Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance

Diesel Mechanic School

If you're someone who has always loved taking things apart and putting them back together again, Penn Foster College's Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance Training Program can help you prepare for a career as a diesel mechanic or diesel service technician. Through flexible, online courses, you can build your industry knowledge and skills while preparing for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification Medium-Heavy Truck tests.

  • Prepares students for jobs as diesel mechanics or service technicians in a variety of settings including automobile, truck, and bus servicing, industrial or government fleet servicing, manufacturers, and repair shops or service stations.  
  • Covers fundamental topics such as basic diesel engine operations, troubleshooting, and repair. 
  • Students enrolled in the program receive a discount for Snap-on tools.
  • Prepares students to sit for the ASE Medium-Heavy Truck Certification tests. The ASE certification is a respected industry certification that can strengthen students' resumes as they explore career opportunities.
  • Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.
Accredited
Online
Self Paced

Save up to $200 Ends 12/30/2024

Cost of Program

$939

$1,139 Save $200

or

$59/month, Start for as low as $20

1-800-471-3232 (10AM - 6:30PM ET)

two mechanics inspect diesel truck engine.

What You Will Learn

  1. How to recognize and describe the basic operation and repair of heavy-duty truck steering and suspension systems, along with service and repair of vehicle wheels and tires.
  2. How to recognize and repair the components of heavy truck HVAC systems.
  3. How to identify the various parts and maintenance methods associated with air-brake and anti-lock brake systems.
  4. How to prepare for the ASE Medium-Heavy Truck Certification exam.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes

Diesel Mechanic Career Outcomes

Job you could pursue after graduation include:

Diesel Service Technician

AVG SALARY*

$54,360/yr

NUMBER OF JOBS*

291,600

JOB GROWTH*

4%


There are a lot of opportunities for diesel mechanics, including automobile, truck, and bus servicing; industrial or government fleet servicing, manufacturers, and repair shops or service stations, or even starting your own business. Through our online Diesel Mechanic Training Program, you'll learn the skills to take the first steps toward a career as a diesel service technician.

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing and/or certification requirements for diesel mechanics and diesel service technicians are not the same in every state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements beyond those offered in the Penn Foster program. Prospective students should contact the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where they plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in this program. See the State Licensing page for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

Diesel Mechanic Training Curriculum

  • 14 courses
  • 43.3 continuing education units (CEUs)
  • 29 exams


Estimated completion time:

  • Fast track = 5 months
  • Average time = 9 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from May 2021 - April 2022, excluding withdrawals.

In our Diesel Mechanic Training, you'll learn the skills and develop the knowledge to take the first steps toward a new career as a diesel mechanic or service technician. Your online courses include:


  • Diesel Engine Fundamentals
  • Truck Electronics and Engine Controls
  • Truck and Trailer Maintenance
  • Drivelines and Transmissions

Show Full Curriculum

Diesel Mechanic Training Success Stories

Our online Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance Program graduates have started new careers or advanced in their current roles. Learn more about their experiences with the program.
View Student Success Stories
quote icon

Daniel P.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2023

“Penn Foster was a fantastic fit for me, as I had another job. I took this course as a retirement gig. Could not have been more satisfied. I have now finished HVACR and Residential Electrician programs. Plumbing to go!”

Looking for skilled trades training for your workers?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
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Diesel Mechanic Training Tuition

Take the first steps toward a new career with our online Diesel Mechanics/Heavy Truck Maintenance Career Diploma Program. Simply choose from one of our low-cost customized payment plans and get started today!

Option 1: Pay in full

Save up to $200 Ends 12/30/2024

Cost of Program1

$939

$1,139 Save $200

  • Best price. Best value.
  • Pay the full cost today
  • No monthly payments
Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Cost of Program1

$1,139

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $20 down
  • All major credit and debit cards accepted
Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program1

$1,139

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $49 down
  • Mail your payments
Enroll Now

California residents please click here for Required California Disclosures.

Need more info or ready to enroll?

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits, or our refund policy? Find this information and more about tuition and enrollment here.

Tuition & Payment Options

We're here to help. Call 1-800-471-3232 (10AM - 6:30PM ET)

Request Info

Our Proven Diesel Mechanic Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

  • Start anytime
  • No exam due dates
  • Self-paced

Interactive

  • Digital study guides
  • Self-check quizzes
  • Simulations and videos

Connected

  • 24/7 access to online resources
  • Learning Resource Center
  • Dedicated Learner Center

Supportive

  • Expert faculty
  • Dedicated student services
  • Robust learning resources

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Diesel Mechanic Training FAQs

What are the duties of a diesel mechanic?

Diesel mechanics and technicians inspect, repair, or overhaul large vehicles such as buses and trucks, and maintain and repair any type of diesel engine. Most will consult with customers about repairs, examine critical parts, perform upkeep on electrical systems and discuss basic care and maintenance of diesel vehicles.

How do I become a diesel mechanic?

Becoming a diesel mechanic can require academic and hands-on training through a skilled trades-focused school or apprenticeship program. Certification from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is also standard for those working in the field.

How long does it take to become a diesel mechanic?

With Penn Foster’s online Diesel Mechanic classes, you can take the next steps toward working in the field around your schedule. You can learn more by reading the diesel mechanic course outline.

How much do diesel mechanics make?

Depending on the area you live in, your experience, and the company you work for, the salary for diesel mechanics within the workforce can vary. However, the average national salary for entry-level jobs in the field is $54,360 per year or $26.14 per hour.*

What are some must-have diesel mechanic tools?

While many shops will have tools available, some must-have items diesel mechanics should always have on them include things like measuring tapes, drive sockets, screwdrivers, plyers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and multimeters.

How much does a diesel mechanic school cost on average?

On average, a diesel mechanic training course can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000¹ for a certificate program at other schools. With Penn Foster's affordable tuition, however, you can pay as little as $49 per month toward the tuition.