Small Engine Repair

Small Engine Repair School

Learn how to troubleshoot and repair small gasoline engines with our Penn Foster Career School's accredited online Small Engine Repair Training Program. With self-paced classes, you can prepare for a hands-on career in the field on your schedule.

  • Learn fundamental mechanical concepts including cooling, electrical, and fuel systems, servicing lawnmowers, tractors, and outboard engines, and more.
  • Prepare for optional Outdoor Power Equipment Association (OPE) certification, which can help you stand out when applying for jobs.
  • Students enrolled in the program receive a discount for Snap-on tools.
  • Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.
Accredited
Online
Self Paced

Save up to $290 Ends 6/13/2023

Cost of Program

$799

$1,089 Save $290

or

$59/month, Start for as low as $20

1-800-275-4410 (9AM - 9PM EST)

mechanic repairing a small engine in a repair shop.

What You Will Learn

  1. How to describe the operation of carburetors, ignition systems, and starting systems, and explain how a transmission can be used to increase the output horsepower and torque of an engine.
  2. How to identify types of small-engine lubrication and cooling systems, as well as how to properly service and maintain these systems.
  3. How to troubleshoot and repair electrical systems for small engines.
  4. How to disassemble small gasoline engines, as well as repair and rebuild them.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes

Small Engine Repair Career Outcomes

Small Engine Mechanic

AVG SALARY*

$39,050/yr

NUMBER OF JOBS*

79,800

JOB GROWTH*

5%


Through the online small engine repair training program, you'll prepare for work in the field. There are opportunities to use your small engine repair skills in a variety of locations, including dealerships, repair shops, hardware and other retail stores, equipment rental agencies, and even your own small engine mechanic business.

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing and/or certification requirements for small engine repair jobs are not the same in every state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements beyond those offered in the Penn Foster program. Prospective students should contact the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where they plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in this program. See the State Licensing page for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

Small Engine Repair Curriculum

  • 8 courses
  • 36 continuing education units (CEUs)
  • 25 exams


Estimated completion time:

  • Fast track = 4 months
  • Average time = 7 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework.

In our Small Engine Repair Diploma Program, you'll learn the knowledge and skills that can help you prepare for a career as a small engine mechanic. Your online units include:


  • Small Engine Ignition Systems
  • Small Engine Fuel Systems
  • Engine Disassembly and Reassembly
  • OPE Transmission Systems

Show Full Curriculum

Small Engine Repair Student Experience

Our graduates have gone on to find work in mechanic shops, hardware shops, and dealerships. Learn more about their experience with the Penn Foster program.
View Student Success Stories
quote icon

Demetria P.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2021

“It was an awesome program, and the flexibility is something that is needed in today’s fast-moving world.”

Looking for skilled trades training for your workers?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
United Auto Workers, Guild & Employbridge logos.
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Small Engine Repair Program Tuition

Take the first steps toward a new career with our online Small Engine Repair Program. Simply choose from one of our low-cost customized payment plans and get started today!

Option 1: Pay in full

Save up to $290 Ends 6/13/2023

Cost of Program

$799

$1,089 Save $290

  • Best price. Best value.
  • Pay the full cost today
  • No monthly payments
Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Save up to $90 Ends 6/13/2023

Cost of Program

$999

$1,089 Save $90

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $20 down
  • Credit card, PayPal, or ACH from bank account
Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program

$1,089

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $39 down
  • Mail your payments
Enroll Now

California residents please click here for Required California Disclosures.

Need more info or ready to enroll?

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits, or our refund policy? Find this information and more about tuition and enrollment here.

Tuition & Payment Options

We're here to help. Call 1-800-275-4410 9AM - 9PM EST

Request Info

Our Proven Automotive Repair Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

  • Start anytime
  • No exam due dates
  • Self-paced

Interactive

  • Digital study guides
  • Self-check quizzes
  • Simulations and videos

Connected

  • 24/7 access to online resources
  • Online student community
  • Student Portal Help Center

Supportive

  • Expert faculty
  • Dedicated student services
  • Robust learning resources

Related Programs

Small Engine Repair Program FAQs

What types of small engines will I learn to repair in this course?

Penn Foster's online Small Engine Repair Program prepares students to repair typical two-stroke and four-stroke engines, outboard engines, and marine engines.

Why become a small engine mechanic?

Small engine mechanics play a vital role in servicing and repairing outdoor equipment such as lawn mowers and leaf-blowers. Mechanics who work on outdoor power equipment and other small engines will continue to be in-demand because of the widespread use of these engines in gardening, tree work, landscape construction, and similar activities. The average national salary for small engine mechanics was $39,050 in 2021, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.*

How long does it take to become a small engine mechanic?

Depending on your education and experience, it can take up to a year to become a small engine mechanic. While postsecondary education isn't required and many shops and businesses will provide some on-the-job training, job prospects are best for those who have completed training programs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What qualities make a good mechanic?

Good small engine mechanics are detail-oriented, have strong troubleshooting and mechanical skills, and are able to work in a variety of environments. They should also have a strong understanding of customer service and organizational skills. Many skills can be developed through training in our online Small Engine Repair Program, including how to start your own repair business.