This is an archived copy of the 2018-2019 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.sierracollege.edu.

Contact Information

Contact Information
Division
Business and Technology
Dean
Amy Schulz
Associate Dean
Darlene Jackson
Location
Division Office
B 3, Rocklin Campus

Overview

The Automotive Technology Program is supported by the Central Valley New Car Dealership Association (CVNCDA), is a member of Professional Automotive Training Centers (PATC) and has a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Nissan of North America. All full-time automotive instructors are Master ASE Certified or above. The Automotive Technology Program is Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified in the following areas: Engine Repair, Automatic Transmission/Transaxles, Manual Drivetrains and Axles, Suspension/Steering, Brakes, Electric/Electronic Systems, Heating/Air Conditioning and Engine Performance.

The Automotive Technology Curriculum is designed to prepare students to become competent technicians and gain employment in the automotive industry at the completion of the program and to upgrade skills of those already in the field.

Automotive Technology Advisory Committee

  • Dave Burkhard, Instructor, San Juan High School
  • Robert Butler, Owner, Pacific Auto, Auburn
  • Bill Cardwell, Car Care Center, Sacramento
  • Lynn Cardwell, Car Care Center, Sacramento
  • Art Coppock (Retired), Snap-on Tools, Sacramento
  • Vic Delius, Service Manager, Weaver Chevrolet, Alta
  • Russ French, Fleet Operations Supervisor, City of Rocklin
  • Bill Happ, Woodcreek High School, Roseville
  • Steve Ledbetter, Emeritus Professor, Sierra College
  • David Lewis, Engineer, Department of Consumer Affairs, Engineering and Technology Research, Sacramento
  • Tom Ley, Service Manager, Future Nissan, Roseville
  • Mark Means, Instructor, Woodcreek High School, Roseville
  • Michelle Oberg, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Citrus Heights
  • Dick Panciera, Ser­vice Man­ag­er (Re­tired), Reliable Pontiac and Cadillac, Roseville
  • John Panelli (Retired), Sierra College Automotive, Colfax
  • Alan Rowley, Technician, Monroe Transmission
  • Scott Ruskauff, Owner, Back to Life Auto, Lincoln
  • Greg Sahr, Technician, Duncan’s Auto Service
  • John Scalaro, Snap-on Equipment
  • Thomas Serpico, Service Manager, Future Nissan
  • Vince Wisniewski, Snap-on Tools

Degrees/Certificates

Automotive Analysis

AA or AS Degree

Successful completion of the curriculum in Automotive Analysis qualifies students for entry-level positions in the various areas of automotive technology and provides them with an overview for selecting specific areas for further training and education. Students must fulfill the following major requirements with grades of “C” or better, complete a minimum of 60 degree-applicable semester units (12 of which must be completed at Sierra College) with a grade point average of at least 2.0 and complete one of the following three general education patterns:

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0061Vehicle and Engine Analyzing4
AUTO 0064Hydraulic and Brake Systems4
AUTO 0068ABasic Automatic Transmissions4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0079Suspension and Wheel Alignment4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
Select 4 units from the following:4
Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology
Engine Reconditioning
Automotive Air Conditioning and Heating
Automotive Electronics
Automotive Powertrains Manual Transmissions
Total Units25
Recommended Electives
AUTO 0095Internship in Automotive Technology0.5-4
BUS 0020Introduction to Business3
BUS 0100Management Concepts and Applications3

Certificates of Achievement

The Automotive Technology certificate program is designed to qualify students for specialized positions in automotive repair and related industries and to upgrade the skills of technicians already in the field. The program also includes the Master Automotive Technician Certificate, which certifies competence in all areas of conventional automotive repair and maintenance.

Certificate patterns consist of course concentration in specific areas, plus study in relevant areas such as Introductory Welding for Metalworking (WELD 0015). General education courses are not required. Specialized certificates require 18 to 36 units of course work, while the Master Automotive Technician Certificate requires 58.5 units. A certificate is designed to provide career technical skills; it is not equivalent to an associate degree.

LICENSES:

  • Automotive Emission Control
  • Automotive Lighting Systems
  • Automotive Brake Systems

The Automotive Technology program offers courses designed for mechanics who want to apply for a new license, or renew a license, in the areas of emission control, lighting and brake systems. See AUTO 0031 and AUTO 0064.

Air Conditioning and Body Electrical

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0061Vehicle and Engine Analyzing4
AUTO 0069Automotive Air Conditioning and Heating4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0075Automotive Electronics4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
Select 2 units from the following:2
Skill and Speed Development
Internship in Automotive Technology
Total Units19

Alignment and Brake

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0060Skill and Speed Development1
AUTO 0064Hydraulic and Brake Systems4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0079Suspension and Wheel Alignment4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
WELD 0015Introductory Welding for Metalworking2
Select 3-4 units from the following:3-4
Independent Study (up to 2 units)
Internship in Automotive Technology (up to 2 units)
Entrepreneurship: Small Business Management
Total Units19-20

Automatic Transmission

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0060Skill and Speed Development1
AUTO 0068ABasic Automatic Transmissions4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0080Automotive Powertrains Manual Transmissions4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
WELD 0015Introductory Welding for Metalworking2
Select 3-4 units from the following:3-4
Independent Study (up to 2 units)
Internship in Automotive Technology (up to 2 units)
Entrepreneurship: Small Business Management
Total Units19-20

Automotive Engine Machining

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0060Skill and Speed Development1
AUTO 0066AEngine Reconditioning4
AUTO 0066BEngine Reconditioning4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
WELD 0015Introductory Welding for Metalworking2
Select 6-7 units from the following:6-7
Independent Study (up to 2 units)
Internship in Automotive Technology (up to 4 units)
Wire Feed Welding Processes - Career Path
Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (TIG) - Career Path
Total Units18-19

Emission and Driveability Tune-Up

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0060Skill and Speed Development1
or AUTO 0095 Internship in Automotive Technology
AUTO 0061Vehicle and Engine Analyzing4
AUTO 0062AEngine Fuel System Principles and Controls4
AUTO 0062BComputer Controlled Carburetion and Fuel Injection4
AUTO 0063Advanced Engine Performance Diagnosis4
AUTO 0069Automotive Air Conditioning and Heating4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0075Automotive Electronics4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
Select one of the following:0-4.5
Automotive Emission Control Systems (OR)
Completion of BAR Smog Check Inspection Training (Level 1) Certificate
Select one of the following:0-1.5
Advanced BAR Smog Check Inspection Training (Level 2) (OR)
Possession of California Smog Certificate License
Total Units30-36

Master Automotive Technician

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0031Automotive Emission Control Systems4.5
AUTO 0061Vehicle and Engine Analyzing4
AUTO 0062AEngine Fuel System Principles and Controls4
AUTO 0063Advanced Engine Performance Diagnosis4
AUTO 0064Hydraulic and Brake Systems4
AUTO 0066AEngine Reconditioning4
AUTO 0068ABasic Automatic Transmissions4
AUTO 0069Automotive Air Conditioning and Heating4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0079Suspension and Wheel Alignment4
AUTO 0080Automotive Powertrains Manual Transmissions4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
WELD 0015Introductory Welding for Metalworking2
Select 3 units from the following: 3
Skill and Speed Development
Internship in Automotive Technology
Select 8 units from the following:8
Computer Controlled Carburetion and Fuel Injection
Engine Reconditioning
Automotive Electronics
Total Units58.5

Powertrain

Certificate of Achievement

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0060Skill and Speed Development1
AUTO 0068ABasic Automatic Transmissions4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0080Automotive Powertrains Manual Transmissions4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
WELD 0015Introductory Welding for Metalworking2
Select 3-4 units from the following:3-4
Independent Study (up to 2 units)
Internship in Automotive Technology (up to 2 units)
Entrepreneurship: Small Business Management
Total Units19-20

Entry Level Automotive Service and Repair

Skills Certificate

Designed to give students the automotive service/repair knowledge and abilities to successfully enter the workforce as an entry level automotive service technician requiring minimal supervision. This skills certificate focuses on skills and knowledge needed to diagnose, service and repair automotive electrical, brake, suspension and steering. This is a specialty skills certificate designed to provide career technical skills to enter the automotive repair business; it is not equivalent to an associate degree.

Required Courses
AUTO 0001Automotive Data Acquisition0.5
AUTO 0064Hydraulic and Brake Systems4
AUTO 0071AAutomotive Electrical Systems4
AUTO 0079Suspension and Wheel Alignment4
AUTO 0150Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession0.5
Total Units13

Courses

Understanding course descriptions

AUTO 0001. Automotive Data Acquisition

Units: 0.5
Hours: 11 (7 lecture, 4 activity)
Retrieval and application of automotive service data from on-line technical data bases including ALLDATA and Mitchell on Demand, as well as other websites related to automotive service information, shop management systems and documentation. Recommended for all Automotive Program students during their first semester of study. (not transferable)

AUTO 0028. Independent Study

Units: 1-3
Designed for students interested in furthering their knowledge at an independent study level where no specific curriculum offering is currently available. Independent study might include, but is not limited to, research papers, special subject area projects, and research projects. See Independent Study page in catalog. (CSU)

AUTO 0031. Automotive Emission Control Systems

Units: 4.5
Hours: 81 lecture
Training for meeting BAR Level 1 towards inspector license (E0), fundamental knowledge of engine and emission control theory, design, and operation. Successful completion meets the first step of the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) training requirements for inexperienced or minimally experienced candidates for the Smog Check Inspector license (E0). (not transferable)

AUTO 0034. Advanced BAR Smog Check Inspection Training (Level 2)

Unit: 1.5
Prerequisite: Completion of AUTO 31 with grade of "C" or better or equivalent as determined by instructor
Hours: 29 lecture
Provides students with the procedural knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform Smog Check inspections. Successful completion meets the BAR Level 2 training requirements necessary to take the California BAR Smog Check Inspector (E0) licensing examination. (not transferable)

AUTO 0058. Introduction to Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technology

Units: 4
Advisory: Completion of AUTO 71A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Designed for students with little or no formal background or training in the hybrid/electric vehicle field. Covers the theory and operation of hybrid and electric vehicle operation. Each of the major manufacturers' vehicles is discussed along with the safety and service procedures that apply to these vehicles. Hands-on activities include major service procedures and basic diagnostics on the most common hybrid and electric vehicles in the market. (CSU)

AUTO 0059. Introduction to Automotive Service

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Designed for students with little or no formal background or training in the automotive field. Shop safety, tool usage, and hazardous waste management are covered. Vehicle topics include: engine operation, lubrication, cooling, ignition, electrical, suspension, fuel systems, brakes, tires and drive train. (CSU)

AUTO 0060. Skill and Speed Development

Units: 1-2
Prerequisite: Completion of AUTO 1 and one of the following courses: AUTO 64, 66A, 68A, or 71A with grades of "C" or better
Hours: 54 laboratory per unit
Designed to further develop skill, speed, and experience capabilities of automotive majors to meet industry diagnostic and repair performance expectations. Individual projects selected by students with the agreement and guidance of instructor. Required of all automotive majors and automotive certificate students in area of specialization. Materials fee. (not transferable)

AUTO 0061. Vehicle and Engine Analyzing

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Study of automotive engine theories and principles. Emphasis on construction, repair, and adjustment methods of engine systems and components on engine performance diagnostic analysis using the latest equipment and methods. Also covers generic on-board diagnostic second generation (OBD2) engine control. Preparation for ASE Certification exam. (not transferable)

AUTO 0062A. Engine Fuel System Principles and Controls

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Basic principles of engine air/fuel management to meet emission and fuel economy needs. Emphasis on basic circuitry and adjustment procedures. A study of the relationship of today's oxygenated blends, engine performance and fuel controls using computerized and non-computerized carburetion and fuel injection. Preparation for ASE Certification examination. (CSU)

AUTO 0062B. Computer Controlled Carburetion and Fuel Injection

Units: 4
Prerequisite: Completion of AUTO 61, 62A, and 71A with grades of "C" or better
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Applications, theory of operation, and service to electronic computer controlled carburetion, fuel injection, and emission control systems. Diagnosis and repair driveability and engine performance faults involving all types of low and high pressure electronic feedback fuel injection systems on modern low and zero emission vehicles. Preparation for ASE Certification exam and smog repair technician license exam. (not transferable)

AUTO 0063. Advanced Engine Performance Diagnosis

Units: 4
Prerequisite: Completion of AUTO 1 and 62B with grades of "C" or better
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
BAR Specified Diagnostic and Repair Training. Study of engine performance, electrical/electronics, advanced level engine performance diagnosis. Preparation for BAR Smog Check Repair Technician E1 License and ASE Certification exam. Formerly BAR A6, A8, and L1 alternative courses. (not transferable)

AUTO 0064. Hydraulic and Brake Systems

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Application of industry standards and practices for the inspection, diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive and light truck braking systems. Theory of operation as well as service procedures for disc and drum brake systems, hydraulic systems, power-assist devices, and anti-lock brake systems. Prepares students for California State Brake Adjuster License and ASE Brake Certification exam. (CSU)

AUTO 0066A. Engine Reconditioning

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Introduction to the machines and measuring processes used in the reconditioning of automotive and light truck engines including: cylinder head re-surfacing, valve guide repair, valve re-facing, valve seat replacement and finishing by grinding as well as carbide forming bits. Precision measurement of parts with micrometers and dial bore gauges. Part cleaning and inspection processes including Magnaflux and penetrating dye. Preparation for ASE Certification A-1. (CSU)

AUTO 0066B. Engine Reconditioning

Units: 4
Prerequisite: Completion of AUTO 66A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Advanced engine repair course. Students required to completely rebuild one liquid-cooled automotive engine. Engine and parts to be supplied by the student; cost varies from $300 to $1,000 or more. Preparation for ASE Certification exam A-1. (CSU)

AUTO 0068A. Basic Automatic Transmissions

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Theory of operation as well as service and repair practices for automatic transmissions and transaxles. Topics include: hydraulic torque converters and pumps, planetary gear sets, clutches and bands, hydraulic systems and apply devices, and electronic controls. Emphasis on diagnosis, adjustment, service, and rebuilding of transmissions used on domestic and foreign automobiles. Testing on a transmission dynamometer. Preparation for ASE Certification exam A-2. (not transferable)

AUTO 0069. Automotive Air Conditioning and Heating

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Principles in automotive air conditioning and heating systems. Emphasis on theory, controls, diagnosis, service, repair, and installation. A study in heat transfer, with methods of troubleshooting and repair of live vehicle air conditioning and heating systems. Includes use of State and Federal approved recovery and recycling equipment. Required to obtain EPA Section 609 refrigerant training certificate. Preparation for ASE Certification examination. (CSU)

AUTO 0071A. Automotive Electrical Systems

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Study of the theory, testing, diagnosis, and service of common body and engine electrical circuits, including batteries, switching, fusing, relays, thermal timers, DC motors, alternator principles, series circuits, and parallel circuits. Live system failure diagnosis using voltmeters, ammeters, and ohmmeters. Preparation for ASE Certification exam. (CSU)

AUTO 0075. Automotive Electronics

Units: 4
Prerequisite: Completion of AUTO 71A with grade of "C" or better
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Advanced study in automotive electronics, Controller Area Network (CAN), and control systems; resistor, capacitor, inductor, diode, and transistor circuitry with application to solid state sensors, controllers, and actuators. In-depth study of electrical diagnostics using computer-based diagnostic equipment and digital storage oscilloscope. Preparation for ASE Certification examination. (CSU)

AUTO 0079. Suspension and Wheel Alignment

Units: 4
Formerly known as AUTO 77 and 78
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Principles of wheel alignment, steering and suspension systems and their components. Methods of measuring and adjusting alignment geometry for automobiles and light trucks including four wheel alignment. Identification and correction of damaged and worn steering components. Emphasis on analyzing the cause and correction of improper suspension and alignment conditions including conventional and strut-type suspension systems. Preparation for ASE Certification. (CSU)

AUTO 0080. Automotive Powertrains Manual Transmissions

Units: 4
Hours: 108 (54 lecture, 54 laboratory)
Theory of operation as well as service and repair procedures for automotive and light truck manual transmission and drive train systems. Topics include: diagnosis and overhaul techniques for manual transmissions/transaxles, drivelines, four-wheel-drive transfer cases, clutches, and differentials (including limited slip). Preparation for ASE Certification A-3 Manual Drive Train and Axles. (CSU)

AUTO 0095. Internship in Automotive Technology

Units: 0.5-4
Designed for advanced students to work in an area related to their educational or occupational goal. Provides new on-the-job technical training under the direction of a worksite supervisor, allowing students to expand knowledge and skills in the chosen field. Mandatory orientation session and faculty approval to determine eligibility. One unit of credit is equal to each 60 hours of non-paid work, or each 75 hours of paid work. Students may earn up to a total of 16 units in internship courses (any course numbered 95 and PDEV 94). (CSU-with unit limitation)

AUTO 0150. Introduction to Automotive Technology Profession

Units: 0.5
Hours: 9 lecture
Career exploration in the automotive technology industry. Includes orientation to the automotive technology program at Sierra College, employment opportunities, career pathways, educational planning for associate degree, certificate and transfer. Research on labor market and occupational information and development of an educational plan. (pass/no pass grading) (not transferable)

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

  • Develop industry required skills for students to gain automotive service entry level jobs such as lube technicians or technician aids.
  • Provide courses for currently employed automotive service students to advance their skill and knowledge to be qualified for advanced placement job (journeyman).
  • Support the automotive industry training needs by providing certification/license training courses.