Becoming an Aftermarket Parts Installer After Auto Body Technician Training
Have you ever wondered where all the parts used in automotive repairs come from? If they’re not directly made by the vehicle’s original manufacturer, they’re likely to be aftermarket parts. As opposed to original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, aftermarket parts can be manufactured by a number of different companies.
Within auto body shops, aftermarket parts will be used to perform repairs when possible–often because they are cheaper and more widely available than OEM parts. Additionally, aftermarket parts may be used to modify vehicles in order to enhance their performance.
If you’re seeking a career in the auto body industry, you might consider specializing in aftermarket parts supply and installation after completing your training. As an aftermarket parts installation coordinator, you’ll assist customers by identifying and installing the aftermarket part that suits their needs. Below, discover more about this career path.
Aftermarket Parts: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Aftermarket parts are replacement parts which have been manufactured by a company other than a vehicle’s manufacturer. These parts are high quality and are typically a great alternative to OEM parts, in addition to the fact that they’re much cheaper. However, you won’t find aftermarket parts in dealerships. Instead, they are used primarily by body shops and insurance companies to save money.
There are two primary types of aftermarket parts: structural parts (those which protect the vehicle’s occupants in a crash) and cosmetic parts (those which change a vehicle’s performance or appearance but not the safety). After auto body technician training, you’ll find that many auto body shops where you might find employment will use aftermarket parts to perform a variety of repairs and services.
What Does an Aftermarket Parts Installer Do?
Within the vast aftermarket parts industry, some technicians choose to specialize in installing these components. Aftermarket Parts Installers may work in auto body shops or in aftermarket parts retail shops. While their role may differ depending on their work environment, they have a few general responsibilities. Primarily, these professionals will work with customers to find the aftermarket part that suits their needs, whether their vehicle needs to be repaired or they’re seeking a performance-enhancing installation.
As an Aftermarket Parts Installer, you’ll be required to have a strong knowledge of your inventory, as well as the types of aftermarket parts on the market. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to select the best possible part for your customer, after which you’ll be responsible for performing the repair and ensuring that the part is compatible with the operation of the vehicle.
How Your Auto Body Technician Training Will Prepare You for This Career Path
After training to become an auto body repair technician with ATC Surrey, you’ll be equipped with all the skills you need to succeed as an Aftermarket Parts Installer. During your program, you’ll receive hands-on training in auto body repair and refinishing, preparing you to work with and install a variety of aftermarket parts. What’s more, you’ll be taught about the automotive industry by expert instructors, preparing you to navigate the inventory and supply aspects of the aftermarket vehicle industry. If you think this career path could be right for you, it’s never too late to start training.
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