Automotive Technology
Program Highlights
This program prepares students to diagnose, maintain, and service automobiles and light trucks. Instruction includes: diagnostics of engines; fuel, electrical, and computerized electronic systems; emission control; ignition; cooling and brake systems; drivelines, and suspension systems. Instruction is given in the adjustment and repair of individualcomponents in the fuel injection, ignition starting, charging, air conditioning, body electrical, emissions systems and in-car engine repair Wheel alignment and vehicle safety systems are also studied and serviced. Time spent in this program is credited toward the experience requirement for end of program ASE testing as well as ASE certification preparation. Academic skills of reading, writing, and math are heavily utilized and reinforced. Professional behaviors and interpersonal courtesy standards are also expected. Graduates of this program will be prepared as an entry level technician in the automotive repair industry.
Program Course Sequence
Electrical/Electronics & HVAC
Junior Year - First Semester
This technical course is designed to teach the principles of electricity and electronics and apply them at the ASE MLR level. It builds on the measurement of electrical parameters, such as voltage, current, resistance, power, magnetism, electro-magnetism, and magnetic induction to connect with Physical Science courses. Students are taught the concept of Ohm’s law in both application and
mathematical theory. Detailed topics include the use of a digital multimeter (DMM) for the analysis of series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits. Specific automotive systems covered include batteries, charging and starting systems, lighting, gauges, accessories, electronics, automotive computers and solid-state devices, along with communication systems. Students are taught how to apply electrical/electronic principles to repair car and truck electrical systems using diagnostic strategy.
Suspension & Steering, and Brakes
Junior Year - Second Semester
This technical course is designed to teach the principles of automotive suspension/steering systems and 4-wheel suspension alignment. It builds on the concepts of geometry, gear reduction, hydraulics laws, and characteristics of liquids and how they apply to the operation and diagnosis of power steering and suspension systems. Steering column operation and diagnosis including supplemental restraint system service are included. This course covers the fundamentals of short/long-arm, and strut suspensions, including: caster, camber, thrust angle, toe-in, steering axis inclination, including angle, toe-out on turns, and how they apply to steering, suspension, and 4-wheel alignment. Students learn strategy-based diagnostic routines to help interpret and verify customer concerns and proper operation and to perform tests and inspections to determine the causes and make corrections related to suspension, steering wheel systems, and alignment.
MLR Powertrain & Engine Repair/ Performance
Senior Year - All Year
This course is designed to teach the principles of automotive engine operation and ASE MLR level service. It builds on the essential laws of physics, thermodynamics, and chemical reactions and how these principles apply to
the operation of engine systems. It also covers general engine design and operation, cylinder head/valve train, cylinder block, lubrication at the ASE MLR level based on the approved task list. Through the inspection and testing\ process the student is taught to apply this knowledge to determine needed repairs and correctly repair a vehicle.
Entry-Level Salaries Estimates by Field
Automotive Technician (Entry-Level) - $32,000 - $45,000
Parts Counterperson / Clerk - $35,000 – $45,000
Service Advisor / Assistant Manager - $50,000 – $85,000
