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Automotive Electrician

Also known as Automotive Electrical Mechanic and Car Electrician. Automotive electricians install, maintain, identify faults and repair electrical wiring and computer-based equipment in motor vehicles and related equipment, such as caravans, trailers, earthmoving equipment, mining equipment, marine applications and agricultural equipment.

Automotive electricians are usually required to wear protective clothing.

They may have contact with customers.

TASKS

Automotive electricians may perform the following tasks:

work with computer-controlled engine management systems
service, identify and repair faults on electronically controlled vehicle systems such as electronic fuel injection, electronic ignition, anti-lock braking, cruise control, automatic transmission, airbags and air conditioning
install electrical equipment such as gauges, lighting, alternators and starter motors in vehicles
install electrically operated accessories such as radios, heating or demisting equipment, air conditioners, driving lamps and anti-theft systems
refer to circuit diagrams, and use meters and test instruments to find electrical faults
adjust engine control systems and timing to ensure vehicles are running at peak performance
test, recondition and replace faulty alternators, generators, starter motors and related items such as voltage regulators and batteries
repair or replace faulty ignition, electrical wiring, fuses, lamps and switches
use hand tools, specialised electrical tools, instruments and machines, including drills, grinders, presses and lathes
solder or weld when repairing electrical parts
sell and install electrical parts and accessories
install, repair and service air conditioning systems

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy practical and manual activities
good eyesight and normal colour vision
good hand-eye coordination
able to approach work in a systematic and thorough way
able to keep up to date with technological changes
aptitude for technical activities

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an automotive electrician you usually have to complete an apprenticeship in Automotive Electrical Technology.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

In NSW, automotive electricians must be certified by NSW Fair Trading. To work as an automotive electrician in the ACT, you must have a motor vehicle repair licence or work under the supervision of a licensed repairer. Contact the Office of Regulatory Services (ACT) for further information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Automotive electricians work for automotive electrical specialists, motor vehicle repairers, large transport firms and vehicle dealerships. They may work either in motor vehicles themselves, at workbenches repairing parts, or providing mobile and roadside repairs.

With the increasing use of electronically controlled systems, regularly updating skills and knowledge is essential. Computerised diagnostic equipment training and expertise in advancing systems (such as electronic fuel injection and vehicle management) are also very important.