Diesel Mechanics Training School
South Africa's most intensive diesel mechanics training — 100% workshop-based. You are on real diesel engines every day for 2 months, mastering maintenance, fault diagnosis, and repair of all major vehicle systems. Aligned to SAQA US 117237 (Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic, NQF Level 4). Ages 18 and above welcome.
Diesel mechanics training at Real Skills Technical FET is a 2-month, fully workshop-based programme aligned to SAQA US 117237 — Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic, NQF Level 4, quality-assured by MERSETA. The course equips learners with the skills to maintain, diagnose, and repair diesel engines and vehicle systems across commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, and heavy equipment. No classroom lectures — from Day 1, you are in the workshop with your hands on real diesel engines and vehicle systems. The result: graduates who leave with genuine, proven competency, a Competency Certificate, and a Licence to Work as a Diesel Mechanic.
About SAQA US 117237 — Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic
The Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic (SAQA 117237) is a nationally registered qualification on the South African National Qualifications Framework at NQF Level 4, developed and quality-assured by MERSETA (Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Education and Training Authority). It is classified under the Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework (OQSF) in the field of Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology.
This qualification was designed to prepare learners to work as professional Diesel Mechanics who can service, maintain, and repair commercial vehicles of more than 3 tons GMV — including trucks, buses, fire engines, agricultural machinery, construction equipment, mining vehicles, and other heavy diesel-powered equipment. Qualified graduates can work in retail motor dealerships, fleet maintenance operations, mining and construction workshops, agricultural services, and government vehicle fleets.
- Workplace Fundamentals (Level 2)
- Foundational Concepts for Mechanics
- Vehicle & Equipment Fundamentals
- Basic Engine Systems
- Propulsion & Vehicle Systems (Level 3)
- Electrical, Electronic, Hydraulic Principles
- Advanced Vehicle Systems (Level 4)
- Problem Solving & Engine Optimisation
- Work Safely & Respond to Emergencies
- Use Tools and Equipment
- Cut and Join Metals
- Remove & Install Mechanical Components
- Auto-electric & Auto-electronic Work
- Dismantle, Assess & Reassemble Engines
- Diagnose & Repair Vehicle Systems
- Diagnose & Repair Electrical Systems
- Routine Scheduled Services
- Engine Sub-system Removal & Replacement
- Engine Removal & Installation
- Repair of Vehicle Sub-systems
- Diagnosis of Electrical Systems
- Diagnosis of Electronic Control Systems
- Diagnosis of Hydraulic & Pneumatic Systems
- Diagnosis of Brake & Drive Train Systems
SAQA 117237 — Three Exit Level Outcomes
- Exit Outcome 1 — Preventative & Scheduled Maintenance: Perform scheduled maintenance on diesel vehicles according to manufacturer specifications — servicing, component testing, replacing filters, oils, belts, and all service items to OEM standards within stipulated timeframes
- Exit Outcome 2 — Dismantle, Inspect, Assess, Repair & Assemble: Fully dismantle diesel engine and vehicle system components, conduct condition assessment, carry out repair or replacement, and reassemble to correct tolerances and specifications across engines, gearboxes, differentials, brake systems, cooling systems, and suspension
- Exit Outcome 3 — Fault Diagnosis & Repair: Use electronic diagnostic systems, fault code readers, and systematic testing procedures to diagnose and rectify faults in diesel engine systems, electronic management systems, electrical circuits, hydraulic systems, and air conditioning systems
2-Month Workshop Training Structure
Our diesel mechanics training is structured across two intensive months, both entirely workshop-based. Month 1 builds foundational engine and systems knowledge through hands-on dismantling and assembly. Month 2 progresses to complex diagnosis, electronic fault-finding, and full system repair — the skills employers demand most:
- Workshop safety, PPE and OHS protocols
- Tool identification and correct operation
- Engine component identification and function
- Pre-trip and daily vehicle inspection procedures
- Lubrication, cooling and fuel system servicing
- Engine dismantling, measurement and assessment
- Gaskets, seals, bearings and locking devices
- Brake system components — inspection and replacement
- Drive train and transmission basic inspection
- Cutting, joining and working metals in workshop
- Electronic diagnostic equipment and fault codes
- Diagnose and repair electrical charging & starting systems
- Electronic control system (ECU) fault diagnosis
- Advanced engine repair — pistons, crank, camshaft
- Full hydraulic and pneumatic system diagnosis
- Steering and suspension system repair
- Turbocharger inspection and replacement
- Air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
- Full vehicle road-ready inspection sign-off
- Final competency assessment — real vehicle tasks
100% Workshop — Maximum Hands-On Time
Every day of training at Real Skills Technical FET is practical. Our instructors do not lecture from a podium — they work alongside you on the workshop floor, demonstrating, correcting, and building your competency task by task, system by system. Small groups of maximum 6 students per instructor ensure you get individual attention and maximum seat time on actual diesel vehicles and engines. You will not pass your competency assessment by watching — you pass by doing.
🔧 Diesel Mechanics Skills You Will Master
Start Your Diesel Mechanics Career Today
SAQA 117237, NQF Level 4. 2-month full workshop course. Ages 18+. Free accommodation. Certificate + licence + job assistance. R10,000 all-in.
Credentials You Receive on Graduation
On completing all workshop assessments, you receive two formal credentials from Real Skills Technical FET that are recognized by employers across South Africa's motor industry, transport sector, mining operations, construction firms, and agricultural services:
Competency Certificate
An official Competency Certificate aligned to SAQA US 117237 (NQF Level 4) confirming your demonstrated ability to maintain, diagnose, and repair diesel engines and vehicle systems. Specifies your areas of competency — preventative maintenance, engine repair, and fault diagnosis — in the format employers and fleet managers recognize when screening diesel mechanic applicants.
Licence to Work as a Diesel Mechanic
A formal Licence to Work as a Diesel Mechanic issued by Real Skills Technical FET upon successful completion of your competency assessment. This credential demonstrates to employers that you have been assessed, found competent, and are authorised to perform diesel mechanics work professionally. Significantly strengthens your employment applications across all diesel mechanic roles.
Who Can Enrol — Entry Requirements
Diesel mechanics training at Real Skills Technical FET has minimal entry requirements. We believe skilled trades must be accessible to any motivated South African or regional student, regardless of educational background. You do not need matric, prior mechanical experience, or any specific qualification to join.
✅ Entry Requirements — Diesel Mechanics Training
Why Diesel Mechanics Is One of South Africa's Most In-Demand Trades
Qualified diesel mechanics are among the most sought-after skilled workers in South Africa and across sub-Saharan Africa. The country's economy depends on diesel-powered heavy vehicles for transport, mining, agriculture, construction, and emergency services — and every one of those vehicles needs regular maintenance and repair by a trained professional.
Mining Industry
South Africa's world-class mining sector — gold, platinum, coal, chrome, and iron ore — operates vast fleets of diesel-powered trucks, drills, and loaders. Mining companies offer some of the best mechanic salaries in the country.
Transport & Logistics
National and regional logistics companies running truck fleets require full-time diesel mechanics for routine maintenance and breakdown recovery. This is a major employment sector with consistent, year-round demand.
Agriculture & Farming
South Africa's large-scale commercial farming industry depends on tractors, harvesters, irrigation pumps, and diesel generators — all requiring qualified mechanics for scheduled servicing and repair.
Construction & Infrastructure
Major construction projects — roads, power plants, housing, and ports — operate heavy earthmoving equipment that needs continuous servicing. Construction companies struggle to find enough qualified diesel mechanics.
Public Transport
South Africa's bus fleet — municipal, intercity, and school transport — is almost entirely diesel-powered. Municipalities and bus operators employ diesel mechanics permanently for fleet maintenance.
Self-Employment & Workshop Ownership
A qualified diesel mechanic with a licence and certificate has everything needed to open their own repair workshop. The startup capital is relatively low and demand for quality independent mechanics is always high.
Career Paths After Diesel Mechanics Training
Fleet Mechanic
In-house mechanic for transport companies, mines, and large corporates with vehicle fleets.
Truck Mechanic
Specialist heavy vehicle mechanic at dealerships, truck repair centres, or long-haul operators.
Mining Equipment Mechanic
Servicing and repairing mining trucks, haul vehicles, and underground diesel equipment.
Agricultural Mechanic
Maintaining tractors, combines, and diesel equipment on commercial farms and agri-businesses.
Diagnostic Technician
Electronic systems diagnosis specialist at OEM dealerships or independent diagnostic workshops.
Workshop Owner
Run your own independent diesel repair workshop — your licence and certificate are your foundation.
Free Accommodation — Train From Anywhere in Africa
Real Skills Technical FET's free student accommodation, located directly next to our diesel mechanics workshop, removes the biggest barrier preventing students from distant provinces and neighbouring countries from accessing quality training. Travel to Pretoria, move in, and focus entirely on your training — accommodation costs you nothing for the full 2 months.
What Free Accommodation Includes
- Full 2-month stay at no additional charge: Accommodation is included in your R10,000 course fee — not an add-on or optional extra. It's a standard benefit for all enrolled students
- Steps from the workshop: No commute, no transport costs, no waking up early to catch a taxi — your workshop is practically at your door every morning
- Available from enrolment Day 1: Arrive the day before your course starts, settle in, and begin training immediately the next morning
- Open to all students equally: From Johannesburg, Mamelodi, Durban, Mthatha, or Harare — free accommodation is available to every enrolled student without discrimination
- Makes R10,000 exceptional value: When you factor in 2 months of free accommodation, the effective all-in cost of this NQF Level 4 diesel mechanics qualification is far below any comparable programme in South Africa
Job Assistance Programme
Our commitment to your career doesn't end at graduation. Real Skills Technical FET's placement team actively connects diesel mechanics graduates with employers across the transport, mining, construction, agricultural, and services sectors:
Employer Network
We work directly with transport companies, mining contractors, fleet operators, OEM dealerships, and construction firms that regularly hire our graduates — often before advertising publicly.
CV & Interview Preparation
Our team helps craft a professional CV that correctly positions your NQF Level 4 diesel mechanics qualification and competency certificate for maximum impact with technical employers and HR departments.
Graduate Vacancy Alerts
Enrolment in our graduate database means you're notified of diesel mechanic vacancies at partner companies — sometimes weeks before positions go public.
Graduate Mechanic Community
Join thousands of Real Skills graduates including a growing network of working diesel mechanics across South Africa who share job leads, workshop opportunities, and career mentorship.
Ready to Become a Diesel Mechanic?
ID or passport. Age 18+. 2 months. Free accommodation. SAQA 117237 aligned. Competency certificate + licence. R10,000 all-in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about diesel mechanics training at Real Skills Technical FET
Diesel mechanics training teaches you to maintain, diagnose, and repair diesel engines and vehicle systems on commercial vehicles, trucks, buses, and heavy equipment. Aligned to SAQA US 117237 (NQF Level 4), our course covers scheduled maintenance, engine dismantling and assembly, fault diagnosis using electronic diagnostic tools, brake and drive train repair, hydraulic systems, and electrical and electronic system repair — all through 100% hands-on workshop practice.
Our diesel mechanics training is aligned to SAQA US 117237 — Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic, NQF Level 4, quality-assured by MERSETA under the Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework (OQSF). The qualification covers 544 credits across Knowledge Modules (108 credits), Practical Skill Modules (162 credits), and Work Experience Modules (274 credits). It has three exit outcomes: preventative maintenance, engine dismantling and repair, and fault diagnosis.
No. You do not need a matric certificate or any prior mechanical experience. The only requirements are a valid South African ID or passport and being 18 years of age or older. We train you from the fundamentals — tool use, safety, engine identification — through to advanced electronic fault diagnosis, entirely through hands-on workshop practice.
You receive two credentials: (1) a Competency Certificate aligned to SAQA US 117237 confirming your demonstrated diesel mechanics skills, and (2) a Licence to Work as a Diesel Mechanic issued by Real Skills Technical FET. Both are recognized by motor dealerships, transport companies, mining operators, construction firms, and agricultural employers across South Africa and the region.
Yes — free student accommodation for the full 2 months is included in the R10,000 course fee. It is not an additional cost or optional extra. The accommodation is located next to the diesel mechanics workshop. This benefit is available to all enrolled students equally — whether you are from Gauteng, another province, or another country. International students with a valid passport are fully eligible.
Yes. Diesel mechanics training at Real Skills Technical FET is open to students from any country. You need a valid passport to enrol. We regularly train students from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, and other sub-Saharan African countries. Free accommodation is available for all international students for the full 2-month course duration. Contact our admissions team for SADC-specific enrolment guidance.
Useful Industry Resources
Key links for diesel mechanics students and automotive trade professionals in South Africa
MERSETA
Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA — quality assurance authority for SAQA 117237 and all diesel mechanics qualifications in South Africa.
Visit WebsiteSAQA — Qualification 117237
Official SAQA registration for Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic — qualification rules, exit outcomes, associated assessment criteria, and credits breakdown.
View on SAQAQCTO
Quality Council for Trades and Occupations — the body responsible for developing, maintaining and quality-assuring occupational qualifications including diesel mechanics.
Visit WebsiteRelated Vocational Trade Courses
Expand your qualifications and earning potential with our other hands-on workshop courses
Start Your Diesel Mechanics Career Today
ID or passport. Age 18+. 2 months of intensive workshop training on real diesel engines. Free accommodation included. SAQA 117237 aligned. Competency certificate + licence to work. Everything for R10,000.