Motor Mechanics (General)

Motor Mechanics (General) maintain, test and repair petrol engines and the mechanical parts of lightweight motor vehicles such as transmissions, suspension, steering and brakes.

What the job involves

  • Diagnoses faults in engines and parts
  • Dismantles and removes engine assemblies, transmissions, steering mechanisms and other components, and checks parts
  • Repairs and replaces worn and defective parts and reassembles mechanical components, referring to service manuals as needed
  • Performs scheduled maintenance services to achieve smoother running of vehicles and ensure compliance with pollution regulations
  • Reassembles engines and parts after being repaired
  • Tests and adjusts mechanical parts after being repaired for proper performance, diagnoses and test parts with the assistance of computers
  • May inspect vehicles and issue roadworthiness certificates or detail work required to achieve roadworthiness

Key values of workers in Motor Mechanics (General)

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Relationships

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to provide service to others and work with co-workers in a friendly non-competitive environment. Corresponding needs are Co-workers, Moral Values and Social Service.

  • Achievement

    Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

Top skills required for workers in Motor Mechanics (General)

  • Troubleshooting

    Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Operations Monitoring

    Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

  • Equipment Maintenance

    Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.