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Light Vehicle Motor Mechanic
Also known as Automotive Technician, Motor Mechanic, Vehicle Mechanic, Car Mechanic and Mechanic.
Light vehicle motor mechanics service, repair and overhaul the mechanical parts of motor vehicles such as the engine, the transmission (clutch, gear box and differential), and the suspension systems (springs, steering, brakes, wheels and tyres).
Light vehicle motor mechanics may specialise as Automotive Air Conditioning Fitters or Brake Mechanics. For more details, see the separate entries for these occupations.
They may also specialise as breakdown service patrol officers who give emergency mechanical assistance to members of an automobile association.
Light vehicle motor mechanics work mainly in workshops and wear protective clothing.
They need to keep up with changes in motor industry technology.
Due to advances in automotive technology, most vehicles now contain electronic controls and computers. As a result, knowledge in this area has become essential for light vehicle motor mechanics and they are becoming more specialised in their areas of work.
Light vehicle motor mechanics may progress to positions such as service manager, service adviser, technical sales representative, technical officer or diagnostic specialist.
TASKS
- discuss problems with car drivers or vehicle operators to discover faults
- list en to engines, fit and operate special test equipment, and test- drive vehicles
- repair or replace worn or faulty parts by removing assemblies such as engines, transmissions, differentials or steering gear systems; dismantling them and checking parts, referring to manuals as necessary
- reassemble, test, clean and adjust repaired or replaced parts or assemblies, using various instruments to make sure they are working properly and putting them back into the vehicle
- tune engines using special electronic equipment and make fine adjustments (to carburettors, for example) for smoother running
- carry out minor body and trim repairs
- diagnose, repair and replace engine management and fuel injection components
- use oxy, electric, TIG and MIG welders
- test and repair electrical systems such as lighting, instrumentation, ignition and electronic fuel injection
- inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates or list the work required before a certificate can be issued
Light vehicle motor mechanics may perform the following tasks:
PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
- enjoy practical and manual activities
- able to work with hand tools
- aptitude for technical activities
- problem-solving skills
- able to cope with the physical demands of the job
- normal eyesight and hearing
- drivers licence essential
Interest Area
SPECIALISATIONS
Motorcycle Mechanic - diagnoses faults and performs necessary repairs to motorcycles.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
To become a light vehicle motor mechanic you usually have to complete an apprenticeship in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology.
Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
Additional Information
In NSW, light vehicle motor mechanics must be certified by NSW Fair Trading. To work as a light vehicle motor mechanic in the ACT, you must have a motor vehicle repair licence, or work under the supervision of a licensed repairer. Contact the ACT Office of Regulatory Services for further information.
Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Automotive Industry Retail, Service and Repair Training Package that will expand your career opportunities within this industry.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Motor mechanics are employed mainly by motor vehicle dealers, repairers and service stations. They also work for authorities concerned with defence, communications, energy supply, public works and transport, and for private firms with large fleets of vehicles.
Motor mechanics working for large private firms service fleet vehicles, and those working for specialist firms service a particular part or make of vehicle. Some also work in the testing sections of vehicle manufacturing firms.
Promotion to supervisory positions is possible in large workshops. Some mechanics establish their own businesses.
There is strong competition for available apprenticeships.
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