Pontiac vehicles are American automobiles which are owned and maintained by General Motors. They were originally made by General Motors' Pontiac Motor Division. General Motors manufactured and commercialized Pontiac vehicles from 1919 to 1973. Pontiac cars still enjoy popularity in many parts around the globe. This article details Pontiac’s history as well as some of the most famous models from that era. Continue reading to find out more about Pontiac and the special qualities that make these cars unique.
General Motors
After a long history of selling high-quality cars, Pontiac is being phased out of production. Only one Pontiac was rolled off the factory line last year. The company has entered a new era of speed, performance and sex appeal. As a result, the Pontiac brand will be discontinued by the end of 2010.
Silver Streak
Silver Streak Pontiacs, from 1935 to 1956 were easily identifiable due to their parallel ridges across the trunk & hood. These ridges reminded me of old-fashioned suspenders. The styling was also unique to Pontiac, but the car was not without flaws. Here is a brief history of the Silver Streak. Pontiac began to make more modern vehicles after the war.
G-body models
The classic, boxy design of the Pontiac G-body models cut a stylish profile in a time when boxy was in. G-body models are so practical that even wagon enthusiasts have developed a cult following. G-body vehicles are easy to modify and offer unrivalled aftermarket support. Here are some ways you can improve your G body. These are some tips that will improve the performance of your Pontiac.
1973 Redesign
The Redesign Pontiac cars of 1972 led to a dramatic increase in production of full size vehicles. The Pontiac Catalina production almost met the entire demand for full-sized Pontiac cars in 1971. The Bonneville and Grand Ville also saw substantial gains. The full-size Pontiac 1973 car lineup underwent major changes. The car's new look featured a substantial energy-absorbing bumper, and a full width grille with horizontal bars.
1980s body styling changes
Pontiac's focus shifted from roadability assurance to luxury and convenience as the midsize vehicle market matured. One exception was the Grand Am. It was part of a redesigned line with "Colonnade” styling. Grand Prix luxury was the Grand Am's goal. Bill Collins, an assistant chief engineering engineer for the original GTO, collaborated with John Seaton to design the Grand Am. John Seaton is a chassis wizard. Collins wanted the concept to look like European sedans.
Last model sold in 2010
The Pontiac brand is ending after more than 80 years. In the last few years, Pontiac became unprofitable. It sold rebadged Chevrolets for a fraction of its original price. Although Chevrolet was able to compete with the rebadged cars, its quality fell behind that of its competitors. Eventually, Pontiac was canceled. Pontiac Vibe, the last Pontiac model that was sold in America in 2010, was the Pontiac Vibe.
FAQ
What is the job description for a mechanic in a car?
Three main areas of employment are available for car mechanics:
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Automotive repair shops
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Dealerships
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Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
This is where most people consider becoming a mechanic. It's also the easiest way you can get started. Either you can work in a shop that is owned by another person or start your own business.
If you choose to work at a store, you need to join a union. Once accepted into the union you will be trained by the union.
Once you complete the training, it's time to get started.
Register with the government if you want to open your garage. After you register, you will be required to meet specific standards.
Once you register, you'll receive a license that allows you to operate your garage.
Your license will allow you to sell spare parts and do minor repairs. It will not permit you to fix major engine issues.
Apart from selling spare parts, customers will also expect you to provide guidance and advice.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who can specialize in a particular area of the car. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
Some dealers also have general mechanics that can handle all aspects.
Many of these positions require that applicants undergo training before they are allowed to work. Employers can then choose the best candidates for their job.
Some dealerships recruit students right out of school. These graduates already have a basic understanding of mechanical engineering, so they are able to learn all about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages are not associated with any one dealership. They tend to be focused on high-quality service.
Independent garages are not associated with any companies so they can afford higher wages. This makes them generally more well-paid than jobs at dealerships.
However, independent garages do not necessarily offer better workplaces. Many owners prefer to run their businesses themselves rather than delegate responsibility to employees.
You might find yourself working long hours but having no control over what happens in the day.
Expect to earn lower salaries than if you were working in a dealership.
The good news? You can easily switch between different types of jobs. If you want to work at a dealership, then you simply need to ask your current employer if he would consider hiring you as a mechanic instead.
Or, if your dream is to work for an independent garage you can contact the owner directly.
Unfortunately, finding a new job can be difficult. There are plenty of other factors that influence how much you earn.
Consider, for example, what type of vehicle you are repairing and whether additional labor charges will apply.
How long does an automotive course take?
An automotive course is three years long.
The first year focuses on theory and learning about cars. The second year is dedicated towards practical training. This includes learning how to drive, fix engine problems, and doing other maintenance jobs around your car. The final year is spent doing a placement at a local garage, which gives you experience in fixing real-world problems.
What qualifications are required to become a mechanic
To become a mechanic, you'll need to pass a series of exams. These include:
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A general knowledge test
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A practical exam
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An apprenticeship test
These tests are designed for you to understand the basic concepts and principles of mechanics before your start as a technician.
These tests will allow you to be a mechanic once you have passed them. You'll still need an apprenticeship. This will include training in the trade.
You'll need to attend classes and workshops to learn everything you need to know about repairing vehicles. It will be necessary to work alongside experienced mechanics.
A mechanic must be highly focused and attentive to detail in order to succeed. It is essential to pay attention to all aspects of vehicle repairs.
To become a successful mechanic you'll need patience. If you don’t love to follow instructions, this may not the right career path.
However, if you love cars or enjoy working on them, you might be happy in this field.
What length is an automotive mechanic apprenticeship?
An automotive mechanic apprenticeship takes around three years to complete. This includes two years at school and two years working as an apprentice. The first year is dedicated to learning the theory and practical skills of the trade. You'll also learn the safe and efficient use of tools during this first year. After you have completed the first year of training, you will be able to spend an additional year on-the job learning different trades. These are also the times you can attend formal courses.
The final year of this program is spent in obtaining qualifications and becoming certified in your field. These include NVQs or National Vocational Qualifications. These are earned after passing exams that cover specific topics in the industry. Additionally, HNCs are Higher National Certificates that cover general subjects such management, customer service, and business administration. City & Guilds certificates can be obtained for individuals who want to learn certain trades.
Does it really matter what college I choose?
Non, really. There is no difference in the programs offered by colleges for getting into automotive work. But, there are better programs at some schools than others. Look elsewhere if you want something more niche.
What qualifications does a truck mechanic need?
While you may not have the formal qualifications to perform this job, your skills are well-rounded in working on engines and trucks. You are a valuable asset as you can quickly diagnose and solve problems efficiently.
Additionally, you have a solid knowledge of diesel technology that will enable you to determine what parts are necessary to repair our vehicles.
Statistics
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
External Links
How To
How to become an automotive technician
An automotive technician provides repair services and maintenance to vehicles. He/she works in car dealerships as well as auto shops, garages, and service centers. He/she repairs cars, trucks, motorbikes and snowmobiles for customers. An automotive technician must know how to diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, safely, accurately, quickly, and correctly.
An associate degree from a vocational school is required for anyone who wishes to become an automotive technician. After completing this program the student must pass the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence exam (ASE). ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists of two sections. The first section tests your mechanical skills, while the second tests your practical knowledge. To pass the test you must go to one of the authorized testing facilities. These locations can be found online, or by contacting your local car dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass an examination in order to be licensed as an automotive technician. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. For example, some states require candidates to attend a training course, while others allow them to study independently. Some states allow technicians to become licensed right away after receiving their license. While others wait until they have had at least six years of experience as an automotive technician.
Apply to your local dealership to become an automotive technician. Most employees who are hired start as apprentices. Apprenticeships last for three years. The apprenticeship program teaches students how to change oil, adjust brakes, replace tires, clean spark plugs, inspect engine compartments, and perform routine maintenance. Some students are able to perform more advanced repairs such as replacing shocks and installing air filters. Most schools offer classes during regular business hours. However, there are some schools that offer evening classes for those who need them.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master journeyman. Journeymen typically spend four to five years learning how to install major systems, such as transmissions, differentials, steering gear, suspensions, and drive shafts. They also learn to perform complex repairs, such as remanufacturing engines, rebuilding transmissions, and troubleshooting electrical components. Employers prefer to hire journeymen as they are familiar with the job and can anticipate customer needs.
If a candidate successfully passes the required exams and receives a license, he/she might want to consider starting his/her own shop. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics (2010), almost 1.7million automotive mechanic jobs were on the market. This number is expected to increase by 18% between 2009 and 2020. When a candidate plans to open his/her own shop he/she should be ready to invest thousands of dollars in equipment.
There are many factors that affect the salary of an automotive technician, such as where they live, their education and experience. A jobless person can expect to make $20,000 per year. A high school diploma is all that's required to earn approximately $21,000 annually. Those with an associate's degree earned approximately $24,000 per year. Technicians with bachelor's degrees earn approximately $27,000 per year. The average annual salary for those with master's degrees was $32,000. Salary increases can be common. A professional who earns less that $30,000 today could reasonably expect a $40,000 increase in the next few decades.