The Automotive Expert Technician Certificate of Achievement provides technical preparation for the skills necessary for a position as a bumper-to-bumper expert-level technician. Internship hours as an automotive technician are required to complete this program. Students will learn how to perform inspection, service, repair, and diagnosis of engine mechanical systems, brake systems, steering and suspension systems, electrical and electronic systems, heating and air-conditioning systems, driver and passenger comfort systems, drivetrain and powertrain control systems, and hybrid vehicle systems. Assessments occur through written exams and skills competency assessments with an emphasis on service, repair, and diagnostic procedures. Critical thinking skills, practical hands-on skills, safety, and employability (soft) skills are practiced throughout the curriculum. Students who successfully complete this program may continue their automotive education by pursuing an AS degree and transfer opportunities to Bachelor of Science degree in Automotive Technology (for example, Weber State University, Pittsburg State University, Rio Hondo College).

*A note concerning the Internship: 

AUTO V96, Automotive Internship II, is taken as a 3-unit course in three of the four semesters, for a total of 9 units.

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to: 

• Perform maintenance service and repair procedures in a timely manner and to industry standards.
• Perform chassis and undercar system inspection, service, and repair in a timely manner and to industry standards.
• Perform electrical and electronic system diagnosis in a timely manner and to industry standards.
• Perform heating, air-conditioning, and driver/passenger comfort system diagnosis in a timely manner and to industry standards.
• Perform powertrain and drivetrain diagnosis in a timely manner and to industry standards.
• Perform hybrid vehicle safety, inspection, service, and light repair procedures in a timely manner and to industry standards.