OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATE: DIESEL MECHANIC (NQF LEVEL 4)

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Course Name: Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic

Curriculum Code: 653306-000-01-00

NQF Level: Level 4

Total Credits: 540 (Knowledge: 108 | Practical: 162 | Workplace: 270)

Development Quality Partner: MERSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services

Education and Training Authority)

Assessment Quality Partner: National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB)

Duration: Approximately 3–4 years (apprenticeship model)

Assessment Model: External summative trade test — written knowledge assessment and practical tasks over a minimum of 2 days at a QCTO accredited trade test centre

Certification Rule: Minimum 80% for knowledge component; minimum 70% for practical component

Knowledge Modules (108 Credits)

• Workplace Fundamentals (NQF L2, 9 Cr)
• Foundational Concepts for Mechanics (NQF L2, 14 Cr)
• Vehicle and Equipment Fundamentals (NQF L2, 8 Cr)
• Basic Engine Systems (NQF L2, 8 Cr)
• Vehicle, Equipment and Propulsion Systems (NQF L3, 13 Cr)
• Electrical Systems and Basic Electronic, Hydraulic and Pneumatic Principles (NQF L3, 16 Cr)
• Advanced Vehicle and Equipment Systems (NQF L4, 30 Cr)
• Problem Solving and Engine Optimization (NQF L4, 10 Cr)

Practical Skill Modules (162 Credits)

• Work Safely and Respond to Emergencies (L2, 6 Cr)
• Use Tools and Equipment (L2, 20 Cr)
• Cut and Join Metals (L2, 5 Cr)
• Remove and Install Mechanical Components (L2, 6 Cr)
• Work with Auto-electric and Auto-electronic Components (L2, 2 Cr)
• Work with Fluid Power Components (L2, 2 Cr)
• Maintain and Service Vehicles and Vehicle Components (L2, 5 Cr)
• Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Engines and Engine Sub-assemblies (L3, 16 Cr)
• Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Cooling Systems (L4, 8 Cr)
• Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Brake Systems (L3, 5 Cr)
• Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Drive Train System Components (L3, 5 Cr)
• Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Steering and Suspension Systems (L3, 5 Cr)
• Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Basic Hydraulic Systems (L3, 5 Cr)
• Remove, Test, Repair and Refit Engines and Vehicle Components (L3, 15 Cr)
• Diagnose and Repair Vehicle Systems (L4, 30 Cr)
• Diagnose and Repair Electrical Systems (L4, 12 Cr)
• Diagnose and Repair Electronically Controlled Vehicle Systems (L4, 10 Cr)
• Diagnose and Repair Air Conditioning System (L4, 5 Cr)

Work Experience Modules (270 Credits)

• Routine Scheduled Services (L2, 16 Cr)
• Removal and Replacement of Engine Sub-system Components (L3, 16 Cr)
• Removal and Replacement of Other Vehicle Sub-system Components (L3, 20 Cr)
• Engine Removal and Installation Processes (L3, 18 Cr)
• Repair Processes for Vehicle Sub-systems (L3, 50 Cr)
• Removal and Replacement of Cooling System (L3, 20 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Electrical Systems — Charging, Starting, Lighting and Auxiliary (L4, 18 Cr)
• Diagnose and Repair Air Conditioning System (L4, 8 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Electronic Control Systems (L4, 18 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Engines and Engine Sub-systems (L4, 18 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems (L4, 18 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Brake Systems (L4, 18 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Drive Train Systems (L4, 18 Cr)
• Diagnosis and Repair of Steering and Suspension Systems (L4, 18 Cr)

• Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles (commercial vehicles above 3 tons GMV).
• Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble diesel engine and vehicle system components to manufacturer's specifications.
• Diagnose and repair faults in diesel engine and vehicle systems — including engines, transmissions, suspension, steering, brakes, hydraulic and electronic systems.

• Qualified Diesel Mechanic / Truck Mechanic
• Heavy Duty Vehicle Technician
• Fleet Maintenance Technician
• Diesel Engine Specialist
• Transmission and Drive Train Repairer
• Workshop Supervisor or Foreman
• Self-employed Diesel Mechanic / Contractor
• Diesel Systems Diagnostician

Career progression may lead to roles in transport engineering, fleet management, or further NQF

qualifications in mechanical or automotive engineering technology.

Minimum entry requirements:

• NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematics and Science

For External Assessment Eligibility:

• Proof of completion of all Knowledge Modules
• Proof of completion of all Practical Skill Modules
• Completed and signed Statement of Work Experience
• Foundational Learning Competence (prerequisite for external assessment access)

Re-assessment Rules:

• Candidates competent in at least 50% of trade test tasks may retain recognition for those tasks
• Recognition retained for a maximum of 3 attempts or 18 months from the date of completion