Kia High-Voltage Technician Levels: UPDATE

Details Posted on 05 December 2023 | 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 Kia has to say.

Found under General Information ➤ High Voltage System General Safety Information And Caution, Kia states: "The special credentials or training must be in accordance with national regulations and laws are required to perform repairs, maintenance and diagnosis of the High Voltage Systems, including high-voltage battery."

Kia does not currently specify technician levels and requirements for performing certain procedures in the vehicle specific service manuals. Kia, however, gives detailed warnings throughout service manuals, especially in the high-voltage disable procedure.

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
• Locating OEM-Approved HV Tools: Kia
• OEM High-Voltage Technician Levels
• Step-By-Step: Accessing Kia Repair Information

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