is spent in specialized labs.
The labs give students the opportunity to familiarize themselves with specialized equipment, such as Mustang chassis dynamometers, a Chief E-Z Liner frame bench, lifts, presses, and various measuring tools.
Contact Information
- Address: 114 Pickering Way, Exton, PA 19341
- Phone: 888-321-8992
- Website: https://autotraining.edu
2Penn Foster
About the School
Penn Foster offers an Auto Mechanic program that leads to a career diploma and can be completed in four months.
The online classes are available 24/7 on the computer.
The program prepares students for auto repair jobs in a variety of settings, from repair shops to dealerships.
Students learn about engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, and electrical/electronic systems.
The program prepares students to sit for ASE Certification exams.
The online programs are flexible enough for students to finish them at a pace that works for them.
The courses cover topics such as:
- Automotive Repair Foundations
- Engine Repair
- Automotive Brakes
- Suspension and Steering
Contact Information
- Address: 200 Hickory Street, Scranton, PA 18505 USA
- Phone: 800-275-4410
- Website: https://www.pennfoster.edu
3Pennsylvania College of Technology
Pennsylvania College of Technology offers an Automotive program that helps students fuel their future with an industry-driven curriculum.
Courses Offered
The following programs are available at the college:
- Automotive Technology Management B.S.
- Automotive Service Sales & Marketing A.A.S.
- Automotive Technology A.A.S.
- Automotive Technology: Honda PACT A.A.S.
- Automotive Service Technician Certificate
- And More
The Automotive Service Technician Certificate program was designed to arm graduates with the hands-on skills needed tomorrow.
Students learn and apply major-specific concepts, skills, and methods, such as:
- Introduction to Automotive Technology
- Manual Transmission & Transaxle Principles
- Brake Systems
- Automotive Electrical Fundamentals
- Engine Principles
- Engine Performance
- Engine Repair
- Vehicle Safety Inspection
- Automotive Chassis & Wheel Service
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: One College Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701
- Phone: 570.320.2400
- Website: https://www.pct.edu
4Lincoln Tech
About the School
Lincoln Tech offers an Automotive Technology Training program at its New Levittown campus.
The program includes 1,425 hours of inspection and is packed with hands-on technical training as well as service shop management procedures.
Graduates of this program earn an Associate Degree in Automotive Service Management.
The program is available in day and afternoon schedules.
Courses Offered
The following career training programs are available:
- Automotive Service Management Technology
- Automotive Service Technology
The Automotive Service Technology students learn skills such as:
- Rebuilding an engine, flushing a brake line, and troubleshooting on-board computers
- Diagnose and repair transmissions and drive train components
- Repair A/C and heating systems, power windows, doors, and seats
- Perform basic maintenance, including oil change, tune-ups, and tire rotations
- Perform tire services, wheel alignment, and suspension repairs
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 311 Veterans Highway, Levittown, PA 19056
- Phone: (215) 335-0800
- Website: https://www.lincolntech.edu
5Pennco Tech
About the School
Pennco Tech offers Automotive Technology Programs in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Its PA campus is located in Bristol.
The programs are designed to produce experienced professionals who are ready to enter high-demand fields and thus improve their overall career readiness.
Students receive individualized attention and support from a trained faculty and staff.
The school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
Daytime and evening classes are available.
Courses Offered
The 39-week Automotive Technology program provides students with specialized training in both the mechanical and computerized components of a vehicle.
The program combines practical experience and a well-rounded curriculum to provide students with experience regarding automotive theory and hands-on lab training.
Students learn how to perform tasks such as:
- Identify mechanical problems
- Utilize computerized diagnostic equipment
- Specialized automotive A/C equipment
- Understanding electrical systems
- Hybrid school vehicle training
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 3815 Otter St, Bristol, PA 19007
- Phone: 215-268-7885
- Website: https://www.penncotech.edu
6New Castle School of Trades
About the School
New Castle School of Trades offers an experienced Automotive Technology training program in Pennsylvania.
The program is structured to provide students with entry-level job skills and knowledge necessary to enter the work market as an automotive technician.
Graduates are prepared to maintain, diagnose, and service the vehicles found in the industry.
The program focuses on automotive diagnosis and repair.
Students learn about engines, transmissions, brakes, suspensions, exhaust systems, and electrical systems.
The program is 60 weeks long and is available at the New Castle campus.
The curriculum is available for both day and evening training.
Students learn how to use specialized diagnostics such as:
- Computerized automotive information systems
- Four-wheel computerized alignment machines
- Computerized wheel balancers
- Articulating arm tire machines
- Brake lathes
- Exhaust gas analyzers
- And more
Contact Information
- Address: 4117 Pulaski Rd, New Castle, PA, 16101
- Phone: (724) 788-4417
- Website: https://www.ncstrades.edu
7Central Pennsylvania Institute
About the School
Central Pennsylvania Institute offers an Automotive Technology program that can be completed in nine months.
The program includes 900 total hours.
The program has the following admission requirements:
- Applications Fee
- Application
- Enrollment Agreement
- High School Diploma, Transcript, or GED
- Criminal Record Check
- Child Abuse Clearance
Courses Offered
The program includes the following courses:
- Introduction to Automotive Technology
- Automotive Safety & Tools
- Automotive Performance & Diagnosis
- Automotive Electrical Systems
- Engine Performance & Diagnosis
- Braking Systems
- Steering & Suspension Systems
- Automatic Transmission & Transaxles
- HVAC Systems in Automotive Technology
- Automotive Capstone & Certification Prep
Contact Information
- Address: 540 North Harrison Road, Pleasant Gap, PA 16823
- Phone: 814.359.2793
- Website: https://cpi.edu
8Rosedale Technical College
About the School
Rosedale Technical College offers Automotive and Diesel training programs.
The Automotive program consists of live, in-person training led by instructors with years of industry experience and the drive to help students succeed.
Students learn about automotive repair and maintenance, engine performance, driveline functionality, and electrical systems, and learn the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this fast-growing industry.
They receive an Associate in Specialized Technology degree or a diploma upon graduation.
The program can be completed in less than two years and is geared towards getting students trained quickly, but in enough time to prepare them with the foundation needed to enter the workforce.
Students learn in-person about the automotive industry through hands-on experience in an automotive shop equipped with lifts, snap-on diagnostic and repair equipment, and other equipment that may be found by students at their future place of employment.
The school’s instructors apply real-world experience to their lessons in the classroom and labs.
Contact Information
- Address: 215 Beecham Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15205
- Phone: 412-521-6200
- Website: https://rosedaletech.edu
9Pennsylvania Technician Training Institute
About the School
Pennsylvania Technician Training Institute offers a variety of training programs, including an Automotive Training & Repair curriculum.
Automotive graduates are trained to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot cars and trucks.
Students receive:
- Real hands-on experience
- Support
- Certifications
- Connections to industries
The program teaches students about:
- Shop Safety, Measurement, and Math
- Brake Systems and Master Cylinders
- Suspension & Alignments Fundamentals
- PA Emission and Safety Inspection
- Electrical & Systems Troubleshooting
- Exhaust, Tires, and Tire Systems
Contact Information
- Address: 1901 West Girard Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
- Phone: 215-381-9403
- Website: https://ptt.edu
10Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology offers 24 associate degrees, four certificate programs, and several six-month or less of short-term training options.
Courses Offered
The Automotive Technology program at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is designed to provide students with a basic understanding of automotive construction, theory of operation, and standard industry service and repair procedures.
Students learn about many topics, including:
- Diagnose and repair common malfunctions of engine lubrication and cooling, brake, suspension, steering, and other automotive systems.
- Operate the latest generation of computerized test and diagnostic equipment.
- Sound, basic, and safe automotive shop practice skills
- Basic shop habits
- How to apply basic laws of physics/scientific principles to automotive systems and components
- And more
Semester tuition is $4,500.
Contact Information
- Address: 750 E King St, Lancaster, PA 17602
- Phone: 717-537-0669
- Website: https://www.stevenscollege.edu
Schools Summary Table
Regional Salary in Pennsylvania
| Region | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ | 1,820 | $55,050 | $26.47 | $77,020 | $36,130 |
| Altoona, PA | 360 | $47,050 | $22.62 | $66,550 | $29,800 |
| Chambersburg, PA | 400 | $51,710 | $24.86 | $73,870 | $34,040 |
| Erie, PA | 690 | $47,090 | $22.64 | $68,000 | $29,700 |
| Gettysburg, PA | 210 | $51,230 | $24.63 | $69,480 | $34,220 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA | 1,390 | $52,070 | $25.03 | $74,600 | $32,870 |
| Johnstown, PA | 300 | $46,010 | $22.12 | $60,540 | $29,990 |
| Lancaster, PA | 1,430 | $52,910 | $25.44 | $74,360 | $33,810 |
| Lebanon, PA | 340 | $49,830 | $23.96 | $66,420 | $30,700 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 12,450 | $57,350 | $27.57 | $78,410 | $36,500 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | 6,410 | $51,140 | $24.59 | $75,040 | $34,590 |
| Reading, PA | 900 | $53,160 | $25.56 | $73,220 | $35,760 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre, PA | 1,290 | $48,520 | $23.33 | $69,460 | $32,100 |
| State College, PA | 310 | $49,900 | $23.99 | $72,950 | $32,180 |
| Williamsport, PA | 320 | $50,440 | $24.25 | $71,740 | $31,730 |
| York-Hanover, PA | 1,010 | $50,940 | $24.49 | $71,320 | $34,480 |
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
Final Thoughts
Your passion for cars can be turned into a rewarding career by completing one of the training programs included in our list.
Now that you have read our selection of the best auto mechanic schools in Pennsylvania, it’s time to continue the research and apply for the program that best meets your lifestyle and career aspirations.
