What is a Diagnostic Technician?
A Diagnostic Technician plays an essential role within the automotive service industry, focusing on identifying faults with vehicles based on customer complaints using specialised diagnostic equipment. This position requires a blend of technical expertise and problem-solving skills to accurately diagnose mechanical, electrical, and electronic faults. A Diagnostic Technician should be working in the light or heavy vehicle sector and ideally have at least three years’ experience to ensure they are familiar with the skills, knowledge and techniques required to diagnose system faults, rectify the faults (including replacing components) and returning the vehicle systems to the manufacturer’s specification.
Your responsibilities
- Performing diagnostic tests on vehicles to identify mechanical faults
- Interpreting vehicle diagnostic codes and technical manuals to accurately diagnose malfunctions
- Testing vehicle systems and parts, to ensure they meet manufacturer specifications
- Installing software updates in vehicle systems as required by manufacturers to ensure compatibility with new parts or to improve overall vehicle performance
- Collaborating with other technicians and mechanics to discuss repair plans and share expertise on complex diagnostic faults
- Preparing detailed reports outlining diagnostic findings, recommended repairs, and estimated costs for customers and service managers
- Calibrating components and systems following repair or installation to ensure correct vehicle operation
What You'll need
Core skills
- Proficiency in using modern diagnostic equipment
- Computer literacy
- Read and comprehend complex mechanical faults
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Customer focus
What You'll Gain
Transferable skills
- Technical expertise
- Ability to identify problems and develop solutions
- Communication skills
- Effective time management
- Adaptability skills
What You'll Use
Key skills
English
- Reading manuals
- Reading technical drawings
- Writing job cards
Maths
- Understanding gears
- Using ratios
IT
- Using specialist automotive software
- Following manufacturers instructions
Role opportunities
These are some possible roles you may consider in your career journey. Discuss with your Inspiro Coach for further guidance
Other related routes
National Careers Website
The National Careers website is a government database that provides information for a job you are looking to explore.
AutoMotive Sector Roles
Use our Sector Roles map to see if there is a role within your chosen sector that you are interested in.
Resources
Career Development Handbook
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career development handbook
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