Transportation · course plan
⚠ Pending professional review
This course plan, its lessons and its assessments has not yet been verified by a certified examiner or master technician in the trade or by a certification or approval body. It is a study draft and may contain errors. Do not use it as instructions for work on a job site or on live equipment. Always follow your instructor, your supervising professional, and current official references and regulations.
VoTechWorks program approval and accreditation are still in progress. Credentials are issued only by the certifying bodies named in each program, after their own exams.
Automotive Technology
11 courses · 2,700 clock hours · 12–18 mo full-time. Grading is competency-based: each course requires the written exam, a competent skills demonstration with zero safety faults, a signed log, and a passed safety audit; percentage weights only rank performance above the competency floor.
11courses
103lessons
2,700hours
39assessments
Development progressPlanCourses, lessons and assessments written for this tradeLessons103 of 103 lesson pages writtenPractice823 practice questionsResources116 reference entries (study list)Review0 lesson pages reviewed by a licensed professional
Study now: 103 lesson pages are open (lesson titles below are links).
TRN-AUTO19-01 Universal core
Universal Core: Safety, Math, Communication & Career for Automotive Technology
148 hr · $1,185 COMPLIMENTARY
This course establishes the foundational competencies every automotive technician needs before touching a vehicle system: workplace safety under OSHA standards, first aid and CPR, trade-specific math and measurement, technical reading and digital tool use, and professional career readiness. Lessons are contextualized to shop environments, service documentation, and the expectations of automotive employers. Successful completion prepares students to work safely and communicate effectively throughout all subsequent courses and on the job.
Outcomes- Demonstrate compliance with OSHA General Industry standards for automotive shops, including hazard communication, lockout/tagout, and proper PPE selection for identified hazards.
- Perform adult CPR and basic first-aid procedures to the level required for an entry-level certificate, responding correctly to simulated shop emergencies.
- Apply arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, unit conversion, and basic algebra to solve automotive measurement and specification problems with at least 80% accuracy.
- Read and interpret manufacturer service manuals, wiring diagrams, technical service bulletins, and parts catalogs using both print and digital platforms.
- Use shop digital tools—including scan tools, digital multimeters, alignment software interfaces, and shop management software—to locate, record, and communicate vehicle data.
- Prepare a professional resume, complete a job application, and demonstrate workplace communication standards including written repair orders and verbal customer interaction.
Course text
This course establishes the foundational competencies every automotive technician needs before touching a vehicle system: workplace safety under OSHA standards, first aid and CPR, trade-specific math and measurement, technical reading and digital tool use, and professional career readiness. Lessons are contextualized to shop environments, service documentation, and the expectations of automotive employers. Successful completion prepares students to work safely and communicate effectively throughout all subsequent courses and on the job.
How the course runs. 7 blocks: Shop Hazards, OSHA Standards, and Personal Protective Equipment; Lockout/Tagout, Fire Safety, and Shop Emergency Procedures; First Aid, CPR, and Bloodborne Pathogen Awareness; Trade Math: Measurement, Unit Conversion, and Specifications; Technical Reading: Service Manuals, TSBs, Wiring Diagrams, and Parts Catalogs; Digital Tools in the Shop: Scan Tools, DMMs, and Shop Management Software; Career Readiness: Resume, Communication, and Professional Standards.
What competent looks like. Demonstrate compliance with OSHA General Industry standards for automotive shops, including hazard communication, lockout/tagout, and proper PPE selection for identified hazards. Perform adult CPR and basic first-aid procedures to the level required for an entry-level certificate, responding correctly to simulated shop emergencies. Apply arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, unit conversion, and basic algebra to solve automotive measurement and specification problems with at least 80% accuracy. Read and interpret manufacturer service manuals, wiring diagrams, technical service bulletins, and parts catalogs using both print and digital platforms. Use shop digital tools—including scan tools, digital multimeters, alignment software interfaces, and shop management software—to locate, record, and communicate vehicle data. Prepare a professional resume, complete a job application, and demonstrate workplace communication standards including written repair orders and verbal customer interaction.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shop Hazards, OSHA Standards, and Personal Protective Equipment | 24 | theory | Students will identify common automotive shop hazards, match each hazard to the correct OSHA General Industry standard or best-practice control, and select appropriate PPE for a given task. |
| OSHA General Industry Standards (29 CFR 1910) reference booklet, shop Safety Data Sheet binder, PPE rack (safety glasses, face shield, nitrile gloves, chemical-resistant gloves, hearing protection, steel-toed footwear), hazard identification checklist, whiteboard. | Instructor-observed PPE selection quiz: student correctly identifies hazard class and selects appropriate PPE for all six scenario cards; a missed PPE item on any card with a serious-injury risk (eye, chemical burn, electrical) requires the scenario to be repeated. Written HazCom form must score 80% or higher. |
| 2 | Lockout/Tagout, Fire Safety, and Shop Emergency Procedures | 18 | demo | Students will demonstrate the lockout/tagout procedure for de-energizing a vehicle's electrical system and a stationary shop machine, and respond correctly to a simulated fire and spill emergency. |
| Training vehicle (battery disconnect point accessible), bench grinder with LOTO demo kit, LOTO locks and tags (one per student), OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 reference card, fire extinguisher training unit (non-dischargeable demo model), ABC dry-chemical extinguisher, shop emergency action plan poster, spill kit. | Practical performance checklist: student completes all steps of vehicle battery LOTO and bench machine LOTO in correct sequence with no prompting; any skipped verification step is a fail requiring a complete re-demonstration. Fire extinguisher PASS technique must be performed without cue card. |
| 3 | First Aid, CPR, and Bloodborne Pathogen Awareness | 16 | lab | Students will perform hands-only and rescue-breathing adult CPR, use an AED trainer, apply bleeding control and burn first aid, and describe OSHA bloodborne pathogen exposure controls relevant to shop work. |
| Adult CPR manikins (minimum one per two students), AED trainer units, pocket mask barrier devices, first-aid training kit (bandages, eye-wash station, burn dressing), OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen standard (29 CFR 1910.1030) summary card, scenario worksheet. | CPR skill check by certified instructor using a standardized performance checklist; compression rate and depth must fall within American Heart Association guidelines for at least two of three timed cycles. First-aid stations scored on completion checklist; all safety-critical steps (eye flush duration, direct pressure application) must be performed correctly on first attempt. |
| 4 | Trade Math: Measurement, Unit Conversion, and Specifications | 30 | theory | Students will use arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratios, and unit conversions to solve automotive specification and measurement problems with at least 80% accuracy. |
| Digital calipers, outside micrometers (0–1 in and metric), dial indicator with magnetic base, feeler gauge set, sample machined parts set, printed unit-conversion reference card, manufacturer service manual (one authentic shop manual per two students), math worksheet packet, whiteboard and markers. | End-of-lesson 20-question math quiz covering all operation types from the worksheet; passing score is 80% (16/20). Measurement readings checked by instructor: all five instrument readings must be within the instrument's stated tolerance; any reading outside tolerance requires a coached repeat measurement. |
| 5 | Technical Reading: Service Manuals, TSBs, Wiring Diagrams, and Parts Catalogs | 20 | theory | Students will navigate printed and digital OEM service manuals, interpret a basic wiring diagram, locate information in a technical service bulletin, and identify a part using an electronic parts catalog. |
| Printed OEM service manual (one per student or pair), wiring diagram worksheet packet, shop computer workstations with internet access, school subscription to an automotive information service (OEM portal or equivalent all-makes reference), scavenger hunt answer sheet. | Scavenger hunt scored on accuracy of 10 answers: 8/10 required to pass; any safety-critical spec (torque, fluid capacity) that is wrong must be corrected before the student advances. Wiring diagram comprehension questions: 4/5 correct required. TSB summary reviewed by instructor for accuracy of condition/cause/correction; must correctly identify all three elements. |
| 6 | Digital Tools in the Shop: Scan Tools, DMMs, and Shop Management Software | 20 | lab | Students will connect a scan tool to a training vehicle, retrieve and clear a stored diagnostic trouble code, use a digital multimeter to measure voltage and resistance, and create a repair order entry in shop management software. |
| OBD-II training-grade scan tool (handheld or PC-based), training vehicle or OBD-II simulator with seeded codes, digital multimeter (one per student or pair), wiring practice board with known values, shop management software workstation or printed repair order forms, scan tool manufacturer's quick-start guide. | Scan tool task: student must correctly identify and record at least one stored DTC and its system, capture freeze-frame data, and clear codes without prompting; instructor verifies on the vehicle. DMM data sheet: all five measurements must fall within ±5% of the instructor's reference value. Repair order reviewed against a completeness rubric: all required fields populated and concern/cause/correction written in clear, professional language; incomplete tickets returned for revision. |
| 7 | Career Readiness: Resume, Communication, and Professional Standards | 20 | field | Students will produce a professional resume and cover letter targeting an entry-level automotive technician position, complete a mock job application, and demonstrate professional verbal and written communication in a simulated customer and employer interaction. |
| Sample technician resume template, job description handout (sourced from a real automotive employer posting), word-processing workstations or paper drafting materials, peer role-play scoring rubric, professional standards quiz, guest speaker materials if a working technician or service manager is available. | Resume evaluated by instructor against a rubric: must include all required sections, contain no spelling or grammar errors, and accurately represent the student's current credentials; returned for revision if any section is missing or contains errors. Role-play rubric: must score at least 12/16 points across four categories to pass. Professional standards quiz: 8/10 required; any question involving an ethical or legal standard that is missed must be discussed individually with the instructor. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety and OSHA Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% (40/50 questions correct); any question involving a life-safety topic (LOTO, fire response, PPE for a specified chemical hazard) that is answered incorrectly must be reviewed with the instructor and re-tested on those items before the student advances. | A 50-question multiple-choice and short-answer written exam covering OSHA General Industry hazard communication, GHS labeling, SDS interpretation, PPE selection, LOTO procedures, fire extinguisher classification and use, bloodborne pathogen controls, and shop emergency action plan requirements. All content is drawn directly from lessons 1–3. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Trade Math and Technical Reading Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% (32/40 questions correct); students scoring below 80% on the measurement conversion sub-section (items 1–15) must attend a targeted tutoring session before the externship begins. | A 40-item written exam combining math problems (unit conversion, percentage calculation, ratio and proportion, Ohm's Law application, and specification accept/reject decisions) with technical reading tasks (locating a spec in a printed manual excerpt, interpreting a wiring diagram symbol key, and identifying the correct repair step from a TSB summary). Calculators are permitted. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Digital Tools and Career Readiness Portfolio | Project | 25% | Portfolio must earn a total score of at least 35/50 across all five rubric categories; any individual category scoring below 5/10 must be revised and resubmitted within one week. | Students submit a portfolio containing (1) a printed or digital repair order they created in the scan tool/shop management software lab, (2) a completed wiring diagram annotation from the technical reading lesson, (3) their final resume and cover letter, and (4) a one-page written reflection on professional standards in the automotive trade. Scored on a 50-point rubric across five categories: technical accuracy, completeness, professional language, formatting, and reflection depth. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
| Safety and Professional Standards Oral Defense | Oral / panel | 25% | Must score at least 12/16 total points across four evaluation dimensions; a score of 0 on any safety-critical prompt (correct LOTO sequence, proper chemical PPE, emergency response step) results in an automatic fail and requires re-demonstration before course completion is recorded. | A 10-minute one-on-one oral examination in which the instructor presents four scenario prompts—one shop hazard and PPE decision, one LOTO sequence challenge, one customer communication scenario, and one ethical workplace situation—and the student responds verbally and, where required, physically demonstrates the correct action. Scored on a 4-point scale per prompt for accuracy, completeness, and professional communication. Accuracy · Safety · Communication · Professionalism |
TRN-AUTO19-02 Trade course
Engine Systems: Theory, Diagnosis, and Overhaul
230 hr · $3,310 COMPLIMENTARY
Students develop a thorough understanding of four-stroke gasoline and diesel engine construction, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, and emission control systems as tested in ASE A1 (Engine Repair). Through progressive theory, demonstration, and hands-on lab work, students disassemble, inspect, measure, and reassemble engines to manufacturer specifications, preparing for entry-level engine repair work in a professional shop.
Outcomes- Explain the four-stroke operating cycle and identify all major engine components, their function, and their relationship to one another.
- Use precision measuring tools—micrometers, bore gauges, plastigage, and feeler gauges—to evaluate cylinder bores, crankshaft journals, camshaft lobes, and valve train components against manufacturer service limits.
- Perform a complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly following OEM torque sequences and gasket procedures without instructor prompting.
- Diagnose engine mechanical failures—including low compression, oil consumption, coolant loss, and abnormal noise—using compression tests, cylinder leakage tests, oil pressure tests, and vacuum tests.
- Describe the construction and service requirements of the lubrication, cooling, and emission control (PCV, EGR, evaporative) subsystems and perform basic maintenance tasks on each.
- Document all inspection measurements and repair decisions in a professional repair order that meets ASE A1 task-list requirements.
Course text
Students develop a thorough understanding of four-stroke gasoline and diesel engine construction, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, and emission control systems as tested in ASE A1 (Engine Repair). Through progressive theory, demonstration, and hands-on lab work, students disassemble, inspect, measure, and reassemble engines to manufacturer specifications, preparing for entry-level engine repair work in a professional shop.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Engine Fundamentals: Four-Stroke Cycle and Component Identification; Shop Safety for Engine Work: Hazardous Materials, Lifting, and Lockout/Tagout; Precision Measurement: Tools and Techniques for Engine Diagnosis; Engine Disassembly: Sequence, Documentation, and Parts Organization; Cylinder Head Inspection and Valve Train Service; Block, Crankshaft, and Piston/Rod Assembly Inspection; Engine Reassembly: Torque Sequences, Seals, and Gasket Installation; Lubrication System: Service, Pressure Testing, and Diagnosis; Cooling System: Service, Pressure Testing, and Thermostat Replacement; Compression, Leakage, and Vacuum Testing for Engine Diagnosis; Engine Emission Controls: PCV, EGR, and Evaporative Systems; Repair Orders, Technical Service Bulletins, and ASE A1 Exam Readiness.
What competent looks like. Explain the four-stroke operating cycle and identify all major engine components, their function, and their relationship to one another. Use precision measuring tools—micrometers, bore gauges, plastigage, and feeler gauges—to evaluate cylinder bores, crankshaft journals, camshaft lobes, and valve train components against manufacturer service limits. Perform a complete engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, and reassembly following OEM torque sequences and gasket procedures without instructor prompting. Diagnose engine mechanical failures—including low compression, oil consumption, coolant loss, and abnormal noise—using compression tests, cylinder leakage tests, oil pressure tests, and vacuum tests. Describe the construction and service requirements of the lubrication, cooling, and emission control (PCV, EGR, evaporative) subsystems and perform basic maintenance tasks on each. Document all inspection measurements and repair decisions in a professional repair order that meets ASE A1 task-list requirements.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Engine Fundamentals: Four-Stroke Cycle and Component Identification | 14 | theory | Given a cutaway engine and OEM service manual, students will identify and describe the function of every major engine component and trace the four-stroke cycle through all cylinders with 100% accuracy on a labeled diagram. |
| Cutaway display engine, disassembled pushrod V8 and OHC four-cylinder engines, OEM service manuals, ASE A1 task list handout, engine component identification worksheet | Written component-identification quiz: students label a blank engine diagram and state the function of each part; passing score 80% or higher. |
| 2 | Shop Safety for Engine Work: Hazardous Materials, Lifting, and Lockout/Tagout | 10 | demo | Students will demonstrate correct lockout/tagout procedures, engine-hoist rigging, and safe handling of shop chemicals in accordance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910 general industry standards before any hands-on engine lab begins. |
| Engine hoist, load chains, lifting plates, SDS binder, LOTO kit (locks, tags, hasps), PPE (safety glasses, nitrile gloves, steel-toe boots), OSHA poster, program LOTO written procedure | Instructor-observed LOTO skill check using a signed competency checklist; all critical steps must be performed correctly—zero critical errors allowed before student proceeds to engine lab. |
| 3 | Precision Measurement: Tools and Techniques for Engine Diagnosis | 18 | lab | Students will correctly use micrometers, telescoping gauges, bore gauges, dial indicators, feeler gauges, and straightedges to record five specified engine measurements within ±0.0005 inch of instructor-verified values. |
| 0–1 in. and 1–2 in. outside micrometers, telescoping gauges, dial bore gauge set, dial indicator and magnetic base, feeler gauge set, precision straightedge, engine block and head samples, measurement data worksheets, OEM spec sheets | Five independent measurements evaluated by instructor with a calibrated digital reference; all five readings must fall within ±0.0005 inch of reference value to pass. |
| 4 | Engine Disassembly: Sequence, Documentation, and Parts Organization | 20 | lab | Working from an OEM service manual, students will completely disassemble an assigned engine, label every component in matched sets, and produce a photographic disassembly log with no missing parts or mislabeled components. |
| Complete engine (running or known-spec core), engine stand, full socket and wrench set, torque wrench, parts washer with solvent, zip-lock bags and permanent markers, digital camera or tablet, disassembly log form, OEM service manual | Instructor audit of parts bags, tags, and photographic log; all components must be accounted for, labeled in matched sets, and cleaned—any missing part or unlabeled assembly requires correction before moving to the next lesson. |
| 5 | Cylinder Head Inspection and Valve Train Service | 22 | lab | Students will perform a complete cylinder head inspection—including valve stem diameter, guide clearance, seat condition, spring tension, and head flatness—record all measurements against spec, and make a documented disposition decision for each component. |
| Cylinder head(s) from disassembly, valve spring tester, 0–1 in. outside micrometer, small-hole gauge set, valve lapping tool, lapping compound, Prussian blue or machinist's dye, feeler gauges, precision straightedge, OEM head specifications sheet, component data form | Completed and signed component data form reviewed by instructor; all measurements must be recorded in correct units with a written pass/fail disposition for each component—80% of disposition decisions must match instructor's reference key. |
| 6 | Block, Crankshaft, and Piston/Rod Assembly Inspection | 22 | lab | Students will measure cylinder bore dimensions, crankshaft journal diameters, and connecting-rod side clearance, use Plastigage to verify bearing clearance, and produce a complete block inspection data sheet with correct size-class recommendations. |
| Engine block and crankshaft from disassembly, dial bore gauge, 2–3 in. outside micrometer set, Plastigage (correct clearance range), torque wrench, OEM torque specifications, block inspection data sheet, feeler gauges | Instructor spot-checks three measurements from each student's data sheet using a calibrated reference instrument; all three must be within ±0.001 inch and dispositions must match specification—any discrepancy requires re-measurement and correction. |
| 7 | Engine Reassembly: Torque Sequences, Seals, and Gasket Installation | 26 | lab | Students will reassemble a complete engine—including installation of crankshaft, pistons, cylinder head(s), and timing components—using OEM torque sequences and gasket procedures, achieving zero torque deviations greater than 10% on any fastener when spot-checked by the instructor. |
| All cleaned and approved components from previous labs, new gasket and seal kit, ring expander and ring compressor, click-type torque wrenches (various ranges), TTY fasteners (new), assembly lube, OEM service manual, torque sequence diagram | Instructor uses a calibrated torque wrench to audit a minimum of 10 randomly selected fasteners and verifies timing mark alignment; all fasteners must be within 10% of specified torque and timing marks must align exactly—any failure requires re-torque and re-inspection of the affected assembly. |
| 8 | Lubrication System: Service, Pressure Testing, and Diagnosis | 16 | theory | Students will explain the function of each lubrication system component, interpret an oil pressure test result against OEM specifications, and diagnose three given oil-consumption or low-pressure scenarios by selecting the correct root cause from a list of possible failures. |
| Running engine or engine in vehicle, mechanical oil pressure gauge and adapter fittings, OEM oil pressure specifications, lubrication system cross-section diagram, fault-tree diagnostic worksheets, ASE A1 task list (lubrication section) | Written scenario quiz presenting five oil system fault situations; students must select the correct root cause and list one confirming test for each—passing score 80% or higher. |
| 9 | Cooling System: Service, Pressure Testing, and Thermostat Replacement | 16 | practice | Students will perform a cooling system pressure test, retrieve and interpret coolant condition test results, replace a thermostat and associated seals, and refill the system using the OEM specified coolant type with proper bleed procedure. |
| Shop vehicle, cooling system pressure tester kit, refractometer, coolant test strips, thermostat and gasket kit for the vehicle, OEM coolant (correct type), torque wrench, drain pan, scan tool with live data, OEM service manual | Instructor observes thermostat replacement from start to finish using a signed skills checklist; system must hold pressure test without loss and operating temperature on the scan tool must reach thermostat rated temperature within OEM time range—all critical steps must be completed correctly. |
| 10 | Compression, Leakage, and Vacuum Testing for Engine Diagnosis | 20 | lab | Students will perform a dry and wet compression test, a cylinder leakage test, and a vacuum test on an assigned engine, accurately identify the source of any mechanical fault indicated by the data, and write a diagnostic report with a repair recommendation. |
| Assigned shop vehicle or engine, compression tester, cylinder leakage tester with shop air supply, vacuum gauge, engine oil squirt bottle, scan tool, diagnostic data sheet, OEM compression specifications, vacuum pattern reference chart, ASE A1 task list (engine diagnosis section) | Diagnostic report evaluated by instructor: all numeric data must be recorded correctly, the identified fault must match the planted or known fault, and the repair recommendation must be logical—passing score 80% or higher on a graded rubric. |
| 11 | Engine Emission Controls: PCV, EGR, and Evaporative Systems | 22 | theory | Students will describe the function, components, and failure modes of the PCV, EGR, and evaporative emission control systems, perform a basic functional test on each, and correctly interpret a diagnostic trouble code related to each system using a scan tool. |
| Shop vehicle with OBD-II port, scan tool, vacuum gauge, vacuum pump and gauge kit, EVAP smoke machine (if available) or OBD EVAP monitor procedure, PCV valve inspection checklist, system diagrams, ASE A1 task list (engine performance emission section) | Short written quiz on system function and failure modes (10 questions, 80% passing); plus instructor sign-off on scan tool DTC interpretation exercise confirming student correctly identified the system indicated by an assigned code. |
| 12 | Repair Orders, Technical Service Bulletins, and ASE A1 Exam Readiness | 24 | practice | Students will write a complete professional repair order for a multi-symptom engine job, locate and apply a relevant Technical Service Bulletin, and correctly answer a timed practice set of ASE A1-style questions at a passing rate. |
| Shop management software or paper RO forms, internet-connected workstation with ALLDATA or OEM service portal access, ASE A1 practice question bank (instructor-sourced), ASE A1 task list, pencils, timer | Repair order graded on a rubric for accuracy of complaint/cause/correction and correct parts notation (passing 80%); ASE A1 practice exam passing score 75% or higher, matching the approximate threshold used on the actual ASE certification exam. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Systems Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (38 of 50 questions correct) | A 50-question multiple-choice written exam covering the four-stroke cycle, engine component identification and function, lubrication, cooling, emission controls, and engine diagnosis principles, aligned to the ASE A1 task list. Questions are written in the same format as the actual ASE certification exam to build familiarity with item style. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Engine Reassembly Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All critical steps rated Satisfactory (S) on the instructor checklist; no Unsatisfactory (U) ratings permitted on safety or torque items | Students disassemble and fully reassemble an assigned engine in the shop under instructor observation, applying correct torque sequences, gasket procedures, and bearing clearance checks without prompting. The instructor uses a standardized checklist aligned to ASE A1 engine repair tasks; any safety violation or critical fastener error requires an immediate stop and a remediation session before re-attempt. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Engine Lab Measurement Log | Log | 15% | 90% of recorded measurements within ±0.001 inch of instructor reference values; all disposition decisions documented with written justification | A cumulative log of all precision measurements taken throughout the course—cylinder bore, crankshaft journals, valve stems, guides, spring heights, and bearing clearances—compiled in a professional format with component disposition decisions and supporting OEM specification references. The log is evaluated for measurement accuracy, completeness, correct units, and professional documentation quality. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Engine Shop Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | Zero critical errors; all items must be rated Pass—any Fail item requires immediate correction and re-check before the student may continue lab work | A practical safety audit conducted by the instructor at the midpoint of the course, evaluating each student's consistent application of PPE, correct LOTO procedure on a shop vehicle, proper use of the engine hoist, safe chemical handling, and correct disposal of used oil and coolant in designated containers. The audit uses a binary Pass/Fail checklist; consistent compliance throughout the course, not a single snapshot, is the standard. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-03 Trade course
Brake Systems: Diagnosis, Service, and Repair
230 hr · $3,310 COMPLIMENTARY
Students develop hands-on competency in the diagnosis, service, and repair of hydraulic, friction, antilock, and electronic brake systems found on modern passenger cars and light trucks. The course follows the ASE A5 Brakes task list and integrates OSHA-compliant safety practices throughout every lab session. Graduates leave able to perform complete brake jobs, interpret brake system diagnostic data, and document repairs to professional shop standards.
Outcomes- Diagnose and repair hydraulic brake system faults, including master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, and brake lines, using pressure tests and visual inspection to manufacturer specifications.
- Perform disc and drum brake friction service—resurfacing or replacement—meeting OEM thickness and runout tolerances while following proper asbestos/dust and PPE procedures.
- Inspect, test, and service power brake boosters and related vacuum or hydraulic assist components to restore pedal feel and stopping performance.
- Diagnose and repair antilock brake system (ABS) and traction/stability control faults using a professional scan tool, interpreting DTCs against wiring diagrams.
- Bleed, flush, and pressure-test complete brake hydraulic circuits using manual, vacuum, pressure, and gravity methods, confirming fluid condition and system integrity.
- Complete repair orders, measurement records, and safety inspection documentation that meet shop and regulatory standards, mapping each task to ASE A5 competency areas.
Course text
Students develop hands-on competency in the diagnosis, service, and repair of hydraulic, friction, antilock, and electronic brake systems found on modern passenger cars and light trucks. The course follows the ASE A5 Brakes task list and integrates OSHA-compliant safety practices throughout every lab session. Graduates leave able to perform complete brake jobs, interpret brake system diagnostic data, and document repairs to professional shop standards.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Brake System Overview, Shop Safety, and Hazardous Materials; Brake Fluid, Lines, Hoses, and Fittings; Hydraulic System: Master Cylinder and Wheel Cylinders; Drum Brakes: Inspection, Service, and Adjustment; Disc Brakes: Calipers, Pads, and Rotors; Power Brake Boosters: Vacuum and Hydraulic Assist; Brake Bleeding and Hydraulic System Pressure Testing; Parking Brake Systems: Cables, Levers, and Caliper-Integrated Designs; Antilock Brake Systems (ABS): Theory, Components, and Circuit Diagnosis; ABS, Traction Control, and Electronic Stability Control: Scan Tool Diagnosis and Repair; Complete Brake Inspection and Safety Evaluation; Integrated Brake System Troubleshooting and Repair Simulation.
What competent looks like. Diagnose and repair hydraulic brake system faults, including master cylinder, wheel cylinders, calipers, and brake lines, using pressure tests and visual inspection to manufacturer specifications. Perform disc and drum brake friction service—resurfacing or replacement—meeting OEM thickness and runout tolerances while following proper asbestos/dust and PPE procedures. Inspect, test, and service power brake boosters and related vacuum or hydraulic assist components to restore pedal feel and stopping performance. Diagnose and repair antilock brake system (ABS) and traction/stability control faults using a professional scan tool, interpreting DTCs against wiring diagrams. Bleed, flush, and pressure-test complete brake hydraulic circuits using manual, vacuum, pressure, and gravity methods, confirming fluid condition and system integrity. Complete repair orders, measurement records, and safety inspection documentation that meet shop and regulatory standards, mapping each task to ASE A5 competency areas.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake System Overview, Shop Safety, and Hazardous Materials | 14 | theory | Students identify brake system major components, explain hydraulic principles (Pascal's Law), and demonstrate OSHA-required safety procedures for brake dust, brake fluid, and shop chemical hazards before touching any vehicle. |
| Brake system cutaway display, brake component ID poster, shop OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 HazCom binder, three sample SDSs, DOT 3/4/5.1 fluid samples (sealed), brake parts washer, HEPA vacuum, floor jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, class BC fire extinguisher, Classroom Safety Checklist form, Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service (Halderman, current edition) Ch. on Brakes | Students score 80% or higher on a 20-question written quiz covering Pascal's Law, component identification, SDS interpretation, and required PPE for brake dust; all 12 safety-walkthrough checklist items must be checked off by instructor before student advances to lab. |
| 2 | Brake Fluid, Lines, Hoses, and Fittings | 16 | demo | Students inspect, measure, and replace steel brake lines, rubber hoses, and fittings, selecting correct tubing, double-flare and ISO bubble-flare tooling, and DOT fluid ratings per vehicle service data. |
| Steel brake line stock (3/16 in. and 1/4 in.), tubing bender, double-flare tool set, ISO flare tool, tube cutter, line wrenches (metric and SAE), bench vise, hand pressure test pump with gauge, removed hose samples with staged defects, brake fluid refractometer or test strips, DOT 3 and DOT 4 fluid samples, repair order forms, vehicle service manuals (factory or ALLDATA/Mitchell1 subscription) | Fabricated brake line holds pressure at the specified test pressure for two minutes with zero fluid loss (instructor verifies on gauge); inspection report correctly identifies all three staged hose defects and appropriate corrective actions—must achieve 100% on defect identification to pass. |
| 3 | Hydraulic System: Master Cylinder and Wheel Cylinders | 20 | lab | Students remove, bench-test, rebuild or replace, and reinstall a tandem master cylinder and drum-brake wheel cylinders, verifying reservoir level, pushrod clearance, and piston travel to specification. |
| Training vehicles (minimum two, varied makes), tandem master cylinder (new and rebuildable cores), wheel cylinder rebuild kits, bore micrometer, cylinder hone, bench-bleed kit, brake pedal height gauge, torque wrench, snap-ring pliers, service manuals, repair order forms, DOT 4 fluid, HEPA vacuum or wet-method washer | Completed repair order with all measurements recorded; bench-bled master cylinder shows no external leaks after installation; pedal travels to within specification on first and third application; instructor observes proper torque sequence—student must pass a 10-point practical checklist at 90% (9/10 items correct) and receive no safety violations. |
| 4 | Drum Brakes: Inspection, Service, and Adjustment | 22 | lab | Students measure drum diameter and shoe lining thickness, machine drums to specification on a bench lathe, replace shoes and hardware, and adjust brake self-adjusters to achieve correct shoe-to-drum clearance. |
| Training vehicles, drum brake lathe with cutting bits and guards, inside brake drum micrometer, drum gauge, dial indicator, HEPA wet/dry vacuum, shoe spring pliers, hold-down tool, star-wheel adjuster tool, brake hardware kits (assorted), Vernier calipers, torque wrench, photographic reference cards, repair order forms, service manuals | Machined drum diameter is within OEM specification and above discard limit (verified by instructor micrometer reading); completed vehicle shows equal drag on both rear wheels with no pull; repair order measurements recorded to 0.001 in. accuracy—practical scored on a 15-point rubric, minimum 13/15 to pass. |
| 5 | Disc Brakes: Calipers, Pads, and Rotors | 24 | lab | Students measure rotor thickness variation and lateral runout, machine or replace rotors using a bench lathe or on-car lathe, compress or wind caliper pistons correctly, and install pads with correct hardware lubrication to manufacturer specification. |
| Training vehicles (front disc), bench brake lathe, on-car brake lathe with hub adapters, dial indicator with magnetic base, outside micrometer, torque wrench, caliper piston wind-back tool set, caliper slide pin brush, approved brake lubricant (ceramic or synthetic—never petroleum grease on slide surfaces), pad hardware kits, brake cleaner (low-VOC), safety glasses, nitrile gloves, service manuals, repair order forms | Post-service rotor thickness and runout measurements are within OEM specification (instructor spot-checks with dial indicator); caliper bolts torqued to spec confirmed with click-type torque wrench; vehicle demonstrates firm pedal after pump-up and straight stop in a controlled test—15-point practical rubric, minimum 13/15 to pass. |
| 6 | Power Brake Boosters: Vacuum and Hydraulic Assist | 16 | demo | Students test vacuum booster function using a vacuum gauge and hand-operated vacuum pump, identify hydro-boost system components, and diagnose and replace a failed booster while confirming correct pushrod length. |
| Training vehicles (vacuum booster and at least one hydro-boost vehicle if available), vacuum gauge, hand vacuum pump with gauge, feeler gauge set, depth micrometer, booster replacement unit, torque wrench, service manuals, hydro-boost system diagram poster, repair order forms | Student correctly interprets hold-test results on two scenarios (one pass, one fail) and selects the correct failed component—must achieve 100% on scenario identification; replacement booster passes functional hold test and shows firm pedal with engine running; all pushrod measurements recorded on repair order. |
| 7 | Brake Bleeding and Hydraulic System Pressure Testing | 18 | lab | Students bleed a complete brake system using four methods—manual two-person, gravity, vacuum, and pressure—selecting the correct sequence for the vehicle and confirming system integrity with a pressure hold test. |
| Brake bleeding simulators (bench-top, 4 units), manual bleeder hose and catch bottle, gravity bleed tubes, vacuum bleeder pump, pressure bleeder kit (universal adapter set), calibrated hydraulic pressure gauge, fluid collection vials, DOT 4 brake fluid (bulk), training vehicles, ALLDATA or Mitchell1 subscription terminals, repair order forms | Bled vehicle shows clear, air-bubble-free fluid at all four corners (instructor inspects vials); pressure hold test shows zero pressure drop over 30 seconds with no seepage; bleeding sequence selected matches service manual—practical scored pass/fail: all three criteria must be met. |
| 8 | Parking Brake Systems: Cables, Levers, and Caliper-Integrated Designs | 14 | lab | Students inspect, adjust, and repair cable-operated parking brake systems and describe the operation of caliper-integrated electric parking brake (EPB) mechanisms, using a scan tool to retract EPB pistons before service. |
| Training vehicles (cable-operated and EPB-equipped), parking brake adjustment tools, drum gauge, inside micrometer, professional scan tool with EPB function, cable inspection mirror, torque wrench, repair order forms, service manuals (factory or ALLDATA/Mitchell1) | Cable-type parking brake holds the vehicle on a graded surface (minimum 20% grade per service manual test) at the specified number of clicks; EPB piston retracted successfully and initialization completed without stored DTCs—instructor verifies with scan tool live data; repair order complete with measurements. |
| 9 | Antilock Brake Systems (ABS): Theory, Components, and Circuit Diagnosis | 22 | theory | Students explain ABS hydraulic and electronic operation, identify wheel speed sensor, reluctor ring, hydraulic control unit (HCU), and electronic control module components, and trace ABS electrical circuits using wiring diagrams to locate opens, shorts, and high-resistance faults. |
| ABS system cutaway display, four-channel ABS schematic posters, digital multimeters (1 per student pair), dual-trace oscilloscope or graphing multimeter, bench ABS sensor fixture with passive and active sensors, bench power supply, printed wiring diagrams (two vehicle makes), pinout spec sheets, ALLDATA or Mitchell1 terminals, Halderman textbook ABS chapter, guided notes worksheet | Students correctly classify all bench-test sensor readings (resistance and waveform) and identify all three wiring diagram faults with correct location and fault type—must achieve 80% (12/15 items) on a combined written diagram-trace and sensor-interpretation quiz. |
| 10 | ABS, Traction Control, and Electronic Stability Control: Scan Tool Diagnosis and Repair | 24 | lab | Students retrieve and interpret ABS/TCS/ESC diagnostic trouble codes using a professional scan tool, perform pinpoint tests following service manual decision trees, and complete repairs including wheel speed sensor replacement and HCU bleeding. |
| Training vehicles (minimum three, with ABS faults pre-staged by instructor using resistors or unplugged connectors), professional scan tool with ABS live data and automated bleed function (e.g., Autel MaxiSys or equivalent), digital multimeter, feeler gauge set, torque wrench, wheel speed sensor replacement units, Mitchell1 or ALLDATA subscription terminals, repair order forms | Student correctly identifies and documents root cause of each pre-staged fault on repair order; replaced sensor produces a matching wheel speed signal (verified in live data at 20 mph equivalent); HCU bleed produces a firm pedal and no stored DTCs after clear—15-point practical rubric, minimum 13/15 to pass; any missed safety step (PPE violation, vehicle unsecured) results in automatic fail and repeat. |
| 11 | Complete Brake Inspection and Safety Evaluation | 20 | practice | Students conduct a full brake system safety inspection following a standardized multi-point inspection (MPI) checklist, prioritize findings by severity, and prepare a customer-ready written estimate with recommended services ranked by safety urgency. |
| Shop training vehicles (varied condition, some with staged defects), program 22-point brake MPI checklist, dial indicator, outside micrometer, drum gauge, brake fluid test strips, UV dye light for fluid leak detection, scenario worksheet set, blank repair order forms, parts price reference (instructor-provided flat-rate guide or Mitchell1 estimating module) | MPI checklist is complete with all 22 items measured or observed and recorded; all measurements are within 0.002 in. of instructor reference measurement; priority classifications match instructor key on 4 of 5 scenarios; estimate includes all necessary operations—scored on a 20-point rubric, minimum 16/20 to pass. |
| 12 | Integrated Brake System Troubleshooting and Repair Simulation | 20 | lab | Students independently diagnose and repair a multi-system brake fault scenario combining hydraulic, friction, and electronic subsystems on a single vehicle, completing a full professional repair order from write-up to road-test verification. |
| Training vehicles with multi-system faults pre-staged (each vehicle pre-documented by instructor), complete brake tool sets, professional scan tool, digital multimeter, service manuals (ALLDATA or Mitchell1), professional repair order forms, post-repair verification checklist, instructor observation rubric, full PPE (safety glasses, nitrile gloves, steel-toe footwear) | All pre-staged faults correctly identified and documented before repair begins; all repairs meet OEM specification (instructor spot-checks three critical measurements); road-test verification form completed and vehicle passes QC reinspection with no remaining faults; diagnostic and repair order scored on a 25-point integrated rubric—minimum 20/25 to pass; any safety violation results in immediate stop and mandatory safety review before continuation. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brake Systems Written Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (minimum 38 of 50 questions) | A 50-question closed-book exam covering hydraulic principles, brake fluid ratings and compatibility, component identification and function, drum and disc service specifications, ABS/TCS/ESC theory, and OSHA brake-dust and chemical safety requirements—mapped directly to ASE A5 Brakes task list knowledge items. Questions are drawn from all 12 lessons and include multiple-choice and short-answer interpretation of a brake circuit wiring diagram. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Practical Skills Demonstration: Full Disc and Drum Brake Service | Skills demonstration | 45% | Pass requires 90% on the 30-point rubric (minimum 27/30) with zero safety violations | The student performs a complete four-wheel brake service on a designated training vehicle under timed conditions (instructor specifies time limit per industry flat-rate standard): inspect, measure, machine or replace rotors and drums, replace pads and shoes with correct hardware and lubrication, service calipers, bleed the system, and verify pedal feel. Graded on measurement accuracy, torque compliance, correct sequencing, documentation, and safe work practices throughout. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log and Repair Order Portfolio | Log | 15% | Pass requires all 12 lesson lab entries submitted and graded, average score of 80% across the portfolio, with no missing safety or measurement entries | Students maintain a cumulative lab log containing one completed professional repair order per lab-based lesson, including all measured values, parts decisions with cited specifications, labor operations performed, and a technician certification signature. Each repair order is graded on completeness, measurement accuracy, correct use of trade terminology, and adherence to documentation standards that parallel ASE and shop management system expectations. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Brake Safety and Hazardous Materials Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | Pass requires 100% compliance on all eight safety checkpoint items; any single failure results in mandatory remediation and recheck before student progresses | A direct observation checklist administered by the instructor at the start of Lesson 4 (first unsupervised lab) verifying that the student can independently: select and don correct PPE for brake dust exposure, set up and confirm operation of HEPA vacuum or wet-method washer before disturbing brake components, secure the vehicle on jack stands before working underneath, identify the correct fire extinguisher class for the shop, state the location of the SDS for brake fluid and brake cleaner, and demonstrate LOTO procedure for the vehicle lift. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-04 Trade course
Steering and Suspension Systems
230 hr · $3,310 COMPLIMENTARY
This course covers the theory, diagnosis, service, and repair of front and rear suspension systems, steering systems, wheel alignment, and tire service on domestic and import vehicles. Students perform hands-on lab work using industry-standard tools and alignment equipment, applying safety practices throughout. Lesson content maps directly to ASE A4 (Steering and Suspension) exam task list areas.
Outcomes- Diagnose and repair front and rear suspension components including control arms, ball joints, struts, shocks, springs, and wheel bearings to manufacturer specifications.
- Diagnose and repair rack-and-pinion and recirculating-ball steering systems, including power-assisted and electric power steering units.
- Perform four-wheel alignment, measuring and adjusting camber, caster, toe, and thrust angle using computerized alignment equipment.
- Inspect, balance, rotate, and replace tires, interpreting wear patterns to identify underlying suspension or alignment faults.
- Follow OSHA lockout/tagout procedures, proper PPE use, and safe vehicle lifting and support practices for all steering and suspension service tasks.
- Document inspection findings, repair orders, and alignment printouts accurately using shop management software, consistent with ASE A4 task list requirements.
Course text
This course covers the theory, diagnosis, service, and repair of front and rear suspension systems, steering systems, wheel alignment, and tire service on domestic and import vehicles. Students perform hands-on lab work using industry-standard tools and alignment equipment, applying safety practices throughout. Lesson content maps directly to ASE A4 (Steering and Suspension) exam task list areas.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Shop Safety, Vehicle Lifting, and OSHA Standards for Suspension Work; Suspension System Theory: Components, Types, and Load Paths; Ball Joints, Control Arms, and Bushings: Inspection and Replacement; Struts and Shock Absorbers: Diagnosis, Disassembly, and Reassembly; Wheel Bearings and Hubs: Diagnosis and Service; Steering System Theory: Manual, Hydraulic Power, and Electric Power Steering; Steering Component Inspection and Replacement: Tie Rods, Linkage, and Gear; Power Steering Service: Fluid, Pump, Hoses, and Electric Assist Calibration; Wheel Alignment Theory: Angles, Specifications, and Effects on Tire Wear; Four-Wheel Computerized Alignment: Setup, Measurement, and Adjustment; Tire Service: Inspection, Mounting, Balancing, and Rotation; Integrated Diagnostic Case Studies: Steering and Suspension Complaints.
What competent looks like. Diagnose and repair front and rear suspension components including control arms, ball joints, struts, shocks, springs, and wheel bearings to manufacturer specifications. Diagnose and repair rack-and-pinion and recirculating-ball steering systems, including power-assisted and electric power steering units. Perform four-wheel alignment, measuring and adjusting camber, caster, toe, and thrust angle using computerized alignment equipment. Inspect, balance, rotate, and replace tires, interpreting wear patterns to identify underlying suspension or alignment faults. Follow OSHA lockout/tagout procedures, proper PPE use, and safe vehicle lifting and support practices for all steering and suspension service tasks. Document inspection findings, repair orders, and alignment printouts accurately using shop management software, consistent with ASE A4 task list requirements.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shop Safety, Vehicle Lifting, and OSHA Standards for Suspension Work | 14 | theory | Students will identify OSHA general industry hazards specific to suspension service and correctly demonstrate vehicle hoisting, jack-stand placement, and PPE selection before touching any component. |
| Two-post and four-post lifts, floor jacks, jack stands, vehicle-specific lift-point charts, PPE inventory (nitrile gloves, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, hearing protection), OSHA 10 student guide, shop safety poster set | Instructor checklist: student must score 100% on PPE selection drill and demonstrate all six lift/support steps correctly without prompting; any missed step requires full repeat before lab access is granted. |
| 2 | Suspension System Theory: Components, Types, and Load Paths | 16 | theory | Students will correctly classify independent (MacPherson strut, double-wishbone, multi-link) and dependent (solid axle, twist-beam) suspension designs and trace how road loads transfer through each system to the chassis. |
| Classroom projector, OEM service manuals (print and electronic), Mitchell 1 or ALLDATA terminal, labeled component display board, suspension geometry wall chart, ASE A4 task list handout | 20-question identification quiz: passing score 75% or higher; students scoring below 75% receive targeted review and a retake before proceeding. |
| 3 | Ball Joints, Control Arms, and Bushings: Inspection and Replacement | 22 | lab | Students will perform a complete load-bearing and follower ball-joint inspection using the manufacturer's specified procedure and dial indicator method, and replace one worn ball joint and control arm bushing to specification on a shop vehicle. |
| Dial indicators and magnetic bases, hydraulic shop press with bushing adapter set, torque wrenches (beam and click type), ball-joint separator tools, pry bars, OEM specifications sheets, blank repair order forms, replacement ball joints and bushings (assorted) | Instructor evaluates completed repair order for correct measurements and decision, and inspects finished replacement: bushing depth within 1 mm of specification and all torque values documented; both must pass for credit. |
| 4 | Struts and Shock Absorbers: Diagnosis, Disassembly, and Reassembly | 20 | lab | Students will diagnose strut and shock absorber condition using visual inspection, bounce test, and road-force ball-park assessment, then safely disassemble a MacPherson strut assembly using a spring compressor and reassemble it with a new insert to specification. |
| Coil spring compressors (internal and external types), impact wrenches, strut nut sockets, torque wrenches, replacement strut inserts and mounts, shop press, safety glasses and face shields, OEM torque specifications, shop management software terminal | Instructor spot-checks spring compressor setup for equal thread engagement and safety locks before any spring is compressed; final reassembly is inspected for correct mount orientation and documented torque values — any unsafe setup stops the activity immediately and requires full repeat. |
| 5 | Wheel Bearings and Hubs: Diagnosis and Service | 18 | lab | Students will diagnose wheel bearing wear by noise, play, and temperature methods, and replace both a unitized hub-and-bearing assembly and a tapered roller bearing set to manufacturer specifications. |
| Dial indicators, stethoscope, infrared thermometer, hub pullers, axle nut sockets, impact wrench, torque wrench, bearing packer tool, wheel bearing grease (NLGI Grade 2 or per OEM spec), unitized bearing assemblies, tapered roller bearing sets, cotter pins, OEM service manuals | Completed repair order with dial indicator measurements and pass/fail decision reviewed by instructor; installed bearing assembly must show zero detectable play at the wheel rim and correct torque documented — pass requires both conditions met. |
| 6 | Steering System Theory: Manual, Hydraulic Power, and Electric Power Steering | 14 | theory | Students will explain the operating principles of rack-and-pinion and recirculating-ball steering gears, compare hydraulic power-assist and electric power-assist systems, and identify the function of each major component using OEM diagrams. |
| Bench-mounted rack-and-pinion display unit, hydraulic system flow diagram poster, ALLDATA or Mitchell 1 terminals, EPS wiring and component diagram set, whiteboard, comparison chart worksheets | Completion of comparison chart reviewed for accuracy by instructor; oral questioning during disassembly activity — student must correctly name and describe the function of at least 8 of 10 designated components to proceed. |
| 7 | Steering Component Inspection and Replacement: Tie Rods, Linkage, and Gear | 22 | lab | Students will perform a complete steering linkage inspection, measure inner and outer tie-rod end play to specification, replace a worn tie-rod end, and adjust the rack preload or steering gear lash within OEM limits. |
| Dial indicators, pry bars, tie-rod end puller, open-end and crow's-foot wrenches, torque wrench, spring scale, thread-count clip or paint marker, replacement outer tie-rod ends, OEM service manuals, blank repair order forms | Instructor reviews repair order for accurate measurements and correct replacement procedure; installed tie-rod end must have correct thread engagement count within ±1 thread of original, and all jam nuts torqued to spec — documented on repair order to pass. |
| 8 | Power Steering Service: Fluid, Pump, Hoses, and Electric Assist Calibration | 16 | lab | Students will flush and refill a hydraulic power steering system, test pump pressure with a power steering analyzer, inspect and replace a high-pressure hose, and perform an EPS steering angle sensor reset procedure using a scan tool. |
| Power steering pressure/flow analyzer, turkey baster, drain pans, power steering fluid (correct OEM type), high-pressure hose replacement and fittings, professional scan tool (bidirectional capable), shop towels, OEM service manuals, repair order forms | Pressure test readings recorded and compared to specification on the repair order; SAS reset confirmed with scan tool showing no related DTCs after procedure — instructor reviews both documents and requires values within specification to pass. |
| 9 | Wheel Alignment Theory: Angles, Specifications, and Effects on Tire Wear | 14 | theory | Students will define camber, caster, toe, thrust angle, and setback, explain how each angle affects handling and tire wear, and read a pre-alignment specification printout to identify which angles are out of range. |
| Alignment angle diagram handouts, alignment geometry animation software or video, sample computerized alignment printouts (at least three different vehicles), tire wear pattern chart poster, ASE A4 task list reference | Written scenario worksheet: students must correctly identify the out-of-spec angle and likely tire wear consequence for at least 4 of 5 scenarios to pass; graded by instructor before proceeding to alignment lab. |
| 10 | Four-Wheel Computerized Alignment: Setup, Measurement, and Adjustment | 30 | lab | Students will perform a complete four-wheel computerized wheel alignment on an assigned vehicle, measuring all primary angles, identifying adjustable and non-adjustable components, and making all manufacturer-approved adjustments to bring the vehicle within specification. |
| Four-wheel computerized alignment system (Hunter, Snap-on, or equivalent) with calibrated heads, alignment rack or drive-on lift, eccentric and cam bolt adjustment sets, alignment shim kit, torque wrench, ride-height measuring tape, OEM alignment specifications in shop software, alignment report printer | Final alignment printout must show all primary angles within OEM specification (green on the printout); instructor reviews printout and vehicle for any loosened fasteners left un-torqued — both conditions must be met to pass. |
| 11 | Tire Service: Inspection, Mounting, Balancing, and Rotation | 22 | lab | Students will demount and mount a tire using a tire changer, perform static and dynamic balance using a computer wheel balancer, correctly identify four tire wear patterns and their causes, and execute a five-tire rotation pattern to OEM specification. |
| Tire changer machine, computer wheel balancer, clip-on and adhesive wheel weights, tire lubricant (bead lube), calibrated tire pressure gauge, tread depth gauge, replacement valve stems, torque wrench and lug nut socket set, OEM tire rotation diagrams, tire inspection worksheet | Instructor observes bead drop and tire-changer operation for safety compliance throughout; final balance reading must be within 0.25 oz on the balancer display; tread depth measurements and wear classification reviewed on worksheet — all three items must pass for lab credit. |
| 12 | Integrated Diagnostic Case Studies: Steering and Suspension Complaints | 22 | practice | Students will apply a structured diagnostic process to three vehicle complaint scenarios involving steering and suspension faults — including a vibration, a pull, and a noise complaint — and produce a complete written diagnostic report with a confirmed root cause and repair recommendation for each. |
| Shop vehicles with seeded faults (vibration, pull, noise — at least one per student pair), professional scan tool, OEM service information terminals, repair order forms (three-C format), alignment pre-check checklist, parts catalog for repair estimates | Instructor evaluates each repair order for correct three-C documentation and verifiable root cause; oral defense must demonstrate logical diagnostic reasoning — student must correctly identify root cause and justify the recommended repair for at least 2 of 3 cases to pass this lesson; all three must be completed before the final skills demo assessment. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steering and Suspension Written Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% or higher (minimum 38 of 50 questions correct) | A 50-question multiple-choice exam covering suspension component identification and theory, steering system types and operation, alignment angle definitions and effects, tire wear interpretation, and fluid/lubricant specifications, mapped directly to ASA A4 exam task list areas. Questions are written in ASE exam style with four answer choices and a single best answer. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Four-Wheel Alignment and Component Replacement Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All critical steps completed correctly; alignment printout shows all primary angles within OEM specification; no safety violations | Students are assigned a vehicle with at least one out-of-spec alignment angle and one worn steering or suspension component (tie-rod end, ball joint, or wheel bearing) and must complete a full four-wheel computerized alignment and the component replacement within a timed session. The instructor evaluates the student using a task-by-task checklist, and any skipped safety step (such as failure to torque a component to specification) results in an immediate unsatisfactory rating for that task requiring a full repeat. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log and Repair Order Portfolio | Log | 15% | All 12 lesson labs documented; at least 10 of 12 repair orders rated complete and accurate by instructor | Students maintain a cumulative lab log containing a completed repair order or lab worksheet for every hands-on lesson, including pre- and post-measurements, parts used, torque values recorded, and a technician signature. The portfolio is reviewed at the end of the course for completeness, measurement accuracy, and professional documentation quality consistent with shop management system standards. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Safety and Hazard Recognition Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% score required; any critical safety failure (missed PPE, unsafe lift practice, improper spring compressor use) requires immediate remediation and full recheck | A practical safety audit conducted by the instructor at the start of the skills demonstration session: the student is observed selecting PPE, lifting and supporting the vehicle correctly, and setting up the spring compressor safely before any repair work begins. This checkpoint is non-negotiable — students who do not achieve 100% compliance are removed from the lab until remediation is complete and must pass the safety check before the skills demonstration clock starts. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-05 Trade course
Automotive Electrical Systems
230 hr · $3,310 COMPLIMENTARY
Students develop hands-on competency in diagnosing, testing, and repairing automotive electrical and electronic systems covering circuits, batteries, starting, charging, lighting, accessories, and body electronics. Instruction is grounded in Ohm's Law and circuit theory, progressing to oscilloscope-level diagnostics and CAN bus fundamentals. Lesson content is mapped to ASE A6 (Electrical/Electronic Systems) and supporting areas of ASE A1, A4, and EV L3 where electrical overlap applies.
Outcomes- Apply Ohm's Law and series-parallel circuit theory to calculate expected voltage, current, and resistance values in automotive circuits and verify measurements with a digital multimeter.
- Perform a full battery state-of-health and load test, a starter current-draw test, and a charging-system output test, and correctly interpret results against manufacturer specifications.
- Use a digital multimeter, test light, and lab-scope/oscilloscope to locate opens, shorts, high-resistance faults, and sensor signal faults in lighting, accessory, and body-control circuits using wiring diagrams.
- Inspect, diagnose, and repair body-electronic systems including power windows, locks, mirrors, horn, wipers, and supplemental restraint system (SRS) components following OEM precautions and OSHA lockout/tagout procedures.
- Retrieve and interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data from a scan tool on a vehicle with electrical faults, formulate a root-cause diagnosis, and document findings in a professional repair order.
- Describe the high-voltage safety boundaries and interlock systems of hybrid and battery-electric vehicles relevant to low-voltage electrical work, and identify when to escalate to an HV-qualified technician.
Course text
Students develop hands-on competency in diagnosing, testing, and repairing automotive electrical and electronic systems covering circuits, batteries, starting, charging, lighting, accessories, and body electronics. Instruction is grounded in Ohm's Law and circuit theory, progressing to oscilloscope-level diagnostics and CAN bus fundamentals. Lesson content is mapped to ASE A6 (Electrical/Electronic Systems) and supporting areas of ASE A1, A4, and EV L3 where electrical overlap applies.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: Electrical Safety, Shop Hazards, and OSHA Practices; Electrical Theory: Voltage, Current, Resistance, and Ohm's Law; Test Equipment: Digital Multimeter, Test Light, and Lab Scope Fundamentals; Wiring Diagrams, Schematics, and Circuit Tracing; Battery Testing, Service, and Replacement; Starting System: Components, Testing, and Diagnosis; Charging System: Alternator Testing and Diagnosis; Lighting Systems: Headlights, Signals, and Exterior Lamps; Body Electronics: Power Accessories, Wipers, and Horn; Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS): Airbags and Seatbelt Pretensioners; Network Communication: CAN Bus and Module Communication Basics; Integrated Electrical Diagnosis: Multi-System Fault Scenarios.
What competent looks like. Apply Ohm's Law and series-parallel circuit theory to calculate expected voltage, current, and resistance values in automotive circuits and verify measurements with a digital multimeter. Perform a full battery state-of-health and load test, a starter current-draw test, and a charging-system output test, and correctly interpret results against manufacturer specifications. Use a digital multimeter, test light, and lab-scope/oscilloscope to locate opens, shorts, high-resistance faults, and sensor signal faults in lighting, accessory, and body-control circuits using wiring diagrams. Inspect, diagnose, and repair body-electronic systems including power windows, locks, mirrors, horn, wipers, and supplemental restraint system (SRS) components following OEM precautions and OSHA lockout/tagout procedures. Retrieve and interpret diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data from a scan tool on a vehicle with electrical faults, formulate a root-cause diagnosis, and document findings in a professional repair order. Describe the high-voltage safety boundaries and interlock systems of hybrid and battery-electric vehicles relevant to low-voltage electrical work, and identify when to escalate to an HV-qualified technician.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Electrical Safety, Shop Hazards, and OSHA Practices | 12 | theory | Students will identify electrical hazards in the automotive shop, apply OSHA lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures to de-energize a vehicle, and select the correct PPE for each electrical task. |
| OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S reference handout, shop LOTO station with locks and tags, safety glasses, insulated gloves (Class 00 rated), fire extinguisher (Class C), shop vehicles, first-aid/CPR reference card | Students score 80% or higher on a 20-question written safety quiz covering LOTO steps, PPE selection, and hazard identification; LOTO practical is evaluated with a pass/fail checklist requiring all 6 procedural steps completed correctly. |
| 2 | Electrical Theory: Voltage, Current, Resistance, and Ohm's Law | 16 | theory | Students will apply Ohm's Law and Watt's Law to calculate unknown values in series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits and predict how faults change those values. |
| Whiteboard, circuit calculation worksheet, DC circuit trainer boards, digital multimeters (Fluke 115 or equivalent), resistor kits, wire jumpers, automotive wiring diagram excerpts (OEM or Mitchell 1 prints) | Students solve an in-class 10-problem circuit calculation quiz with 80% accuracy; trainer-board readings must match calculated values within ±5%. |
| 3 | Test Equipment: Digital Multimeter, Test Light, and Lab Scope Fundamentals | 18 | demo | Students will correctly set up and use a digital multimeter (DMM), non-powered test light, and entry-level oscilloscope/lab scope to measure DC voltage, AC voltage, resistance, continuity, and frequency on automotive circuits. |
| Fluke 115 DMMs (class set), Pico PicoScope 2-channel or equivalent lab scope with automotive leads, non-powered test light, running shop vehicles, bench fuse panels, connector breakout kit, OEM sensor specifications sheet | Students demonstrate five specified DMM functions to instructor satisfaction (pass/fail checklist); lab-scope waveform sketch is scored against an answer key—students must correctly label amplitude, time base, and signal type on both waveforms. |
| 4 | Wiring Diagrams, Schematics, and Circuit Tracing | 18 | theory | Students will read an OEM or aftermarket wiring diagram to trace current flow from power source through load to ground, identify all components and connectors in that circuit, and locate the physical component on a shop vehicle. |
| Mitchell 1 or AllData subscription (shop workstations), printed wiring diagram packets, highlighters (three colors), shop vehicles matching diagram packages, connector location guides, flashlights | Students correctly trace an unseen two-page wiring diagram on a written exercise, achieving 80% accuracy on component identification; physical-trace exercise is evaluated pass/fail by instructor confirming all major components located on the vehicle. |
| 5 | Battery Testing, Service, and Replacement | 20 | lab | Students will perform a complete battery inspection, open-circuit voltage test, load test or conductance test, and battery replacement procedure to manufacturer specifications, documenting results on a professional repair order. |
| Midtronics MDX-series conductance tester, carbon-pile load tester, DMM, battery terminal cleaner/wire brush, battery strap, torque wrench, insulated gloves, shop vehicles, blank repair order forms, OEM battery specifications | Completed repair order is graded on accuracy of recorded values, correct pass/fail call against spec, and documentation quality (pass = all fields complete, values within ±0.1 V of instructor re-check); replacement procedure evaluated pass/fail with checklist. |
| 6 | Starting System: Components, Testing, and Diagnosis | 20 | lab | Students will perform a starter current-draw test, voltage-drop test on starter circuit cables and connections, and bench-test a starter motor to diagnose no-crank and slow-crank conditions. |
| Inductive amp clamp (Fluke i410 or equivalent), DMM, remote start switch, battery jumper box, starter disassembly set (direct-drive and gear-reduction), shop vehicles, Mitchell 1 specs, repair order forms | Current-draw and voltage-drop test values recorded on repair order must be within ±5 A and ±0.05 V of instructor's verified readings; written diagnostic recommendation is scored pass/fail against answer key for that vehicle's known fault. |
| 7 | Charging System: Alternator Testing and Diagnosis | 20 | lab | Students will test alternator output voltage, regulated voltage, and AC ripple, interpret results against specifications, and diagnose overcharge, undercharge, and diode-failure conditions. |
| DMM, inductive amp clamp, carbon-pile load tester, lab-scope (for AC ripple waveform capture), shop vehicles with pre-set faults, Mitchell 1 workstations, repair order forms | Regulated voltage and ripple values on repair orders must be within ±0.2 V of instructor's re-check; students must correctly identify all three pre-set faults to pass the fault-introduction exercise (pass = 3/3 correct root-cause calls). |
| 8 | Lighting Systems: Headlights, Signals, and Exterior Lamps | 18 | lab | Students will diagnose and repair inoperative, dim, or flickering exterior lighting circuits—including halogen, HID, and LED types—using wiring diagrams, voltage-drop testing, and component substitution. |
| Shop vehicles and/or commercial lighting circuit training boards, DMM, test light, wiring diagrams (Mitchell 1), halogen/HID/LED sample assemblies, replacement bulbs and fuses, repair order forms, insulated gloves for HID work | Students must correctly identify fault cause using circuit testing (not parts-swapping) in under 30 minutes and achieve a fully operational lighting circuit verified by instructor; repair order must document all three fields (cause, correction, verification) to pass. |
| 9 | Body Electronics: Power Accessories, Wipers, and Horn | 18 | lab | Students will diagnose inoperative or erratic power windows, power door locks, mirrors, horn, and wiper systems using wiring diagrams, scan-tool live data, and voltage/resistance measurements. |
| Shop vehicles with BCM-controlled accessories, DMM, wiring diagrams, Autel MaxiSys or equivalent scan tool, connector breakout kit, relay puller, repair order forms | Students submit a completed repair order with correct root-cause identification (scored against instructor answer key); fault must be isolated by circuit testing before any component is replaced—instructor verifies via student's recorded voltage/resistance readings. |
| 10 | Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS): Airbags and Seatbelt Pretensioners | 18 | theory | Students will describe SRS component functions and deployment physics, retrieve and interpret SRS DTCs with a scan tool, and follow OEM disabling procedures to safely perform work near SRS components without triggering deployment. |
| OEM SRS service manuals (printed excerpts), Autel MaxiSys scan tool, shop vehicles with SRS DTCs, OEM disabling procedure cards, insulated gloves, written case-study packets | Students score 80% or higher on a 15-question written SRS safety and procedure quiz; scan-tool DTC exercise is evaluated pass/fail—students must correctly record code number, description, and initial diagnostic step for each code retrieved. |
| 11 | Network Communication: CAN Bus and Module Communication Basics | 18 | theory | Students will describe how a CAN bus network allows modules to share data, retrieve and interpret U-code (network communication) DTCs with a scan tool, and measure CAN bus bias voltage and resistance to identify a wiring fault. |
| CAN bus network training board or shop vehicles, DMM, Autel MaxiSys scan tool, OEM network topology diagrams (Mitchell 1 or AllData prints), wiring diagrams, written reference card for CAN nominal values | Students correctly answer an 8-question written CAN theory quiz with 80% accuracy; DMM measurement results recorded on a data sheet must be within ±0.2 V of reference for bias voltages and ±5 Ω for terminating resistance to pass. |
| 12 | Integrated Electrical Diagnosis: Multi-System Fault Scenarios | 34 | practice | Students will apply systematic diagnostic strategy—symptom verification, DTC retrieval, wiring diagram tracing, circuit testing, root-cause identification, and repair verification—to resolve unseen electrical faults across battery, starting, charging, lighting, body electronics, and network circuits within a professional repair-order format. |
| Shop vehicles with instructor-planted multi-system faults, full tool kit (DMM, lab scope, scan tool, test light, wiring diagram access via Mitchell 1), connector repair kit (solder, heat-shrink, OEM terminal kit), repair order forms, PPE | Repair order is graded on a rubric (diagnostic narrative, correctness of root-cause identification, quality of repair, and verification documentation); passing standard is 75% of rubric points, with all safety steps documented and no unresolved DTCs on final scan. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical Systems Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 75% (38/50 questions correct) | A 50-question multiple-choice written exam drawn from ASE A6 task-list content areas—circuit theory, battery/starting/charging diagnosis, wiring diagram interpretation, lighting, body electronics, SRS precautions, and CAN bus fundamentals—mirroring the style and difficulty of ASE certification questions. Students must achieve 75% to pass; those below may retest once after targeted remediation. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Electrical Diagnosis Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Pass/fail: all critical steps completed correctly within the time limit | Each student receives a shop vehicle with one unknown planted electrical fault and must complete the full diagnostic process—symptom verification, DTC retrieval, wiring diagram trace, circuit measurements, root-cause statement, and repair—within 90 minutes, documenting every step on a repair order. The fault must be correctly identified and repaired, and all recorded measurements must align with actual circuit values to receive a pass. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Electrical Lab Log | Log | 15% | 80% of log entries graded as complete and accurate; no entries with missing safety documentation | Students maintain a cumulative lab log throughout the course recording data sheets, repair orders, and circuit diagrams from all lab and practice lessons; entries must include measured values, comparison to spec, pass/fail calls, and safety precautions observed. The log is collected and graded at the end of the course for completeness, accuracy of recorded values, and quality of diagnostic reasoning. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Electrical Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | Pass/fail: 100% of critical safety steps correct; any critical failure requires immediate retest | A structured practical safety evaluation conducted by the instructor at the start of the integrated diagnosis lesson: students must correctly perform LOTO battery disconnect, don appropriate PPE, verbally state the SRS disable procedure, and demonstrate correct HID lighting precautions before being cleared to work on shop vehicles. Any missed critical safety item (failure to disconnect negative first, failure to verify lock before work, incorrect PPE for stated task) results in a fail and mandatory remediation before lab access is granted. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-06 Trade course
Automotive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)
229 hr · $3,300 COMPLIMENTARY
This course covers the theory, diagnosis, and service of automotive HVAC systems, including refrigerant handling, heating and cooling components, automatic climate control, and system performance testing. Students develop hands-on skills in safe refrigerant recovery, evacuation, and recharge using industry-standard equipment while tracing faults with scan tools and pressure analysis. Lessons map directly to ASE A7 (Heating and Air Conditioning) exam content and reinforce electrical diagnostic skills relevant to ASE A6 and EV L3.
Outcomes- Explain the refrigeration cycle and identify the function of each major HVAC component, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion device, and accumulator/receiver-drier.
- Safely handle and recycle refrigerant in compliance with EPA Section 608 regulations, using certified recovery/recycling/recharge equipment, achieving at least 95% recovery efficiency.
- Diagnose HVAC system faults using manifold gauge sets, scan tools, and temperature measurement, tracing root causes in refrigerant, electrical, and air-distribution subsystems.
- Perform hands-on service including compressor clutch replacement, orifice tube or expansion valve replacement, cabin air filter service, and proper system evacuation and recharge to manufacturer specifications.
- Inspect, test, and service heater system components including the heater core, blend doors, coolant control valves, and blower motor circuits using wiring diagrams and a digital multimeter.
- Apply lockout/tagout procedures and correct PPE for HVAC work, including refrigerant-rated gloves and eye protection, and state proper first-aid response to refrigerant exposure.
Course text
This course covers the theory, diagnosis, and service of automotive HVAC systems, including refrigerant handling, heating and cooling components, automatic climate control, and system performance testing. Students develop hands-on skills in safe refrigerant recovery, evacuation, and recharge using industry-standard equipment while tracing faults with scan tools and pressure analysis. Lessons map directly to ASE A7 (Heating and Air Conditioning) exam content and reinforce electrical diagnostic skills relevant to ASE A6 and EV L3.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: HVAC System Overview and Refrigeration Cycle Theory; Refrigerant Safety, EPA Section 608, and Regulatory Compliance; Refrigerant Identification, Recovery, and Recycling; System Evacuation and Refrigerant Recharge; Compressor Types, Operation, and Clutch Service; Condenser, Evaporator, Receiver-Drier, and Expansion Device Service; Leak Detection Methods and System Performance Testing; Heater System: Coolant Flow, Heater Core, and Blend Door Operation; Blower Motor, Resistor/Control Module, and Cabin Air Filter Service; Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) and Electronic Climate Control Diagnosis; Refrigerant Handling for R-1234yf and Hybrid/EV HVAC Considerations; Integrated HVAC Diagnostic Practicum and ASE A7 Exam Review.
What competent looks like. Explain the refrigeration cycle and identify the function of each major HVAC component, including compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion device, and accumulator/receiver-drier. Safely handle and recycle refrigerant in compliance with EPA Section 608 regulations, using certified recovery/recycling/recharge equipment, achieving at least 95% recovery efficiency. Diagnose HVAC system faults using manifold gauge sets, scan tools, and temperature measurement, tracing root causes in refrigerant, electrical, and air-distribution subsystems. Perform hands-on service including compressor clutch replacement, orifice tube or expansion valve replacement, cabin air filter service, and proper system evacuation and recharge to manufacturer specifications. Inspect, test, and service heater system components including the heater core, blend doors, coolant control valves, and blower motor circuits using wiring diagrams and a digital multimeter. Apply lockout/tagout procedures and correct PPE for HVAC work, including refrigerant-rated gloves and eye protection, and state proper first-aid response to refrigerant exposure.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HVAC System Overview and Refrigeration Cycle Theory | 16 | theory | Students will describe the complete vapor-compression refrigeration cycle and correctly identify all major system components and their functions on a system diagram. |
| ASE A7 Study Guide, NATEF/AYES task list, cutaway HVAC system posters, refrigeration cycle animation software, whiteboard, guided-notes worksheets | 10-question multiple-choice quiz on component identification and cycle states; students must score 80% or higher to proceed. |
| 2 | Refrigerant Safety, EPA Section 608, and Regulatory Compliance | 14 | theory | Students will state the key requirements of EPA Section 608 for mobile air conditioning refrigerant handling, including technician certification, venting prohibitions, and recordkeeping obligations. |
| EPA Section 608 fact sheets, OSHA 10 refrigerant hazard communication module, SDS for R-134a and R-1234yf, PPE samples (gloves, goggles, face shield), eyewash station | Written safety quiz covering PPE selection, venting prohibition, first-aid steps, and regulatory requirements; 80% minimum. Safety behavior observed by instructor during role-play—checklist with go/no-go items. |
| 3 | Refrigerant Identification, Recovery, and Recycling | 20 | lab | Students will connect a refrigerant identifier and recovery/recycling/recharge (RRR) machine to a vehicle, identify the refrigerant type, and perform a complete recovery while recording weight recovered. |
| Refrigerant identifier (SAE J1771 compliant), RRR machine (SAE J2788 certified), R-134a and R-1234yf vehicles, refrigerant tracking log forms, service information system (AllData or Mitchell 1), refrigerant-rated gloves, safety goggles | Instructor-observed lab checklist: correct identifier connection, accurate refrigerant ID recorded, machine connected without cross-contamination risk, weight recovered within 5% of system capacity—all steps pass/fail; any unsafe act is an automatic fail requiring repeat. |
| 4 | System Evacuation and Refrigerant Recharge | 20 | lab | Students will evacuate an automotive HVAC system to the vacuum depth required by the service information and recharge it to the manufacturer-specified weight within ±0.25 oz. |
| RRR machine, micron gauge, manifold gauge set, refrigerant-rated hoses, digital scale, in-duct thermometer, infrared thermometer, vehicle service information, underhood refrigerant label reference, lab worksheets | Lab worksheet graded by instructor: vacuum depth achieved matches spec, hold passes, charge weight within ±0.25 oz of label, vent temperature and pressure readings documented and within expected range. 80% of rubric points required to pass. |
| 5 | Compressor Types, Operation, and Clutch Service | 20 | demo | Students will demonstrate removal and installation of a compressor clutch assembly and test clutch air gap to manufacturer specification using a feeler gauge. |
| Bench-mounted compressors (multiple types), clutch puller/installer set, feeler gauge set, shim kit, digital multimeter, DVOM leads, service information spec sheets, PPE (gloves, safety glasses) | Instructor observes and rates clutch air gap measurement technique and final gap measurement; must be within manufacturer specification on first or second attempt. Multimeter readings recorded correctly with 80% accuracy on worksheet. |
| 6 | Condenser, Evaporator, Receiver-Drier, and Expansion Device Service | 22 | lab | Students will replace an orifice tube or thermal expansion valve (TXV) and receiver-drier/accumulator on a training vehicle, using proper flushing and contamination-prevention procedures. |
| Assigned training vehicles, HVAC flush tool and solvent, orifice tube removal tool, TXV service kit, receiver-drier/accumulator units, O-ring kit, appropriate refrigerant oil (PAG or POE per application), torque wrench and back-up wrench, RRR machine, service information | Instructor inspects fittings for leaks with electronic leak detector after recharge; zero leaks required. Lab worksheet documents all steps with torque values, oil added, charge weight, and performance readings—80% rubric score required. |
| 7 | Leak Detection Methods and System Performance Testing | 18 | demo | Students will locate a seeded refrigerant leak using at least two detection methods (electronic leak detector, UV dye/light, and soap bubbles) and quantify system performance using manifold gauges and temperature measurements. |
| Electronic refrigerant leak detector (SAE J1627 rated), UV lamp, UV-dye injection kit, yellow-tinted UV goggles, manifold gauge set, in-duct thermometer, vehicles with seeded leaks, performance chart from service information, camera or phone for documentation | Student correctly identifies both leak locations (electronic and UV) without instructor prompting; performance test values documented and compared to spec on worksheet. 80% rubric score required; any unsafe refrigerant-release act is an automatic fail. |
| 8 | Heater System: Coolant Flow, Heater Core, and Blend Door Operation | 20 | lab | Students will diagnose a no-heat complaint by testing coolant flow through the heater core and verifying blend door operation, then correct the identified fault. |
| Training vehicles with induced heater faults, infrared thermometer, scan tool with HVAC PID data, heater hose pinch-off pliers, blend door actuator replacement parts, wiring diagram, service information, coolant-rated gloves, safety goggles | Instructor-observed diagnostic process: student correctly identifies root cause of no-heat fault before repair. Post-repair: vent temperature within specification documented on lab worksheet. 80% rubric score required. |
| 9 | Blower Motor, Resistor/Control Module, and Cabin Air Filter Service | 18 | lab | Students will diagnose a blower motor that operates on only one speed by testing the blower resistor or control module circuit and verifying repair with a functional test. |
| Training vehicles with seeded blower faults, digital multimeter, wiring diagrams (AllData or Mitchell 1), blower resistor and control module replacement parts, cabin air filter assortment, service information, torque screwdriver, safety glasses | Completed diagnostic tree worksheet with correct fault identification reviewed by instructor; functional test confirms all blower speeds operate. 80% rubric score required; wiring diagram must be used and annotated correctly. |
| 10 | Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) and Electronic Climate Control Diagnosis | 22 | lab | Students will retrieve and interpret HVAC-related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and live data PIDs on an automatic temperature control system, then trace the fault to a failed sensor or actuator. |
| Training vehicles with ATC systems and seeded electrical faults, professional-grade scan tool, wiring diagrams, service information, digital multimeter, HVAC sensor replacement parts, lab worksheets | Instructor reviews diagnostic worksheet: DTC documented, correct PID identified as out of range, pinpoint test measurements recorded with pass/fail determination, repair verified by DTC clear and functional test. 80% rubric score required. |
| 11 | Refrigerant Handling for R-1234yf and Hybrid/EV HVAC Considerations | 20 | theory | Students will explain the service differences between R-134a and R-1234yf systems, including dedicated equipment requirements, mild flammability precautions, and HVAC system modifications found on hybrid and battery-electric vehicles. |
| R-1234yf SAE J2843 equipment reference, R-1234yf service information examples, BEV/hybrid HVAC system diagrams, ASE EV L3 study materials, HV PPE samples (Class 0 gloves, face shield), whiteboard, structured comparison worksheets | 10-question quiz on R-1234yf properties, equipment requirements, and HV HVAC safety precautions; 80% minimum. Pre-service safety plan reviewed by instructor for completeness—all mandatory HV isolation steps must be present for a pass. |
| 12 | Integrated HVAC Diagnostic Practicum and ASE A7 Exam Review | 19 | lab | Students will complete a timed, multi-fault HVAC diagnostic sequence on an unknown vehicle, producing a written repair order that identifies all faults and required repairs, and review each ASE A7 task area. |
| Training vehicles with multi-fault setups, blank repair order forms, manifold gauge set, scan tool, digital multimeter, leak detector, ASE A7 Study Guide, ASE task list crosswalk, 40-question practice exam bank, answer key | Repair order graded by instructor: all seeded faults identified, correct cause and repair documented, professional format used—80% rubric score required. Practice exam score recorded as formative baseline for Lesson 11 Exam Prep course. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HVAC Systems Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 70% or higher (28/40 questions correct) | A 40-question multiple-choice exam covering refrigeration cycle theory, component identification, refrigerant types and regulations, system pressure and temperature relationships, heater system operation, ATC electronics, and R-1234yf/EV HVAC differences, mapped to ASE A7 task areas. Questions are drawn from course content and written at the level of difficulty of ASE certification items. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Refrigerant Recovery, Evacuation, and Recharge Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | All critical safety steps pass; overall rubric score of 80% or higher | The student performs a complete RRR sequence on an assigned vehicle—refrigerant identification, recovery with weight documented, evacuation to specification with micron gauge confirmation, and recharge to label weight within ±0.25 oz—while an instructor scores each step on a task checklist. Any unsafe act (venting refrigerant, removing hoses before recovery is complete, omitting PPE) results in an automatic fail requiring a full repeat attempt. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| HVAC Lab Log | Log | 15% | 80% of rubric points across all submitted entries; all required labs present | A portfolio of completed lab worksheets from Lessons 3 through 11, including refrigerant tracking logs, leak detection records, diagnostic trees, repair orders, and performance test data sheets. Each entry must include date, vehicle/equipment identification, measurements with units, a conclusion, and the student's signature; the instructor reviews each for accuracy, completeness, and proper documentation practice consistent with a professional repair facility. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| HVAC Safety and Regulatory Compliance Check | Safety audit | 15% | 100% pass rate on all critical-item go/no-go criteria; no repeat of any critical failure | A structured observation checklist administered by the instructor at mid-course and again at course end, evaluating: correct PPE selection and use before opening any refrigerant circuit, proper handling and labeling of recovered refrigerant, correct lockout/tagout application when working on electric compressor systems, correct eyewash station response procedure when prompted, and accurate statement of EPA Section 608 venting prohibition. Every critical safety item is go/no-go; a single critical fail triggers immediate remediation and a mandatory recheck before the student may continue lab work. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-07 Trade course
Automotive Diagnostics
229 hr · $3,300 COMPLIMENTARY
This course develops systematic diagnostic reasoning and hands-on proficiency using professional scan tools, oscilloscopes, lab scopes, and factory service data to locate and verify faults across all major vehicle systems. Students apply the seven-step diagnostic process to real drivability, electrical, emissions, and network communication complaints on live vehicles and shop trainers. Lessons map directly to ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 exam content areas involving symptom analysis, code retrieval, system testing, and verified repair confirmation.
Outcomes- Apply a structured seven-step diagnostic process to accurately identify root-cause faults in engine, transmission, brake, steering, electrical, HVAC, and network systems on gasoline and hybrid vehicles.
- Retrieve, interpret, and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using OBD-II scan tools, interpret freeze-frame and live data PIDs, and distinguish faults from incidental codes using manufacturer service information.
- Use digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) and graphing multimeters to capture and evaluate waveforms from sensors, actuators, and communication buses including CAN and LIN.
- Perform no-start, misfire, fuel trim, emissions, and charging system diagnoses by combining scan data, lab-scope captures, and component-level electrical tests with documented results.
- Safely access and use OEM and industry service information platforms to retrieve wiring diagrams, component locations, system descriptions, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs).
- Document diagnostic findings and repair verifications in a professional written report that meets shop and ASE certification documentation standards.
Course text
This course develops systematic diagnostic reasoning and hands-on proficiency using professional scan tools, oscilloscopes, lab scopes, and factory service data to locate and verify faults across all major vehicle systems. Students apply the seven-step diagnostic process to real drivability, electrical, emissions, and network communication complaints on live vehicles and shop trainers. Lessons map directly to ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 exam content areas involving symptom analysis, code retrieval, system testing, and verified repair confirmation.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: The Seven-Step Diagnostic Process and Service Information Platforms; OBD-II Fundamentals: Monitors, Codes, and Scan Tool Operation; Live Data Analysis: PIDs, Fuel Trim, and Long-Term Trends; Digital Storage Oscilloscope (DSO) Fundamentals and Sensor Waveforms; Network Communications Diagnostics: CAN Bus and Module Communication; No-Start and Hard-Start Diagnosis; Misfire Diagnosis: Cylinder Contribution, Compression, and Injector Testing; Charging and Starting System Diagnosis; EVAP, Exhaust Emissions, and Readiness Monitor Completion; Transmission and Drivability Shift Complaint Diagnosis; Integrated Diagnostic Case Studies: Multi-System and Intermittent Faults; Diagnostic Documentation, Repair Verification, and ASE Exam Alignment Review.
What competent looks like. Apply a structured seven-step diagnostic process to accurately identify root-cause faults in engine, transmission, brake, steering, electrical, HVAC, and network systems on gasoline and hybrid vehicles. Retrieve, interpret, and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using OBD-II scan tools, interpret freeze-frame and live data PIDs, and distinguish faults from incidental codes using manufacturer service information. Use digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) and graphing multimeters to capture and evaluate waveforms from sensors, actuators, and communication buses including CAN and LIN. Perform no-start, misfire, fuel trim, emissions, and charging system diagnoses by combining scan data, lab-scope captures, and component-level electrical tests with documented results. Safely access and use OEM and industry service information platforms to retrieve wiring diagrams, component locations, system descriptions, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs). Document diagnostic findings and repair verifications in a professional written report that meets shop and ASE certification documentation standards.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Seven-Step Diagnostic Process and Service Information Platforms | 16 | theory | Students will explain each step of the seven-step diagnostic process and navigate at least two OEM or industry service information platforms to retrieve a wiring diagram, component location, and applicable TSB for an assigned vehicle. |
| Whiteboard, projector, shop computers with alldata/Mitchell ProDemand subscriptions, printed seven-step process reference cards, sample repair orders, assorted OEM workshop manuals, NATEF/ASE task reference list | Students complete a 20-question written quiz covering the seven steps and platform navigation; pass mark is 75%. Instructor verifies that each student successfully retrieved and correctly labeled three separate service documents during the lab. |
| 2 | OBD-II Fundamentals: Monitors, Codes, and Scan Tool Operation | 20 | demo | Students will connect a professional scan tool to an assigned vehicle, retrieve all stored and pending DTCs with freeze-frame data, identify the relevant OBD-II monitor, and correctly classify each code as emissions-related or non-emissions-related. |
| Professional scan tools (one per pair minimum), OBD-II breakout box trainer, shop vehicles with seeded faults, freeze-frame and monitor recording worksheets, OBD-II monitor reference charts, DVOM, service information access | Each student submits a completed worksheet with correct DTC descriptions, monitor identification, and freeze-frame interpretation for at least three codes; instructor spot-checks one vehicle per student. Pass mark: 75% accuracy on written portion and successful tool connection and retrieval observed by instructor. |
| 3 | Live Data Analysis: PIDs, Fuel Trim, and Long-Term Trends | 20 | lab | Students will record and graph a minimum of eight engine control PIDs on a running vehicle, interpret short-term and long-term fuel trim values, and write a one-paragraph diagnostic hypothesis supported by the data. |
| Graphing scan tool with data logging capability, running shop vehicles, live-data PID recording worksheets, fuel trim reference charts, service information, DVOM for back-probe verification, safety glasses | Instructor reviews each student's data sheet and written hypothesis; data must include all eight required PIDs with correct units, and the hypothesis must reference at least three specific values with logical reasoning. Pass mark: 75% of data fields correct and hypothesis demonstrating correct directional reasoning. |
| 4 | Digital Storage Oscilloscope (DSO) Fundamentals and Sensor Waveforms | 20 | demo | Students will set up a DSO to correctly capture, scale, and label waveforms from a crankshaft position sensor, throttle position sensor, and primary ignition circuit, identifying normal waveform characteristics and at least one anomaly on a trainer or vehicle. |
| DSO (Pico Automotive or equivalent, one per three students), vehicle or bench trainers, back-probe leads, breakout harness set, waveform annotation worksheets, reference waveform library (printed or projected), service information, safety glasses, nitrile gloves | Each student submits one annotated waveform capture per station (three total) with correct labels for period, voltage range, and at least one key feature; anomaly identification exercise graded as a quiz (pass mark: 75% correct identification). |
| 5 | Network Communications Diagnostics: CAN Bus and Module Communication | 18 | theory | Students will describe the function and architecture of a CAN bus network, use a scan tool to identify U-code communication faults, and use a DSO to measure CAN bus voltage levels and verify network integrity on an assigned vehicle or trainer. |
| Professional scan tool with network scan capability, DSO with CAN bus probing adapter, OBD-II breakout box, vehicle with seeded U-codes or network trainer, service information (network topology diagrams), wiring diagrams, U-code recording worksheet, safety glasses | Students submit completed network scan worksheet with all U-codes correctly described and module locations identified, plus one annotated CAN waveform with voltage levels labeled and compared to spec. Instructor verifies waveform capture was live from vehicle/trainer. Pass mark: 75% accuracy on worksheet. |
| 6 | No-Start and Hard-Start Diagnosis | 20 | lab | Students will diagnose an assigned no-start vehicle using a structured testing sequence that confirms or eliminates cranking, spark, fuel delivery, and compression as root causes, and correctly identify the verified root-cause fault within a single lab session. |
| Shop vehicles or engine trainers with interchangeable seeded faults, fuel pressure gauge set, spark tester, compression tester, DVOM, inductive amp clamp, scan tool, battery/charging tester, service information, lab recording sheet, PPE (safety glasses, nitrile gloves), fire extinguisher accessible | Instructor evaluates completed lab sheet for correct test sequence, recorded values with units, and correct root-cause identification. Student must correctly identify the seeded fault without instructor prompting. Pass mark: correct root-cause identification plus 75% of recorded test values within acceptable tolerance of actual readings. |
| 7 | Misfire Diagnosis: Cylinder Contribution, Compression, and Injector Testing | 20 | lab | Students will diagnose an assigned misfire complaint by interpreting misfire monitor data, performing a cylinder contribution test via scan tool, conducting a compression and relative compression test, and testing injector balance on a gasoline engine, then identifying the specific cylinder and root cause. |
| Shop vehicles with seeded misfire faults (rotated: fouled plug, weak injector, low compression), scan tool with Mode 6 and graphing, inductive amp clamp, DSO, compression tester, noid light set, injector resistance specs from service information, DVOM, structured misfire lab worksheet, safety glasses, nitrile gloves | Student submits completed worksheet with misfire counts, compression values (dry and wet where applicable), injector resistance readings, and a written repair recommendation with supporting data. Instructor confirms the identified cylinder and root cause match the seeded fault. Pass mark: correct cylinder and cause identification plus 75% of recorded values accurate. |
| 8 | Charging and Starting System Diagnosis | 18 | lab | Students will perform a complete battery, cranking, and charging system test sequence using a dedicated battery/charging analyzer and a DSO ripple voltage test, correctly identify any fault present, and document results to ASE-level repair order standards. |
| Battery/charging system analyzer (e.g., Midtronics or equivalent), DVOM, DSO with amp clamp, carbon pile load tester, shop vehicles with seeded faults, voltage drop test leads, structured recording worksheet, service information for battery and alternator specifications, safety glasses, nitrile gloves, splash goggles for battery work | Instructor reviews recording worksheet and repair order entry; all required tests must be performed and documented with correct units. Fault identification must match the seeded fault. Pass mark: correct fault identification and 75% of recorded values within specification tolerance with proper documentation. |
| 9 | EVAP, Exhaust Emissions, and Readiness Monitor Completion | 18 | lab | Students will diagnose an EVAP system fault using a smoke machine and scan tool, interpret emissions test readiness monitor status, and develop a drive cycle strategy to set all incomplete monitors on an assigned vehicle. |
| Smoke machine (EVAP capable), scan tool with readiness monitor display, DVOM, shop vehicles with EVAP seeded faults, OBD drive cycle reference sheets, service information, EVAP system diagrams, structured EVAP lab worksheet, safety glasses, nitrile gloves, hearing protection if smoke machine is loud | Student submits completed EVAP lab worksheet with smoke test procedure documented, leak location identified, and readiness monitor exercise with written drive cycle strategy for both vehicles. Instructor verifies smoke test was performed correctly and leak identified. Pass mark: correct leak identification and 75% accuracy on monitor exercise. |
| 10 | Transmission and Drivability Shift Complaint Diagnosis | 19 | lab | Students will diagnose a shift quality or engagement complaint on an automatic transmission-equipped vehicle by combining a road test evaluation, scan tool transmission PID analysis, and solenoid or sensor circuit tests, and identify the root cause as mechanical, hydraulic, or electronic. |
| Shop vehicles with automatic transmissions and seeded shift faults (or transmission trainer), scan tool with transmission PID capability, DVOM, road test evaluation form, structured transmission diagnostic worksheet, service information with solenoid specs and wiring diagrams, safety glasses, nitrile gloves, wheel chocks | Student submits completed road test form, PID data sheet with annotated anomaly, and solenoid/sensor test results with spec comparison. Root cause must be correctly classified as mechanical, hydraulic, or electronic and match the seeded fault. Pass mark: correct classification and 75% accuracy on recorded test values. |
| 11 | Integrated Diagnostic Case Studies: Multi-System and Intermittent Faults | 20 | practice | Students will independently complete two full diagnostic case studies—one multi-system vehicle complaint and one intermittent fault—applying the complete seven-step process, producing a professional diagnostic report for each case with supporting data. |
| Shop vehicles with seeded multi-system and intermittent faults, scan tool, DSO, DVOM, smoke machine, fuel pressure gauge, service information, structured diagnostic report template, peer-review rubric, safety glasses, nitrile gloves | Instructor grades both diagnostic reports using the department rubric; each report must include: complaint statement, tests performed with results, root cause identified with supporting data, and recommended repair. Pass mark: 75% on rubric score for both reports combined and correct root-cause identification in each case. |
| 12 | Diagnostic Documentation, Repair Verification, and ASE Exam Alignment Review | 20 | theory | Students will produce a completed professional diagnostic report for a full assigned vehicle fault, verify the repair using a post-repair scan and road test, and correctly answer practice questions mapped to ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 diagnostic content areas. |
| Completed repair orders from prior labs for revision, shop vehicles for verification testing, scan tool, service information, OBD drive cycle reference, structured documentation rubric, 40-question ASE-style practice question bank (instructor-prepared, mapped to A1–A8 and EV L3 task lists), answer key with rationale sheets, safety glasses | Instructor grades the finalized repair order using the documentation rubric (pass mark: 75%, all four sections complete and supported by data). Repair verification must show zero stored codes and all relevant monitors set. Practice question session used formatively: instructor records individual scores by ASE content area to guide exam prep focus; no pass mark required but results shared with student. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diagnostics Knowledge Examination | Written exam | 25% | 75% correct (38 of 50 questions) | A 50-question written examination covering OBD-II monitor operation, DTC classification, fuel trim interpretation, CAN bus network principles, charging system theory, EVAP system operation, and the seven-step diagnostic process, with questions formatted parallel to ASE A6 and A8 exam style. Students must achieve 75% to pass; students below that threshold receive targeted remediation and one retake opportunity. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Diagnostic Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | Student correctly identifies the root-cause fault on both assigned vehicles without instructor prompting and completes all required test steps within the allotted time; each vehicle evaluated on a rubric with a minimum score of 75%. | Each student is assigned two shop vehicles with unseeded faults unknown to them and given a time-limited session to complete a full diagnostic process on each, including scan tool retrieval, at least one scope capture, and a component-level electrical test, submitting a completed repair order for each vehicle at the end of the session. The evaluating instructor uses a standardized rubric assessing correct test sequence, proper tool use, accurate data recording, and correct root-cause identification. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Diagnostic Lab Log | Log | 15% | All 12 lab recording sheets submitted; a minimum of 10 of 12 must meet or exceed the 75% accuracy standard established in each lesson's check-for criteria. | Students maintain a portfolio of all structured recording sheets, waveform annotation worksheets, and repair order drafts completed across all 12 lessons, submitted as a complete lab log at the end of the course. The instructor reviews the log for completeness, accuracy of recorded values, quality of written diagnostic hypotheses, and progressive improvement across the course. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Diagnostics Safety Check | Safety audit | 15% | Zero critical safety violations observed; student must correctly demonstrate all required PPE selection and application, lockout/tagout procedure, and battery handling steps; any critical violation results in immediate stop and a mandatory retake after remediation. | The instructor conducts a direct observation safety evaluation during the no-start and charging system labs, assessing the student's consistent use of appropriate PPE (safety glasses, nitrile gloves, splash goggles for battery work), correct application of lockout/tagout before working on high-energy circuits, safe fuel pressure release procedure, and proper fire extinguisher awareness, using a binary pass/fail checklist for each required behavior. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-08 Trade course
EV/Hybrid Safety and High-Voltage Systems Service
229 hr · $3,300 COMPLIMENTARY
This 229-hour course prepares students to safely identify, de-energize, inspect, diagnose, and service hybrid and battery-electric vehicle high-voltage systems in accordance with industry safety standards and OEM service procedures. Students develop competence in high-voltage PPE use, HV system architecture, battery management, electric drive components, charging systems, and regenerative braking—all mapped to ASE EV/Hybrid L3 exam content areas. Safe work practice, lockout/tagout procedures, and emergency response are reinforced throughout every lesson.
Outcomes- Demonstrate correct donning and inspection of Class 0 insulating gloves and required HV PPE before performing any high-voltage service task, achieving a zero-defect safety check.
- Execute a complete HV system disable and lockout/tagout procedure on a hybrid or BEV training vehicle, verifying isolation with a calibrated CAT III/IV digital multimeter to below 60 V DC.
- Explain the architecture, cell chemistry, and thermal management strategy of lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride traction battery packs, correctly answering at least 80% of written assessment items.
- Diagnose malfunctions in electric drive motors, power electronics inverters, on-board chargers, and DC-DC converters using scan data, oscilloscope waveforms, and OEM diagnostic procedures.
- Perform a battery state-of-health evaluation and a regenerative braking system inspection, documenting findings on a shop repair order that meets ASE-style professional standards.
- Apply OSHA electrical safety regulations and NFPA 70E approach boundaries, and demonstrate appropriate first-responder actions for an HV electrical exposure or battery thermal runaway event.
Course text
This 229-hour course prepares students to safely identify, de-energize, inspect, diagnose, and service hybrid and battery-electric vehicle high-voltage systems in accordance with industry safety standards and OEM service procedures. Students develop competence in high-voltage PPE use, HV system architecture, battery management, electric drive components, charging systems, and regenerative braking—all mapped to ASE EV/Hybrid L3 exam content areas. Safe work practice, lockout/tagout procedures, and emergency response are reinforced throughout every lesson.
How the course runs. 12 blocks: High-Voltage Hazard Recognition and Regulatory Framework; Personal Protective Equipment for High-Voltage Work; HV System Architecture: Battery, Inverter, and Electric Drive; HV System Disable, Lockout/Tagout, and Voltage Verification; Traction Battery Pack: Construction, BMS, and Thermal Management; Electric Motor/Generator Units and Power Electronics; Charging Systems: AC On-Board Charger, DC Fast Charge, and EVSE; Regenerative Braking System Inspection and Service; HV System Diagnostics: Isolation Faults, DTCs, and Scan Data; Battery State-of-Health Testing and Battery Service Safety; Thermal Runaway, HV Emergency Response, and First-Aid Procedures; Integrated HV Service Practical: Full Vehicle Workflow.
What competent looks like. Demonstrate correct donning and inspection of Class 0 insulating gloves and required HV PPE before performing any high-voltage service task, achieving a zero-defect safety check. Execute a complete HV system disable and lockout/tagout procedure on a hybrid or BEV training vehicle, verifying isolation with a calibrated CAT III/IV digital multimeter to below 60 V DC. Explain the architecture, cell chemistry, and thermal management strategy of lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride traction battery packs, correctly answering at least 80% of written assessment items. Diagnose malfunctions in electric drive motors, power electronics inverters, on-board chargers, and DC-DC converters using scan data, oscilloscope waveforms, and OEM diagnostic procedures. Perform a battery state-of-health evaluation and a regenerative braking system inspection, documenting findings on a shop repair order that meets ASE-style professional standards. Apply OSHA electrical safety regulations and NFPA 70E approach boundaries, and demonstrate appropriate first-responder actions for an HV electrical exposure or battery thermal runaway event.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | High-Voltage Hazard Recognition and Regulatory Framework | 16 | theory | Students will identify HV hazards present on hybrid and BEV platforms and state the OSHA electrical safety requirements and NFPA 70E approach boundaries that govern HV automotive work. |
| OEM HV system overview manuals (Toyota, GM, Tesla service information portals), NFPA 70E current edition, OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart S reference card, whiteboard, projector, incident-report handouts | 10-question written quiz on HV hazard categories, voltage ranges, and approach boundaries; pass mark 80%. |
| 2 | Personal Protective Equipment for High-Voltage Work | 14 | demo | Students will select, inspect, don, and doff Class 0 insulating gloves with leather protectors and all other required HV PPE, demonstrating correct procedure without instructor prompting. |
| Class 0 rubber insulating gloves (multiple pairs, including intentionally defective training samples), leather protector gloves, HV-rated face shield, arc-rated FR shirt, safety glasses, Class 0 inspection checklist per ASTM D120, calibrated glove inflation tester | Instructor-observed PPE donning checklist; students must complete all critical steps without prompting and correctly reject all defective PPE samples. Zero critical errors required to pass. |
| 3 | HV System Architecture: Battery, Inverter, and Electric Drive | 20 | theory | Students will describe the major subsystems of parallel hybrid, series hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery-electric drivetrains, explaining the function and interaction of the traction battery, power electronics, and electric motor/generator units. |
| OEM service manuals and wiring diagrams, training vehicles (HEV, PHEV, BEV) with HV systems disabled per OEM procedure, projector, component identification worksheets, reference textbook (Today's Technician: Hybrid and Electric Vehicles or equivalent current edition) | 25-question written test on drivetrain architecture, component functions, and battery chemistry; pass mark 80%. |
| 4 | HV System Disable, Lockout/Tagout, and Voltage Verification | 22 | lab | Students will perform a complete OEM-specified HV system disable procedure and LOTO sequence, then verify isolation to below 60 V DC using a CAT III/IV digital multimeter, on at least two different vehicle platforms. |
| Two different HV training vehicles (e.g., Toyota Prius gen 3, Chevrolet Bolt or equivalent), OEM service information for each, CAT III/IV digital multimeter (Fluke 87V or equivalent), LOTO hasp and personal padlock set, Class 0 PPE complete set, standardized LOTO data sheet | Instructor-observed LOTO skills checklist; student must complete all safety-critical steps correctly on both vehicles and achieve verified readings below 60 V DC at all test points. Any skipped safety step is an automatic fail; pass requires 100% on critical steps. |
| 5 | Traction Battery Pack: Construction, BMS, and Thermal Management | 20 | demo | Students will identify battery module and cell architecture, explain battery management system functions, and describe thermal management strategies used in OEM traction battery packs. |
| Cutaway or disassembled traction battery display unit, training vehicle with BMS accessible, OEM-compatible scan tool (with HV battery data capability), OEM service information, battery diagram worksheets, coolant-circuit schematics | Completed and accurate labeled battery diagram plus BMS data sheet reviewed by instructor; all component identifications must be correct and data must match scan-tool readings. Pass: no more than two minor identification errors, zero omitted safety data points. |
| 6 | Electric Motor/Generator Units and Power Electronics | 18 | theory | Students will explain the operating principles of AC permanent-magnet and induction motor/generator units and describe how the inverter/converter controls torque and direction in traction and regenerative modes. |
| Projector, manufacturer EV training videos, lab oscilloscope with appropriate probes, low-voltage three-phase simulation board (EV trainer or equivalent), OEM motor/inverter service documentation, torque-map worksheets | Written quiz (15 questions) on motor types, inverter operation, and waveform interpretation; pass mark 80%. |
| 7 | Charging Systems: AC On-Board Charger, DC Fast Charge, and EVSE | 18 | demo | Students will identify Level 1, Level 2, and DC fast-charge connector types and explain the communication handshake and power-conversion process between the EVSE and the vehicle's on-board charging system. |
| Physical connector display set (J1772, CCS1, CHAdeMO, NACS), Level 2 EVSE unit, training BEV or PHEV, oscilloscope with pilot-signal probe, OEM charging system service information, connector comparison worksheets | Instructor observation of connector identification accuracy plus completed data sheet; all connector types correctly identified and pilot-signal duty cycle within ±2% of calculated value. Pass: 100% on connector ID, no missing data sheet entries. |
| 8 | Regenerative Braking System Inspection and Service | 18 | lab | Students will inspect and operationally verify a regenerative braking system—including blending logic, hydraulic backup, and brake pedal feel calibration—and document findings on a repair order. |
| Hybrid training vehicle with regen braking, OEM-compatible scan tool, brake micrometer, brake pad thickness gauge, vernier caliper, repair order forms, OEM brake service information, LOTO set, full HV PPE | Completed repair order reviewed by instructor; all measurements within ±0.5 mm of instructor reference values, all DTC descriptions accurate, and regen torque data recorded correctly. Pass: no omitted measurements, no safety-step errors. |
| 9 | HV System Diagnostics: Isolation Faults, DTCs, and Scan Data | 22 | lab | Students will diagnose a seeded isolation fault and at least one additional seeded DTC in an HV training vehicle using a scan tool, DMM, and OEM diagnostic flow charts, and document a complete diagnostic report. |
| HV training vehicle with seeded faults, OEM-compatible scan tool, CAT III/IV DMM, oscilloscope, OEM service information, diagnostic flow charts, megohmmeter (instructor-controlled use only), repair order forms, peer-review rubric, full HV PPE, LOTO equipment | Diagnostic report reviewed by instructor; correct root cause identified for isolation fault and both DTCs, all test measurements documented with units, repair recommendation plausible and supported by data. Pass: correct root cause on all three faults, pass mark 80% on rubric. |
| 10 | Battery State-of-Health Testing and Battery Service Safety | 22 | lab | Students will perform an OEM-specified battery state-of-health evaluation using scan-tool data and available diagnostic procedures, interpret results against OEM acceptance criteria, and follow all safe-handling procedures for a traction battery module removal and reinstallation exercise. |
| BEV or hybrid training vehicle, OEM-compatible scan tool with battery health function, calibrated torque wrench, insulated hand tools (1000 V rated), LOTO set, full HV PPE, DOT/EPA battery transport reference materials, data sheet, scenario handout | Instructor-observed module R&R skills check plus completed data sheet; all torque specifications met (verified by instructor), all PPE steps observed correctly, data sheet values match scan tool within rounding. Pass: zero torque deviations, zero PPE omissions, data sheet complete. |
| 11 | Thermal Runaway, HV Emergency Response, and First-Aid Procedures | 20 | demo | Students will describe the stages of lithium-ion thermal runaway, identify warning signs, and demonstrate the correct first-responder actions for an HV vehicle fire or shock victim scenario, consistent with NFPA and OEM emergency response guidance. |
| Projector, OEM Emergency Response Guide (ERG) for training vehicles used in the program, NFPA emergency response for EV reference, scenario cards, CPR training manikins (one per two students), training AED, PPE for CPR practice | Instructor-observed CPR/AED skills check plus written scenario response graded against answer key; CPR compression rate and depth within accepted ranges on instructor observation, scenario responses must include all critical actions. Pass: correct critical actions on all three scenarios, acceptable CPR technique. |
| 12 | Integrated HV Service Practical: Full Vehicle Workflow | 19 | lab | Students will independently complete a full HV service workflow—PPE donning, system disable and LOTO, scan diagnostic, specified inspection tasks, re-enable, and professional repair order—on an unfamiliar vehicle variant, demonstrating integrated competence. |
| Unfamiliar HV/BEV training vehicle (different platform from prior labs), OEM service information access, OEM-compatible scan tool, CAT III/IV DMM, full HV PPE set, LOTO equipment, insulated hand tools, torque wrench, repair order form, integrated skills checklist rubric | Instructor-scored integrated skills checklist plus repair order rubric; student must score 80% or above on the rubric overall and achieve 100% on every safety-critical step (PPE, LOTO, voltage verification). Any missed safety-critical step is an automatic fail requiring remediation and re-attempt. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HV Systems and Safety Knowledge Exam | Written exam | 25% | 80% (40 of 50 items correct) | A 50-question multiple-choice and short-answer written examination covering HV hazard recognition, NFPA 70E approach boundaries, OSHA electrical safety requirements, drivetrain architecture (HEV/PHEV/BEV), battery cell chemistry and BMS functions, inverter operation, charging system protocols, and thermal runaway stages. Questions are written at the application and analysis level to align with ASE EV/Hybrid L3 exam content areas including electrical/electronic systems, battery systems, and charging systems. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| HV Disable, LOTO, and Voltage Verification Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 45% | 100% on all safety-critical steps; 80% overall on scored rubric | The student performs a complete OEM-specified HV system disable and personal lockout/tagout procedure on an assigned training vehicle, then verifies isolation at all OEM-specified test points using a calibrated CAT III/IV DMM, fully suited in correct HV PPE throughout; the instructor scores each step using a standardized checklist where every PPE, LOTO, and voltage-verification step is designated safety-critical and must be performed without error or prompting. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| Lab Log and Repair Order Portfolio | Log | 15% | Average score of 80% across all submitted lab documents; no individual lab log below 70% | Students submit a compiled portfolio of all repair orders, data sheets, and diagnostic reports generated across the eight lab and demo lessons; each document is evaluated for completeness, measurement accuracy, correct DTC descriptions, professional language, and logical diagnostic reasoning using a standardized rubric, reflecting the documentation standards assessed in ASE EV/Hybrid L3 exam scenarios involving data interpretation. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
| End-of-Course HV Safety Audit | Safety audit | 15% | Zero critical safety violations; all items scored satisfactory | During the final integrated practical lesson, the instructor completes a comprehensive safety audit checklist covering PPE selection and inspection, HV approach boundary awareness, correct LOTO application and documentation, proper use of CAT-rated test equipment, insulated tool selection, and correct response to two instructor-posed emergency scenario prompts (thermal runaway and HV shock victim); any critical violation results in an immediate stop, automatic fail of the audit, and mandatory remediation before course completion is certified. Standard met · Safety · Time · Quality/finish · Documentation |
TRN-AUTO19-09 Capstone
Capstone Project: Integrated Vehicle Diagnosis, Repair, and Documentation
324 hr · $3,240 COMPLIMENTARY
Students perform a complete, real-world vehicle service project—from intake inspection through diagnosis, repair, quality control, and final delivery documentation—on an actual shop vehicle or donated unit. Each student produces a professional repair order package and defends their diagnostic reasoning and repair decisions before an instructor panel, demonstrating readiness for entry-level employment and ASE credentialing.
Outcomes- Perform a complete multi-system vehicle inspection and accurately document all findings on a professional repair order using industry-standard terminology.
- Apply systematic diagnostic strategies—including scan tool data, wiring diagrams, and mechanical tests—to identify root-cause faults across at least three vehicle systems (engine, brakes, electrical, steering/suspension, HVAC, or drivetrain).
- Execute all required repairs and adjustments to manufacturer specifications, verifying completed work with appropriate measuring instruments and scan tool verification drives.
- Demonstrate proper hazard control throughout the project, including lockout/tagout, correct PPE selection, refrigerant handling (EPA Section 609 practices), and high-voltage safety protocols where EV/hybrid systems are involved.
- Produce a complete documentation package—repair order, labor times referenced to a labor guide, parts list, before-and-after scan data, and a written diagnostic narrative—that meets shop quality standards.
- Deliver a structured oral defense explaining diagnostic logic, repair procedures, and lessons learned to a panel of two or more instructors, responding accurately to technical follow-up questions.
Course text
Students perform a complete, real-world vehicle service project—from intake inspection through diagnosis, repair, quality control, and final delivery documentation—on an actual shop vehicle or donated unit. Each student produces a professional repair order package and defends their diagnostic reasoning and repair decisions before an instructor panel, demonstrating readiness for entry-level employment and ASE credentialing.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Vehicle Intake, Safety Assessment, and Project Planning; Hands-On Multi-System Diagnosis and Repair; Quality Control, Customer Documentation, and Project Report; Capstone Oral Defense.
What competent looks like. Perform a complete multi-system vehicle inspection and accurately document all findings on a professional repair order using industry-standard terminology. Apply systematic diagnostic strategies—including scan tool data, wiring diagrams, and mechanical tests—to identify root-cause faults across at least three vehicle systems (engine, brakes, electrical, steering/suspension, HVAC, or drivetrain). Execute all required repairs and adjustments to manufacturer specifications, verifying completed work with appropriate measuring instruments and scan tool verification drives. Demonstrate proper hazard control throughout the project, including lockout/tagout, correct PPE selection, refrigerant handling (EPA Section 609 practices), and high-voltage safety protocols where EV/hybrid systems are involved. Produce a complete documentation package—repair order, labor times referenced to a labor guide, parts list, before-and-after scan data, and a written diagnostic narrative—that meets shop quality standards. Deliver a structured oral defense explaining diagnostic logic, repair procedures, and lessons learned to a panel of two or more instructors, responding accurately to technical follow-up questions.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vehicle Intake, Safety Assessment, and Project Planning | 60 | lab | Given an assigned shop vehicle, the student opens a repair order, performs a thorough multi-system visual and operational inspection, identifies all known and hidden concerns, and produces a written diagnostic plan with safety controls documented before any hands-on repair begins. |
| Shop vehicle (gasoline, hybrid, or EV as assigned), shop inspection form, blank NAPA or Mitchell1 repair order, laptop with Mitchell1 or AllData subscription, DVOM, OBD-II scan tool (Autel or equivalent), rubber insulating gloves (Class 0 minimum for HEV/EV), face shield, shop manual or OEM service information, OSHA lockout/tagout station, ASE A1–A8 task lists for reference | Instructor reviews the completed repair order and diagnostic plan before the student may proceed; all safety controls must be documented and verified in person. Pass standard: 100% of safety controls correctly identified and signed off; diagnostic plan covers every identified concern with a logical first test; repair order terminology matches industry standard with no more than two instructor-corrected errors. |
| 2 | Hands-On Multi-System Diagnosis and Repair | 160 | lab | The student diagnoses root causes for all prioritized concerns using structured diagnostic strategies, completes all approved repairs to manufacturer specifications, and verifies each repair with the appropriate test or drive cycle before closing the repair order line. |
| Assigned shop vehicle, full tool set (hand tools, torque wrenches, specialty sockets), scan tool with live data and bidirectional control capability, DVOM, lab scope (optional), brake pressure bleeder, refrigerant recovery/recycle/recharge machine (SAE J2788-compliant), refrigerant identifier, vacuum pump, manifold gauge set, compression tester, leak-down tester, micrometer and vernier caliper set, dial indicator, OEM service information via AllData/Mitchell1, parts (ordered by student through instructor approval), safety glasses, nitrile gloves, chemical-resistant gloves for brake fluid/refrigerant, Class 0 insulating gloves if HEV/EV work is included, ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 task lists | Instructor conducts a mid-project checkpoint at approximately 80 hours of repair work: reviews documented test data for logic and accuracy, spot-checks one completed repair for torque and specification compliance, and verifies scan tool verification screenshots are attached. Final check: all repair order lines closed with a verification test result recorded; no safety non-compliance observed during any lab session. Pass standard: all repairs within OEM specification (measured and documented); repair order data complete and internally consistent; zero unaddressed safety violations. |
| 3 | Quality Control, Customer Documentation, and Project Report | 56 | practice | The student finalizes the repair order package—including a written diagnostic narrative, labor time justification, parts list with part numbers, before-and-after scan data printouts, and a reflection on what they would do differently—producing a complete professional document set suitable for submission to both the customer and a certifying body. |
| Laptop with word-processing software and Mitchell1/AllData access, completed repair order with all line items, scan tool data printouts or digital screenshots, digital camera or phone for vehicle photos, ASE task list reference sheets, labor guide (Mitchell1 or equivalent), parts catalog, printer or PDF export capability, project binder or shared digital folder | Instructor grades the submitted documentation package using a rubric with four domains: completeness (all required sections present), technical accuracy (measurements, specs, and diagnoses correct), professional communication (correct terminology, grammar, logical organization), and safety documentation (all hazard controls recorded). Pass standard: score of 75% or higher in each domain; any domain below 75% requires revision before the oral defense may proceed. |
| 4 | Capstone Oral Defense | 48 | field | The student presents their completed capstone project to a panel of at least two instructors, explains their diagnostic and repair decisions clearly and accurately in response to panel questions, and demonstrates the critical-thinking skills required of an entry-level automotive technician pursuing ASE certification. |
| Completed project binder (submitted in advance), presentation display (projector, whiteboard, or large monitor), vehicle (available in shop for reference if panel wishes to view repairs in person), ASA/ASE task list reference for panel question selection, oral defense rubric, self-evaluation form, timer | Panel scores the defense using a rubric with five criteria: technical accuracy of presentation content, quality of responses to follow-up questions, use of evidence from project documentation, professional communication (clarity, confidence, appropriate terminology), and safety awareness demonstrated in answers. Pass standard: average panel score of 75% or higher across all five criteria; a score below 75% in technical accuracy requires a single remediation session and one re-defense attempt before externship placement is authorized. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capstone Vehicle Project Package | Project | 60% | 75% or higher in each of four rubric domains (completeness, technical accuracy, professional communication, safety documentation); all repair order lines verified as closed with documented post-repair test results; all repairs confirmed within OEM specification | The student submits the complete repair order package—including the diagnostic narrative, before-and-after scan data, all recorded measurements, labor time comparison, parts list, and project reflection—for the full vehicle they diagnosed and repaired during the capstone lab. This package is graded by the instructor against a four-domain rubric and serves as the primary project artifact for program completion review. Meets specification · Within estimate · Workmanship · Safety · Documentation |
| Capstone Documentation Portfolio | Portfolio | 20% | All required portfolio sections present and earning a score of 75% or higher on the portfolio rubric; no required safety documentation missing; diagnostic narrative receives at least a 'proficient' rating on technical accuracy | The documentation portfolio is the assembled physical or digital binder containing every record produced during the capstone project: the signed safety checklist, inspection sheet, repair order, diagnostic narrative, scan data screenshots, measurement records, parts documentation, labor time comparison, and reflection. It is evaluated as a professional work product that a shop supervisor or ASE evaluator could review to confirm the quality and completeness of the student's work. Completeness · Organization · Evidence quality |
| Oral Defense | Oral / panel | 20% | Average panel score of 75% or higher across all five rubric criteria (technical accuracy, response quality, use of evidence, professional communication, safety awareness); students scoring below 75% in technical accuracy complete one remediation session and one re-defense before externship placement | The student presents their capstone project to a two-instructor panel, delivers a 15-minute structured presentation without reading from notes, and responds accurately to at least 10 technical follow-up questions drawn from the ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 task areas relevant to their vehicle's systems. Successful completion of the oral defense is the gateway requirement for advancement to the Externship course. Explains decisions · Answers technical questions · Professional communication |
TRN-AUTO19-10 Externship / clinical
Externship / Worksite Placement – Automotive Technology
486 hr · $1,945 COMPLIMENTARY
Students complete 486 supervised hours at a partnering automotive service employer, applying classroom skills to real customer vehicles under the direction of a journeyman technician or shop foreman. Work experience spans all eight ASE A-series systems plus exposure to EV/hybrid service where the host shop performs that work. A structured employer evaluation and a reflective field log document professional growth and technical competency across the placement.
Outcomes- Perform customer-vehicle diagnosis, repair, and quality-control inspection on at least four distinct ASE A-series system areas under journeyman supervision with no safety violations.
- Demonstrate professional shop behavior—punctuality, communication, tool accountability, and hazardous-material handling—as rated satisfactory or above on the employer mid-term and final evaluations.
- Complete and maintain an accurate field log documenting vehicle work orders, repair procedures, parts used, labor time, and self-assessed learning for every shift worked.
- Apply OSHA lockout/tagout, PPE selection, and shop-specific safety policies correctly on every task observed during employer evaluation visits.
- Receive a passing final employer evaluation score indicating readiness for entry-level employment as an automotive service technician.
- Identify at least one area of professional development—such as a specific ASE exam area or shop software—and produce a written improvement plan for the certification exam preparation course.
Course text
Students complete 486 supervised hours at a partnering automotive service employer, applying classroom skills to real customer vehicles under the direction of a journeyman technician or shop foreman. Work experience spans all eight ASE A-series systems plus exposure to EV/hybrid service where the host shop performs that work. A structured employer evaluation and a reflective field log document professional growth and technical competency across the placement.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Externship Orientation and Shop Integration; Supervised Technical Work – Core System Repairs; EV/Hybrid and Advanced Technology Exposure; Final Employer Evaluation and Professional Debrief.
What competent looks like. Perform customer-vehicle diagnosis, repair, and quality-control inspection on at least four distinct ASE A-series system areas under journeyman supervision with no safety violations. Demonstrate professional shop behavior—punctuality, communication, tool accountability, and hazardous-material handling—as rated satisfactory or above on the employer mid-term and final evaluations. Complete and maintain an accurate field log documenting vehicle work orders, repair procedures, parts used, labor time, and self-assessed learning for every shift worked. Apply OSHA lockout/tagout, PPE selection, and shop-specific safety policies correctly on every task observed during employer evaluation visits. Receive a passing final employer evaluation score indicating readiness for entry-level employment as an automotive service technician. Identify at least one area of professional development—such as a specific ASE exam area or shop software—and produce a written improvement plan for the certification exam preparation course.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Externship Orientation and Shop Integration | 40 | field | The student will successfully complete employer on-boarding, review the host shop's safety plan and policies, and perform an assigned introductory task—such as a multi-point inspection or oil service—with zero safety violations as confirmed by the supervising technician. |
| Host employer's facility, shop management software (e.g., Mitchell 1, Tekion, or equivalent), school-issued field log journal, externship agreement forms, PPE (safety glasses, nitrile gloves, steel-toed footwear), SDS binder, multi-point inspection form, basic hand tools. | Supervising technician confirms task checklist signed off with no safety violations; student submits completed field log entries for all shifts; school coordinator reviews employer acknowledgment form. Pass: technician rates all safety items 'satisfactory' and student submits legible log entries for 100% of shifts in this block. |
| 2 | Supervised Technical Work – Core System Repairs | 280 | lab | The student will perform diagnosis and repair tasks on customer vehicles spanning at least four ASE A-series system areas (A1 Engine Performance, A2 Automatic Transmission, A3 Manual Drivetrain, A4 Suspension/Steering, A5 Brakes, A6 Electrical/Electronics, A7 HVAC, A8 Engine Repair) at the technician's direction, meeting the shop's quality and time standards on at least 80% of assigned jobs. |
| Host employer's lift-equipped service bays, vehicle scan tools (professional-grade, e.g., Snap-on, Autel, or equivalent), DVOM, brake lathe, A/C recovery/recharge station, alignment rack, torque wrenches, specialty tools as required by job, shop information system (ALLDATA or Mitchell 1 or equivalent), repair orders, school externship skills rubric, field log journal, PPE. | Student achieves a technician quality-check pass (vehicle returned correctly repaired with no comeback) on at least 80% of completed jobs tracked in the field log; mid-point coordinator observation rubric scores all safety categories 'meets standard' or higher. Pass: 80% job quality rate documented in log AND coordinator observation rubric total score ≥ 70%. |
| 3 | EV/Hybrid and Advanced Technology Exposure | 80 | field | Where the host employer services electric or hybrid vehicles, the student will observe and—under direct journeyman supervision—assist with at least one high-voltage-adjacent service procedure (such as 12 V auxiliary battery service, HV interlock verification, or ADAS calibration) while adhering to all high-voltage PPE and lockout/tagout requirements; students at shops without EV/hybrid work will complete equivalent advanced-diagnostic tasks (ADAS, telematics, or emissions) and document them. |
| Host employer's EV/hybrid-capable service bay, OEM service information for the specific vehicle (online or printed), Class 0 insulating rubber gloves with leather protectors, face shield, HV warning signs, DVOM rated for HV measurement (CAT III or higher), ADAS calibration targets if applicable, field log journal, ASE EV L3 task list (available from ASE website), PPE inspection checklist. | Journeyman technician signs the PPE checklist in the student's field log for each HV-adjacent task confirming zero PPE violations; student submits the two-page reflection. Pass: zero HV PPE violations documented AND reflection submitted and rated 'acceptable' by school coordinator (addresses all required comparison points and identifies a specific skill gap). |
| 4 | Final Employer Evaluation and Professional Debrief | 86 | field | The student will complete the final weeks of supervised shop work, receive a passing final employer evaluation (rated satisfactory or above in all major categories), and conduct a structured exit debrief with both the employer and the school coordinator to identify employment opportunities and personal development priorities for the certification exam preparation course. |
| Completed field log journal, tabbed binder and dividers, annotated work order copies, school final employer evaluation form, ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 task lists (from ASE website), pen, word processor for written summary. | Final employer evaluation form returned with all major category ratings at 'satisfactory' or above; complete field log binder submitted with entries for 100% of shifts and at least three featured repairs; one-page self-assessment summary submitted. Pass: employer evaluation overall rating ≥ satisfactory in every major category AND field log binder accepted as complete by school coordinator AND self-assessment summary submitted. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employer Externship Skills Demonstration | Skills demonstration | 70% | All major categories on the school's employer evaluation rubric rated 'satisfactory' or above (equivalent to ≥ 70% of total rubric points) by the supervising journeyman or shop foreman on both the mid-term and final evaluation forms; zero documented HV PPE violations across the placement. | The school's standardized employer evaluation rubric is completed by the host employer's supervising technician at the mid-point and again at the end of the externship; it covers technical skill execution, safety rule compliance, professionalism and punctuality, communication with service advisors and customers, and tool/equipment care. The school coordinator reviews both forms and flags any category rated below satisfactory for an immediate corrective action plan; failure to reach satisfactory on the final evaluation requires an extended placement or remediation plan before the student may advance to Course 11. Competency · Safety · Attendance · Conduct · Initiative |
| Externship Field Log and Reflective Documentation | Log | 30% | Field log submitted with entries for 100% of externship shifts, coverage of repair orders in at least four distinct ASE A-series system areas, all three required written reflections (mid-point, HV/advanced technology, and final self-assessment) included and rated acceptable by the school coordinator, and the final binder organized by system area with at least three annotated featured repairs. | The field log is a running, shift-by-shift record the student maintains throughout all 486 externship hours, capturing repair order numbers, vehicle information, systems serviced, procedures performed, parts and labor times, and brief self-assessments after each shift. At the end of the placement the log is compiled into a tabbed binder and reviewed by the school coordinator as evidence of breadth of experience, professional record-keeping habits, and readiness for the certification exam preparation course; an incomplete or fabricated log results in an unsatisfactory externship grade and requires remediation. Complete · Verified |
TRN-AUTO19-11 Exam prep
Certification Exam Preparation: ASE A1–A8 and EV L3
135 hr · $1,350 COMPLIMENTARY
This course systematically reviews all nine ASE credential exam areas—Engine Repair (A1), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (A2), Manual Drive Train and Axles (A3), Suspension and Steering (A4), Brakes (A5), Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6), Heating and Air Conditioning (A7), Engine Performance (A8), and Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist (EV L3)—using the published ASE task lists as the organizing framework. Students identify personal knowledge gaps through diagnostic pre-tests, reinforce weak areas through targeted review and hands-on lab refreshers, and build test-taking fluency through timed, computer-delivered mock exams that mirror ASE's question style. Passing the mock exams at or above the ASE-equivalent threshold prepares students to sit the live credentialing exams with confidence.
Outcomes- For each of the nine ASE exam areas (A1–A8, EV L3), correctly answer representative task-list questions at a rate consistent with ASE passing standards on a full-length timed mock exam.
- Use the official ASE task list for each series to self-diagnose weak content areas and construct a targeted personal study plan before the live exam.
- Demonstrate safe, correct shop procedure on at least three high-value hands-on tasks drawn from areas historically emphasized in ASE practical scenarios, including high-voltage safety protocol for EV L3.
- Apply test-taking strategies—question elimination, time budgeting, and careful interpretation of 'EXCEPT' and 'technician A/technician B' question formats—to improve accuracy under timed conditions.
- Complete the ASE registration process, including verifying eligibility documentation and selecting a Prometric test center, prior to program completion.
- Score at or above the program-defined passing benchmark of 75% on each of the nine mock exams administered during the final lesson.
Course text
This course systematically reviews all nine ASE credential exam areas—Engine Repair (A1), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (A2), Manual Drive Train and Axles (A3), Suspension and Steering (A4), Brakes (A5), Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6), Heating and Air Conditioning (A7), Engine Performance (A8), and Light Duty Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Specialist (EV L3)—using the published ASE task lists as the organizing framework. Students identify personal knowledge gaps through diagnostic pre-tests, reinforce weak areas through targeted review and hands-on lab refreshers, and build test-taking fluency through timed, computer-delivered mock exams that mirror ASE's question style. Passing the mock exams at or above the ASE-equivalent threshold prepares students to sit the live credentialing exams with confidence.
How the course runs. 4 blocks: Diagnostic Pre-Assessment and Personal Study Planning; Targeted Content Review: A1–A8 Core Systems; EV L3 Focused Review: High-Voltage Safety, Diagnostics, and Regulations; Full-Length Timed Mock Certification Exams and Debrief.
What competent looks like. For each of the nine ASE exam areas (A1–A8, EV L3), correctly answer representative task-list questions at a rate consistent with ASE passing standards on a full-length timed mock exam. Use the official ASE task list for each series to self-diagnose weak content areas and construct a targeted personal study plan before the live exam. Demonstrate safe, correct shop procedure on at least three high-value hands-on tasks drawn from areas historically emphasized in ASE practical scenarios, including high-voltage safety protocol for EV L3. Apply test-taking strategies—question elimination, time budgeting, and careful interpretation of 'EXCEPT' and 'technician A/technician B' question formats—to improve accuracy under timed conditions. Complete the ASE registration process, including verifying eligibility documentation and selecting a Prometric test center, prior to program completion. Score at or above the program-defined passing benchmark of 75% on each of the nine mock exams administered during the final lesson.
| # | Lesson | Hr | Type | Objective | Activities | Materials | Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diagnostic Pre-Assessment and Personal Study Planning | 18 | theory | Students identify their strongest and weakest content areas across all nine ASE exam task lists by completing a 20-question diagnostic quiz per series, then produce a written personal study plan that prioritizes the three lowest-scoring areas for each credential. |
| ASE A1–A8 and EV L3 published task lists (free download, ase.com); classroom test-prep platform with question bank mapped to task lists; Today's Technician series textbooks (Delmar/Cengage) for A1–A8; ASE EV L3 Study Guide; color-coded task-list matrix worksheet; personal study plan template | Each student submits the completed task-list matrix and written study plan; instructor verifies that every red-zone category is specifically named and paired with a concrete study action. Pass mark: all nine series represented, at least one red-zone category identified per series, and all plan fields completed—binary complete/incomplete gate before advancing. |
| 2 | Targeted Content Review: A1–A8 Core Systems | 54 | lab | Students review theory and complete hands-on refresher tasks for the eight core ASE series (A1–A8), spending time in proportion to class-wide red-zone gaps identified in the diagnostic, and correctly perform selected ASE task-list procedures to rebuild procedural accuracy before mock testing. |
| Today's Technician A1–A8 textbooks; ASE task list for each series; classroom test-prep platform question bank; shop vehicles and brake trainers; dial indicator, micrometer, torque wrench, brake micrometer; Fluke 88V or equivalent DMM; scan tool (Snap-on or equivalent); A/C refrigerant identifier and recovery/recharge station (EPA 609-compliant); OEM service information via shop information system (Mitchell 1 or equivalent); focused drill sheet templates; station checkpoint quiz printouts | Instructor reviews the 15-question station checkpoint quiz after each rotation; students below 70% on any station quiz must complete the focused drill sheet and submit it for review before the end of the lesson. Lab worksheet entries for A5 and A6 tasks are checked against OEM specifications—measurements within specified tolerance and procedure steps recorded in correct sequence constitute a pass. Overall lesson pass gate: all eight station quizzes at 70%+ (drill-sheet resubmission counts) and both lab worksheets accepted. |
| 3 | EV L3 Focused Review: High-Voltage Safety, Diagnostics, and Regulations | 27 | lab | Students review the EV L3 task list, demonstrate correct high-voltage system safety and isolation procedures on a hybrid/EV trainer, and correctly answer EV L3 task-list questions at or above the 75% benchmark on a 40-question timed practice exam. |
| ASE EV L3 Study Guide and published task list; OEM high-voltage service and safety manuals for the trainer vehicle; HV PPE kit: Class 0 insulating gloves with leather protectors, face shield, insulating mat; CAT III/IV-rated insulation resistance tester; EV/hybrid training vehicle or simulator with manual service disconnect; lockout/tagout kit; test-prep platform 40-question EV L3 practice exam; EV L3 procedure checklist card | Practical HV isolation sequence is evaluated by the instructor using the procedure checklist—each critical step (PPE donned before any contact, meter verification of zero HV before touching conductors) must be completed correctly; any critical safety step missed results in an immediate stop and repeat of the entire sequence. The 40-question practice exam must be completed at 70%+ to advance; students below threshold complete the printed drill sheet for missed task categories and retest on a parallel 20-question form the following day. Pass gate: correct HV procedure with no critical safety errors AND practice exam at 70%+. |
| 4 | Full-Length Timed Mock Certification Exams and Debrief | 36 | practice | Students complete nine full-length, timed mock exams—one for each credential (A1–A8, EV L3)—under conditions that closely replicate the Prometric ASE testing environment, then use scored reports to confirm exam readiness or identify any remaining gaps before scheduling the live credential exams. |
| Test-prep platform with full-length question banks for A1–A8 and EV L3 mapped to current task lists; classroom computers or tablets (one per student); printed proctor log sheets; score-report printouts or PDF exports; personal study plans from Lesson 1; ASE registration guide (ase.com); task lists for all nine series for debrief reference | Instructor reviews all nine score reports for each student; a score of 75%+ on every mock exam constitutes program completion of this lesson and triggers the program's 'exam-ready' sign-off. Students with one or two exams below 75% receive a targeted remediation assignment (additional drill questions + one instructor review session) and may retake those specific mock exams once before final program completion is recorded. Students with three or more exams below 75% receive an individualized remediation plan and extended study resources. |
| Assessment | Type | Weight | Pass standard | Method & rubric |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nine-Series Full Mock Certification Exam Battery | Mock certification exam | 100% | A score of 75% or higher on each of the nine mock exams (A1–A8 and EV L3); students who score below 75% on up to two exams may complete targeted remediation and one retake per exam before final program completion is recorded. | Students complete one full-length, timed mock exam for each of the nine ASE credential areas under Prometric-equivalent proctored conditions, producing nine separate scored reports mapped to the published ASE task lists; the combined battery serves as the program's summative measure of exam readiness and the basis for the instructor's exam-ready sign-off that authorizes students to register for the live ASE credentialing exams. Score · Time management |
Program completion
External credential: ASE A1-A8; ASE EV L3
Students prepare for and sit the ASE A1 through A8 series of certification exams and the ASE EV L3 advanced specialist exam, all administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. Pass standard: Credential issued by the body.
Back to Automotive Technology · How the school gets authority to award these credentials
