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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Automotive Motor Mechanic 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118733  Occupational Certificate: Automotive Motor 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  540  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0522/24  2022-02-03  2025-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-31   2029-12-31  

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 Motor Mechanic.
An Automotive Motor Mechanic maintains, tests, diagnoses and repairs petrol and diesel light motor vehicles and the mechanical parts thereof including but not limited to drive trains, engines, fuel systems, electric and electronic systems, transmissions, suspension, steering and brakes.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on petrol and diesel road vehicles
  • Disassemble, inspect, assess, repair, and assemble petrol and diesel road vehicle engine and vehicle system components.
  • Diagnose and repair faults in petrol and diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components.

    Rationale:
    The automotive maintenance and repair industry provides essential services to users of automotive motor vehicles. The main users in South Africa are the public, public entities and commercial organisations owning vehicle fleets used for a variety of purposes.

    Automotive motor mechanics perform a variety of skilled tasks to service, maintain and repair automotive motor 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.

    The construction of automotive vehicles 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.

    Once qualified as Automotive Motor Mechanic, learners will be involved in activities such as the maintenance of automotive motor vehicles through regular scheduled services, the repair or replacement of components and parts, and the diagnosing and repair of system faults in a variety of types and models of automotive vehicles. They may also be involved in the assembly, testing and commissioning of new or reconditioned parts for automotive vehicles.

    The primary employers of automotive vehicle mechanics are the retail motor sector and organisational service departments, including those of government departments and essential public services such as emergency vehicles and ambulances. Qualified mechanics may also become self-employed and open their own 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):
  • Learners will gain access to the qualification through RPL for Access as provided for in the QCTO RPL Policy. RPL for access is conducted by accredited education institution, skills development provider or workplace accredited to offer that specific qualification/part qualification.
  • Learners who have acquired competencies of the modules of a qualification or part qualification will be credited for modules through 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.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • NQF Level 1 with Mathematics and Science. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of 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.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-05 Vehicle, Equipment and Propulsion Systems, Level 3, 13 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-06 Electrical Systems and Basic Electronic, Hydraulic and Pneumatic Principles, Level 3, 16 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-07 Advanced Vehicle and Equipment Systems, Level 4, 30 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-KM-08 Problem Solving and Engine Optimisation, Level 4, 10 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 108

    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-05 Work with Auto-electric and Auto-electronic Components, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-06 Work with Fluid Power Components, Level 2, Credits.2
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-07 Maintain and Service Vehicles and Vehicle Components, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-08 Remove, Assess and Replace Steering and Suspension Systems, Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-09 Dismantle, Assess and Reassemble Engines and Engine Sub-assemblies, Level 3, 10 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.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-12 Diagnose and Repair Vehicle Air Conditioning Systems, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-13 Diagnose and Repair Engine Cooling System, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-14 Diagnose and Repair Drive Line System, NQF Level 3, Credits. Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-15 Diagnose and Replace Clutch and Brake Components, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-16 Commission and Test Engines, Drive Trains, Sub-systems and Vehicle Components, Level 4, 15 Credits.
  • 6531,01-000-01-00-PM-17 Diagnose and Repair Vehicle Systems, Level 4, 22 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-18 Diagnose and Repair Electrical Systems, Level 4, 14 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-PM-19 Diagnose and Repair Electronically Controlled Vehicle Systems, Level 4, 20 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 162

    Work Experience Modules
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-01, Routine Scheduled Services, Level 2, 18 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-02, Diagnosis and Repair of Vehicle of Air Conditioning Systems, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-03, Removing and Installing Brakes and Clutch Components, Level 3, 6 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, Sub-systems Removal and Installation Processes, Level 3, 10 Credits
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-07, Commissioning and Testing Processes of Engines, Drive Trains, Sub-systems, Level 4, 20 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-08, Diagnosis and Repair of Vehicle Cooling Components, Level 4, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-09, Diagnosis and Repair of Faults on Vehicle Transmission and Transfer Cases, Level 4, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-10, Diagnosis and Repair of Vehicle Suspension Components and Performing a 4 Wheel Alignment, Level 4, 6 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-11, Repair Processes (Gearboxes, Differentials and Engines), Level 4, 28 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-12, Diagnosis and Repair of Electrical Systems (Charging, Starting, Lighting and Auxiliary), Level 4, 36 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-13, Diagnosis and Repair of Engines and Engine Sub-systems, Level 4, 25 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-14 , Diagnosis and Repair of Brake Systems, Level 4, 25 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-15, Diagnosis and Repair of Drive Train Systems, Level 4, 25 Credits.
  • 653101-000-01-00-WM-16, Diagnosis and Repair of Steering and Suspension Systems, Level 4, 25 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 270 

  • 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 service according to the manufacturer's schedule, specifications, and timeframes.
  • Source and correctly interpret technical information.
  • Compile maintenance report on the condition of all the required components and systems, including defective components according to industry requirements.
  • Remove, replace, and test components as per the service schedule.
  • Plan the works is systematically 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 to applicable standard processes and to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Technical information is sourced and correctly interpreted.
  • Plan the works systematically and the prepare 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 within stipulated timeframes.
  • Operate diagnostic equipment according to the manufacturer's procedures and standards.
  • Interpret diagnostic codes and events are correctly.
  • Source and correctly interpret technical information.
  • Repair faults according to the manufacturer's procedures and specifications.
  • Systematically plan the works and prepare the work area according to task requirements.
  • Restore the works area according to health, safety, and environmental requirements.
  • Perform workmanship according to industry standards.
  • Perform all activities according to safety and environmental requirement.

    Integrated Assessment:
    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 together with work experience leads to entrance in 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.

    The external integrated assessment will be conducted through a trade test as prescribed under section 26 D of the Skills Development Act and defined in the Trade Test Regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by QCTO and conducted by an assessor registered by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB). The assessment will take place over a minimum of 2 days. The assessment will take place over a maximum of 3 days. A learner 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 learner for a maximum of 3 attempts or 18 months from the date of successful completion of the trade test task whichever comes first.

    Assessment for a part qualification will take place over a maximum of 2 days. A learner who attempted a summative assessment for a part qualification will be given recognition for those 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 tasks give during the assessment, and the recognition will be retained by the learner for a maximum of 3 attempts or 18 months from the date of successful completion of the assessment task whichever comes first. 

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

    New Zealand
    New Zealand has Light Automotive Engineering Certificate Level 4 that is offered by Unitec Institute of Technology. The qualification covers the following competencies: Monitor the workplace and respond to issues as required to maintain a safe and effective workplace; the appropriate precautionary measures when servicing and repairing high risk light automotive systems; diagnose and repair common faults in light vehicle engines and driveline systems; diagnose and repair common faults in light vehicle electrical and electronic systems; diagnose and repair common faults in light vehicle steering, suspension, and braking systems.

    Australia
    Australia has Certificate Level IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis that is offered by Kangan Institute through classroom teaching and compulsory Work Placement of 200 hours. The certificate provides advanced training for Automotive Technicians to further their diagnostic and technical skills. It enables participants to enter employment in senior, supervisory or managerial within the automotive and repair industry. The qualification covers the following areas: mechanical and electrical systems; maintenance; service, and repair; automotive diagnostics; analysis and evaluation and evaluation of faults identification and rectification; business and management; reports and document development; occupational health and safety and customer service.

    Conclusion
    The Occupational Certificate: Automotive Motor Mechanic compares favourably with qualifications offered in above countries in respect of content and level of complexity. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal and vertical articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive Components: Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 4.
  • Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive Repairer and Maintenance, NQF Level 4.
  • Further Education and Training Certificate: Automotive Body Repair, NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Engine Workshop Maintenance Mechanic, NQF Level 5. 

  • NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience.

    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 Motor Mechanic: 653101-000-01-00.

    Encompassed Trade(s):
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • 61212, M007, Motor Mechanic, Eskom.
  • 61310, MS26, Motor Mechanic, M & E Engineering, Namibia.
  • 61244, M039, Motor Mechanic, Motor.
  • 61268, M067, Motor Mechanic, Explosives.
  • 61280, M080, Motor Mechanic, Chemical, Oil and Allied.
  • 61209, M004, Motor Mechanic, Automobile Manufacturing.
  • 61306, MS22, Motor Mechanic, Mining.
  • 61235, M030, Motor Mechanic, Mining.
  • 61230, M025, Motor Mechanic, Metal.
  • 61218, M014, Motor Mechanic, Government.
  • 61252, M047, Motor Mechanic, Transnet.
  • 61294, MS10, Motor Mechanic, Motor.
  • 61225, M020, Motor Mechanic, ATBLA, Local Authority.
  • 61257, M052, Motor Mechanic, Sugar.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
  • NAMB

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION
  • None 

  • 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.