Keep cars safe and running well.

Motor mechanics diagnose, repair and maintain petrol engines and the mechanical parts of cars. They check faults in engines, transmissions, steering, suspension and brakes. Mechanics dismantle and remove parts, repair or replace worn components, and reassemble them using service manuals when needed. They carry out regular maintenance to improve performance and meet pollution rules. After repairs, mechanics test and adjust parts to make sure vehicles run properly, often using computer systems. Some mechanics also inspect cars and issue roadworthiness certificates or advise on work needed to meet safety standards.

For further information:

MTA SA/NT (Motor Trade Association of South Australia & Northern Territory)
Phone: (08) 8291 2000
Email: info@mtasant.com.au
Website: www.mtasant.com.au

Entry into this occupation is generally through an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Certificate III.

TAFE SA offers courses relevant to this occupation including Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology. Pathway courses include Certificate II in Automotive Servicing Technology.

There are SA Apprenticeships available in this occupation for further information go to the Traineeship & Apprenticeship website www.employment.sa.gov.au or phone the Freecall number 1800 673 097.

Automotive Technicians are usually employed by Vehicle Dealerships or smaller automotive service and repair workshops. Some workshops specialise is specific vehicle systems and components. For example, Suspension System Specialists, Transmissions Specialists Brake System Specialists and so on. Not all Technicians work in workshops as some are expected to be “on the road” travelling in well equipped vans.
Businesses are varied from outdoor power equipment (lawnmowers etc), marine, motorcycles, light vehicle, heavy vehicle, forklift, agricultural to large mining companies.
In all areas, opportunities exist for promotion especially into managerial and sales positions. The vast majority of business owners and managers started off as an apprentice and have “climbed to the top”.

You can own your own business.

You can become a TAFE Lecturer and pass on your skills to trainees and apprentices.

You may be able to gain more than one Certificate. Being trained in 2 trades, for example, an Automotive Mechanical Technician and an Automotive Electrician would be a great advantage in advancing your career.
Please enquire if you wish to do this before you start any study as specific conditions apply.

Work performed by Automotive Technicians includes inspections, servicing, maintenance and repair of customer vehicles and equipment. Some of the tasks include:
· Changing fluids
· Changing filters
· Checking for components wear especially in suspension, steering and
braking systems
· Testing vehicle emissions
· Testing vehicle performance
· Analysing vehicle faults using computerised scanning equipment
· Repairing various vehicle systems and components such as engines,
transmissions and electrical systems
Just to name a few.

It is important that you continue to train in your Automotive Career as vehicles and equipment continuously change. All current vehicles have a host of onboard computers, not only to control system and component operation but also to monitor systems making sure that they are working correctly. In some vehicles, all vehicle systems are electronically operated and sensed. For example, if you electronically unlock your vehicle, the seat, steering wheel and all mirrors will be altered to suit your driving needs. Even the automatic transmission will adjust to your driving habits. The vehicle recognises YOU as the driver.

Some jobs require the removal and replacement of heavy and/or tight components. All workshops have equipment to assist in these processes.