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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: 

Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97592  Occupational Certificate: Diesel 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
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

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 is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
117237  Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  544  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to equip a learner with knowledge and skill to operate as a professional Diesel Mechanic. A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles.
  • Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble diesel engine and vehicle system components.
  • Diagnose and repair faults in diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components.

    Rationale:
    The Occupational Certificate in Diesel Mechanic is designed to equip learners with skills and knowledge to operate vehicles in a productive, cost-effective and in an efficient way. These vehicles includes, trucks, buses, fire engines and other related specialised vehicles such as drill rigs, battle field equipment used by small, medium and large private and public enterprises to transport goods and passengers. Such vehicles need to function effectively and be well maintained in order to meet road safety and environmental standards. Learners will be trained to perform a variety of skilled tasks as Diesel Mechanics who contribute to the success of related business if their employers in organisations running fleet services, in maintenance and repair services, and also in dealerships and independent workshops. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (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 Results or certifying a Work Experience Record.
    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirements for the Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic qualification is a NQF Level 1 qualification with a pass in Mathematics. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of knowledge skills, practical skills and work experience at NQF Levels 2, 3, and 4 totalling 540 Credits.
    Knowledge Modules:
  • 653306000-KM-01, Workplace fundamentals, at NQF Level 2, Credits 9.
  • 653306000-KM-02, Foundational concepts for mechanics, at NQF Level 2, Credits 14.
  • 653306000-KM-03, Vehicle and equipment fundamentals, at NQF Level 2, Credits 8.
  • 653306000-KM-04, Basic engine systems, at NQF Level 2, Credits 8.
  • 653306000-KM-05, Vehicle, equipment and propulsion systems, at NQF Level 3, Credits 13.
  • 653306000-KM-06, Electrical systems and basic electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic principles, at NQF Level 3, Credits 16.
  • 653306000-KM-07, Advanced vehicle and equipment systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 30.
  • 653306000-KM-08, Problem solving and engine optimisation, at NQF Level 4, Credits 10.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 108 Credits

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 653306000-PM-01, Work safely and respond to emergencies, at NQF Level 2, Credits 6.
  • 653306000-PM-02, Use tools and equipment, at NQF Level 2, Credits 20.
  • 653306000-PM-03, Cut and join metals, at NQF Level 2, Credits 5.
  • 653306000-PM-04, Remove and install mechanical components (gaskets, seals, bearings and locking devices), at NQF Level 2, Credits 6.
  • 653306000-PM-05, Work with auto-electric and auto-electronic components, at NQF Level 2, Credits 2.
  • 653306000-PM-06, Work with fluid power components, at NQF Level 2, Credits 2.
  • 653306000-PM-07, Maintain and service vehicles and vehicle components, at NQF Level 2, Credits 5.
  • 653306000-PM-08, Dismantle, assess and reassemble engines and engine sub-assemblies, at NQF Level 3, Credits 24.
  • 653306000-PM-09, Dismantle, assess and reassemble vehicle sub-assemblies, at NQF Level 3, Credits 20.
  • 653306000-PM-10, Remove, test, repair and refit engines and vehicle components, at NQF Level 3, Credits 15.
  • 653306000-PM-11, Diagnose and repair vehicle systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 30.
  • 653306000-PM-12, Diagnose and repair electrical systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 12.
  • 653306000-PM-13, Diagnose and repair electronically controlled vehicle systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 15.
    Total number of credits for Practical Modules: 162 Credits.

    Work Experience Modules, Totalling 270 Credits:
  • 653306000-WM-01, Routine scheduled services, at NQF Level 2, Credits 16.
  • 653306000-WM-02, Removal and replacement of engine sub-system components (including batteries), at NQF Level 3, Credits 16.
  • 653306000-WM-03, Removal and replacement of other vehicle sub-system components, at NQF Level 3, Credits 20.
  • 653306000-WM-04, Engine removal and installation processes, at NQF Level 3, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-05, Repair processes for vehicle sub-systems, at NQF Level 3, Credits 74.
  • 653306000-WM-06, Diagnosis and repair of electrical systems (charging, starting, lighting and auxiliary), at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-07, Diagnosis and repair of electronic control systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-08, Diagnosis and repair of engines and engine sub-systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-09, Diagnosis and repair of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-10, Diagnosis and repair of brake systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-11, Diagnosis and repair of drive train systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
  • 653306000-WM-12, Diagnosis and repair of steering and suspension systems, at NQF Level 4, Credits 18.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 270 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles.
    2. Dismantle, inspect, assess, repair and assemble engine and vehicle system components.
    3. Diagnose and repair faults in diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Understanding of general principles and critical issues relating to performing scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles according to accepted industry standards are demonstrated.
  • The work is systematically planned and is prepared according to task requirements.
  • Technical information is sourced and correctly interpreted.
  • Components are removed, replaced and tested as per the service schedule.
  • The service is performed according to the manufacturer's schedule, specifications and timeframes.
  • The maintenance report accurately reflects the condition of all the required components and systems, including defective components.
  • All activities are performed according to safety and environmental requirements.
  • Workmanship industry standards are met.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Understanding of the general principles and critical issues related to removing, disassembling, assessing and replacing diesel engine and vehicle system components according to accepted industry standards is demonstrated.
  • All waste materials are disposed of and the work area is restored according to health, safety and environmental requirements and all activities are performed according to safety and environmental requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Understanding of the operating principles of diesel engine and vehicle systems and components are demonstrated.
  • Understanding of general principles and critical processes, sequence and safety requirements for diagnosing and repairing diesel engine and vehicle systems and their components according to accepted industry standards is demonstrated.
  • Diagnostic equipment is operated according to the manufacturer's procedures and standards.
  • Diagnostic codes and events are correctly interpreted.
  • Technical information is sourced and correctly interpreted.
  • All faults are diagnosed correctly and within stipulated timeframes.
  • Faults are repaired according to the manufacturer's procedures and specifications.
  • The work area is restored according to health, safety and environmental requirements.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated formative assessment:
    Skills development providers 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 leads to entrance into 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 summative assessment will be conducted through a trade test as prescribed under Section 26D of the Skills Development Act and defined by the Trade Test Regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects of the trade 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. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Inter-provincial Red Seal Program:
    The Inter-provincial Red Seal Program in Canada offers a Truck and Transport Mechanic Trade. This is the designated trade governed by regulations under the Provincial and Territorial Apprenticeship Acts of Canada which regulates the administrative procedures and the standards and conditions of training for specific trades.

    According to the Inter-provincial Red Seal Program, Truck and transport mechanics inspect, repair and maintain commercial trucks, emergency vehicles, buses and road transport vehicles. Truck and transport mechanics work on the structural, mechanical, electrical and electronic vehicle systems and components such as engines, cab, chassis and frames, brakes, steering, suspension, drive train, heating, ventilation and air conditioning emissions, fuel systems and hydraulic systems. In addition, truck and transport mechanics perform preventative maintenance and diagnosis of vehicles. Truck and transport mechanics may be employed in small repair shops, motor vehicle dealers, fleet maintenance companies, public transportation companies, government highway departments, railways and construction companies.

    Pearl River Community College:
    The Pearl River Community College in Mississippi in the United States of America offers a Professional Certificate in Automotive Technician Technology. This qualification prepares learners to engage in the servicing and maintenance of all types of automobiles.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares favourably with qualifications in Canada and in the United States of America. They all focus on training learners and providing them with knowledge and skill to operate, maintain and repair all forms of transportation. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification presents potential progress horizontally and vertically into related qualifications.

    Horizontal:
    Further Education Training Certificate: Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting, at NQF Level 4.

    Vertical:
    National Certificate: N4 Engineering Studies, at NQF Level 5. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    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.