Mazda High-Voltage Technician Levels

Details Posted on 20 May 2022 | Share:

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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 Mazda has to say.

Mazda does not currently specify technician levels and requirements for performing certain procedures in the vehicle-specific service manuals. Mazda does, however, give detailed warnings at the top of any procedure pertaining to high-voltage components.

Per the 2022 Mazda MX30 Workshop manual, Service Plug Removal/Installation procedure: "If the necessary measures are not taken before servicing an electric vehicle, it could cause electrical shock and result in serious injury or, in the worst case, death. Before servicing the electric vehicle, refer to [HIGH VOLTAGE SERVICE CAUTIONS] in the general information and implement the necessary measures. (See HIGH VOLTAGE SERVICE CAUTIONS.)"

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

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

• Hybrid And Electric Vehicle Article Hotspot
• OEM High-Voltage Technician Levels
• Step-By-Step: Accessing Mazda Repair Information

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