Subaru High-Voltage Technician Levels

Details Posted on 12 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 Subaru has to say.

Subaru does not currently specify technician levels for performing certain procedures in the vehicle specific service manuals. Subaru does, however, specify that only technicians who have received training can service the HV system. Subaru also gives detailed procedures and warnings throughout the service manuals.

Per the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid ➤ Service Diagnostics ➤ General Description ➤ Precaution/Warning ➤ Warning (Hybrid System) document: "Only technicians who have received the Subaru training for hybrid systems should be allowed to perform service or maintenance of high voltage circuits."

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 Subaru Repair Information

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