Automotive Inspector
Have you ever wondered what a typical day looks like for an auto inspector? Are you curious to know what it takes to qualify for the position? If you're looking for more information about this career path, DARCARS Automotive Group has taken the liberty of assembling a comprehensive guide. Let's begin with a quick overview.
An automotive inspector is a high-level technician who examines vehicles to confirm their quality and safety. There are many practical uses for this skill set, but some of the most common include the inspection of cars for insurance companies, dealerships, and individuals hoping to make a purchase or sale. At the end of a review, the auto inspector creates a comprehensive report that flags everything from potential hazards to cosmetic wear and tear. The best inspectors are detail-oriented and good communicators, and of course, they possess a thorough knowledge of automotive mechanics.
You are always welcome to contact DARCARS Automotive Group if you have any questions about a typical auto inspector salary or how to get an auto inspection certification in Maryland. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Auto Inspector Roles at a Glance
Key Responsibilities & Skills
- Assess the structural integrity and overall roadworthiness of all vehicle makes and models to ensure passenger safety and compliance with regulations.
- Possess a comprehensive knowledge of automotive systems, diagnostic tools, and repairs.
- Balance your attention to detail with excellent interpersonal skills.
- Pass practical, written, and certification exams.
Automotive Inspector Job Description
Whether you're a freelance auto inspector or hoping to work for a company, the job description is typically consistent. Let's take a look at the common responsibilities of this role.
- Must be authorized to perform an auto inspection in Maryland and able to work on specific maintenance and repair orders according to state and dealership standards
- Thoroughly inspect used vehicles and fill out a checklist to indicate when repairs are required
- Complete ongoing education to stay up to date on industry standards and advancements in automotive technology
What Qualifies You for a Job as an Auto Inspector?
DARCARS Automotive Group requires that you have at least three years of technician experience under your belt to be a strong candidate for an auto inspector role. You must also be at least 18 years old to apply and legally authorized to work in the United States. Naturally, a passion for all things automotive is a plus!
We recommend checking whether you have all of the following prerequisites before submitting an automotive inspector application. If not, keep in mind that there are plenty of certification and training programs available in Maryland. We place an emphasis on training and hiring from within, so DARCARS Automotive Group is an excellent company to work for if you're looking to grow your automotive career from the ground up.
- A current Maryland State Inspection License
- A solid driving record
- A detail-oriented, self-starter mindset
- Willingness to work in a fast-paced environment
- A positive attitude and collaborative mindset
- Extensive experience with driving both manual and automatic transmissions
- A strong work ethic
Contact DARCARS Automotive Group if you're interested in applying for an entry-level position at one of our locations. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you in any way we can.
Soft Skills: What Makes a Great Automotive Inspector?
A successful auto inspector balances technical expertise with strong communication skills. This job requires strong attention to detail – an inspector determines a vehicle's safety and has the final word on whether or not it is fit for the road. You'll also need to speak with both team members and customers in a knowledgeable and personable way that helps them understand a vehicle's condition and what may need to be fixed. If you have a keen eye and methodical mindset, you may want to consider an automotive inspector career.
Let's take a moment to dive into the traits that make a person a good fit for auto inspector jobs.
High-Level Auto-Mechanical Knowledge
An auto inspector carries out thorough inspections of vehicles, from their cosmetic surfaces to mechanical systems such as brakes and rotors. An in-depth knowledge of how a vehicle's moving parts work together is key. To be considered for an auto inspector job at DARCARS Automotive Group, you must have at least three years of experience as an automotive technician.
Communication Skills
Auto inspector jobs are all about communication. Whether you're taking clear and professional notes for a report or having one-on-one conversations with clients, it's important that you are able to translate highly technical jargon into layman's terms. If you're in charge of a team of inspectors, it helps to have the coordination skills to diagnose issues, form a plan, and execute repairs that maintain high standards of service and quality.
Eye for Details
Auto inspectors need to be detail-oriented because their job involves assessing all elements of a vehicle, inside and out. As the leading authority on the level of wear and tear a pre-owned car has sustained, the inspector is also the one who gets to determine its condition. Drivers and clients are relying on you to make an accurate and comprehensive appraisal of their model, considering everything from the smallest mechanical details to the most noticeable problems.
People Skills
When you work as an auto inspector, you'll need to earn the trust of each customer whose vehicle you're looking over. From the moment you greet them to the moment you deliver the final report, your goal is to instill confidence in your process and expertise. This is why a background in customer service is an asset when applying for auto inspector jobs.
Why Should You Choose To Work at DARCARS Automotive Group?
If you're looking for a company that supports your career growth, provides educational opportunities, and sees each employee as a vital part of the team, DARCARS Automotive Group is an excellent place to begin – or take the next step in – your career. We believe that supporting your development and cultivating a positive work environment makes for happier employees and a more successful business. You will discover DARCARS employee benefits when you join the team:
- A maximum $5,000 bonus when you sign on
- Paid manufacturer training
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance
- Short- and long-term disability plans
- 401(k)
- Paid holidays and time off
- Employee discounts
- Internal advancement opportunities
Why choose to work at DARCARS? You should apply for a job at our company if you are passionate about the automotive industry, are interested in career advancement, have a positive and team-oriented mindset, and take pride in your work.
Whether you're a veteran inspector or a newbie just starting out, DARCARS Automotive Group will work hard to nurture your professional development. Let us know if you're interested in applying for an auto inspector role or an entry-level position that offers a chance to gain hands-on experience. Reach out to us today to start the conversation about where you see your automotive career taking you.