|
What does an Automotive Electrician do? As an auto electrician you would fit and repair electrical and electronic systems in motor vehicles. As vehicles become more advanced the amount of electronic systems in them is increasing. To be an auto electrician, you will need good practical skills. You will need good problem-solving skills. You will also need to be able to read electrical wiring plans. - The work Your main tasks would include: taking readings, using a laptop or hand-held device connected to an engine's electronic control unit (found in newer vehicles) checking and testing wiring and parts in older vehicles using portable instruments using the readings to find faults researching faults, using manufacturers' circuit diagrams and specification manuals repairing or replacing faulty parts retesting the system to make sure everything is working correctly and safely (this may include road testing the vehicle) filling out a repair sheet detailing the work you have done You would work with a variety of electronic systems including: electronic ignitions, alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices electric windows, mirrors and seats, towbar electrics and air-conditioning customised LED or neon lighting kits, parking warning systems and reverse cameras You would also deal with in-car phones, TV, and audio and DVD players. You could specialise in light vehicles (cars, vans and motorcycles) or heavy vehicles (lorries, buses and coaches). If you work for a motor manufacturer, you may work on one particular vehicle model. - Hours You would normally work 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. If your _____ operates a 24-hour breakdown or emergency service, you might have to work shifts or be on-call. - v Level 1 Award / Certificate / Diploma in Vehicle Systems Maintenance Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Level 1 Award / Certificate in Motor Vehicle Auto Electrician Duties Auto electricians work on all vehicle electrical systems and components, including ignition, fuel injection and engine management systems, anti-lock braking, battery, wiring and charging systems, heating and air conditioning systems, lighting and indicators. They must also be familiar with increasingly-sophisticated in-car entertainment systems, including radios and video players, cell phone, navigation and vehicle information systems. Diagnosis A key role for auto electricians is fault diagnosis. They meet vehicle owners to discuss problems and carry out tests to identify the problem. If a vehicle has starting problems, intermittent running faults or poor fuel consumption, they use specialist skills and tools to diagnose problems in the ignition, fuel injection and engine management systems. To diagnose a vehicle with braking problems that are not due to mechanical faults, auto electricians diagnose the anti-lock braking system. They also test the battery and charging systems to ensure that electrical components are receiving the correct voltage. Lighting Auto electricians test vehicle lighting systems to ensure they are operating correctly. They test headlight beam alignment and lighting intensity in line with specifications and make any necessary adjustments. They fit additional lighting components, such as fog lights or emergency lights, ensuring that they are correctly connected to the electrical system. Repair When they have identified the source of a problem, auto electricians estimate the cost of repairing or replacing faulty components. If they cannot repair expensive computerized components, such as engine management systems, they advise customers of the cost before ordering replacements. After replacement or repairs, they carry out further tests to ensure the vehicle is now operating correctly. To test the repair of running problems or braking faults, they may carry out tests on the road in addition to workshop tests. Installation Auto electricians install new electrical or electronic components or accessories for customers. They may replace an entertainment system, for example, with a newer version or install a GPS navigation system. If an owner plans to tow a trailer, the auto electrician might modify the vehicle’s electrical system. |