Repair Auto Service National Consumers Eslpod Repairing Institute

The National Institute for Auto Service Excellence ("ASE") is a national organization that provides "certification" (official documentation stating that one has met certain standards) for "shops" (stores) and individuals in the "auto service industry" (all the businesses that maintain and repair automobiles). It has existed since 1972 to help consumers identify which "mechanics" (people who repair cars) will do the best job repairing their cars.

In order to become a certified "automotive professional," a mechanic must have two years of "relevant" (related to the field) work experience and pass several "exams" (tests), which cover everything from engine repair and "brakes" (used by a rider or driver to stop a vehicle) to heating and "air conditioning" (device in cars and homes used to cool the air) for cars, trucks, busses, and "specialty vehicles" (automobiles that don't fit into any other category).

Today, there are a large number of ASE-certified professionals. When they earn their certification, they receive a shoulder "patch" (a piece of fabric or badge that can be sewn onto the shoulder of a shirt), a wallet card, and a printed certificate that can be "mounted" (placed in a frame and hung) and displayed on the wall at their workplace. People who have been certified for 25 years are "eligible for" (meet the requirements in order to have) the 25-Year Recognition "Medallion" (a heavy, flat, circular piece of metal, usually worn around the neck as an award).

In addition to training and certifying automotive service professionals, ASE educates consumers about how to maintain their cars and how to select the best auto repair shops. The ASE website also has a "searchable" (allowing people to find specific information) "database" (a large collection of digital or electronic information) of local repair shops where consumers can find ASE-certified professionals.