Instructions Sample 4: Duties List for Entry-Level Automotive Service Technicians

1. Vehicle Safety Inspection (Multi-Point Inspection)

Steps:

1. Check tire pressure and measure tread depth on all tires.
2. Inspect brake system components, including pads and rotors (see #2 below).
3. Test all exterior lights and signals.
4. Check fluid levels: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and washer fluid.
5. Inspect belts, hoses, and visible engine components.
6. Scan for diagnostic trouble codes if applicable.
7. Record all findings in the inspection report.

Reporting:

• Clearly note any urgent safety concerns.
• Provide recommendations for maintenance or repair.

2. Inspecting Brake Pads

Steps:

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel.
2. Inspect brake pad thickness using a measuring tool.
3. Check rotor condition for scoring or warping.
4. Inspect caliper operation and hardware condition.
5. Document measurements and findings in the service record.

Decision Point:

• If brake pads are below minimum specification, recommend replacement before vehicle release.

3. Changing Engine Oil

Steps:

1. Verify the vehicle make, model, and oil specifications using the service system.
2. Confirm the vehicle is safely positioned on the lift and locked in place.
3. Raise the vehicle to a comfortable working height.
4. Place a drain pan under the oil drain plug.
5. Remove the drain plug and allow the oil to drain completely.
6. Inspect the drain plug and gasket for wear; replace if necessary.
7. Reinstall and torque the drain plug to manufacturer specifications.
8. Remove the old oil filter and install a new, properly lubricated filter.
9. Lower the vehicle.
10. Add the correct type and quantity of engine oil.
11. Start the engine and check for leaks.
12. Reset the oil life monitoring system if applicable.

Quality Check:

• Confirm oil level using dipstick or electronic measurement.
• Ensure no leaks are present before releasing the vehicle.

4. Rotating Tires

Steps:

1. Review the recommended tire rotation pattern for the vehicle type.
2. Loosen lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle.
3. Raise the vehicle using a lift.
4. Remove all four wheels.
5. Inspect tires for uneven wear, damage, or embedded objects.
6. Rotate the tires according to the specified pattern.
7. Reinstall wheels and hand-tighten lug nuts.
8. Lower the vehicle.
9. Torque lug nuts to manufacturer specifications using a torque wrench.

Quality Check:

• Verify proper torque on all lug nuts.
• Reset tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) if required.

5. Replacing a Battery

Steps:

1. Verify correct battery type and specifications for the vehicle.
2. Turn off ignition and remove the key or disable the system.
3. Disconnect the negative terminal, then the positive terminal.
4. Remove battery hold-down hardware.
5. Carefully remove the battery using proper lifting technique.
6. Clean battery terminals and tray if needed.
7. Install the new battery and secure it with the hold-down bracket.
8. Connect the positive terminal, then the negative terminal.
9. Apply terminal protection if required.

Quality Check:

• Start the vehicle and confirm proper operation.
• Reset electronic systems (clock, radio, presets) if necessary.