Understanding the regulations governing automotive trades in Ontario is crucial for anyone working or planning to work in the automotive repair industry. With over 38 years of experience in this sector and as a member of the Ontario College of Trades, we aim to clarify the essential rules and guidelines that shape the automotive service landscape in this province. This article breaks down the key aspects of Ontario’s compulsory trade regulations, providing clarity and direction for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field.
Decoding the Ontario College of Trades Apprenticeship Act
In Ontario, compulsory trades, including those in the automotive sector, are governed by the Ontario College of Trades Apprenticeship Act. Within this act, subsection 277/11 specifically addresses the Motive Power Sector, outlining the scope of practice for each trade and specifying tasks that can be performed without a Certificate of Qualification.
Let’s examine the tasks explicitly excluded from the scope of practice for trades within the Motive Power Sector. According to subsection 277/11, the following work does not require a certified technician:
- Removing or replacing wheels and rims on motor vehicles.
- Replacing components such as:
- Auto glass
- Exhaust systems
- Radiators, cooling system hoses, and thermostats
- Engine drive belts
- Horns
- Light bulbs, sealed beam units, and lenses
- Fuses, batteries, and battery cables
- Radios
- Shock absorbers or springs (if realignment isn’t needed)
- Oil filters, air filters, and fuel filters
- Spark plugs
- Changing engine, transmission, differential, or cooling system fluids.
- Replenishing hydraulic fluids.
- Repairing and balancing tires and wheels.
- Lubricating vehicles.
- Reconditioning and rebuilding internal combustion engines, powertrains, brake system components, and suspension system components.
It’s important to note that while these tasks are excluded from the scope of practice, the regulations for performing broader automotive service work are clearly defined for certified Automotive Service Technicians.
Automotive Service Technician: Defining the Scope of Practice
Regulation 277/11 also distinctly outlines the scope of practice for a certified Automotive Service Technician. This trade encompasses a wide range of complex tasks, demanding specialized skills and qualifications. The scope includes servicing, repairing, overhauling, diagnosing, and inspecting motor vehicles through actions such as:
- Disassembling, adjusting, repairing, and reassembling critical components like engines, transmissions, clutches, rear ends, differentials, brakes, drive shafts, axles, and other assemblies.
- Testing and correcting wheel, axle, frame, and steering mechanism alignment.
- Diagnosing faults and repairing or replacing suspension systems, including shock absorbers and spring assemblies.
- Diagnosing faults, installing, repairing, and removing ignition, charging, and starting systems, panel instruments, wiring, and other electrical and electronic systems and equipment.
- Diagnosing faults, repairing, and adjusting fuel systems, engine management systems, and emission control systems.
- Diagnosing faults, installing, inspecting, maintaining, and removing air-conditioning, refrigeration, and heating systems.
This detailed scope of practice underscores the expertise and comprehensive training required to become a qualified Automotive Service Technician in Ontario.
Working in Compulsory Trades: Apprenticeship and Regulations
It is critical to understand the limitations on working in compulsory trades without proper registration. Ontario regulations stipulate that no individual may work in a compulsory trade for more than three months unless they are a Registered Apprentice. While there might be an initial period to explore the trade, long-term employment requires enrollment in a registered apprenticeship program. The statement mentioning a “limited period of time” less than 12 months likely refers to this three-month grace period before apprenticeship registration becomes mandatory for continued, paid work in a compulsory trade.
The Automotive Service Technician (AST) apprenticeship is notably extensive. Historically, it totaled 9600 hours for the author (originally 10,000 hours with a 400-hour credit for prior secondary school experience), taking approximately five years to complete. This lengthy apprenticeship reflects the complexity and depth of knowledge required in the AST trade, making it one of the longest apprenticeships in Ontario.
Compulsory Automotive Trades in Ontario: A Comprehensive List
For broader context, it’s helpful to know the range of compulsory automotive-related trades in Ontario. Beyond Automotive Service Technician, other compulsory trades include:
- Alignment and Brakes Technician
- Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer
- Auto Body Repairer
- Automotive Electronic Accessory Technician
- Fuel and Electrical Systems Technician
- Motorcycle Technician
- Transmission Technician
- Truck and Coach Technician
- Truck-Trailer Service Technician
This list highlights the diverse yet regulated landscape of automotive trades in Ontario, each with its own specific skill set and requirements.
If you have further questions about the rules and regulations governing automotive trades in Ontario, especially concerning the scope of practice or apprenticeship requirements, please don’t hesitate to ask. Navigating these regulations effectively is key to a successful and compliant career in the automotive industry.
