Automotive Technology I & II

Automotive Technology I

Students in this program is offered to juniors and seniors. The program begins with an introduction to basic shop procedures and will learn in a program that exceeds the nationally recognized Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Maintenance and Light Repair Technical Program Standards. It reaches the Mastery Standards in Electrical, Brakes, Steering and Suspension, Engine Repair, and Automotive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC). At the end of each subject, students have the opportunity to take the State of Michigan Mechanics Licensing Exam on campus for a total of five licenses. If college level work is attained, students can earn up to 21 Lansing Community College (LCC) credits over the course of two years.   

Automotive Technology II

This class is offered to seniors that have successfully completed the first year of the course. Students will study Automotive Steering Suspension, Automotive Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning as well as Engine Repair. 

* Students must also have a valid drivers license to operate vehicles in the lab.

Program Overview

Program Location

LCC West Campus

Session Offered

AM.PM

Average Lecture days/week

2-3 days

Average Lab days/week

2-3 days

Homework

Weekly

Required Reading

  • College level textbooks and workbooks
  • Less than 25 pages per week

Success Indicators

  • Strong science interest
  • Mechanically inclined
  • Kinesthetic (hands on learner)
  • Ability to apply written to practical information
  • Deductive reasoning
  • Critical thinking
  • Willingness to work hard
  • Time management skills

College Credits - 21

Year 1

  • AUTM 102 - Automotive Safety
  • AUTM 111 - Automotive Electrical I
  • AUTM 141 - Brakes

Year 2

  • AUTM 131 - Automotive Engine Repair
  • AUTM 151 - Suspension, AC/HVAC

Academic Rigor

3 out of 5

Capital Region Technical Early College

Students enrolled in this program may choose to participate in the Capital Region Technical Early College program. It is a high school-to-college program where students start in grade 11 and leave in grade 13 with a college degree or certification. The program gives students relevant career-related experiences.

Students learning outcomes include, but are not limited to:

  • Automotive environmental safety
  • Basic engine/vehicle maintenance
  • Utilization of manufacturer service information
  • Electrical theory including Watt’s, Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s Law
  • Circuit interpretation, diagnosis and service
  • Battery service and diagnosis
  • Starting and charging system diagnosis and service
  • Basic wiring skills
  • Disc and drum brake diagnosis and repair
  • Hydraulic system diagnosis and repair
  • Wheel bearing, parking brake and other brake component service and maintenance
  • Anti Lock brake system operation and diagnosis
  • Steering and suspension interpretation, diagnosis and service
  • Four - wheel alignment
  • Advanced tire service including force matching
  • Stability control systems
  • Refrigerate handling
  • Air conditioning system charging
  • Climate control systems
  • Vehicle cooling systems
  • Four-cycle engine operation
  • Critical engine measurement
  • Engine cleaning and rebuilding
  • Engine dynamometer operation

Certifications

  • State of Michigan Brakes Certification
  • State of Michigan Steering and Suspension Certification
  • State of Michigan Electrical Certification
  • Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning 
  • Engine

Student Leadership

Students have the opportunity for leadership, competition and community service through membership in SkillsUSA.

Careers

  • Automotive Technician
  • Electronic Installer/Repair
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic
  • Mechanics & Diesel Engine Specialist
  • Tire Repair/Changer

Median Wage

  • Automotive Technician: $16.26 Hourly, $33,820 Annually
  • Electronic Installer/Repair: $38.06 Hourly, $79,160 Annually
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic: $29.76 Hourly, $61,900 Annually
  • Mechanics & Diesel Engine Specialist: $28.35 Hourly, $58,970 Annually
  • Tire Repair/Changer: $17.21 Hourly, $35,790 Annually

Employment Outlook (Average)

  • Automotive Technician: 5-9%
  • Electronic Installer/Repair: 5-8%
  • Heavy Equipment Mechanic: 5-8%
  • Mechanics & Diesel Engine Specialist: 5-8%
  • Tire Repair/Changer: 5-8%