Motive Power Fundamentals – Automotive Repair

If you enjoy troubleshooting complex problems, utilizing some of the latest technology and working with your hands, consider taking a program leading to a career as an automotive service technician. Through a combination of hands-on activities and theory-based classes, graduates from the Motive Power Fundamentals – Automotive Repair certificate program are well-positioned to enter and be successful working in this trade area.

Throughout the duration of your program, you will develop a strong foundation of technical skills needed for the automotive field. You will develop safe working practices in the use of tools, machinery, and equipment and will apply fundamental communication, documentation, information technology, and computer skills to support a motive power-related work environment. To round out your training, you will be introduced to the basics of running a motive power business and relevant legal issues.

As a graduate of the certificate program, you will have an opportunity to receive automatic exemption from Level 1 of the Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship in-school training should you choose to pursue that career pathway.

What You’ll Learn

• Identify basic automotive system problems by using critical thinking skills and strategies and by applying fundamental knowledge of motor vehicle operation, components, and their interrelationships.
• Identify, inspect, and test basic automotive engine components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Identify, inspect, and test basic automotive electrical, electronic, fuel and emission components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Identify, inspect, and test basic automotive drive train components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Identify, inspect, and test basic automotive suspension, steering, and brake components and systems in compliance with manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Disassemble and reassemble automotive components to required specifications by applying workshop skills and knowledge of basic shop practices.
• Select and use a variety of test equipment to assess basic electronic circuits, automotive systems, and subsystems.
• Apply basic knowledge of hydraulics and pneumatics to the testing and inspection of basic automotive systems and subsystems.
• Use information technology and computer skills to access data concerning repair procedures and manufacturers’ updates.
• Prepare logs, records, and documentation to appropriate standards.
• Apply business practices and communication skills to improve customer service.
• Develop and use personal and professional strategies and plans to improve professional growth, job performance, and work relationships.
• Complete all assigned work in compliance with occupational, health, safety, and environmental law; established policies and procedures; codes and regulations; and in accordance with ethical principles.
• Apply basic knowledge of the operating principles to automotive systems, subsystems and related components.
• Perform soldering operations; welding and cutting using oxy-fuel; and welding using GMAW.