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: Automotive Workshop Assistant 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
117475  Occupational Certificate: Automotive Workshop Assistant 
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  182  Not Applicable  NQF Level 02  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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Automotive Workshop Assistant. An Automotive Workshop Assistant removes, installs and performs services on transmission, engines, drive trains, sub-systems and related components.

Rationale:
This qualification is designed for learners who work as Automotive Workshop Assistants. The qualification is aimed at both new entrant as well as learners who have been working within the Automotive industry.

This qualification will also provide learners with a foundation to pursue other qualifications, these being:
  • Automotive Drive Train Repairer.
  • Automotive Suspension Repairer.
  • Automotive Clutch and Brake Repairer.

    Upon completion of this qualification, learners can advance their careers by taking higher-level responsibilities within their respective organisations.

    Learners who complete this qualification can participate effectively in the Automotive industry, whether in small, medium or large enterprises. 
    		•

    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 result or 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. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-01, Workplace Fundamentals, Level 2, 9 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-02, Foundational Concepts for Mechanics, Level 2, 14 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-03, Vehicle and Equipment Fundamentals, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-04, Basic Engine Systems, Level 2, 8 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 39.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-01, Work Safely and Respond to Emergencies, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-02, Use Tools and Equipment, Level 2, 26 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-03, Cut and Join Metals, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-04, Remove and Install Mechanical Components (Gaskets, Seals, Bearings and Locking Devices), Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-07, Maintain and Service Vehicles and Vehicle Components, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-10, Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Vehicle Sub-assemblies, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-11, Remove and Refit Engines, Drive Trains, Sub-systems and Vehicle components, Level 3, 6 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 67.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-01, Routine Scheduled Services, Level 2, 18 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-04, Removal and Replacement of Engine Sub-systems (including batteries), Level 3, 12 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-05, Removal and Replacement of Vehicle Sub-systems, Level 3, 16 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-06, Engines, Drive Trains and Sub-systems Removal and Installation Processes, Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-07, Commissioning and Testing Processes of Engines, Drive trains and Sub-systems, Level 4, 20 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 76. 
    		•

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

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

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

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss, compare and analyse the operating principles of light motor vehicle systems and components.
  • Discuss, compare and evaluate general principles and critical issues relating to diagnosing and repairing faults in light motor vehicles according to accepted industry standards.
  • Correctly diagnose all faults and stipulate timeframes.
  • Operate diagnostic equipment according to the manufacturer's procedures and standards.
  • Correctly interpret diagnostic codes and events.
  • Source and correctly interpret technical information.
  • Repair faults according to the manufacturer's procedures and specifications.
  • Systematically plan the work and prepare the work area according to task requirements.
  • Perform workmanship according to industry standards.
  • Perform all activities according to safety and environmental requirements.

    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 for the issuing of this qualification. The External Integrated Summative Assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and associated assessment criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Comparisons were made to similar automotive motor mechanic qualifications in Australia and New Zealand.

    Australia:
    Australia has Certificate III Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology that is offered by TAFE NSW. The course covers the following:
  • Diagnose and repair electrical or electronic systems.
  • Test and repair of light vehicle mechanical systems, brakes, transmissions and cooling systems.
  • Technical issues with customers in a language that they will understand, and essential Work Health and Safety practices in the workplace.

    TAFE NSW's state-of-the-art facilities will give you the practical skills you need to be in demand in this fast-growing industry.

    New Zealand:
    New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering Level 3, which is offered by Manukau Institute of Technology. The course covers the following areas:
  • Automotive workshop safety.
  • Workshop engineering tools and equipment.
  • Engines and cooling systems.
  • Automotive engine tuning and fuel system.
  • Automotive transmission and driveline system.
  • Automotive electrical technology.
  • Automotive electronic and HVAC systems.

    Conclusion:
    The South African Automotive Workshop Assistant occupational qualification compares favourably with qualifications offered in above countries in respect of the NQF Level, mode of delivery, content and level of complexity. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification has the following articulation possibilities:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Automotive Drive Train Repairer, NQF Level 2.
  • Occupational Certificate: Automotive Suspension Repairer, NQF Level 2.
  • Occupational Certificate: Automotive Clutch and Brake Repairer, NQF Level 2.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • National Certificate: Mechanical Engineering: Fitting and Machining, NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    In order to qualify for the external summative assessment learners must have a copy of a completed and signed Statement of Work Experience as well as proof of successful completion of the all the knowledge and practical skill modules including the Foundational Learning Competence.

    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
    None

    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:
  • Automotive Workshop Assistant: 653101-000-01-01.

    Encompassed Trades.
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
    This is not a trade qualification.

    Assessment Quality Partner:
    National Artisan Moderating Body (NAMB). 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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.