2010-2011 CATALOG

This is an archived copy of the 2010-2011 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.miracosta.edu

Automotive Technology

The Automotive Technology Program prepares students for entry-level automotive mechanic positions and provides training for persons already employed in the industry. Courses also prepare students for various state licenses and national certifications, including tests administered by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Career options include auto mechanic/repair technician, service manager, and parts specialist. Potential employers include automotive dealerships and independent repair facilities.

Contact Information

Department Chair: Claire Ehrlinger

Dean: Al Taccone

www.miracosta.edu/AUTO

Department: Horticulture, Architecture and Applied Technologies

Office: Building 4600, 760.795.6873

Full-Time Faculty

Paul Katson
Steve Vail
Arnoldo Williams

Associate Degree

Associate in Arts Degree

Automotive Technology

Students may earn the above-named associate degree by completing a certificate of achievement and the general education courses required for MiraCosta College's Associate in Arts degree (see Associate Degrees). Students should meet with a MiraCosta counselor to identify required courses and to develop a written educational plan for the specific degree or certificate they wish to earn.

Certificates

Certificate of Achievement

Automotive Electronics, Computers, and Emissions and/or HVAC

The Automotive Electronics, Computers, Emissions/HVAC Program includes course work in the theory and function of automotive electronics and computer systems. It emphasizes basic automotive electronics, diagnostics, drivability, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning and/or emission controls, including smog-check procedures.

Required courses:
AUTO 130	Basic Automotive Tune-Up	2
AUTO 135	Auto Electronic Fundamentals	4
AUTO 235	Electronic Engine Control Systems	4
Select one of the following courses:		3-6
AUTO 150	California Smog Check Technician Qualification
AUTO 220	HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
Total Units		13-16

Certificate of Achievement

Automotive Technology

This certificate prepares students for entry-level auto mechanic positions at local dealerships and independent repair facilities as well as for various state licenses and national certification. Upon successful completion of the courses listed below, students are qualified to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) tests for engine performance, engine repair, brakes, and steering and suspension. Students interested in the ASE Certificate as a Master Automobile Technician need to complete other specific courses listed in the catalog to prepare for the additional test areas.

Required courses:
AUTO 135	Auto Electronic Fundamentals	4
AUTO 140	Automotive Engine Technology	4
AUTO 141	Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability	4
AUTO 160	Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment	4
AUTO 161	Automotive Brake Service and Repair	4
Total Units		20

Certificate of Achievement

California Smog Check Technician

The California Smog Check Technician certificate prepares students for the California Smog Technician Licensing Examination and entry-level positions as smog check technicians.

Required courses:
AUTO 102	Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance	4
AUTO 150	California Smog Check Technician Qualification	6
Select 3 units from the following:		3
BUS 135	Personal Selling
BUS 137	Customer Service
AUTO 251 & AUTO 252 & AUTO 253	ASE A6 Alternative Course Electrical and Electronic Systems and ASE A8 Alternative Course Engine Performance and ASE L1 Alternative Course Advanced Engine Performance
Total Units		13

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Electronics

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6) examination as well as for entry-level employment in electrical and electronic areas of the automotive service industry.

Required courses:
AUTO 135	Auto Electronic Fundamentals	4
AUTO 235	Electronic Engine Control Systems	4
Total Units		8

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Quick Service Assistant

This certificate offers training in basic automotive service and maintenance along with the sales training needed for employment as a quick service technician.

Required courses:
AUTO 102	Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance	4
BUS 135	Personal Selling	3
or BUS 137	Customer Service
Total Units		7

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Repair: Drive-Train Specialist

This certificate prepares students for entry-level auto mechanic positions at local dealerships and independent repair facilities. The program focuses on diagnosis and repair of internal engine components for domestic and import vehicles. Students take apart engines and transmissions and put them back together from the ground up. This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) examinations for engine repair and automatic and manual transmissions.

Required courses:
AUTO 140	Automotive Engine Technology	4
AUTO 141	Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability	4
AUTO 155	Manual Transmissions and Transaxles	4
AUTO 156	Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles	4
Total Units		16

Certificate of Proficiency

Automotive Alignment, Brakes, and Suspension

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Suspension and Steering (A4) and Brakes (A5) examinations and for entry-level employment in the suspension and brake areas of the automotive service industry.

Required courses:
AUTO 160	Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment	4
AUTO 161	Automotive Brake Service and Repair	4
Total Units		8

Certificate of Proficiency

Basic Engine Performance

This certificate prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Engine Performance (A8) examination and for entry-level employment in the engine performance area of the automotive service industry.

Required courses:
AUTO 140	Automotive Engine Technology	4
AUTO 141	Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability	4
Total Units		8

How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses listed in this catalog apply to the fall 2010, spring 2011, and summer 2011 terms. Courses are numbered numerically within alphabetically arranged subject areas.

The bolded first line indicates the official course number, a descriptive title, and the number of units. The next lines indicate prerequisites, corequisites, advisories, repeatability rules, enrollment limitations, UC/CSU credit acceptance, and lecture and lab hours followed by a Taxonomy of Program number in parentheses.

Prerequisites: This is a requirement that must be met before a student can enroll in the course.
Corequisites: This is a course the student must take in the same semester.
Advisories: This is recommended preparation the student is advised but not required to have before or in conjunction with the course.
Repeatability Rules: When a course belongs to a group of related courses, students can complete one course or a combination of courses within the group for a maximum of four completions.
Enrollment Limitations: Some courses place limitations on enrollment. These limitations prevent students from duplicating course work or from enrolling in two sections of the same course in any given semester.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU means the course is accepted for transfer at any California State University (CSU) campus; UC means it is accepted for transfer at any University of California (UC) campus. Some courses can be used to satisfy general education or major requirements while others transfer as elective credit. UC Credit Limitation means credit for the course may have UC transfer restrictions; these restrictions are identified at the end of the course description.
Lecture and Lab Hours: These are the number of hours the course meets for lecture and/or lab per week.
Taxonomy of Program (TOP) Number: The TOP number is identified in parentheses after the lecture and lab hours. This number serves an administrative purpose and is not intended for student use.

The course description summarizes the purpose and key topical areas of the course, and it includes special requirements if any exist. Some course descriptions end with information about whether the course was "formerly" another course, how many times the course may be repeated, if the course is offered pass/no pass, or what the UC credit limitation is.

How to Read Course Descriptions

Courses

AUTO 100: Small Engine Repair

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 2 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.30)

This introductory course combines theory with practical experience to provide students with the necessary skills to perform maintenance, tune-up, and repair of two- and four-cycle engines. Topics include the safety, care, and use of specialized tools; fuel and ignition system fundamentals and service; and small engine inspection, disassembly, and reconditioning. The course is designed for students without small engine experience.

AUTO 102: Preventive Maintenance and Engine Performance

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

Designed to develop an understanding of the operation, care, and preventive maintenance of the automobile. This course covers the overall theory of the automobile including maintenance of tires, wheels, brakes, suspensions; characteristics of fuels, oil and lubricants; maintenance of smog devices; basic engine performance and automotive electronics procedures; and safety factors.

AUTO 130: Basic Automotive Tune-Up

Units: 2
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours, laboratory 1.50 hours. (0948.00)

This course introduces students to the theory and operation of the internal combustion engine. Topics include cooling, lubrication, ignition, carburetion, fuel injection, and emission control systems as well as maintenance and servicing procedures. It also introduces students to hybrid technology and computerized systems, and it prepares them for the study of automotive tune-up and diagnosis.

AUTO 135: Auto Electronic Fundamentals

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course is designed to prepare students for the study of automotive electrical and electronic computer control systems, covering the fundamentals of electricity, electromagnetism, electromagnetic induction, electronics, and D/C and A/C current theory. Voltage, amperage, resistance, and Ohm's Law are studied in depth. Emphasis will be placed on electronic principles and digital logic. Topics include the overall theory, service, and testing of the battery, charging system, starter, and ignition. Analysis or wiring diagrams and diagnostic charts will be covered. This class will also prepare students to understand advanced electrical systems.

AUTO 140: Automotive Engine Technology

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in AUTO 151.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course introduces students to automotive engine mechanical theory and repair. Topics include four-cycle engine theory and operation, lubrication and cooling system service and repair, and engine removal and installation. Students disassemble, inspect, and assemble engine blocks and cylinder heads to factory specifications. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A1 Engine Repair examination.

AUTO 141: Automotive Engine Performance and Drivability

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in AUTO 130, AUTO 230, or AUTO 151.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This engine performance course covers diagnostics, service, and repair of fuel, ignition, starting, charging, emission, and computer systems. Students use state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and repair problems using proper repair techniques, automotive safety, and service protocol. This course helps prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A8 Engine Performance examination and entry-level employment as engine performance technicians.

AUTO 150: California Smog Check Technician Qualification

Units: 6
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 5 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course prepares students to qualify for the California Smog Check Technician Examination using Asian and Nissan manufacturer-specific and standard Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) materials. The course covers the following BAR-certified course modules: Basic Clean Air Car Course, Advanced Clean Air Car Course, 2003 and 2005 Update Course, and BAR 2009 Update Course.

AUTO 155: Manual Transmissions and Transaxles

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course introduces the theory, service, and repair of manual transmissions (RWD) and manual transaxles (FWD). Students learn to identify, evaluate, service, remove, and replace transmissions and transaxles. Topics include theory, service, and repair of manual and hydraulic clutch systems and driveline components. The course helps students prepare for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A3 Manual Transmission examination.

AUTO 156: Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course introduces the theory, service, and repair of automatic transmissions (RWD) and automatic transaxles (FWD). Students learn to identify, evaluate, service, remove, and replace transmissions and transaxles. Topics include theory, service, and repair of electronic assist automatic transmission components and related driveline components. The course helps prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A2 Automatic Transmission examination.

AUTO 160: Automotive Suspension, Steering, and Alignment

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in AUTO 122 or AUTO 152.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course covers automotive passenger car and light truck alignment, steering, and suspension systems. It emphasizes the theory and function of modern front- and rear-wheel drive suspension systems and equipment, safety procedures, proper service techniques, component failure analysis, and repair. Students practice alignment procedures on state-of-the-art alignment equipment. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A4 Suspension and Steering examination.

AUTO 161: Automotive Brake Service and Repair

Units: 4
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Limitation: Not open to students with credit in AUTO 120 or AUTO 152.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course covers the theory, service, and repair of hydraulic brake, antilock brake, and traction control systems. It emphasizes machining brake rotors and drums to factory specifications using safety protocols, diagnostics, and repair strategies. Students practice disc rotor and drum brake machining techniques on state-of-the-art stationary and on-the-car brake lathe equipment. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A5 Brakes examination.

AUTO 220: HVAC Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning

Units: 3
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1.50 hours, laboratory 4.50 hours. (0948.00)

This course covers the fundamental theories, diagnosis, service, and repair practices of automotive air conditioning and heating systems. Topics include the procedures of recovering the refrigerant, replacing parts, evacuating, charging the air conditioning units, retrofitting, and computer-controlled climate control systems. This course helps prepare students to pass the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) heating, ventilation, and air conditioning test.

AUTO 235: Electronic Engine Control Systems

Units: 4
Prerequisites: AUTO 135 or proof of equivalent trade experience.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 3 hours, laboratory 3 hours. (0948.00)

This course covers automotive computers as they relate to the fuel/air management, ignition, and emission control. Engine management sensors and actuators are covered in depth. Idle speed controls, ignition scope patterns, and transaxle electronic controls are also covered in this class. Course also includes the use of automotive scanners to retrieve trouble codes and analyze computer data stream. Emphasis is placed on OBD II systems and computerized CAN BUS communications. This course is also designed to help prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A6 certification test in electricity and electronics.

AUTO 251: ASE A6 Alternative Course Electrical and Electronic Systems

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 0.50 hour, laboratory 1.50 hours. (0948.00)

This course supplants the ASE A6 examination required to sit for the California Smog Check Technician examination. It offers theory and hands on training with automotive electrical and electronic systems. Students must pass the course with a grade of 70% or higher. This course meets or exceeds 20 hours of classroom instruction mandated by the State of California.

AUTO 252: ASE A8 Alternative Course Engine Performance

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 0.50 hour, laboratory 1.50 hours. (0948.00)

This course supplants the ASE A8 examination required to sit for the California Smog Check Technician examination. It offers theory and hands-on training in automotive engine performance. Students must pass the course with a grade of 70% or higher. This course meets or exceeds 24 hours of classroom instruction mandated by the State of California.

AUTO 253: ASE L1 Alternative Course Advanced Engine Performance

Units: 1
Prerequisites: None
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 0.50 hour, laboratory 1.50 hours. (0948.00)

This course supplants the ASE L1 examination required to sit for the California Smog Check Technician examination. It offers theory and hands-on training in advanced engine performance. Students must pass the course with a grade of 70% or higher. This course meets or exceeds 28 hours of classroom instruction mandated by the State of California.

AUTO 292: Internship Studies

Units: 0.5-3
Prerequisites: Complete 6 units at MCC prior to internship; permission of instructor and department chair required.
Corequisite: Must currently be enrolled in 3 units and complete 60 hours of non-paid or 75 hours of paid work per unit of credit.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
(0948.00)

Individualized study linking classroom learning to the workplace. Approval form must be signed by instructor and department chair before registration. (May be taken for a total of 12 units.)

AUTO 293: Topics in Automotive Technology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Repeatability Rule: Allow four completions in any combination of AUTO 293, AUTO 296.
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (0948.00)

A study of relevant topics in the discipline not covered in the current selection of courses. Designed to meet special needs; content determined by participating faculty members in consultation with students and the community. Non-transfer topics only.

AUTO 296: Topics in Automotive Technology

Units: 1-3
Prerequisites: None
Repeatability Rule: Allow four completions in any combination of AUTO 293, AUTO 296.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
Lecture 1 hour.
Lecture 2 hours.
Lecture 3 hours. (0948.00)

AUTO 299: Cooperative Work Experience--Occupational

Units: 1-4
Prerequisites: None
Corequisite: Students must be employed in a position directly related to their declared major and must complete 75 hours of paid work or 60 hours of non-paid work per unit of credit.
Acceptable for Credit: CSU
(0948.00)

For students whose work is directly related to their major. To participate in occupational cooperative work experience education, students must be employed in a position directly related to their declared major and undertake new or expanded responsibilities at their work site. Students must develop one learning objective for each unit of credit in which they enroll and they must complete 75 hours of paid work or 60 hours of non-paid work per unit of credit. A maximum of four units of occupational work experience may be earned each semester and a combined maximum of 16 units of occupational and general work experience may be earned during community college attendance and applied as electives toward graduation. Students may receive G.I. Bill benefits for work experience only if required for their specific program. (May be repeated three times.)