South Sydney College

Certificate IV In Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis

The Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis (AUR40216) prepares learners for advanced technical roles in the automotive retail, service, and repair industry, with a strong emphasis on complex fault diagnosis across vehicle systems.

This qualification develops specialist skills to diagnose faults in petrol and diesel engines, braking systems, steering and suspension systems, automatic transmissions, engine management systems, vehicle stability control systems, and air conditioning and HVAC systems. Learners apply advanced diagnostic strategies, interpret technical data, and use specialised diagnostic tools to resolve complex vehicle faults.

Delivery is via a blended model combining face-to-face classroom learning, intensive workshop-based diagnostic training, and supported online learning. This structure ensures learners develop both strong theoretical understanding and high-level practical diagnostic capability.

On successful completion, graduates are prepared for senior diagnostic roles or progression to diploma-level automotive qualifications.

What You’ll Learn

This course provides advanced diagnostic training for experienced automotive technicians. Key learning outcomes include:

• Diagnosing complex system faults across multiple vehicle systems
• Diagnosing faults in petrol and diesel engine management systems
• Diagnosing complex faults in braking, steering, and suspension systems
• Diagnosing automatic transmission and driveline system faults
• Diagnosing vehicle stability control and safety systems
• Diagnosing air conditioning and HVAC system faults
• Using advanced diagnostic tools, scan tools, oscilloscopes, and testing equipment
• Applying structured diagnostic processes and fault-finding methodologies
• Interpreting technical data, specifications, and diagnostic results
• Communicating diagnostic findings and repair recommendations effectively

Delivery and Assessment

• Face-to-face classes: Delivered at the Burwood campus
• Workshop training: Practical training and assessment at the Revesby workshop
• Online learning: Required learning activities completed via the student portal
• Trainer support: Ongoing guidance, feedback, and coaching from qualified trainers

Assessment methods include written knowledge assessments, practical demonstrations, and direct observation in the workshop.

Course Structure & Commitment

• Duration: 29 weeks (including term breaks)
• Study Load: Approx. 34 hours per week
  ◦ 20 hrs face-to-face (classroom + workshop)
  ◦ 5 hrs online learning
  ◦ 9 hrs self-study and assessment preparation
• Total Hours: 608 hours

The timetable is delivered over 2 terms, with scheduled breaks and unit sequencing aligned to diagnostic skill development. A full training schedule is provided upon enrolment.

Licensing and Further Study

There are no licensing, legislative, or certification requirements attached to this qualification at the time of publication. Completion of the AUR40216 Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis does not in itself grant a trade licence.

Further Study Pathways

Successful completion provides progression to:

• AUR50216 Diploma of Automotive Technology
• AUR50116 Diploma of Automotive Management

These pathways support advancement into master technician roles, diagnostics leadership, workshop management, or dealership management.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

If you have relevant industry experience or have previously completed equivalent units, you may be eligible for Credit Transfer or Recognition of Prior Learning. Speak with our enrolment team for a skills assessment prior to enrolling.