Automotive Technology

Program Description:

Automotive Technology is a one to four year program to instill knowledge and hands on skills required to diagnose, and repair today’s modern automobiles.  Class time consists of classroom setting lectures, hands-on lab experiences, and shop time in a fully equipped automotive facility.  Several field trips are taken to various automotive related facilities to familiarize the students with the entirety of the automotive trade. 

Instructors are master mechanics with years of experience in the field.  Students will have the opportunity to earn ASE student certifications as well as a certificate at graduation signifying how many years completed in the program.  For students who wish to enter a career in automotive technology, PATHS works with local businesses to place students in full and part-time internships and positions.

Course Sequence and Content: 

Automotive Year One

Students will receive general overview instruction in automotive service and repair.  Instruction is comprised of classroom instruction as well as practical hands on application.  The year is comprised of four quarters, each building on the previous.

Q1: Internal combustion engine basics, braking systems, steering, and suspension. 

Q2: Vehicle electrical systems, vehicle HVAC systems.

Q3: Tires and wheel, vehicle alignment, maintenance.

Q4: Automotive diagnostics, emission systems, accessories. 

Automotive Year Two

Students build upon the basis of year one, adding understanding of the complexity of each system while introducing new material.

Q1: Computer control systems for internal combustion engines, anti-lock braking systems.

Q2: Electronically controlled steering and suspension, advanced electrical systems, computer controlled networking.

Q3: Tire pressure monitoring systems, service writer training, differential and trans-axle repair.

Q4: Advanced diagnostic scan tool training, simulated vehicle diagnostic, evaporative emissions system basics.

Automotive Year Three

Students will increasingly be spending more time in practical hands-on application of classroom knowledge.  

Q1: Modern diesel engine training, traction control systems, air suspension, and brakes.

Q2: High voltage hybrid safety training, hybrid HVAC systems.

Q3: Body control systems, service manual and diagnostic flow chart training. 

Q4: Advanced component testing, advanced evaporative emissions diagnostic training.

Automotive Year Four

In their final year, students are preparing to enter the workforce as automotive technicians.  The basics are in the rear view as the specificity of being a technician is emphasized. 

   Q1: Oscilloscope training, electrical diagnostic training.

   Q2: Collision avoidance system training, diesel emission training.

   Q3: Manual transmission repair.

   Q4: Automatic transmission diagnostic and repair.