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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
58497  National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Vehicle Maintenance 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
Was MERSETA until Last Date for Achievement  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
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  120  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Registered" 
SAQA 0875/08  2008-02-06  2009-02-18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2010-02-18   2013-02-18  

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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
24456  National Certificate: Maintaining Vehicles  Level 3  NQF Level 03  139  Complete 

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
64809  National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance  Level 3  NQF Level 03  135  Complete 

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 fundamentals of automotive repair and maintenance technology in order to repair and maintain vehicles.

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.

A thorough knowledge of automotive components and systems, workshop equipment and an ability to read, interpret and understand task instructions and job cards are required.

Recipients of one of the variations of this qualification are able to conduct the essential maintenance and related operations associated with the range of vehicles in use today and efficient and safe operational practices in one of the following contextualized specialisation areas:
  • Passenger & light delivery vehicles.
  • Earthmoving equipment.
  • Commercial vehicle.
  • Lift trucks.

    With this understanding learners will be able to participate in operational activities. What learners achieve in this qualification will also serve as a basis for further learning where they will engage in more complex automotive maintenance and repair activities in the field of vehicle technology.

    Rationale:

    This qualification in automotive repair and maintenance NQF Level 3 has been developed as a progression from qualifications in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Level 2. The development was necessary due to expansion into advanced repair and maintenance 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 field of automotive maintenance and repair is characterised by the overall maintenance of vehicle systems as well as the removal, dismantling and replacement of components and adjustments to vehicle systems. This in turn provides support and job opportunities to a variety of small businesses in the retail motor and related industries.

    People working in the automotive repair and maintenance field require technical skills and knowledge, and well developed hand skills.

    There is also a critical need in the industry to identify people who are able to conduct the essential maintenance and related operations associated with the range of vehicles on the road today and apply efficient and safe operational practices in each of the following contextualised areas:
  • Passenger & light delivery vehicles.
  • Earthmoving equipment.
  • Commercial vehicle.
  • Lift trucks.

    This is the second 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 apprentice.
  • Motor mechanic apprentice.
  • CBMT level two apprentice.
  • Repair shop assistant.
  • Diesel mechanic apprentice.
  • Diesel mechanic.
  • Motor mechanic (petrol).
  • Forklift mechanic.
  • Lift truck mechanic.

    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 field of automotive technology. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • Communication at NQF Level 2.
  • Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 2.
  • Workplace safety at NQF Level 2.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:
  • This qualification may be obtained through a process of RPL. The learner should be thoroughly briefed prior to the assessment and support provided to assist in the process of developing a portfolio.
  • While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit-level outcomes.

    Access to qualification:
  • Access is limited to learners who have the skills and competencies related to the National Certificate in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF level 2.
  • Hand skills and physical endurance will play an important role in this qualification, and learners who have physical disabilities could be excluded from achieving this qualification, depending on the type and severity of the disability. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of a minimum of 120 credits made up of the following:
  • Learners must achieve all 36 credits from the fundamental unit standards.
  • Learners must achieve all 53 credits from the core unit standards.
  • Learners may select a specialisation area of their choice, and must select a minimum of 23 credits from the available unit standards in that specialisation area. An additional 8 credits may be selected from the generic elective category to supplement credits to achieve a minimum of 120 credits.

    Specialisation areas consist of the following unit standards:

    Specialisation area 1: Passenger and Light Delivery Vehicles.
  • Elective: ID 11202: Fit and commission air-conditioners to vehicles, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 12221: Trace and repair auto electrical circuit faults on automobiles, NQF Level 3, 20 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15100: Check and adjust steering geometry, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244050: Demonstrate knowledge of petrol fuel injection and engine management systems, NQF Level 3, 7 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244051: Test and repair an engine cooling systems, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244057: Test and repair an engine lubrication system, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.

    Total Credits = 47.

    Specialisation area 2: Earthmoving Equipment.
  • Elective: ID 12221: Trace and repair auto electrical circuit faults on automobiles, NQF Level 3, 20 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15103: Install vehicle engines, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID15109: Recondition vehicle undercarriage components, NQF Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15116: Remove vehicle engines, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244044: Demonstrate knowledge of diesel fuel injection and engine management systems, NQF Level 3, 7 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244051: Test and repair an engine cooling systems, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244057: Test and repair an engine lubrication system, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244059: Remove automotive main components, NQF Level 3, 6 Credits.

    Total Credits = 67.

    Specialisation area 3: Commercial vehicles.
  • Elective: ID 12221: Trace and repair auto electrical circuit faults on automobiles, NQF Level 3, 20 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15103: Install vehicle engines, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15109: Recondition vehicle undercarriage components, NQF Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15116: Remove vehicle engines, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244044: Demonstrate knowledge of diesel fuel injection and engine management systems, NQF Level 3, 7 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244051: Test and repair an engine cooling systems, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244057: Test and repair an engine lubrication system, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.

    Total Credits = 61.

    Specialisation area 4: Lift trucks.
  • Elective: ID 12221: Trace and repair auto electrical circuit faults on automobiles, NQF Level 3, 20 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15103: Install vehicle engines, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15109: Recondition vehicle undercarriage components, NQF Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 15116: Remove vehicle engines, NQF Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244044: Demonstrate knowledge of diesel fuel injection and engine management systems, NQF Level 3, 7 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244051: Test and repair an engine cooling systems, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • Elective: ID 244057: Test and repair an engine lubrication system, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.

    Total Credits = 61. 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.

    2. Conduct work activities in an automotive context.

    3. Repair and maintain vehicles.

    Range:
  • One of Passenger and light delivery vehicles; Earthmoving equipment; Commercial vehicles and Lift Trucks. 

  • ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.
  • Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective interaction in a work context.
  • Information is accessed from standing instructions, visual information and a range of other workplace texts and responses where required are appropriate to the context.
  • Written communication is conducted at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
  • Mathematical functions are used correctly to solve routine workplace problems and tasks.

    2.
  • Organisational procedures are explained in relation to the work environment.
  • Financial implications of actions taken are understood in relation to efficiency of business.
  • Work is conducted in accordance with agreed time schedules.
  • Work is conducted efficiently with a minimum of wastage.
  • Quality is managed in accordance with industry best practice.
  • Time is managed in accordance with workplace requirements.

    3.
  • Work area and vehicle is prepared for diagnoses and repair.
  • Appropriate test equipment is connected to workplace specifications.
  • Components are removed and replaced in accordance with workplace requirements.
  • Components are dismantled and assembled according to manufacturer recommendations.
  • Component replacement parts are ordered in accordance with workplace procedures.
  • Safety procedures are adhered to during the diagnosing and repairing task.
  • The vehicle is repaired and maintained without incident, accident or injury.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show they are able to integrate concepts, actions and ideas achieved across a range of unit standards and contexts.

    Integrated assessment must evaluate the quality of observable performance as well as the thinking behind the performance. Some assessment aspects will demand practical demonstration while others may not. In some case inference will be necessary to determine competence depending on the nature and context within which performance takes place.

    In order to ensure that the learner is able to work within various contexts of the automotive industry, it is necessary to conduct assessments that will provide evidence that learners are able to apply their knowledge and skills in a range of other contexts and for further learning. The assessment should also ensure that all the critical cross-field outcomes have been achieved. 

  • 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 & Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, NQF Level 3 (Q1015915).
  • Vehicle Mechanical & Electronic Systems, Maintenance and Repair, NQF Level 3 (Q1015916).
  • Vehicle Mechanical & Electronic Systems, unit Replacement, NQF 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, NQF Level 1.
  • Auto Fachman, NQF Level 2.
  • Auto Fachman, NQF 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 airconditioning 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 has been designed and structured as part of a progressive route in the automotive industry so that qualifying learners can move from one level to the next. Having separate specialisation areas also enables learners to move from one context to another within the automotive industry, i.e. they share a common fundamental and core component of the qualification at a particular level. Employers or institutions should be able to evaluate the outcomes of this qualification against the needs of their context and structure top-up learning appropriately.

    This qualification follows on from the National certificate in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Level 2 and leads to the Further Education and Training certificate in automotive repair and maintenance at NQF Level 4.

    This qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualifications:
  • ID 21006: National Certificate: Automotive Component Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 4.
  • ID 22860: National Certificate: Autotronics, NQF Level 4.
  • ID 22772: National Certificate: Mechatronics, NQF Level 4. 

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution or learning provider offering learning towards the achievement of this qualification should be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment should be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines provided for in this qualification as well as the agreed ETQA procedures. 

  • CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    The following criteria should be applied by the relevant ETQA:
  • Appropriate qualification and a minimum of 3 years experience in the field of automotive maintenance and repair or a similar environment. The subject matter experience of the assessor can be established by recognition of prior learning.
  • Appropriate experience and understanding of assessment theory, processes and practices.
  • Good interpersonal skills and the ability to balance the conflicting requirements of:
    > Maintaining national standards.
    > The interests of the learner.
    > The need for transformation and redressing the legacies of the past.
    > The cultural background and language of the learner.
  • Registration as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any other criteria required by the relevant ETQA. 

  • NOTES 
    This qualification has been replaced by qualification 64809, which is "National Certificate: Automotive Repair and Maintenance", Level 3, 135 credits.
    This qualification replaces qualification 24456, "National Certificate: Maintaining Vehicles", Level 3, 139 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  244055  Check an engine for condition using hand held test equipment  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  244043  Disassemble and clean engines and components  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  244053  Dismantle automotive main components  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  244052  Install automotive main components  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  244109  Perform a basic condition test on an engine  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  244059  Remove automotive main components  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  244049  Repair and assemble automotive components  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  15110  Test and report on condition of vehicle charging system  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  15107  Test and report on condition of vehicle starting system  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  244056  Understand the fundamentals of engine technology  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  119472  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral/signed communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  9010  Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  9013  Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  119466  Interpret a variety of literary texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  119457  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  9012  Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  7456  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  119465  Write/present/sign texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  116938  Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based word processor to create and edit documents  Level 1  NQF Level 01 
    Elective  12211  Build basic auto electrical circuits  Level 2  NQF Level 02  16 
    Elective  12218  Construct and test basic electronic circuits  Level 2  NQF Level 02  16 
    Elective  7572  Demonstrate knowledge of and produce computer spreadsheets using basic functions  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  7568  Demonstrate knowledge of and produce word processing documents using basic functions  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  13205  Operate and monitor a lathe to produce simple components  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Elective  116937  Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based spreadsheet application to create and edit spreadsheets  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  117924  Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based word processor to format documents  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  13234  Apply quality procedures  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  15100  Check and adjust steering geometry  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  116703  Check and maintain air-conditioners in vehicles  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244044  Demonstrate knowledge of diesel fuel injection and engine management systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244054  Demonstrate knowledge of electronic fuel injection and engine management systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  244046  Demonstrate knowledge of mechanical fuel injection systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244050  Demonstrate knowledge of petrol fuel injection and engine management systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12457  Develop learning strategies and techniques  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244058  Diagnose and repair mechanical fuel injection systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12456  Explain and use organisational procedures  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  11202  Fit and commission air-conditioners to vehicles  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  13916  Identify and keep the records that a team manager is responsible for keeping  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244042  Inspect, assess and report on a cylinder block assembly  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244047  Inspect, assess and report on a cylinder head assembly  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244060  Inspect, assess and report on crankshaft assemblies  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244048  Inspect, assess and report on external components of engines  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244045  Inspect, assess and report on piston and connecting rod assemblies  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  15103  Install vehicle engines  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  15105  Install vehicle sub-components  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  116714  Lead a team, plan, allocate and assess their work  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  9527  Lead a team, plan, allocate and assess their work  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  242820  Maintain records for a team  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  9526  Manage basic business finance  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  9530  Manage work time effectively  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12455  Perform the role of a safety, health and environmental protection representative  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  15109  Recondition vehicle undercarriage components  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  244111  Remove and install a dashboard  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  15116  Remove vehicle engines  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12220  Service and repair conventional automobile ignition systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244051  Test and repair an engine cooling system  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  244057  Test and repair an engine lubrication system  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12221  Trace and repair auto-electrical circuits on automobiles  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  114598  Demonstrate an understanding of an entrepreneurial profile  Level 4  NQF Level 04 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.