New Zealand Certificate in Automotive Engineering (Level 3)
Mechanical
A course by
Manukau Institute of Technology
A one-year full-time certificate course preparing students for careers in automotive engineering, covering vehicles from cars and trucks to heavy industrial machinery. Includes both in-class and online learning.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
MIT TechPark, Manukau
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches

Safety and Workshop Practices
Apply safe working practices in automotive workshops including use of safety equipment and hazard management.

Mechanical Knowledge and Skills
Understand and service petrol and diesel engines, transmission and drivelines, including manual and semi-automatic systems.

Electrical and Electronic Systems
Diagnose, test, and repair automotive electrical and electronic systems including hybrid and battery electric vehicles.
What You're Signing Up For
This qualification prepares students for a career in automotive engineering, working safely with tools and equipment on engines, driveline systems, brakes, steering, suspension systems, electrical and electronic automotive components. The course covers practical and theoretical knowledge in petrol/diesel engines, transmissions, air-conditioning, hybrid and electric vehicles, brakes, steering, and suspension. Graduates are ready for entry-level automotive industry positions with skills in vehicle servicing and safety.
Course Content
- Automotive workshop safety, tools and equipment (25 credits): safe working practices, first aid, fire procedure, chemicals, gas, hazardous materials, tools including spanners, sockets, torque wrench, power drills, welding, electrical service tools.
- Automotive engines and drivelines systems (30 credits): petrol and diesel engines, drivelines, transmission types, cooling systems, lubricants, air-conditioning, clutches, intake and exhaust systems.
- Automotive electrical and electronic systems (40 credits): ignition systems, electronic fuel injection, batteries, basic electrical theory, hybrid and battery electric vehicles, electrical principles, charging and starting systems, lighting, safety systems like airbags and seat belts.
- Automotive brakes, steering and suspension systems (25 credits): wheels and tyres, brake systems including hydraulic and air brakes, steering types and components, suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, and stabilizers.
What you need to know first
Open entry for domestic students
English language competence required; assessment may be required if English is not first language

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Automotive Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Trades

Future employment opportunities might be
Entry-level automotive mechanic
Automotive engineering technician
Vehicle servicing and maintenance roles