FACULITY OF ENGINEERING & ARTISNAL DEVELOPMENT
Engineering and technical programs at ATCE focus on developing practical mechanical expertise, diagnostic skills and hands-on problem-solving capabilities required within modern industrial environments.
These programs prepare students for careers in:
Build the skills that power industries with hands-on training in engineering and technical trades.
Automotive Motor mechanics
Program Code:
ATCE – 118733
Program Type:
Occupational Certificate – 540 credits
NQF Level:
L4
Program Duration
12 – 24 Months depending on the training pathway.
Program Overview
The purpose of this qualification is to equip a learner with knowledge and skills to operate as a professional Diesel and Motor Mechanic. A qualified learner will be able to:
- Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on motor vehicles.
- Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair, and assemble motor vehicle engines.
- Diagnose and repair faults in motor vehicle engines and vehicle systems and their components.
Learning Modules
This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill
Knowledge Modules
KM-01, Workplace fundamentals, NQF Level 2, Credits 9
KM-02, Foundational concepts for mechanics, NQF Level 2, Credits 14
KM-03, Vehicle and equipment fundamentals, NQF Level 2, Credits 8
KM-04, Basic engine systems, NQF Level 2, Credits 8
KM-05, Vehicle, equipment and propulsion systems, NQF Level 3, Credits 13
KM-06, Electrical systems and basic electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic principles, NQF Level 3, Credits 16
KM-07, Advanced vehicle and equipment systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 30
KM-08, Problem solving and engine optimisation, NQF Level 4, Credits 10
Number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 108
Practical Skill Modules:
PM-01, Work safely and respond to emergencies, NQF Level 2, Credits 2
PM-03, Cut and join metals, NQF Level 2, Credits 5
PM-04, Remove and install mechanical components (gaskets, seals, bearings and locking devices), NQF Level 2, Credits 6
PM-05, Work with auto-electric and auto-electronic components, NQF Level 2, Credits 2
PM-06, Work with fluid power components, NQF Level 2, Credits 2
PM-07, Maintain and service vehicles and vehicle components, NQF Level 2, Credits 6
PM-08, Remove, assess and replace steering and suspension systems,
PM-09, Disassemble, assess and reassemble engines and engine subassemblies, NQF Level 3, Credits 10
PM-10, Disassemble, assess and reassemble vehicle sub-assemblies,
NQF Level 3, Credits 6
PM-11, Remove and refit engines, drivetrains, sub-systems and vehicle components, NQF Level 3, Credits 6
PM-12, Diagnose and repair vehicle air conditioning systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 4
PM-13, Diagnose and repair engine cooling system, NQF Level 4, Credits 4
PM-14, Diagnose and repair drive line system, NQF Level 4, Credits 4
PM-15, Diagnose and replace clutch and brake components, NQF Level 4, Credits 5
PM-16, Commission and test engines, drivetrains, sub-systems and vehicle components, NQF Level 4, Credits 15
PM-17, Diagnose and repair vehicle systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 22
PM-18, Diagnose and repair electrical systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 14
PM-19, Diagnose and repair electronically controlled vehicle systems,
NQF Level 4, Credits 20
Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 162
This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules: List of Work Experience Module Specifications
WM-01, Routine scheduled services, NQF Level 2, Credits 18
WM-02, Diagnosis and repair of vehicle air conditioning systems, NQF Level 3, Credits
WM-03, Removing and installing brakes and clutch components, NQF Level 3, Credits 6
WM-04, Removal and replacement of engine sub-systems (including batteries), NQF Level 3, Credits 12
WM-06, Engines, drivetrains and sub-systems removal and installation processes, NQF Level 3, Credits 10
WM-07, Commissioning and testing processes of engines, drivetrains and sub-systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 20
WM-08, Diagnosis and repair of vehicle cooling components, NQF Level 4, Credits 6
WM-09, Diagnosis and repair faults on vehicle transmission and transfer cases, NQF Level 4, Credits 6
WM-10, Diagnosis and repair of vehicle suspension components and performing a 4- wheel alignment, NQF Level 4, Credits 6
WM-11, Repair processes (gearboxes, differentials and engines), NQF Level 4, Credits 28
WM-12, Diagnosis and repair of electrical systems (charging, starting, lighting and auxiliary), NQF Level 4, Credits 36
WM-13, Diagnosis and repair of engines and engine sub-systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 25
WM-14, Diagnosis and repair of brake systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 25
WM-15, Diagnosis and repair of drivetrain systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 25
WM-16, Diagnosis and repair of steering and suspension systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 25
Career Value
The automotive industry continues to evolve rapidly with advanced vehicle electronics and diagnostic systems. Skilled automotive technicians are in high demand within dealerships, service centres and fleet operations.
Diesel Mechanics
Program Code:
ATCE – 97592
Program Type:
Occupational Certificate – 540 credits
NQF Level:
L4
Program Overview
The purpose of this qualification is to equip a learner with knowledge and skills to operate as a professional Diesel and Motor Mechanic. A qualified learner will be able to:
- Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on motor vehicles.
- Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble motor vehicle engines.
- Diagnose and repair faults in motor vehicle engine and vehicle systems and their components.
Knowledge Modules
KM-01, Workplace fundamentals, NQF Level 2, Credits 9
KM-02, Foundational concepts for mechanics, NQF Level 2, Credits 14
KM-03, Vehicle and equipment fundamentals, NQF Level 2, Credits 8
KM-04, Basic engine systems, NQF Level 2, Credits 8
KM-05, Vehicle, equipment and propulsion systems, NQF Level 3, Credits 13
KM-06, Electrical systems and basic electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic principles, NQF Level 3, Credits 16
KM-07, Advanced vehicle and equipment systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 30
KM-08, Problem solving and engine optimisation, NQF Level 4, Credits 10
Practical Skills Modules :
PM-01, Work safely and respond to emergencies, NQF Level 2, Credits 6
PM-03, Cut and join metals, NQF Level 2, Credits 5
PM-05, Work with auto-electric and auto-electronic components, NQF Level 2, Credits 2
PM-06, Work with fluid power components, NQF Level 2, Credits 2
PM-07, Maintain and service vehicles and vehicle components, NQF Level 2, Credits 5
PM-08, Dismantle, assess and reassemble engines and engine sub-assemblies, NQF Level 3, Credits 24
PM-09, Dismantle, assess and reassemble vehicle sub-assemblies, NQF Level 3, Credits 20
PM-10, Remove, test, repair and refit engines and vehicle components, NQF Level 3, Credits 15
PM-11, Diagnose and repair vehicle systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 30
PM-12, Diagnose and repair electrical systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 12
PM-13, Diagnose and repair electronically controlled vehicle systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 15
Work Place Modules :
WM-01, Routine scheduled services, NQF Level 2, Credits 16
WM-02, Removal and replacement of engine sub-system components (including batteries), NQF Level 3, Credits 16
WM-03, Removal and replacement of other vehicle sub-system components, NQF Level 3, Credits 20
WM-04, Engine removal and installation processes, NQF Level 3, Credits 18
WM-05, Repair processes for vehicle sub-systems, NQF Level 3, Credits 74
WM-06, Diagnosis and repair of electrical systems (charging, starting, lighting and auxiliary), NQF Level 4, Credits 18
WM-07, Diagnosis and repair of electronic control systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 18
WM-08, Diagnosis and repair of engines and engine sub-systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 18
WM-09, Diagnosis and repair of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 18
WM-10, Diagnosis and repair of brake systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 18
WM-11, Diagnosis and repair of drive train systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 18
WM-12, Diagnosis and repair of steering and suspension systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 18
Career Opportunities
Diesel Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Technician
Fleet Maintenance Technician
Mining Equipment Technician
Career Value
Diesel-powered equipment drives industries such as mining, logistics and construction. Qualified diesel mechanics therefore enjoy strong employment prospects.
Trade Test Centre for Occupational Programs
Automotive mechanics _ Diesel mechanics
A trade test assessment centre accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) is an approved facility that conducts final external assessments for artisan trades and occupational qualifications in South Africa.
Overview
QCTO-accredited trade test centres form part of South Africa’s national skills development system. They are authorised to conduct the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA)—a standardised national assessment that determines whether a learner is competent and eligible for certification.
- A trade test centre is a specialised type of assessment centre focused on artisan trades (e.g. electrical, plumbing, motor mechanics).
- These centres ensure that all candidates are assessed against the same national standards, promoting consistency and credibility.
QCTO-accredited trade test centres are responsible for:
- Conducting final trade tests (EISA) for occupational qualifications and listed trades
- Assessing practical competence using real or simulated workplace conditions
- Supporting Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL) candidates
- Ensuring fair, valid, and reliable assessment decisions
- Contributing to the issuing of nationally recognised trade certificates (e.g. Red Seal
ARPL
ARPL is a structured process that allows individuals with relevant workplace experience—but no formal qualification—to be assessed and gain access to a trade test.
At QCTO-accredited centres, ARPL focuses on:
- Evaluating existing knowledge, skills, and work experience
- Identifying gaps against trade requirements
- Preparing candidates for the final trade test (EISA)
Our centre offers both assessment and developmental roles, including:
- Pre-assessment screening of candidates’ work experience and evidence
- Conducting skills gap analysis against occupational standards
- Offering gap training or workplace exposure where required
- Facilitating ARPL practical assessments real workshop environments
- Recommending eligible candidates for the national trade test
Get In Touch To Enroll
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