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Automotive Technology

Here's what you will find in Automotive Technology

Credentials available:

  • S/P2 Automotive Service Safety
  • S/P2 Automotive Service Pollution Prevention
  • Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) "Lifting It Right"
  • ASE Entry‑Level G1 Maintenance and Light Repair
  • ASE Entry‑Level Automobile Brakes
  • ASE Entry‑Level Automobile Electrical/Electronic Systems
  • ASE Entry‑Level Automobile Suspension and Steering

Career opportunities:

Automotive Service Technology

Program description:

Automotive Service Technology (AST) prepares students with the technical knowledge, diagnostic skills, and professional practices required for high‑skill, in‑demand careers in automotive service. The four‑course pathway combines classroom instruction, industry‑aligned standards, and extensive hands‑on shop experience to prepare students for entry into the workforce and ASE Maintenance & Light Repair (G1 MLR) credentialing.

What students will learn:

  • Safety, shop procedures, PPE and proper vehicle lifting
  • Basic maintenance: oil/filter service, fluid inspections, lighting and battery service
  • Brake systems: inspections, disc brake service, rotor refinishing
  • Electrical fundamentals and diagnostics using a digital multimeter
  • Tire service: dismount/remount, repair, and wheel balancing
  • Drivetrain, transmission, differential, and fluid service
  • Scan‑tool (OBD‑II) diagnostics, module code retrieval, and drivability troubleshooting
  • Suspension and steering inspection/service and alignment preparation
  • ABS/TCS/ESC system fundamentals and advanced HVAC (refrigerant recovery/recharge)
  • Automotive Services Fundamentals (IT11) — An introductory, safety‑centered course that establishes foundational competencies in automotive service. Students learn personal protective equipment protocols, fundamental automotive terminology, system and component identification, correct use of hand tools and shop equipment, vehicle lifting procedures, basic maintenance tasks (including engine oil and filter changes and fluid inspections), exterior and interior lighting inspection, and safe 12‑volt battery/jump‑starting procedures. Content is aligned with ASE/MLR requirements and integrates SkillsUSA and work‑based learning opportunities to prepare learners for entry‑level industry positions.

 

  •  Automotive Service I (IT16) — A preparatory course that develops practical skills in routine vehicle maintenance and light repair. Instruction emphasizes scheduled service procedures, brake system inspection and basic disc brake service, fundamental electrical testing using a digital multimeter (voltage, voltage‑drop, resistance), and tire inspection, repair, and wheel balancing. Coursework stresses shop safety, proper tool and equipment use, and locating service information, aligning student outcomes with ASE/MLR tasks and entry‑level technician expectations.

 

  • Automotive Service II (IT17) — An intermediate course focused on applied powertrain, driveline, and vehicle systems service and diagnostics. Students receive instruction in servicing transmissions, differentials and transfer cases; conducting cooling system diagnostics and service; inspecting and servicing belts and hoses; understanding emission control systems; and employing scan‑tool (OBD‑II) diagnostics. The curriculum advances diagnostic reasoning and component repair/replacement skills and aligns with industry standards and credentialing pathways.

 

  • Automotive Service III (IT18) — A capstone course emphasizing advanced diagnostic and repair competencies. Topic areas include in‑depth electrical diagnostics (identification of opens and shorts), comprehensive OBD‑II drivability and module code diagnosis, electronic brake control systems (ABS/TCS/ESC), and advanced HVAC service including refrigerant recovery, recharge, and regulatory compliance. The course prepares students for specialized technician roles, advanced ASE tasks, and continued progression into apprenticeships or postsecondary automotive programs.