Career guide

Heavy vehicle mechanic: career guide and training

As a heavy vehicle mechanic you repair and check heavy commercial vehicles, trucks and buses.

What will you do?

Working as a truck mechanic or diesel mechanic, you determine the approach, prepare the workstation and the vehicle and diagnose faults before you repair or replace parts. You then test and adjust the vehicle and prepare it for delivery. You keep clear work records, follow the maintenance schedule and the safety rules, and always work safely and with respect for the environment.

  • Determine the type of intervention and the approach
  • Prepare the workstation and the vehicle
  • Diagnose faults and breakdowns
  • Repair or replace vehicle parts
  • Test and adjust the vehicle
  • Prepare the vehicle for delivery
  • Keep work records and work safely and cleanly

Skills to develop

  • Technical education in vehicle mechanics or electromechanics
  • Insight into engines, brakes and electrics of heavy vehicles
  • Hands-on, methodical way of working
  • Ability to read technical documentation and maintenance schedules

Your foundation for this occupation

Understand truck or bus drivetrains, brakes and chassis. Heavy components require suitable support and lifting equipment.

From preparation to your first day

  1. Develop the practical skills

    Practise servicing and component removal under supervision with vehicle-specific instructions. Work systematically through defined inspection points.

  2. Check your work

    Check connections, leaks and operation through the test procedure. Record defects affecting availability or safety.

How can you grow?

Specialise in brakes, drivetrains, trailers or brand systems and progress to foreman or technical specialist.

Frequently asked questions

What differs from passenger cars?

Mass, dimensions, operating loads and system design differ. You use different equipment and account for intensive use and fleet scheduling.

Sources and training

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