Major Work Activity E - Diagnoses and repairs electrical and comfort control systems

Table of Contents

• Task E-14 Diagnoses electrical systems and components
  • E-14.01 Diagnoses wiring and electrical systems
  • E-14.02 Diagnoses starting/charging systems and low voltage (12 volt) batteries
  • E-14.03 Diagnoses lighting and wiper systems
  • E-14.04 Diagnoses entertainment systems
  • E-14.05 Diagnoses electrical options and accessories
  • E-14.06 Diagnoses instrumentation and information displays
  • E-14.07 Diagnoses advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) components
• Task E-15 Repairs electrical systems and components
  • E-15.01 Repairs wiring and electrical systems
  • E-15.02 Repairs starting/charging systems and low voltage (12 volt) batteries
  • E-15.03 Repairs lighting and wiper systems
  • E-15.04 Repairs entertainment systems
  • E-15.05 Repairs electrical options and accessories
  • E-15.06 Repairs instrumentation and information displays
  • E-15.07 Repairs advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) components
• Task E-16 Diagnoses heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and comfort control systems
  • E-16.01 Diagnoses air flow control systems
  • E-16.02 Diagnoses refrigerant systems
  • E-16.03 Diagnoses heating systems
• Task E-17 Repairs heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and comfort control systems
  • E-17.01 Repairs air flow control systems
  • E-17.02 Repairs refrigerant systems
  • E-17.03 Repairs heating systems

Task E-14 Diagnoses electrical systems and components

Task Descriptor

Electrical systems include: starting/charging systems and low voltage (12 volt) batteries, lighting and wiper systems, entertainment systems, electrical options, instrumentation and information displays, electrical accessories, and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) components. For the purpose of this RSOS, work on information and entertainment systems are described separately. In many cases in industry these are combined and are referred to as infotainment systems.

Automotive service technicians diagnose electrical systems and components according to manufacturers’ service information. Incorrect processes can result in personal injury and component failure.

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, oscilloscopes
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• conditions include: incorrect routing, corrosion, poor contacts, damaged terminals
• tests include: functional output tests, voltage test, resistance check, amperage test, voltage drop

Range of Variables

• electrical and electronic principles include: conventional theory, electron theory, hole theory, Ohm’s Law, Watt’s Law, magnetism, induced voltages
• module operation includes: inputs, outputs, process
• purpose and operation include: circuit protection, control devices, load devices
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, oscilloscopes
• hazards include: damaging electrical components, fire, soldering fumes

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: battery testers, DMMs, circuit testers, scan tools, oscilloscopes
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• tests include: alternator voltage regulator (AVR), voltage drop, parasitic draw

Range of Variables

• components include: generator, starter motor, low voltage (12 volt) batteries, circuit protection devices, cables, sensors, modules
• control systems include: anti-theft/immobilizer, safety interlock devices
• warning indicators include: warning messages, warning lights, audible signals
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: battery testers, DMMs, circuit testers, scan tools, oscilloscopes
• hazards include: fire, battery explosions, corrosive materials, exposed rotating parts

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, oscilloscopes
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: wiper linkages/transmissions, motors, modules, switches, lamps
• tests include: functional output tests, voltage test, resistance check, amperage test, voltage drop

Range of Variables

• lighting and wiper systems include: electrically-controlled, electronically-controlled
• components include: wiper linkages/transmissions, motors, modules, switches, lamps
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, oscilloscopes
• hazards include: lamps (high intensity discharge [HID]), pinch points

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, oscilloscopes
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• tests include: functional output tests, voltage test, resistance check, amperage test, voltage drop

Range of Variables

• entertainment systems include: audio, video, wireless/handsfree
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform sensory inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, oscilloscopes
• hazards include: fire, accidental restraint system deployment

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, manufacturer-specific tools and equipment
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: switches, modules, actuators
• tests include: functional tests, voltage test, resistance check, amperage test, voltage drop

Range of Variables

• electrical and electronic principles include: conventional theory, electron theory, hole theory, Ohm’s Law, Watt’s Law, magnetism, induced voltages
• module operation includes: inputs, outputs, process
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• electrical options and accessories include: power options (windows, mirrors, seats, door locks), theft deterrents, remote starters, heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, push-start
• components include: switches, modules, actuators
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, circuit testers, manufacturer-specific tools and equipment
• hazards include: fire, accidental restraint system deployment

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, oscilloscopes, scan tools, circuit testers
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, sensors
• tests include: functional tests, voltage test, resistance check, amperage test, voltage drop
• vehicle warning indicators include: tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), seatbelt monitoring system, airbag monitoring system, ADAS indicators

Range of Variables

• instrumentation and information displays include: gauges, warning indicators, audible indicators, heads-up display (HUD), driver information centre (DIC)
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, sensors
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, oscilloscopes, scan tools, circuit testers
• hazards include: fire, accidental restraint system deployment
• jurisdictional regulations include: odometer servicing

Range of Variables

• diagnostic strategy includes: reviewing manufacturers’ service information, checking applicable bulletins
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, hand tools, scan tools, manufacturer-specific tools and equipment
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• ADAS components include: around-view cameras, back up cameras, parking-aid sensors, modules, night vision sensors, driver drowsiness detection, rain sensors, navigation unit, UV sensors, haptic and audible alarms, warning lights
• tests include: circuit, functional

Range of Variables

• electrical and electronic principles include: conventional theory, electron theory, hole theory, Ohm’s Law, Watt’s Law, magnetism, induced voltages
• module operation includes: inputs, outputs, process
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• ADAS components include: around-view cameras, back up cameras, parking-aid sensors, modules, night vision sensors, driver drowsiness detection, rain sensors, navigation unit, UV sensors, haptic and audible alarms, warning lights
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, hand tools, scan tools, manufacturer-specific tools and equipment

Task E-15 Repairs electrical systems and components

Task Descriptor

Electrical systems include: starting/charging systems and low voltage (12 volt) batteries, lighting and wiper systems, entertainment systems, electrical options, instrumentation and information displays, electrical accessories, and ADAS components. For the purpose of this RSOS, work on information and entertainment systems are described separately. In many cases in industry these are combined and are referred to as infotainment systems.
Automotive service technicians repair and maintain electrical systems and components according to manufacturers’ service information. Incorrect processes can result in personal injury and component failure.

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: hand tools, soldering equipment, scan tools, DMMs
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• repair materials include: terminals, insulators, fastening devices
• methods include: splicing, replacing terminal, soldering, crimping

Range of Variables

• electrical and electronic principles include: conventional theory, electron theory, hole theory, Ohm’s Law, Watt’s Law, magnetism, induced voltages
• module operation includes: inputs, outputs, process
• purpose and operation include: circuit protection, control devices, load devices
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• tools and equipment include: hand tools, soldering equipment, scan tools, DMMs
• hazards include: fire, fumes, burns
• methods include: splicing, replacing terminal, soldering, crimping

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: scan tools, hand tools, DMMs, specialized tools, power tools
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• starting/charging system components include: generator, starter motor, low voltage (12 volt) batteries, circuit protection devices, cables

Range of Variables

• starting/charging system components include: generator, starter motor, low voltage (12 volt) batteries, circuit protection devices, cables
• control systems include: anti-theft/immobilizer, safety interlock devices
• tools and equipment include: scan tools, hand tools, DMMs, specialized tools, power tools
• hazards include: fire, battery explosions, corrosive materials

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: hand tools, scan tools, reprogramming equipment, specialized tools, DMMs
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• lighting components include: light bulbs, switches, modules
• wiper components include: switches, linkages/transmissions, controls, wiper motors, modules, sensors

Range of Variables

• lighting components include: light bulbs, switches, modules
• wiper components include: switches, linkages/transmissions, controls, wiper motors, modules, sensors
• tools and equipment include: hand tools, scan tools, reprogramming equipment, specialized tools, DMMs
• hazards include: high voltage lighting, pinch points

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: scan tools, hand tools, reprogramming equipment, DMMs
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, antennae, cabling
• maintenance procedures include: replace key fob battery

Range of Variables

• entertainment systems include: audio, video, wireless/handsfree
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, antennae, cabling
• tools and equipment include: scan tools, hand tools, specialized tools, DMMs
• hazards include: fire, accidental restraint system deployment
• maintenance procedures include: checking for updates

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: scan tools, hand tools, reprogramming equipment, DMMs
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, antennae, cabling
• maintenance procedures include: replace key fob battery

Range of Variables

• electrical and electronic principles include: conventional theory, electron theory, hole theory, Ohm’s Law, Watt’s Law, magnetism, induced voltages
• module operation includes: inputs, outputs, process
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• electrical options and accessories include: power options (windows, mirrors, seats, door locks), theft deterrents, remote starters, heated and cooled seats, heated steering wheel, keyless entry, push-start
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, antennae, cabling
• tools and equipment include: scan tools, hand tools, reprogramming equipment, DMMs
• hazards include: fire, accidental restraint system deployment
• maintenance procedures include: replace key fob battery

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: hand tools, scan tools, reprogramming equipment, DMMs
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, sensors, antennae, cabling

Range of Variables

• instrumentation and information displays include: gauges, warning indicators, audible indicators, HUD, DIC
• components include: switches, modules, actuators, sensors, antennae, cabling
• tools and equipment include: hand tools, scan tools, reprogramming equipment, DMMs
• hazards include: accidental deployment of restraint systems
• jurisdictional regulations include: odometer servicing

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: DMMs, hand tools, scan tools, manufacturer-specific tools and equipment, reprogramming equipment
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• ADAS components include: around-view cameras, back up cameras, parking-aid sensors, modules, night vision sensors, driver drowsiness detection, rain sensors, navigation unit, UV sensors, haptic and audible alarms, warning lights

Range of Variables

• electrical and electronic principles include: conventional theory, electron theory, hole theory, Ohm’s Law, Watt’s Law, magnetism, induced voltages
• module operation includes: inputs, outputs, process
• electrical circuits include: series circuit, parallel circuit, series-parallel circuits
• ADAS components include: around-view cameras, back up cameras, parking-aid sensors, modules, night vision sensors, driver drowsiness detection, rain sensors, navigation unit, UV sensors, haptic and audible alarms, warning lights
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, hand tools, scan tools, manufacturer-specific tools and equipment, reprogramming equipment

Task E-16 Diagnoses heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and comfort control systems

Task Descriptor

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and comfort control systems heat and cool the passenger cabin for occupants’ comfort.

Automotive service technicians diagnose HVAC and comfort control systems according to manufacturers’ service information and jurisdictional regulations. Incorrect processes can result in personal injury, component failure and environmental damage.

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: DMMs, oscilloscopes, scan tools, circuit testers, vacuum pumps, inspection camera, temperature probe
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• componentsinclude: cabin filter, blower motors, actuators, ventilation systems, duct work, control units, connectors, blend door motors, resistors, HVAC controls, modules, switches, sensors
• faults include: partially open/closed doors, restricted cabin filters, foreign materials, debris
• operating faults include: blown fuses, seized motors and actuators, broken wires, disconnected ductwork
• tests include: functional output, voltage drop, vacuum tests, continuity and resistance check, pressure, temperature checks

Range of Variables

• componentsinclude: cabin filter, blower motors, actuators, ventilation systems, duct work, control units, connectors, blend door motors, resistors, HVAC controls, modules, switches, sensors
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, oscilloscopes, scan tools, circuit testers, vacuum pumps, inspection camera, temperature probe
• hazards include: airborne contaminants, mold spores, pinch points, high pressure gases

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: refrigerant leak detectors, refrigerant identifiers, DMMs, circuit testers, AC machines, detection equipment, scan tools, temperature probes
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: orifice tube, thermal expansion valve, hoses, tubing, A/C compressors
• jurisdictional requirements include: handling and disposal, storing and recycling, Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) licensing and certification
• tests include: voltage drop, resistance check, pressure test, vacuum test
• operating faults include: blown fuses, broken wires, low refrigerant (leak)

Range of Variables

• components include: orifice tube, thermal expansion valve, hoses, tubing, A/C compressors
• related systems include: engine cooling system, accessory drives, HVAC system, vehicle management system
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: refrigerant leak detectors, refrigerant identifiers, DMMs, circuit testers, AC machines, detection equipment, scan tools, temperature probes
• hazards include: handling of refrigerant, risk of personal injury, rotating components, pinch points, airborne materials
• jurisdictional requirements include: handling and disposal, storing and recycling, Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) licensing and certification

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, infrared thermometers, circuit testers, black lights, inspection cameras, gas analyzers
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: cabin filters, blower motors, actuators, heater core, thermostats, fans, controls, sensors
• tests include: coolant level, pressure, circulation, temperature
• faults include: leaks, engine temperature regulation, air flow restrictions, fluid levels
• results include: low coolant level, plugged heater core, insufficient air flow, low coolant flow

Range of Variables

• components include: cabin filters, blower motors, actuators, heater core, thermostats, fans, controls, sensors
• related systems include: AC systems, engine cooling system, vehicle management system, air flow
• procedures used to diagnose include: verify concerns, perform inspections, retrieve DTCs, access service information, conduct tests and measurements, isolate fault and identify root cause
• tools and equipment include: DMMs, scan tools, infrared thermometers, circuit testers, black lights, inspection cameras, gas analyzers
• hazards include: airborne contaminants, mold spores, pinch points, burns

Task E-17 Repairs heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and comfort control systems

Task Descriptor

HVAC and comfort control systems heat and cool the passenger cabins for occupants’ comfort.

Automotive service technicians repair and maintain HVAC and comfort control systems according to manufacturers’ service information and jurisdictional regulations. Incorrect processes can result in personal injury, component failure and environmental damage.

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: hand tools, air tools, power tools, scan tools, specialized tools
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: cabin filter, blower motors, actuators, ventilation systems, duct work, control units, connectors, blend door motors, resistors, HVAC controls, modules, switches, sensors
• materials include: compressed air and pressurized deodorizers

Range of Variables

• components include: cabin filter, blower motors, actuators, ventilation systems, duct work, control units, connectors, blend door motors, resistors, HVAC controls, modules, switches, sensors
• tools and equipment include: hand tools, air tools, power tools, scan tools, specialized tools
• hazards include: airborne contaminants, mold spores, pinch points

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: hand tools, air tools, power tools, scan tools, specialized A/C tools
• repair materials include: gaskets, sealants, fastening devices
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• components include: switches, wiring, expansion valves, orifice tubes, compressors, evaporators, condensers, lines and seals, types of refrigerant, sensors

Range of Variables

• components include: switches, wiring, expansion valves, orifice tubes, compressors, evaporators, condensers, lines and seals, types of refrigerant, sensors
• tools and equipment include: hand tools, air tools, power tools, scan tools, specialized A/C tools
• hazards include: handling of refrigerant, risk of personal injury, rotating components, pinch points
• jurisdictional requirements include: handling and disposal, storing and recycling, HRAI licensing and certification

Range of Variables

• tools and equipment include: hand tools, air tools, power tools, scan tools, vacuum fill tools, DMMs, oscilloscopes
• manufacturers’ service information includes: maintenance schedule, specifications, recommendations, procedures, standards, bulletins, schematics
• repair materials include: gaskets, sealants, fastening devices
• components include: heater cores, heater hoses, thermostats, coolant flow valves, gaskets, radiators, water pumps, engine temperature regulation, sensors, modules, switches
• maintenance procedures include: coolant flush, coolant evaluation, radiator cleaning

Range of Variables

• components include: heater cores, heater hoses, thermostats, coolant flow valves, gaskets, radiators, water pumps, engine temperature regulation, sensors, modules, switches
• tools and equipment include: hand tools, air tools, power tools, scan tools, vacuum fill tools, DMMs, oscilloscopes
• hazards include: airborne contaminants, mold spores, pinch points, burns, personal injuries

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