Honda/Acura High-Voltage Technician Levels

Details Posted on 26 April 2022 | Share: | Print

As electric-only, hybrid, and fuel cell electric vehicles are increasing in sales, they are becoming more commonplace in repair facilities. Along with the unique powertrains that come with these vehicles, also comes unique safety concerns. Regardless of vehicle maker, high-voltage (HV) systems pose a threat of injury or death if not handled properly. Only personnel with the proper training, PPE, tools, equipment, and service information should perform work on the HV systems.

Many OEMs have specific training requirements for different levels of high-voltage technicians. Typically, these levels range from no interaction with any high-voltage part of the vehicle (even after the high-voltage battery is disconnected/isolated), to the ability to work on the vehicle under live conditions at the highest OEM HV education level you can earn. The number of levels in between these two ends varies by OEM. Always check the OEM requirements before attempting to disable an HV system. Let’s see what Honda/Acura has to say.

Honda/Acura does not currently specify technician levels and requirements for performing certain procedures in the vehicle-specific service manuals.

Per the 2021 Accord Hybrid service manual ➤ Electric Powertrain ➤ General Information, Specifications, System Descriptions ➤ Electric Powertrain Service Precautions ➤ Turning Off and On Power to the High Voltage Circuit: "The following procedure should be done before you work on or near any energized high voltage components. Follow the procedure exactly. Otherwise, you may be injured or may damage equipment."

Per the 2021 Accord Hybrid service manual ➤ Electric Powertrain ➤ Battery System ➤ Repair Procedures, Tests ➤ Battery Pack Disassembly and Reassembly: "The electric powertrain components are located in this area. The electric powertrain is a high-voltage system. You must be familiar with the electric powertrain system before working on or around it. Make sure you have read the electric powertrain service precautions before doing repairs or service."

Understanding high-voltage safety, including OEM-specific high-voltage technician levels, will help ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

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