Motor Mechanics

LOCATION:

Onsite at Bishopstown Campus

CERTIFICATION:

• QQI Level 6 Advanced Certificate Craft – Motor Mechanics.

INTRODUCTION:

A motor mechanic services maintains and fault diagnosis of light passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. They carry out routine service procedures as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, as well as diagnose and resolve problems with the operation of the mechanical and electrical systems of vehicles.

WHAT SKILLS WILL I LEARN?

When you finish your motor mechanic apprenticeship you will be able to:

• Carry out all vehicle service, maintenance and repair procedures.
• Diagnose faults; dismantle and reassemble the engine and its components.
• Carry out a complete engine overhaul.
• Use specialised equipment to check the operation of the lighting, steering, braking and other systems.
• Measure exhaust emissions, record the results and liaise with the customer.
• Replace various parts including timing belts and chains; clutch components; brake components; and steering and suspension components.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical systems.
• Test electrical and electronic systems and components.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

All apprentices must be at least 16 years of age.

Minimum educational requirement is:

At least Grade D in five subjects in Junor Certificate

OR an approved equivalent or the successful completion of a pre-apprenticeship

OR three years work experience gained over 16 years of age in a relevant designated industrial activity as SOLAS deem acceptable.

You must pass a colour vision test approved by SOLAS before you can begin a motor mechanic apprenticeship.

HOW DO I BECOME AN APPRENTICE?

To become an apprentice you must first be hired by an employer. Your employer must be approved by SOLAS. As an apprentice you have a formal contract of employment. You can search for apprenticeship job vacancies on www.apprenticeship.ie. You can find out more tips about how to get and apprenticeship HERE.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, you will be a fully qualified craftsperson. You may progress onto further education within a Technological University or University. Many apprentices go on to open their own business.