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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
78526  National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Vehicle Maintenance 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
The individual Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary for each Learning Programme recorded against this qualification is shown in the table at the end of this report.  SFAP - Sub-framework Assignment Pending 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  144  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 091/21  2021-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

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 the qualification is to provide learners with the standards and the range of learning required to work effectively in various industries making use of automotive repair and maintenance skills and to meet the challenges of the automotive industry and related environments.

The primary skill that is recognised in this qualification is the ability to apply the theory of repairing and maintenance in order to conduct advanced diagnosis and repair of vehicle systems and components, as well as to mentor apprentices in the workplace.

This capability requires an understanding of basic repairing and maintenance theory, names and functions of fluids and lubricants, automotive components and how to read and interpret workshop manuals and workshop procedures. Hand and business skills also play an important role in this qualification and successful learners will need to apply these skills in completing their tasks.

This qualification has been designed to accommodate learners from a wide area to make allowance for the wide range of vehicles currently available. This qualification can be achieved in one of the following 4 specialisation areas:
  • Passenger Vehicles.
  • Commercial Vehicles.
  • Earthmoving Equipment.
  • Motorcycles.

    Training and assessment will be contextualised to the specialisation area of the learner, and the learner will be required to prove competence in the specialisation area enrolled in.

    This qualification is the fourth progressive qualification for a motor mechanic and learners will be able to build on this qualification to achieve higher levels of automotive repair and maintenance in the same specialisation area.

    After achieving this qualification learners will be able to:
  • Communicate with customers and staff in an automotive workshop.
  • Solve problems in an automotive workshop.
  • Manage work activities in an automotive context.
  • Diagnose and repair specialised vehicle systems.

    Rationale:

    This qualification in automotive repair and maintenance NQF Level 5 has been developed as a progression from qualifications in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Levels 2, 3 and 4. The development was necessary due to expansion into advanced diagnosis and repair technology. With the advancement of technology this qualification is also needed to replace the previous segmented and aged qualifications system, improve the industry standards and prevent fraudulent qualifications. The core component has also been more closely aligned to the core skills of the person operating at this level in an automotive workshop.

    The field of automotive maintenance and repair is characterised by the overall diagnosis and repair of vehicle systems as well as the reconditioning of components where required. This in turn provides support and job opportunities to a variety of small businesses in the retail motor and related industries. The qualification also equips entrepreneurs with basic business and management skills to manage a business.

    This qualification recognises the skills, knowledge and values relevant in the workplace and will cater for learners who:
  • Have attended courses and need to apply the knowledge gained to activities in the workplace.
  • Are already workers and have acquired skills and knowledge without having attended formal training.
  • Are part of a learnership programme which integrates structured learning and operational experience.

    There is also a critical need in the industry to identify people who are able to conduct the essential maintenance and repair associated with the range of vehicles on the road and apply efficient and safe operational practices in at least one of the specialisation areas in which this qualification may be achieved.

    This is the fourth qualification in a series for learners who want to follow a career in the field of automotive repair and maintenance. This qualification focuses on developing skills and knowledge necessary to perform as a competent person in the automotive and associated industries. People who have achieved the skills and knowledge outlined in this qualification are normally employed in the following positions:
  • Earth moving master artisan.
  • Motor master artisan.
  • Diesel master artisan.
  • Lift truck master artisan.
  • Automotive workshop supervisor/foreman.

    It also provides learners who have gained relevant experience in the workplace with an opportunity to obtain credits through an RPL process. The qualification also forms the basis for further learning in the management of a business. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 4.
  • Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 4.
  • Automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Level 4 in the selected specialisation area.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    The structure of this qualification makes the Recognition of Prior Learning possible, if the learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes implicit in this Qualification. Recognition of Prior Learning will be done by means of an Integrated Assessment as mentioned in the previous paragraph.

    This Recognition of Prior Learning may allow:
  • For accelerated access to further learning.
  • Gaining of credits towards any of the Exit Level Outcomes in this qualification.

    All recognition of Prior Learning is subject to quality assurance by the relevant accredited Education and Training Quality Assurance Body (ETQA) and must be conducted by a registered workplace assessor. Identified outcomes may have been acquired in a range of economic sectors and these will be considered as appropriate where the candidate provides evidence of the applicability of that learning to this qualification.

    Access to the Qualification:

    This qualification is open for anyone who wishes to pursue a career in automotive repair and maintenance, but prior achievement of the "Learning Assumed to be in Place" would facilitate an easier progression into learning programmes to address the outcomes of this qualification. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The core unit standards identified are applicable across the entire range of specialisation areas applicable to this qualification. Specific unit standards that are required for certain specialisation areas have been identified and listed below. Rules of combination for this qualification are as follows:

    All Fundamental unit standards are compulsory (29 Credits).

    All Core unit standards are compulsory (62 Credits).

    Elective Component:

    The Elective Component consists of a number of specialisations each with its own set of Unit Standards. In addition to the compulsory unit standards listed below, learners are to choose 5 credits from the list of Elective Unit Standards so as to attain a minimum of 144 credits for this qualification.

    Automotive Repair and Maintenance Specialisation (Learning Programme ID 64789):
  • For learners specialising in Passenger vehicles, the following unit standard is compulsory (12 Credits):

    > ID 12234: Diagnose and repair supplementary restraint systems, Level 5, 12 Credits.
  • For learners specialising in Commercial Vehicles, the following unit standards are compulsory (18 Credits):

    > ID 12234: Diagnose and repair supplementary restraint systems Level 5, 12 Credits.
    > ID 230464: Diagnose and repair engine and exhaust braking systems, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • For learners specialising in Earthmoving Equipment, the following unit standards are compulsory (16 Credits):

    > ID 230464: Diagnose and repair engine and exhaust braking systems Level 5, 6 Credits.
    > ID 230467: Diagnose and repair hydrostatic systems, Level 5, 10 Credits.

    Mining and Minerals Specialisation (Learning Programme ID 78546):

    The following unit standards are compulsory for Mining and Minerals sector:
  • ID 12234: Diagnose and repair supplementary restraint systems (SRS), Level 5, 12 Credits.
  • ID 230464: Diagnose and repair engine and exhaust braking systems, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • ID 230467: Diagnose and repair hydrostatic systems, Level 5, 10 Credits.

    Additional Elective unit standards must be selected to achieve a total of 144 credits for this qualification. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate with customers and staff in an automotive workshop.

    2. Solve problems in an automotive workshop.

    3. Manage work activities in an automotive context.

    4. Diagnose and repair specialised vehicle systems.
    Range: Specialised vehicle systems include engine, body and drive management systems.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes, as detailed in the unit standards:
  • Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to identify the type of problem and apply relevant solutions.
  • Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to manage work activities of a team.
  • Organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to identify and repair system faults.
  • Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to diagnose specialised systems and determine an appropriate action.
  • Communicate effectively, using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to enhance the corporate image of the organisation.
  • Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to use the correct tools and equipment to diagnose system faults.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
    > Note: The ability of the candidate to identify the cause of problems from a variety of diagnostic means. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1 Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective interaction in a work context.
    1.2 Information is accessed from instructions, visual information and a range of other workplace texts and responses where required are appropriate to the context.
    1.3 Written communication is clear and unambiguous and at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
    1.4 Communication enhances the corporate image of the organisation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    2.1 Problems are identified and classified by responsible person according to symptoms.
    2.2 Known solutions are applied to solve the relevant problems to the satisfaction of the parties involved within an acceptable cost structure.
    2.3 Problems that cannot be solved directly are escalated to relevant personnel for action.
    2.4 Consequences of not solving problems in the workshop are described in terms of client satisfaction and the impact on the business.
    2.5 Financial implications of actions taken are understood in relation to efficiency of business.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    3.1 Organisational procedures are explained in relation to the work environment.
    3.2 Financial implications of actions taken are understood in relation to efficiency of business.
    3.3 Subordinates` activities are co-ordinated to achieve work targets with available resources.
    3.4 Quality is ensured in accordance with workshop standards.
    3.5 Time is managed in accordance with workplace requirements.
    3.6 Work is conducted efficiently with a minimum of wastage.
    3.7 Quality is managed in accordance with customer requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

    4.1 Work area and vehicle is prepared for the work task according to vehicle specifications and workplace procedures.
    4.2 Appropriate test equipment is connected according to workplace specifications.
    4.3 Faulty vehicle system is identified and appropriate data collected from relevant sources.
    4.4 System faults are identified and repaired according to manufacturer specifications.
    4.5 Safety procedures are adhered to during diagnosing and repairing tasks.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Because assessment practices must be open, transparent, fair, valid, and reliable and ensure that no learner is disadvantaged in any way whatsoever, an integrated assessment approach is incorporated into the Qualification. Learning, teaching and assessment are inextricably linked. Whenever possible, the assessment of knowledge, skills, attitudes and values shown in the exit level outcomes should be integrated.

    A variety of methods must be used in assessment tools and activities must be appropriate to the context in which the learner is working. Where it is not possible to assess the learner in the workplace or on-the-job, simulations, case studies, role-plays and other similar techniques should be used to provide a context appropriate to the assessment.

    The term 'Integrated Assessment' implies that theoretical and practical components should be assessed together. During integrated assessments the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience.

    Assessment should ensure that all outcomes, embedded knowledge and critical cross-field outcomes are assessed. The assessment of the critical cross-field outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of specific outcomes and embedded knowledge. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    As a starting point, this qualification which is part of a series of qualifications in the field of vehicle technology including, servicing, maintenance, repairs and diagnostics, was compared to other, similar outcomes-based qualifications, certifications or skills standards in English speaking countries of the world.

    It was found to be difficult to compare the New Zealand and Australian narrow focus qualifications with this broad-based qualification that also include fundamentals, however the generic core and specialisation areas` unit standards did compare favourably to both the Australian (AUR99) Automotive Industry, Service and Repair unit standards and the NVQ qualification in the United Kingdom.

    An example of the exact multi specialisation area approach used in this qualification was found in Australia under Automotive Retail Service Repair Training (www.automotivetraining.org.au). The range of unit standards used in Australia that relate similarly to core unit standards in this qualification may be found at (www.ntis.gov.au).

    It was further difficult to undertake specific comparisons given that the New Zealand and Australian qualifications, although they are in the same field of vehicle technology and cover the same areas of specialisation (thus containing a large degree of similar content) are conceptualised as three year qualifications without exit level outcomes at the intermediate levels.

    This notwithstanding, the technical content of this qualification for automotive repair and maintenance (with the various specialisations) corresponds with the equivalent level of qualification in vehicle servicing (with the various specialisations) in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

    Elements of the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) in the UK have been used in benchmarking best practice procedures in some of the unit standards used in this qualification. The NVQ qualifications offered in the UK cover all the same objectives of this series of qualifications at various levels of complexity. The qualifications are offered as an internship wherein the learner enrols with a college or training centre for the theoretical component, and achieves the practical component in-house. The qualifications are all based on specific levels of performance, and lead to progressive levels of complexity, but are identified as separate qualifications. The learning towards these qualifications is offered through long-term learner-employer relationships, with short-term stints at a training centre. Qualification titles in the UK include:
  • Vehicle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, Level 3: (Q1015915).
  • Vehicle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, Level 3: (Q1015916).
  • Motorcycle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, Level 3: (Q1015918).
  • Vehicle Refinishing, Level 3: (Q1017590).
  • Vehicle Body Repair, Level 3: (Q1015917).
  • Vehicle Body Fitting, Level 2: (Q1015913).
  • Vehicle Mechanical and Electronic Systems, unit Replacement, Level 2: (Q1015914).

    The qualifications offered in other European countries, such as Germany, are also predominantly vocational qualifications with theoretical components being achieved through a specified period at a training centre. The qualifications are aimed at achieving complete competence in all aspects of vehicle maintenance through the progressive series of qualifications and includes mechanical, electrical and coach works. The training programmes are progressive qualifications of one-year duration each and include ongoing training through workbooks in which the trainee is required to complete evidence of understanding for each month of the registered year of learning. Germany has a requirement that competent people be licensed to operate under the meister (master craftsman) programme, and this licence is valid for a period of two years. The qualification titles offered in Germany include:
  • Auto Fachman, Level 1.
  • Auto Fachman, Level 2.
  • Auto Fachman, Level 3.
  • Auto Fachman, Meister.

    America uses a system of specialisation areas, with a master technician being identified as a person who is competent in all areas and will be able to perform on almost any part of a vehicle. The learning is conducted through apprenticeships and has specialisation areas for engine technicians, transmission technicians, steering and suspension technicians, brake technicians, electrical system technicians, heating and air-conditioning technicians, driveability and performance technicians and lubrication technicians.

    None of the SADC countries have their own qualifications relating to vehicle maintenance, but use the British City and Guilds Standards for training learners in the automotive field. Namibia has indicated interest in the South African qualifications and may implement this qualification once it has been registered. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification lends itself to both vertical and horizontal articulation possibilities.

    Horizontal articulation is possible with the following Qualifications:
  • ID 21007: National Certificate: Automotive Component Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 5.
  • ID 22861: National Certificate: Autotronics, NQF Level 5.
  • ID 22773: National Certificate: Mechatronics, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical articulation is possible with the following qualifications:
  • National Certificate: Business Management at NQF Level 6.
  • National Diploma: Administrative Management at NQF Level 6.
  • National Diploma: Entrepreneurship at NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance Body (ETQA).
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation, in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between ETQAs (including professional bodies).
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the ELOs of the Qualification and will include integration of skills relevant to the economic sector. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors must be registered in terms of the requirements of SAQA and the relevant ETQA. In addition, assessors should have:
  • A minimum of 3 (three) years' practical, relevant occupational experience.
  • The ability to meet the outcomes of this qualification. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 57450, "National Diploma: Automotive diagnostics and repair", Level 5, 240 credits.

    The qualification National Diploma in Automotive Diagnostics and Repair, Level 5 (57450) has been revised. Even though the qualification was still current, the revision was necessary due to the inclusion of additional specialisation areas.
  • Engine Fitting and lift trucks have not been catered for as a specialisation area at this level because the core component of this qualification covers all that an engine fitter or lift truck master artisan would be required to do and more. Providers of learning may select the relevant core unit standards and create a learning programme in Engine Fitting or lift trucks. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  12225  Construct and test advanced electronic circuits  Level 4  NQF Level 04  16 
    Core  230462  Analyse failure of vehicle parts  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  244698  Demonstrate knowledge of integrating hydraulic systems to applications  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Core  12231  Diagnose and repair engine management systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Core  230465  Diagnose and repair hydraulic systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Fundamental  242706  Analyse problems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Fundamental  115821  Apply business financial practices  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Fundamental  15234  Apply efficient time management to the work of a department/division/section  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Fundamental  7818  Conduct on-the-job coaching  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  5 
    Fundamental  15224  Empower team members through recognising strengths, encouraging participation in decision making and delegating tasks  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  4 
    Fundamental  12433  Use communication techniques effectively  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Elective  117701  Address safety, health and environmental requirements and hazards in a technical context  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Elective  120310  Apply client service techniques to improve service delivery  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Elective  230464  Diagnose and repair engine and exhaust braking systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Elective  230467  Diagnose and repair hydrostatic systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Elective  12234  Diagnose and repair supplementary restraint systems (SRS)  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Elective  12232  Diagnose and repair vehicle stability, traction and drive control (VSTDC) systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  10066  Establish customer needs and relationships  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  16 
    Elective  15223  Implement training needs for teams and individuals to upgrade skills levels  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Elective  10053  Manage customer requirements and needs and implement action plans  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Originator Pre-2009
    NQF Level    		 NQF Level Min Credits Learning Prog End Date Quality
    Assurance
    Functionary    		 NQF Sub-Framework
    64789  National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance  Generic Provider - Field 06  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  144     MERSETA  OQSF 
    78546  National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance: Mining and Minerals  Generic Provider - Field 06  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  144     MQA  OQSF 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THESE LEARNING PROGRAMMES: 
    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.