Automotive Technology
School of Business and Technology
Dean: Mink Stavenga, DBA
Department Chair: Marie Vicario, M.P.H.
Office: 35-119, (619) 482-6582
School/Department Location: www.swccd.edu/cvlocation
General Description
Automotive technology is a study of the complete automobile divided into a subsystem approach. This program of study explores and instructs students in the operation of all automotive systems. Processes are emphasized including problem solving, repair procedures, service techniques, diagnostic analysis, and shop safety. All automotive system instruction meets Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) guidelines and National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certification.
Career Options
Below is a sample of the career options for the automotive major. Most require a certificate or an associate in science degree. Automotive Service Excellence Certification will allow entry-level employment as: mechanic, automotive technician, service station attendant, repair shop operator, service writer/advisor, part sales person, automobile insurance adjuster, vocational teacher, race car mechanic, supplier or distributor, and positions in allied professions of business, marketing, and industry.
Degree/Certificate Options | Major Code |
---|---|
Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical | |
Automotive Technology | 02870 |
Certificates of Achievement | |
Advanced Emission Specialist | 02766 |
Automotive Performance Systems | 02765 |
Automotive Technology | 02871 |
Certificate of Proficiency | |
Automotive Brake and Suspension Systems (ABS and Four-Wheel Alignment) | 02750 |
Automotive HVAC Specialist | 02652 |
Areas of Preparation for ASE Certification Exam
- ASE Brakes
- ASE Suspension
- ASE Engine Performance
- ASE Automotive Heating, Cooling, and Air Conditioning
- ASE Electrical Systems
- ASE Engine Repair
- ASE Automotive Manual Transmissions
- ASE Manual Transmission
Consult with a counselor to develop a Student Education plan (SEP) which lists the courses necessary to achieve your academic goal.
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AT 101
INTRODUCTION TO BASIC AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces basic general automotive tool and shop equipment use, as well as general basic vehicle service procedures. Focuses on classroom instruction providing "how-to" information. Emphasizes hands-on lab activities for student mastery of basic skills. [D; CSU]
AT 102
AUTOMOTIVE SCIENCE AND BASIC MECHANICS
3 UNITS
Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Provides in-depth discussions and understanding of the entire automobile science and technology. Lays the foundation for an educated "diagnostics" approach. Soft skills, customer service, as well as legal aspects of automotive repair will also be addressed. All lab activities will be directly related to classroom topics of discussion. [D; CSU]
AT 104
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE CONSULTANT
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces students to the duties and responsibilities that a service consultant will face at the work place. This course focuses on communication, product knowledge, and shop operations to include service writing programs, parts expediting and technical tools and resources. This Course aligns with ASE C1 Test task list. [ND]
AT 105
AUTOMOTIVE PARTS SPECIALIST
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Addresses the aftermarket wholesale and the retail automobile parts industry needs. It focuses on general operations, customer relations and sales skill, vehicle system knowledge, catalog information, inventory management and merchandising. [ND]
AT 109
AUTOMOTIVE BRAKING SYSTEMS
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102 or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces the theory and principles of brake systems, inspection, and repair. Emphasizes practical experience with drum brakes, disc brakes, power brakes and wheel bearing service, and repair. Prepares students for the California State Brake License and national Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Exam A5. [D; CSU]
AT 110
AUTOMOTIVE SUSPENSION, ALIGNMENT, AND STEERING
3 UNITS
Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102, or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces the theory and principles of automotive steering and suspension systems, inspections, and repairs. Emphasizes practical experience with steering, suspension, tires and wheel bearings, inspection, and repair are accomplished using a computerized four-wheel alignment rack. Prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Test A4. [D; CSU]
AT 120
ENGINE PERFORMANCE I
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102, or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Explores engine performance on vehicles in relation to the ignition system function and fuel system delivery. Emphasizes the use of ignition scope and fuel system diagnostic equipment, and covers exhaust out gas analyzer functions. Prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence Certification Test in Engine Performance (A8). [D; CSU]
AT 130
AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $16
Prerequisite: AT 101 and AT 102, or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Theory and operation of charging, starting, lighting, and accessory systems. Service and replacement of components using diagnostic tools and equipment. Emphasis on mechanical operated devices. Includes the preparation for Automotive Service Excellence Exam (A8). [D; CSU]
AT 131
AUTOMOTIVE HEATING, COOLING, AND AIR CONDITIONING
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $18
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102 or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces the theory and principles of automotive heating, cooling, and air conditioning systems. Emphasizes practical experience with service, diagnosis, and repair will be accomplished using state-of-the-art equipment. Includes preparation for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Heating and Air Conditioning Test (A7), and Refrigerant Handler Exam and Certification. [D; CSU]
AT 140
ENGINE REPAIR
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102 or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces the theory and principles of automotive engine system, inspection, and repair. Emphasizes practical experience with engine disassembly and assembly, service, and repair. Prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Test A1. [D; CSU]
AT 190
INTRODUCTION TO HYBRID, ELECTRIC, AND ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLES
1 UNIT
Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed
Prerequisite: AT 130 and AT 230 or equivalent.
Lecture 0.50 hours, laboratory 2 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces students to Hybrid, Electric, and Alternative Fueled vehicles. Emphasizes safety, hazards, and basic component identification. [ND; CSU]
AT 191
BASIC HYBRID, ELECTRIC, AND ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE CONCEPTS
2 UNITS
Grade Only
Prerequisite: AT 190 or equivalent.
Lecture 1.50 hour, laboratory 2 hours
Offered: ALL
Focuses on Power Electronics and Battery Systems. Distinguishes differences and similarities of the technology incorporated in Hybrid, Electric, and Alternative Fueled vehicles. [D; CSU]
AT 220
ENGINE PERFORMANCE II
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 230, AT 234, and AT 236, or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Covers engine performance and driveability (tune-up) on vehicles with electronic ignition and fuel injection systems. Utilizes computerized diagnostic equipment and four-gas analyzers. Completes preparation for ASE Engine Performance Test (A8). [D; CSU]
AT 230
AUTOMOTIVE ELECTRONICS
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101, AT 102, and AT 130, or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Provides an advanced course in automotive electrical and electronic systems. Emphasizes the charging system, body electrical, electronic instrumentation, and supplemental air bag systems. Focuses on the analysis of automotive electronics, and a working knowledge of diagnostic procedures when troubleshooting electronically controlled systems. Includes preparation for the Automotive Service Excellence Exam (A6). [D; CSU]
AT 234
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS AND TRANSAXLES
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Fee: $13
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102 or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces the theory and principles of automatic transmissions and transaxles. Emphasizes practical experience in troubleshooting and rebuilding. Prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Test (A2). [D; CSU]
AT 236
MANUAL TRANSMISSION, TRANSAXLES, AND FINAL DRIVES
3 UNITS
Grade Only
Recommended Preparation: AT 101 and AT 102 or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Explores the theory and principles of manual drive systems. Emphasizes practical experience with clutches, transmissions, drive shafts, final drives, and transaxles. Includes preparation for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Test A3. [D; CSU]
AT 242
CLEAN AIR CAR
3 UNITS
Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed
Recommended Preparation: AT 120, AT 220, and AT 244, or equivalent.
Limitation on Enrollment: Eligibility for licensing exam; one year of trade experience in emissions/tune up or equivalent formal education, as verified by the instructor.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Provides 120-hour minimum instruction required by the State of California and entry-level, upgrading, or advanced training techniques for the automotive field. Uses Bureau of Automotive Repair's curriculum, which prepares students to take the California State Motor Vehicle Pollution Control License Test (I/M Test). Students can take this course without the recommended preparation but will not be certified as eligible to take the licensing examination. [D; CSU]
AT 247
AUTOMOTIVE EMISSION SYSTEMS/COMPUTERIZE D ENGINE CONTROLS
3 UNITS
Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed
Recommended Preparation: AT 242, current ASE certification (A-8), or equivalent.
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 4 hours
Offered: ALL
Prepares students for advanced emission systems diagnosis. Incorporates the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR-97), and training courses date (20 hours). Focuses on training in five-gas analysis, Acceleration Simulation Mode (ASM) dynamometer testing, laboratory scope usage, and waveform interpretation, advanced scan tool usage, and On-Board Diagnostics Two (OBD II). [D; CSU]
AT 290
COOPERATIVE WORK EXPERIENCE IN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY I
2-4 UNITS
Grade Only
Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: Enrollment in one other class directly related to the Automotive Technology major in order to apply learned theory in a practical hands-on setting through an internship class.
Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Automotive Technology major.
Laboratory 16 hours
Offered: ALL
Introduces principles and skills acquired in the Automotive Technology major to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for each 60 hours of volunteer or 75 hours of paid work activity. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 2 to 4 units per semester for a total of sixteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]
AT 291
COOPERATIVE WORK EXPERIENCE IN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY II
2-4 UNITS
Grade Only
Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: Enrollment in one other class directly related to the Automotive Technology major in order to apply learned theory in a practical hands-on setting through an internship class.
Prerequisite: AT 290 or equivalent.
Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Automotive Technology major.
Laboratory 16 hours
Offered: ALL
Applies beginning-level principles and skills acquired in the Automotive Technology major to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for each 60 hours of volunteer or 75 hours of paid work activity. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 2 to 4 units per semester for a total of sixteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]
AT 292
COOPERATIVE WORK EXPERIENCE IN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY III
2-4 UNITS
Grade Only
Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: Enrollment in one other class directly related to the Automotive Technology major in order to apply learned theory in a practical hands-on setting through an internship class.
Prerequisite: AT 291 or equivalent.
Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Automotive Technology major.
Laboratory 16 hours
Offered: ALL
Provides intermediate-level principles and skills acquired in the Automotive Technology major to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for each 60 hours of volunteer or 75 hours of paid work activity. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 2 to 4 units per semester for a total of sixteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]
AT 293
COOPERATIVE WORK EXPERIENCE IN AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY IV
2-4 UNITS
Grade Only
Recommended Concurrent Enrollment: Enrollment in one other class directly related to the Automotive Technology major in order to apply learned theory in a practical hands-on setting through an internship class.
Prerequisite: AT 292 or equivalent.
Limitation on Enrollment: Declared Automotive Technology major.
Laboratory 16 hours
Offered: ALL
Covers advanced-level principles and skills acquired in the Automotive Technology major to on-the-job assignments. One unit of credit is granted for each 60 hours of volunteer or 75 hours of paid work activity. Credit may be accrued at the rate of 2 to 4 units per semester for a total of sixteen units. The job supervisor and instructor will evaluate each student's job performance. [D; CSU]
AT 299
INDEPENDENT STUDY
1-3 UNITS
Pass/No Pass or Grade is Allowed
Limitation on Enrollment: Eligibility for independent study.
Lecture 3 hours
Offered: ALL
Individual study or research in some area of automotive technology of particular interest to the student and not included in regular courses of the college. [D; CSU]