Online Diesel Mechanics Courses

Why ICS Canada?

  • DEAC Accredited
  • Self-Paced
  • Supportive
  • Low monthly payments

Program Overview

ICS Canada’s Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance courses will cover everything from basic diesel engine operations to computerized truck management systems. You can complete this program in as little as one year, and with ICS Canada you train online - at home or on the go - at a pace that’s right for you. Our program can help you take the first step toward your future career.

You don’t need previous work experience for this program. Diesel mechanics can work for an established repair shop, repair and maintain their own rig, or even start their own business.¹

Curriculum Details

Program Goal and Outcomes

Program Goal

To provide students with knowledge of skills ranging from basic diesel engine operations to troubleshooting and repair. Students will learn how to maintain and do repairs on their own trucks, work for a truck fleet or dealership, or start a full- or part-time business.

Program Outcomes
  • Recognize the role of a diesel repair technician and the many exciting career opportunities available to skilled technicians
  • Identify common tools and shop safety procedures used in the repair of heavy-duty vehicles
  • Understand the basic operation of a diesel engine and its major components
  • Describe the operation of the cooling and lubrication systems of a typical diesel engine
  • Identify the various procedures used in the inspection and rebuilding of a typical diesel engine
  • Explain the operation of a mechanical fuel injection system, the fuel-delivery system, as well as the properties of the various types of diesel fuels
  • Recognize the basics of electrical and electronic engine control systems
  • Recognize the basic operation and repair of heavy-duty truck steering and suspension systems, along with service and repair of vehicle wheels and tires
  • Identify the operation of hydraulic and pneumatic braking devices and control systems, the interpretation of fault-indication messages, and the troubleshooting of brake system problems
  • Describe the operation and repair procedures for common heavy-duty truck drivelines, automatic transmissions, and manual transmissions and clutch systems
  • Recognize the function and operation of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems used on heavy-duty trucks
  • Explain the basic theory and repair of various electrical systems, including the battery, charging system, starting system, and lighting systems
  • Identify the safety practices and maintenance procedures for truck and trailer systems

DMM001 Orientation Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance

In this course, you’ll develop the necessary skills to ensure your success in the program. You’ll learn how you can improve your study skills, so you’re able to use a number of tools that will help you to be successful. Re- pairing and maintaining the heavy-duty vehicles powered by diesel engines is a growing field that can provide a fascinating career, a good income, job security, and fulfillment to anyone who wants to work hard and succeed. The modern vehicle powered by a diesel engine is an amazing piece of technology, with many components working together to safely and reliably haul freight, transport passengers, and serve the construction and farming industries. It takes highly trained, talented people to keep these high-tech vehicles in running order. Since professional vehicle repair technicians possess special abilities, their skills are always in demand. We believe that once you understand how many different career opportunities are available to skilled repair technicians, you’ll understand how rewarding and enjoyable this field can be. No matter what your career goals are, this program is designed to help you succeed.

Objective:

  • Identify skills needed to be a confident and independent online learner
  • Analyze the job roles, components, and mechanics associated with diesel truck maintenance

DMM002 Diesel Truck Operation, Safety, and Technology

This course will introduce you to the operations of diesel engine, including how the diesel cycle differs from other types of engine cycles, and how (and why) the diesel engine has been a very popular choice for powering such a wide range of vehicles. The course includes several major diesel engine components and moves on to cover shop safety and tools.

You will learn about the different types of work environment where diesel technicians work, like the trucking industry, diesel-powered locomotive repair shops, heavy-equipment repair shops, nautical engine overhaul and maintenance facilities, and many other industries employ technicians who maintain and repair diesel engines.

You will also learn about the work performed by diesel technicians which vary and they involve the knowledge of various vehicle components, including several engine systems and accessories. When a problem with an engine accessory occurs, they’ll often be required to locate and solve the issue.

Objectives:

  • Analyze the principles, components, and classifications of the diesel engines
  • Identify the safety precautions, protective gears, and tools required by the diesel technicians

Additional Course Materials:
Textbook: Diesel Technology

DMM003 Diesel Engine Fundamentals

In this course, you’ll take a closer look at diesel engine components. In the first lesson, you’ll be familiarized with the various components of engine blocks, crankshafts, and piston assembly. In the second part of this course, you’ll be introduced with the various functions of the cylinder head, camshaft, and valve train components. Finally, this course will help you to get an overview on how various components of a diesel engine works and functions.

Objectives:

  • Identify the various components of engine blocks, crankshaft, and piston assembly
  • Categorize the various components of cylinder heads and camshaft as well as their servicing process

DMM004 Truck Engine Lubrication, Cooling, and Exhaust Systems

This course continues your study of diesel engine systems. You’ll look at lubrication, cooling, air intake, and exhaust systems. You’ll soon find that lubricating systems are easy to comprehend once you understand the system’s components. You’ll also be able to understand how to properly maintain oil filters as well as how to recognize low oil situations. Along with this, you’ll also look at the functions of components related to engine breathing and troubleshoot components of the exhaust system.

Objectives:

  • Identify the purpose of lubrication and cooling systems in trucks
  • Categorize the various parts and purposes of the truck engine air intake and exhaust systems

DMM005 Truck Fuel Systems

In this course, you’ll continue your study of diesel technology by looking at fuel and injection systems. You’ll be learning about the different types, essential components, and methods of maintenance for the fuel and injection systems.

Objectives:

  • Identify the major components of diesel engine fuel system
  • Categorize the various components of fuel injection system
  • Identify the major components of distributor injection pump and mechanical fuel injector systems

DMM006 Truck Electronics and Engine Controls

This course covers the basics of electricity and then moves on to diesel engine electrical systems, including the charging and starting systems. You'll then learn about electronic engine controls.

The information is divided into two lessons; the first lesson focuses on basic electrical theories, charging systems, and the diesel engine’s starting system. The second lesson describes each major component related to the computer control system of engines.

Objectives:

  • Categorize the electrical principles, troubleshooting methods, and starter-system functions related to the electrical systems of trucks
  • Identify the main operational and functional components related to the electronic engine controls of trucks

DMM007 Truck and Trailer Maintenance

This course provides an introduction to the trucking industry and details key career and certification information. You’ll also review safety practices and take another look at tools and measuring equipment.

Objectives:

  • Analyze the fundamentals of truck maintenance and the components of the trucking industry

Additional Course Materials:
Textbook: Truck and Trailer Systems

DMM008 Truck Electrical Systems

This course will introduce you to the electrical theories, types of batteries, system monitoring programs, and more such topics related to the truck’s electrical system. This course takes another look at basic electrical topics before moving on to cover truck electrical systems, such as starting and charging systems, lighting, and wiring. You’ll also study about the truck computer systems.

Objectives:

  • Categorize the theories, components, and elements related to the truck electrical systems
  • Identify the utility of the lighting system and starting system of trucks
  • Analyze the purpose of vehicle computer system, its maintenance, and the importance of system monitoring programs

DMM009 Truck HVAC Systems

This part of your program looks at truck heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems and auxiliary power units (APUs). In this course, you’ll learn about important truck HVAC control systems, how they operate, and how to maintain them. You’ll also spend some time reading about APUs and their purpose in conjunction with truck HVAC systems.

Objective:

  • Analyze the components and maintenance of truck HVAC systems

DMM010 Tires, Suspension, and Steering

This part of your program deals with some of the systems and components that will most likely demand the bulk of your repair efforts. Tires and suspension systems, for example, wear out during much shorter intervals than parts such as engines. You’ll also cover wheels, frames, and steering and trailer systems.

Objectives:

  • Categorize the various types of tires, wheels, and the methods of maintaining them
  • Identify the purpose of suspension and steering systems

DMM011 Truck Brake Systems

This part of your program focuses on truck brake systems, an important topic for just about any heavy-duty truck technician. You’ll study different types of brake systems, their components, and how they work.

Objectives:

  • Categorize the different hydraulic and air brake systems and the methods of maintaining them
  • Identify the various parts and maintenance methods associated with air-brake and anti-lock brake systems

DMM012 Drivelines and Transmissions

This part of your program covers the driveline system, clutches, and drive axles before moving on to truck manual and automatic transmissions. You’ll learn about the major components, operation, and general procedures for servicing these systems.

Objectives:

  • Identify the functions, components, and methods of maintenance for the driveshaft, clutch, and axles
  • Analyze the components, functional aspects, and maintenance of the truck’s transmission
  • Identify the operational aspects and efficiency of the automatic transmission

DMM013 Troubleshooting and Repair

In this course, you’ll review engine- and electrical-system operating characteristics, as this knowledge forms the foundation on which all troubleshooting studies and skills are built.

The conclusion of your program focuses on troubleshooting practices as well as how to approach a problem by making the most of the tools and knowledge you’ve already gained. You’ll also cover preventive maintenance topics, including inspections and maintenance programs. Developing an effective approach to troubleshooting takes time, but it also requires having the right mindset.

Objectives:

  • Categorize the various operating principles and operational problems in a typical diesel engine
  • Compare various diagnostic methods used for fuel-injection system, lubrication system, valve system, and air-filtering system
  • Identify the various function of electrical system, starting system, and cooling system
  • Analyze the requirements of preventive measurement program and the testing procedures of oil analysis

Additional Course Materials:
Textbook: Troubleshooting and Repairing Diesel Engines


Computer Specifications
As you know this is an online academic program. This means you will need access to high-speed internet to begin your program. In addition, you will need access to a Microsoft® Windows® based computer running Windows 10® or later or an Apple® Mac® computer running macOS® or later, and an email account to complete your program.

We reserve the right to change program content and materials when it becomes necessary.
In order to further enhance your performance in this field, ICS has researched and recommended specific practical activities designed to complement your course work.
To ensure that you acquire the manual skills which are important in this program area, we encourage you to follow all of the course instructions.
Every province/territory has its own apprenticeship requirements in certain trade and technical areas. In a particular field, it may be necessary for the graduate to complete an apprenticeship before he/she is qualified to practice in their field.

Sample Lesson

To view a Diesel Mechanics sample lesson, click here.

 

 

Online diesel mechanics training course

Diesel mechanics work on engine operations and computerized management systems for trucks and other diesel vehicles. Here are a few qualities that effective diesel mechanics have in common:²

  • Detail oriented: It’s important to have a sharp eye and check things twice.
  • Problem solving: Finding the missing piece can be challenging and fun.
  • Persistent: You work until the job is done, and done well.
  • Honest: You are ethical in your work for customers.

"I chose to further my education and accounting knowledge with ICS Canada while working as an accounting clerk, which allowed me to move up within the company at which I am currently working. Studying with ICS Canada was a great experience, and the instructors were very helpful when it came to resolving any issues I had while studying."

- Sean S., ICS Canada graduate

"I have taken three diploma courses with ICS Canada. It has been very rewarding and challenging. I love to increase my knowledge level and share experiences. ICS Canada is great. Enrol! The contact with them is always very pleasant. You feel like a part of the ICS team."

- Connie K., ICS Canada graduate

Your program includes:

  • Customized payment plans with 0% interest
  • Books and ASE certification preparation materials
  • Study Planner App to keep track of your progress
  • Instructional support from our experienced faculty
  • Your personalized online student homepage and learning portal
  • Exclusive access to ICS Canada’s Student and Alumni Facebook Group
  • Additional resources such as our online library and career guidance from Career Cruising

Do you recommend any additional resources for students in the Diesel Mechanics Program?

Yes, we recommend several additional online sources that are helpful while you are in the program. A few useful websites include:

What certifications are linked to the diesel mechanics program?

Students should contact provincial certification and licensure authorities for exam certification requirements.

More FAQs >

¹ Every province/territory has its own apprenticeship requirements in certain trade and technical areas. In a particular field, it may be necessary for the graduate to complete an apprenticeship before he/she is qualified to practice in their field.

² In order to further enhance your performance in this field, ICS has researched and recommended specific practical activities designed to complement your coursework. To ensure that you acquire the manual skills which are important in this program area we encourage you to follow all of the course instruction.