AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY

School of Agriculture and Industrial Technology

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY (AUTO)

AUTO-04 AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS

3 units: 3 hours lecture.
CSU Transferable Only

This class is designed for students without prior experience in automotive mechanics. It is a study of fundamental theory and operation of the components that make up the major automotive systems with the purpose of giving the student general knowledge of the automobile. Major emphasis is given to operational principles of the automobile and related terminology. (10/25)

AUTO-24: Work Experience in Automotive Technology

1-8 Units
CSU Transferable Only

This course enables students to earn college credit for learning or improving skills or knowledge on-the-job in automotive technology. Fifty-four (54) hours, either paid or volunteer, are required per unit of credit attempted. Students must have an established work site in automotive technology or a related field prior to enrolling in the course. (02/24)

AUTO-32 WHEEL ALIGNMENT AND SUSPENSION

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
CSU Transferable Only
Co-Requisite: AUTO-54

This course is designed to provide the technical knowledge and experience required for aligning and servicing suspension systems on modern automobiles. Laboratory exercises will provide the student an opportunity to develop entry-level skills in the use of machines and equipment commonly used in wheel alignment, tire service, and front-end repairs. (03/21)

AUTO-33 AUTOMOTIVE BRAKE SYSTEMS

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
CSU Transferable Only
Co-Requisite: AUTO-54

This course is designed for students without prior experience in automotive brake repair. The course will cover theory, service and repair of conventional, Antilock Brake Systems (ABS) and related brake systems. Laboratory exercises will provide the student the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in the use of tools and equipment necessary in the repair and service of automotive brake systems. (03/21)

AUTO-36 AUTOMOTIVE MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS AND DRIVE TRAINS

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
CSU Transferable Only
Prerequisites: AUTO-54

This course is designed for the student without any prior experience in standard transmissions or drive axles. The class will provide technical information required for understanding and repairing of manual transmissions and drive trains. Laboratory exercise will provide the student with proper repair procedures and use of related tools and equipment. Standard transmissions, transaxles, differentials, drivelines, and related components will be covered. (03/21)

AUTO-44 AUTOMOTIVE AIR CONDITIONING, HEATING SYSTEM, COOLING SYSTEM

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
CSU Transferable Only
Prerequisites: AUTO-54

This is a basic course in the principles of operation of automotive air conditioning, heating system, and cooling system. The course covers theory, system controls, troubleshooting, service, and repairs. Lab emphasis consists of system diagnosis servicing, repairs, and preventive maintenance on live vehicles. (03/21)

AUTO-54 AUTOMOTIVE BASIC SKILLS (Formerly AUTO-63)

4 unit: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab

This course is an introduction to the Automotive Program and is designed for the entry level automotive student to develop the fundamental knowledge and skills required to enter subsequent automotive courses. This course will cover vehicle identification, use of repair databases, use of critical tools/equipment, and electrical fundamentals necessary for the use of electrical test equipment. (10/24)

AUTO-55 AUTOMOTIVE EMISSIONS LEVEL 1 AND 2 TRAINING

5 units: 4.5 hours lecture, 1.5 hours lab.
Prerequisites: AUTO-54, AUTO-58

This course is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills necessary to perform Smog Check Inspections. Level 1 training is intended to provide students with fundamental knowledge of engine and emission control theory, design and operation. Level 2 training is intended to provide students the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform Smog Check inspections. Students who successfully complete this training will have met the California Bureau of Automotive Repair requirements for Level 1 and 2 training to qualify to take the Smog Check Inspector state licensing examination. (10/24)

AUTO-57 AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS (Formerly AUTO-42)

4.5 units: 3.75 hours lecture, 2.25 hours lab.
Co-Requisite: AUTO-54

This course covers automotive electrical systems and includes a review of electron theory, magnetism, and semiconductors. The student will acquire a technical and working knowledge of starting, charging and ignition systems and components. The student will acquire working and technical knowledge of electrical accessories and accessory circuits. The use of special service tools and electronic diagnostic equipment will be included. (10/24)

AUTO-58 AUTOMOTIVE COMPUTERIZED CONTROLS (Formerly AUTO-43)

4.5 units: 3.75 hours lecture, 2.25 hours lab.
Prerequisite: AUTO-57, AUTO-54

This course provides an in-depth exploration of automotive computers and electronic systems, essential for modern vehicle diagnostics and repair. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the integration of computer technology in automotive systems including various sensors and actuators. Key topics include the fundamentals of automotive electronics, the architecture of automotive computer systems, communication protocols such as CAN bus, OBD-II diagnostics, and the role of software in vehicle performance and safety. (10/24)

AUTO-59 INTRODUCTION TO ELECTRIFIED VEHICLES (Formerly AUTO-52)

4.5 units: 3.75 hours lecture, 2.25 hours lab.
Prerequisite: AUTO-58, AUTO-54

This course is designed for students without prior knowledge of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles. This course will cover the different types of electrified vehicles, safety, operation, and basic repair procedures related to electric motors, inverters, and high voltage batteries.(10/24)

AUTO-61 AUTOMOTIVE ENGINES (Formerly AUTO-41)

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: AUTO-54

This is a class in the principles and theory of engine repair and rebuilding including the disassembly and assembly of engines. There will be emphasis on inspection, measuring, and comparing worn and rebuilt parts. Testing equipment will be used during in-car engine condition diagnosis. Also included will be minor machining operations that are used in engine rebuilding and repairing. (10/24)

AUTO-64 AUTOMATIC TRANMISSIONS (Formerly AUTO-46)

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: AUTO-54

This course will cover domestic and import automatic transmissions and transaxles. Rebuilding will include diagnosis, inspection, repair, and testing. Theory will cover power flow, apply devices, hydraulics, torque converters, and computer controls. (10/24)

AUTO-69 EV TECHNICIAN PREP: FUNDAMENTALS OF ELECTRIFIED VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY

2 units: 1.5 hours lecture, 1.5 hours lab.

This course provides a foundational understanding of electricity and the essential principles necessary for servicing and repairing electric and hybrid vehicles. Students will learn the theory and operation of various EV systems, including battery technology, electric drive systems, and charging infrastructure, with an emphasis on the various components related to these systems. The course also covers the tools and equipment used in electric vehicle maintenance and repair, with a strong focus on safety protocols for working with high-voltage systems. Through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory experiences, students will be well-prepared for advanced training in EV diagnostics and repairs within the evolving electric vehicle industry. (10/25)

AUTO-70 EV TECHNICIAN PREP: ELECTRIFIED VEHICLE SERVICE AND REPAIR

2 units: 1.5 hours lecture, 1.5 hours lab.

This course provides students with foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in the service and repair of electrified vehicles (EVs). Topics include EV safety protocols, high-voltage system operation, battery technology, electric drivetrains, charging systems, thermal management, and diagnostic procedures. Students will learn to identify EV-specific components, perform routine maintenance, and troubleshoot electric powertrains using industry-standard tools and scan equipment. Emphasis is placed on safe work practices and manufacturer service procedures. This course prepares students for entry-level work in EV service and supports readiness for advanced training and certifications in electric vehicle technology. (10/25)

AUTO-76 ADVANCED AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE AND DOCUMENTATION TECHNIQUES

4 units: 3 hours lecture, 3 hours lab.
Prerequisite: AUTO-58 AND AUTO-36, AUTO-61 AND AUTO-64

This college-level course offers advanced training for aspiring automotive technicians, focusing on real-world applications in live vehicle work environments. Students will delve into the intricacies of automotive repair, with an emphasis on the flat rate payment system commonly utilized in the industry. Additionally, students will learn essential skills in documenting their work, ensuring accuracy, professionalism, and compliance with industry standards. Through a combination of hands-on experience and theoretical instruction, participants will develop the expertise needed to excel as proficient automotive technicians in today's dynamic automotive service industry. (10/24)