Automotive service technicians possess the knowledge and abilities required to perform preventative maintenance, diagnose problems and repair vehicle systems including engines, vehicle management, hybrids, steering, braking, tires, wheels, drivetrains, suspension, electrical, electronics, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, restraints, trim and accessories of automotive vehicles and light trucks. Technicians have a work environment that may include noise, fumes, odors, hazardous compounds, drafts, vibrations, and confined spaces. The work often requires considerable standing, bending, crawling, lifting, pulling and reaching. Automotive service technicians may be employed by repair and specialty repair shops, dealerships, organizations with a fleet of vehicles, and motor vehicle body repair companies. An increasing number of technicians specialize in specific areas of automotive vehicle repair due to the complexity of today’s motor vehicle systems.
With additional training, experienced automotive service technicians may advance to shop supervisor or service manager positions. Technicians can also transfer their skills and knowledge to occupations such as automotive instructor, truck and transport mechanic, agricultural equipment technician, or heavy-duty equipment technician. Some technicians may be self-employed with their own garage or automotive specialty shop. (https://www.red-seal.ca/docms/ast_tp2016_eng.pdf)
APPRENTICESHIP TERM: 4 years, 7200 hours (Plan of Training – 2019) | |||
Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 4 |
Pre-Employment (35 wks) | 11 weeks | 8 weeks | 9 weeks |
8 weeks** | 11 weeks | 8 weeks | 9 weeks |
**Refer to the Pathways to Certification diagram |
Trade Resources
Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS)
Pre-Employment – Plan of Training (POT)
Atlantic Apprenticeship Curriculum Standard (AACS) – Plan of Training – 2019
Atlantic Apprenticeship Curriculum Standard (AACS) Practical Hours Addendum – 2022
Level Exam Resources
PREPARING FOR A LEVEL EXAM (video)
Exam Breakdowns: Level 1, Level 2, Level 3
Study Strategies and Exam Prep Guide
Red Seal Exam Resources
PREPARING FOR A RED SEAL EXAM (video)
Red Seal Exam Breakdown
Task Matrix – Automotive Service Technician
Study Guide – Automotive Service Technician
Study Strategies and Exam Prep Guide
Red Seal Examination Prep Guide
Red Seal Exam Practice Questions – Automotive Service Technician
Trade Acronyms – Automotive Service Technician