The Craft of Motor Mechanics

Motor mechanics are involved with the servicing, maintenance and repair of cars, sports utility vehicles (SUVs) and light vehicles. The work is wide-ranging and includes routine servicing in accordance with manufacturers’ recommended procedures and the testing and approval of the structural, mechanical and electrical systems of the vehicle for the National Car Test (NCT) or Department of Transport test.

Motor mechanics also use electronic equipment for fault diagnosis to interrogate the fault memory that exists in the Electronic Control Units (ECU) that now control and monitor the mechanical, safety and comfort systems of the vehicle. Hybrid-powered (i.e. petrol and electrical) vehicles require a high level of technical expertise from the motor mechanic. Some motor mechanics may specialise in different automotive technical systems or vehicle makes.