Auto Technology (I and II)

  • Through the Auto Technology program, students learn the various aspects of vehicle diagnosis, repair and maintenance. The units of study include eight required National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence modules: Engine Performance, Steering/ Suspension Systems, Engine Repair and Automatic/Manual Transmissions and Transaxles, Electrical/ Electronics, Brakes, Heating and Air Conditioning and Tires and Wheels.

     

    About this program:

     

    • Successful Student Attributes: Persistence to problem-solve, basic computer, math, reading and communication skills, self-motivation, ability to work on a project over multiple days
    • Career Opportunities: Mechanic, Auto Parts Salesperson, Diagnostic Technician
    • Program Length: Two years
    • Industry Alignment: Automotive Service Excellence (ASE); ASE Education Foundation; Occupational Safety and Health Administration - Automotive (OSHA)
    • Integrated Academic Coursework: Career and Financial Management (1/2 credit); Science (1/2 credit per year)
    • Graduation Pathways: 4+1 Pathway Option: Precision- Automotive Service Fundamentals: Maintenance & Light Repair, CDOS Pathway



       

     

    Opportunities through this program:

     

    • College Credit Opportunities: Onondaga Community College (ATC103 & ATC115) (3 credits), Articulation Agreements: Ohio Technical College; Lincoln Technical Institute; SUNY Canton; SUNY College of Technology at Delhi
    • Credential Opportunities: ASE Education Foundation Entry-Level Certification Exam - Time Toward ASE
      Accreditation and Test Preparation; 10-hour Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) General Industry Safety and Health Credential; Technical Endorsement on Graduation Diploma Industry; SP2 Lift Safety Certification
    • Program Achievement Opportunities: Technical Endorsement on Graduation Diploma, National Technical
      Honor Society
    • Industry Assessments: Precision Exams Automotive Service Fundamentals

     

     

    Supplies/Samples:

    • Program Supplies, Materials, Assessments Provided: Work boots; safety glasses; 10-hour OSHA certificate; ASE Education Foundation Entry- Level Certification Exams
    • Entry-level Occupational Reading Materials Lexile: 1170-1350, (https://ttac.gmu.edu/archive/telegram/article-1)
    • 11th Grade Reading Level Sample Text: Parasitic Load Testing - If a battery in a vehicle has a low state of charge after sitting, a parasitic load could be the cause. Parasitic load, also called key-off battery drain, occurs when a system or component continues to draw power even after the vehicle is shut down. All modern vehicles have some key-off draws such as clock memory, radio memory, computer memory, and other similar memory circuits. Other key-off draws may include anti-theft and keyless entry systems. Typically, these draws diminish over time as certain control modules enter a standby or sleep mode. If, however, a module does not shut down, it could cause a significant key-off draw on the battery, actually discharging the battery enough that the vehicle may not start after sitting overnight. Determining if a parasitic load is present can be done three ways. Disconnect the battery negative cable and install a test light in series between the battery terminal and the battery cable connection. If the test light is brightly lit, a significant key-off draw is present. You may ask why a test light will light up when placed in series within the negative side of the circuit. If there is not a significant draw, there will not be enough current flow to power the light.
    • Sample Vocabulary: voltage regulator, gasket, calipers, torque converter, schematics
    • Sample Science Question: A vehicle’s interior accessory fuse blows repeatedly. Tech A says installing a fuse with a higher amperage rating may solve the problem. Tech B says bypassing the fuse with a jumper wire can allow the technician to find the problem. Who is correct? Explain your reasoning.