Certificate III in Automotive Diesel Engine Technology
Become a skilled diesel engine specialist with our comprehensive AUR31520 qualification. This program prepares you for a career in the automotive retail, service and repair industry, equipping you with the expertise to perform a variety of tasks on diesel engines and associated systems.
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Course Overview
Program Details
The Certificate III in Automotive Diesel Engine Technology (AUR31520) is designed for individuals seeking to specialize in diesel engine technology. This Cricos Course (Code: 103597J) provides comprehensive training in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining diesel engines and related systems.
The qualification consists of 28 units (14 core and 14 elective) delivered over 78 weeks of training and assessment with 8 weeks of holidays.
Course Structure
Core Units (14)
Includes essential skills like diagnosing and repairing heavy vehicle compression ignition engines, diesel fuel injection systems, and engine servicing operations. Students learn to assemble and dismantle engine blocks, recondition cylinder heads, and follow safety practices.
Elective Units (14)
Covers specialized areas such as diagnosing and repairing engine management systems, electrical systems, clutch systems, and emission control systems. Students also learn to test engines using dynamometers and select appropriate bearings, seals, and gaskets.
The qualification maintains AQF alignment and ensures all units contribute to a valid vocational outcome in the automotive diesel industry.
Core Units
  • AURAEA002 Follow environmental and sustainability best practice
  • AURASA102 Follow safe working practices
  • AURETR112 Test and repair basic electrical circuits
  • AURETR125 Test, charge and replace batteries
  • AURHTE102 Diagnose and repair compression ignition engines
  • AURHTF102 Diagnose and repair diesel fuel injection systems
  • AURTTA104 Carry out servicing operations
  • AURTTA118 Develop diagnostic test strategies
  • AURTTE104 Inspect and service engines
  • AURTTK001 Use and maintain measuring equipment
  • AURTTK102 Use and maintain tools and equipment
  • AURTTM004 Assemble engine blocks and sub-assemblies
  • AURTTM008 Dismantle and evaluate engine blocks
  • AURTTM011 Recondition engine cylinder heads
Elective Units
Engine Management
AURETR124 Diagnose and repair compression ignition engine management systems, AURTTF102 Inspect and service diesel fuel injection systems, AURTTF105 Diagnose and repair engine forced-induction systems
Electrical Systems
AURETR128 Diagnose and repair instruments and warning systems, AURETR129 Diagnose and repair charging systems, AURETR130 Diagnose and repair starting systems, AURETR132 Diagnose and repair automotive electrical systems
Specialized Systems
AURHTE001 Remove and install heavy vehicle engine assemblies, AURHTX104 Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle clutch systems, AURHTZ101 Diagnose and repair heavy vehicle emission control systems
Entry Requirements
Basic Requirements
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Participate in a course entry interview (pre-enrolment review)
  • Complete OCT's ACSF LLN assessment
English Language Proficiency
International students must demonstrate English proficiency through recognized tests taken within two years of application:
  • IELTS: 6.0 (or 5.5 with 10 weeks ELICOS, or 5.0 with 20 weeks)
  • PTE Academic: 50 (or 42 with 10 weeks ELICOS, or 36 with 20 weeks)
Exemptions apply for citizens of UK, USA, Canada, NZ or Republic of Ireland, or those with 5+ years of study in English-speaking countries.
Study Assessment and Resources
Initial Stage
Students begin with foundational units including environmental practices, workplace safety, tool maintenance, and effective communication before joining ongoing classes.
Required Resources
Students need the textbook "Medium/Heavy Duty Diesel Engines" by Gus Wright. OCT provides an apprentice toolkit and uniform, while students must purchase their own safety boots.
Assessment Methods
Units are assessed through written assessments, verbal questioning, and practical