Description
Diagnose, service, repair, and overhaul automotive gasoline and diesel engines and related systems to restore performance, efficiency, and reliability.
- • Test drive vehicles and evaluate engine performance using scan tools, compression and leak-down testers, and other diagnostic equipment.
- • Inspect engines and related components for damage, wear, leaks, and abnormal noises; document findings and recommended repairs.
- • Test and adjust repaired engine systems to meet manufacturer performance specifications and emissions standards.
- • Diagnose and repair fuel delivery systems, including injectors, carburetors, pumps, rails, and lines.
- • Troubleshoot ignition systems, coils, plugs, wires, and timing faults using electronic test equipment and oscilloscopes.
- • Estimate parts, labor, and time for engine diagnostics, repairs, or overhauls.
- • Review work orders, service histories, and technical bulletins; coordinate priorities with supervisors.
- • Communicate with customers to clarify engine symptoms, explain findings, and recommend future maintenance.
- • Set and verify base and variable valve timing; align timing marks and phase camshafts.
- • Test and service engine management and sensors (O2, MAF, MAP, TPS, cam/crank, knock, VVT) to ensure proper operation.
- • Tear down, repair, and rebuild short and long blocks, cylinder heads, and related assemblies.
- • Perform routine engine maintenance, including oil and filter changes, spark plug and coil replacements, and tune-ups.
- • Follow inspection checklists covering belts, hoses, cooling, lubrication, intake, exhaust, and vacuum systems.
- • Plan repair procedures using service manuals, wiring diagrams, and specifications; select proper tools and fixtures.
- • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe engine work area and parts layout.
- • Replace timing belts, chains, guides, tensioners, sprockets, and related seals.
- • Tune engines for proper idle, fuel trim, and drivability; verify with scan data and emissions results.
- • Service engine cooling systems; pressure-test, flush, and replace water pumps, thermostats, and radiators.
- • Disassemble and inspect engine parts with micrometers, calipers, bore gauges, and plastigage.
- • Replace spark plugs, air and fuel filters, and coils on gasoline and hybrid vehicles per OEM specs.
- • Overhaul or replace carburetors, throttle bodies, turbochargers or superchargers, and oil or fuel pumps.
- • Repair or replace internal components such as pistons, rings, connecting rods, camshafts, valves, lifters, and bearings.
- • Diagnose and repair engine wiring harnesses, grounds, and ignition circuit faults.
- • Install, calibrate, or replace engine sensors and actuators; relearn or program ECM/PCM as required.
- • Rebuild or coordinate machining of crankshafts, cylinder heads, and engine blocks.
- • Inspect and service alternative-fuel engine components (CNG, LPG) for leaks, damage, and compliance.
- • Diagnose and repair engine management faults in flexible-fuel vehicles, including timing, fuel rate, alcohol concentration, and air-to-fuel ratio issues.
- • Repair or replace head gaskets, intake and exhaust gaskets, seals, and engine mounts.
- • Remove and install engines and related components; connect wiring, fuel, exhaust, and cooling systems.
- • Install aftermarket engine performance parts and calibrations; verify gains and ensure reliability and compliance.
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Supply Chain & Transportation
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
