SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
117237  Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MERSETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  544  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  SAQA 12129/20  2020-07-30  2025-07-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-07-30   2029-07-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
97592  Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  540  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to qualify as a Diesel Mechanic.

A Diesel Mechanic maintains, tests and repairs commercial vehicles (more than 3 tons GMV) including engines, mechanical parts, transmissions, suspension, steering and brakes.
A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles.
  • Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble diesel engine and vehicle system components.
  • Diagnose and repair faults in diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components.

    Rationale:
    The Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic is a Trade qualification and is a review of the existing registered Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic. The automotive maintenance and repair industry provides essential services to users of automotive motor vehicles. The main users in South Africa are the general public, public entities and commercial organisations owning a variety of vehicle fleets for a variety of purposes. These vehicles include trucks, buses, fire engines and other related specialised vehicles such as drill rigs, battlefield equipment used by small, medium and large private and public enterprises to transport goods and passengers.

    Diesel Mechanic performs a variety of skilled tasks to service, maintain and repair vehicles. This enables customers to use their vehicles productively, cost-effectively and safely, and to obtain the maximum benefit from their investment as well as comply with their legal obligations relating to the condition and use of their vehicles. Such vehicles need to function effectively and be well maintained in order to meet road safety and environmental standards.

    The construction of diesel vehicles and engines has become very complex and the engineering has become a sophisticated integration of mechanical, electric, electronic, networking and electronic management systems (computers). In response, the work of the mechanic has shifted from primarily performing mechanical and electrical repairs to diagnosing faults using electronic management systems and pinpointing and then replacing defective components. Because of warranty and safety considerations, Original Equipment Manufacturers set stringent standards for the servicing, maintenance and repair of the vehicles. This qualification is designed to equip qualifying learners to meet these standards.

    Learners will be trained to perform a variety of skilled tasks as Diesel Mechanic to contribute to the success of the related business of their employers in organisations running fleet services, in maintenance and repair services, and dealerships and independent workshops. Once qualified as Diesel Mechanic, learners will be able to perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles, dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble diesel engine and vehicle system components and diagnose and repair faults in diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components. They may also be involved in the assembly, testing and commissioning of new or reconditioned parts for engines and automotive vehicles.

    The primary employers of automotive vehicle mechanics are the retail motor sector, mining, construction and farming, agriculture and those of government departments that provide essential public services such as emergency vehicles and ambulances. Qualified mechanics may also become self-employed and open their maintenance or repair facilities.

    This qualification will also enable qualified mechanics to keep abreast of on-going technological developments in the industry and, thus, provide a basis for further career development. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of results or by certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the qualification:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry requirements:
  • NQF Level 1 qualification with mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge Modules, Practical Skill Modules and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 653306-000-01-KM-01, Workplace Fundamentals, Level 2, 9 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-02, Foundational Concepts for Mechanics, Level 2, 14 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-03, Vehicle and Equipment Fundamentals, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-04, Basic Engine Systems, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-05, Vehicle, Equipment and Propulsion Systems, Level 3, 13 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-06, Electrical Systems and Basic Electronic, Hydraulic and Pneumatic Principles, Level 3, 16 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-07, Advanced Vehicle and Equipment Systems, Level 4, 30 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-KM-08, Problem Solving and Engine Optimisation, Level 4, 10 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 108.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 653306-000-01-PM-01, Work Safely and Respond to Emergencies, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-02, Use Tools and Equipment, Level 2, 20 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-03, Cut and Join Metals, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-04, Remove and Install Mechanical Components (Gaskets, Seals, Bearings and Locking Devices), Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-05, Work with Auto-electric and Auto-electronic Components, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-06, Work with Fluid Power Components, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-07, Maintain and Service Vehicles and Vehicle Components, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-08, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Engines and Engine Sub-assemblies, Level 3, 16 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-09, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Cooling Systems, Level 4, 8 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-10, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Brake Systems (including Hydraulic and Pneumatic Components), Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-11, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Drive Train System Components, Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-12, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Steering and Suspension Systems (including Hydraulic and Pneumatic Components), Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-13, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Basic Hydraulic Systems, Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-14, Remove, Test, Repair and Refit Engines and Vehicle Components, Level 3, 15 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-15, Diagnose and Repair Vehicle Systems, Level 4, 30 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-16, Diagnose and Repair Electrical Systems, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-17, Diagnose and Repair Electronically Controlled Vehicle Systems, Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-PM-18, Diagnose and Repair Air Conditioning System, Level 4, 5 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 162.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 653306-000-01-WM-01, Routine Scheduled Services, Level 2, 16 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-02, Removal and Replacement of Engine Sub-system Components (including Batteries), Level 3, 16 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-03, Removal and Replacement of Other Vehicle Sub-system Components, Level 3, 20 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-04, Engine Removal and Installation Processes, Level 3, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-05, Repair Processes for Vehicle Sub-systems, Level 3, 50 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-06, Removal and Replacement of Cooling System, Level 3, 20 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-07, Diagnosis and Repair of Electrical Systems (Charging, Starting, Lighting and Auxiliary), Level 4, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-08, Diagnose and Repair Air Conditioning System, Level 4, 8 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-09, Diagnosis and Repair of Electronic Control Systems, Level 4, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-10, Diagnosis and Repair of Engines and Engine Sub-systems, Level 4, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-11, Diagnosis and Repair of Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems, Level 4, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-12, Diagnosis and Repair of Brake Systems, Level 4, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-13, Diagnosis and Repair of Drive Train Systems, Level 4, 18 Credits.
  • 653306-000-01-WM-14, Diagnosis and Repair of Steering and Suspension Systems, Level 4, 18 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 274. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles.
    2. Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble engine and vehicle system components.
    3. Diagnose and repair faults in diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Discuss, outline and apply general principles and critical issues relating to performing scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles according to accepted industry standards.
  • Systematically plan the work and prepare the work area according to task requirements.
  • Source and correctly interpret technical information.
  • Remove, replace and test components as per the service schedule.
  • Perform the service according to the manufacturer's schedule, specifications and timeframes.
  • Accurately generate the maintenance report on the condition of all the required components and systems, including defective components according to industry standards.
  • Perform all activities according to safety and environmental requirements.
  • Apply Workmanship according to industry standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Discuss, outline and apply general principles and critical issues related to removing, disassembling, assessing and replacing diesel engine and vehicle system components according to accepted industry standards.
  • Source and correctly interpret technical information.
  • Systematically plan the work and prepare the work area according to task requirements.
  • Remove, replace, assess and replace systems and subsystems in the diesel vehicle according to applicable standard processes and to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Dispose of all waste materials and restore the work area according to health, safety and environmental requirements.
  • Perform all activities according to safety and environmental requirements.
  • Apply workmanship according to industry standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss, outline and apply operating principles of diesel engine and vehicle systems and components.
  • Discuss, outline and apply general principles and critical processes, sequence and safety requirements for diagnosing and repairing diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components according to accepted industry standards.
  • Systematically plan the work and prepare the work area according to task requirements.
  • Operate diagnostic equipment according to the manufacturer's procedures and standards.
  • Accurately generate the maintenance report on the condition of all the required components and systems, including defective components according to industry standards.
  • Correctly interpret diagnostic codes and events.
  • Source and correctly interpret technical information.
  • Correctly diagnose all faults within stipulated timeframes.
  • Repair faults according to the manufacturer's procedures and specifications.
  • Restore the work area according to health, safety and environmental requirements.
  • Perform all activities according to safety and environmental requirements.
  • Apply Workmanship according to industry standards.

    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required to issue this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and associated assessment criteria.

    The external integrated summative assessment will be conducted through a trade test conducted in terms of Section 26(D) of the SDA and the Trade Test Regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects of the trade in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by QCTO and conducted by an assessor registered by National Assessment Moderating Body (NAMB).The assessment will take place over a maximum of 5 days.

    A candidate who attempted a trade test will be given recognition for those trade test tasks in which he/she has been found competent and not be retested in those provided that: The learner is competent in at least 50% of the trade tasks given during the trade test, and the recognition will be retained by the candidate for a maximum of 3 attempts or 18 months from the date of successful completion of the trade test task whichever comes first. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Canada:
    The Inter-Provincial Red Seal Program in Canada offers a Truck and Transport Mechanic Trade. This is the designated trade governed by regulations under the Provincial and Territorial Apprenticeship Acts of Canada which regulates the administrative procedures and the standards and conditions of training for specific trades.

    According to the Inter-Provincial Red Seal Program, Truck and transport mechanics inspect, repair and maintain commercial trucks, emergency vehicles, buses and road transport vehicles. Truck and transport mechanics work on the structural, mechanical, electrical and electronic vehicle systems and components such as engines, cab, chassis and frames, brakes, steering, suspension, drive train, heating, ventilation and air conditioning emissions, fuel systems and hydraulic systems. In addition, truck and transport mechanics perform preventative maintenance and diagnosis of vehicles. Truck and transport mechanics may be employed in small repair shops, motor vehicle dealers, fleet maintenance companies, public transportation companies, government highway departments, railways and construction companies.

    United States of America:
    The Pearl River Community College in Mississippi in the United States of America offers a Professional Certificate in Automotive Technician Technology. This qualification prepares learners to engage in the servicing and maintenance of all types of automobiles, including Diesel combustion engine vehicles.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with qualifications in Canada and United States of America. They all focus on training learners to provide them with knowledge and skills to service, maintain and repair all forms of transportation. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification has the following articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Further Education Training Certificate: Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting, NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma: Diesel Mechanic, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Integrated Summative Assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience records, including Foundational Learning Competence.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
    Medical certificate of Fitness.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

    The curriculum title and code are:
  • 653306-000-01-00: Diesel Mechanic.

    Encompassed trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
    This is a review of a registered Trade Occupational Qualification.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP):
    NAMB. 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.