GTC 145 - Introduction to Automotive Technology

2 Contact Hours, 1.5 Credits
1 lecture period 1 lab period


Principles and procedures for light line service.  Includes safety, transmission and driveline systems, air conditioning/heating systems, electrical systems, suspension/steering systems, engine performance, and tools and equipment.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and explain the interaction of the major automobile systems
2. Describe the skills needed to be an automotive technician
3. Explain the automotive service excellence (ASE) certification program
4. Identify and use hand and power tools properly
5. Explain general safety rules for an auto shop
6. Identify and explain service manual information types
7. Explain the principles of electricity and magnetism
8. Demonstrate the ability to inspect and identify problems in the modern automobile
9. Demonstrate the ability to prepare for community re-entry with a focus on transition Planning life skills

1. Automobile parts, assemblies and systems
   1. Identify and locate the most important parts of a vehicle.
   2. Describe the purpose and explain the interaction of automotive systems.
   3. Describe major automobile design variations.
2. Automotive careers and ASE certifications
   1. Most common automotive careers.
   2. Skills needed to function as an automotive technician.
   3. Explain the tasks completed by each type of automotive technician.
   4. Summarize the ASE certification program.
3. Basic hand tool
   1. Identify common automotive hand tools.
   2. List safety rules for hand tools.
   3. Select the right tool for a given job.
   4. Maintain and store tools properly.
4. Power tools and equipment
   1. Identify commonly used power tools and equipment.
   2. Describe uses for power tools and equipment.
   3. Explain advantages of one type of tool over another.
   4. Explain safety rules that pertain to power tools and equipment.
5. The auto shop and Safety
   1. Describe the typical layout and sections of an auto repair facility.
   2. List the types of accidents that can occur in an auto shop.
   3. Explain how to prevent most types of auto shop accidents.
   4. Describe general safety rules for an auto repair facility.
6. Automotive measurements and math
   1. Customary and metric measuring systems.
   2. Identify basic measuring tools.
   3. Describe the is of common measuring tools.
   4. Use conversion charts.
   5. List safety rules relating to measurement
7. Service Information and work orders
   1. Describe the different type of service manuals.
   2. Find and use service manual index and content sections.
   3. Explain the different kinds of information and illustrations used in a service manual.
   4. Three basic types of troubleshooting charts used in service manuals.
   5. Explain how to use computer-based information.
8. Basic electricity and electronics
   1. The basic principles of electricity
   2. Describe the actions of basic electrical circuits.
   3. Compare voltage current and resistance.
   4. Describe the principles of magnetism and magnetic fields.
   5. Basic electric and electronic terms and components.
   6. Explain different kinds of automotive wiring.
   7. Perform fundamental electrical tests.
9. Fasteners, gaskets, seals and sealant
   1. Identify commonly used automotive fasteners.
   2. Select and use fasteners properly.
   3. Remove, select, and install gaskets, seals, and sealants correctly.
   4. Summarize safety rules relating to fasteners, gaskets, seals, and sealants.
   5. Repairing damaged fasteners and threads.
10. Vehicle maintenance, fluid service, and recycling
    1. Checking fluid levels and condition
    2. Adding fluids as needed
    3. Locating fluid leaks.
    4. Replace engine oil and filter.
    5. Change automatic transmission fluid and filter.
    6. Perform Chassis lubrication.
    7. Inspect for general problems with hoses, belts, and other components.