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An auto electrician is a skilled and licensed professional who has completed a certificate III in automotive electrical technology. They have specialized training in installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical and electronic systems in cars and other automobile vehicles. They have the work of servicing and maintaining the cars. As technology continues to improve, so does the work of an auto-electrician.
They mostly work in car dealerships, garages, auto repair workshops, car service centres, and MOT test centres. In some instances, they are also hired by companies that own an array of vehicles to work as their electro mechanical maintenance technicians.
Scope of work of an auto electrician
The cars and other motor vehicles manufactured today are highly complex equipment. They are fitted with the most advanced and latest technology. Unlike in earlier times, when a car mechanic could adequately take care of all the problems a car owner would face single-handedly, today, it requires an array of highly skilled and qualified auto technicians to collaborate to get the work done.
An auto electrician is an important part of that auto maintenance team, including mechanics, tyre fitters, and panel beaters. The main jobs that an auto electrician is responsible for are:
Installing new equipment and systems
Repairing damaged or faulty electrical wiring or electronic components
Using specialized test equipment to identify and locate the source of electrical or electronic-related problems.
Connecting the electrical and electronic equipment and accessories in the car to the power supply
Adjusting engine control units and circuit systems
Ensuring proper connection and safe power flow for all electrical and electronic parts
Dismantling and discarding faulty components
Repairing and replacing a wide range of electrical and electronic vehicle parts such as alternators, generators, voltage regulators, ignition, automatic transmission, electronic fuel injection, airbags, electrical wiring and electrical components of the vehicle.
Performing routine electro mechanical maintenance work and safety inspections
Besides the jobs mentioned above, other important tasks in which an auto electrician must be proficient include tests on the vehicle’s battery and charging systems, vehicle lighting systems, anti-lock braking systems, and headlight beam alignment. Also, an auto electrician’s scope of work is not limited to cars. Still, they have the expertise to work on all vehicles with different electrical and electronic configurations and systems.
For example, while carrying out repair and maintenance work on buses, they may have to perform added jobs such as checking their ticket validation machines, passenger counting systems, and the installed security cameras. Likewise, an auto electrician needs knowledge and skill to perform repair and maintenance work on the cold storage system and thermostat while working with refrigerated trucks used in long-haul transportation services.
You must go to an auto electrician if damage or malfunction of any of your car's electrical or electronic parts. They employ the latest and most advanced diagnostic tools, mostly computer-based. To start with, they try to locate the source of the malfunction.
If the said component can be repaired, they do so. However, if the component needs to be replaced, they have the requisite skills to dismantle and remove the part and replace it with the new component. An auto electrician uses hand and electrical tools and specialized machines and instruments such as drills, lathes, grinders, and presses to effectively and efficiently carry out the required processes.
Necessary skills that an auto electrician must have
The job of an auto electrician is not an easy one. Besides the requisite qualifications and training, they must have some necessary skills for this field. They must be adept in performing both physically and mentally challenging tasks. Quick thinking and manual dexterity play a significant role for an auto electrician.
The essential skills that an auto electrician must have that ensure their professional success are:
Good communication skills- It is a must as one has to explain the technical issues to their manager and the vehicle owner
Problem-solving behavior- Sharp mental faculties that enable them to think of effective solutions quickly
Physical dexterity- Since one has to be able to work with small parts with precision and work in cramped spaces
Complete expertise- In-depth knowledge of the latest advancements in their field
Conclusion
With cars and other vehicles becoming an integral part of our lives, the importance of an auto electrician in modern society can never be undermined. The potential for success for those who want to pursue this career is endless.