Purpose Statement: The main purpose of wheel alignment is to have the wheels on a vehicle aligned according to manufacturer’s specifications in order to obtain a centralised steering wheel, optimise the handling capabilities of the vehicle, enhance ride quality and comfort, to maximise tyre tread life and to ensure that the vehicle is a safe means of transport by inspecting it for any worn, loose or damaged suspension and steering components.

It is the responsibility of the wheel alignment technician to ensure that all of the abovementioned goals are achieved through his expertise, the application of acknowledged adjustment methods, proper inspections and correct decisions with regards to required adjustments on any given vehicle in a clean, fully equipped and well maintained workshop.

Key Performance Areas

1             Prepare a vehicle for wheel alignment through thorough inspection to ensure safety and proper adjustment settings.  The pre-checks to be performed include:

• Inspection of tyres
• Loading specifications
• Ride Heights
• Suspension Inspection
• Steering linkages
• Shock absorbers, struts and mountings

2             Operation of the respective wheel alignment machines, following all prescribed procedures in order to obtain accurate, valid results through a careful and proper approach including:

• Ensuring that the alignment machine is calibrated and accurate
• Following proper wheel alignment procedures when obtaining readings
• Utilizing the advanced features of the alignment machines to make adjustments easier
• Printing and saving the results obtained.

3             Proper interpretation of the wheel Alignment report to determine the required adjustments and actions to be done.  These may include:

• Obtaining readings
• Comparing the actual readings to specifications
• Execute with confidence all procedures, also when using all tools and equipment

4             •             Careful, accurate execution of the wheel alignment adjustment activity

5             •             Road test the vehicle, to ensure that the alignment and all other work performed on it has the desired effect and that it is performing according to expectations.

• Display proper driving skills when road testing

6             Have extensive knowledge & understanding of the wheel alignment function including

• Technology of the field
• Context of the work, regarding correct use, interpretation of manufacturers specifications, legislation, procedures and effective use of tools
• Adhering to the value systems and culture of the company

7             Housekeeping & safety:

• Ensuring a safe, efficient workshop with high regards to housekeeping standards and safety
• Maintain, service, calibrate tools and equipment
• Ensure safety of staff, customers, vehicles, equipment and property

9             Identify, exploit additional and/or new sales opportunities

The job holder is required to perform any duties over and above the outputs of the job which are at the reasonable request of a superior

Qualifications and Experience:

Minimum Qualification

• Grade 12
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualification

• Additional technical qualification will be an added advantage

Minimum Experience

• External: At least 3 years’ experience following a proper assessment in conjunction with the completion and certification of relevant accredited training
• Internal: At least 6 months in Wheel Alignment Bay under supervision and successful completion and certification of relevant accredited training.