PURPOSE
The Diesel Technician credential documents the essential competencies required for diesel technicians and mechanics in areas of automotive shop safety, tools and equipment, general service and maintenance programs of diesel vehicles including light, medium, and heavy trucks. Specifically, topics include electrical systems, batteries and charging systems, transmissions, suspension and steering, drive shaft assemblies and axles, steering and alignment, suspension systems, wheels and tires, brake systems, trailers and fifth wheels, and engines.
AUDIENCE
This credential is appropriate for automotive/diesel technicians and mechanics working in automotive shops, dealerships, and other areas in which gas, diesel, and alternative fuel vehicles are serviced, inspected, diagnosed, and repaired.
JOB/CAREER REQUIREMENTS
The diesel technician typically must have a high school diploma or the equivalent and understand basic principles that are fundamental for vehicle engines, braking systems, suspension systems, climate systems, electrical systems, and various types of transmissions. They may be required to receive formal training and gain hands-on experience to qualify for an entry-level position through either vocational or other postsecondary training program. In addition to knowledge and skills in each automotive area, successful automotive technicians and mechanics must have excellent customer service skills and be able to listen to and effectively communicate with the vehicle owners. They must also understand and comply with the numerous state and federal laws that govern the industry including EPA laws and regulations for hazardous wastes and vehicle emissions.
AUTOMOTIVE WORKPLACE TASKS:
- Explain the role of the automotive and diesel technician in the automotive industry
- Identify the parts of the vehicle
- Identify and correctly/safely use hand and shop tools, precision tools, and measuring tools used in vehicle diagnosis and repair
- Work in the automotive shop environment in a safe manner complying with all rules, regulations, and standards
- Perform basic maintenance program tasks on vehicles per preventive maintenance schedules
- Perform basic electrical circuit calculations on vehicle electrical systems
- Perform basic troubleshooting steps for vehicle electronic systems and make basic repairs
- Perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance tasks on vehicle hydraulic systems
- Verify battery performance and jump start vehicles with dead battery
- Troubleshoot clutch for wear and damage
- Perform basic maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on vehicle transmission systems
- Remove and reinstall various components of rear and front-end drivetrain, axle, and steering and suspension systems
- Perform basic maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on vehicle braking systems
- Perform basic maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on wheels and tires
- Perform basic chassis frame maintenance and performance checks
- Inspect and service common types of fifth wheels and couplers
- Perform simple HVAC diagnoses procedures
- Perform basic engine system analysis and repair tasks
- Practice customer service in all dealings with the vehicle owners, vendors, and coworkers
EXAM STRUCTURE OVERVIEW
Number of Questions in Exam: 100
Total Time: 45 minutes
Overall Passing Score: 70%
(All sections require an individual passing score of 70%)