Automotive Technology
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Basic Automotive Technician - Certificate of Completion
Intermediate Automotive Technician - Certificate of Completion
Advanced Automotive Technician - Certificate of Completion
The automobile has always created a steady demand for automotive technicians. Today, automotive service is one of the fastest-growing industries in the nation, and career opportunities are expanding rapidly.
The Automotive Technology program at Doña Ana Community College is certificated by ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) and is designed to prepare the student for an entry-level position as a line technician, shop foreman, service writer, service manager, or business owner. Completing courses, certificates, and/or degrees from an ASE certified school will enhance students’ ability to gain employment as well as better prepare them to become ASE certified.
Students are trained using state-of-the-art equipment. In the laboratories, they practice the same service and repair techniques required of any professional service technician working in the real world. Each class includes a number of carefully selected competencies that must be mastered in order to successfully complete the program. Students are trained in:
- Engine Repair
- Suspension and steering
- Manual drive train and axles
- Electrical systems
- Brakes
- Heating and air conditioning
- Engine performance
- Automatic transmission
- Manual Drive Train and Axles
Classes are offered in the daytime and also at night to accommodate work schedules.
Full-time Automotive Technology students are required to purchase a personal set of automotive technician’s tools at an approximate cost of approximately $1,500, an iPad at the approximate cost of $400, and to provide their own safety glasses. In addition, they are strongly encouraged to purchase medical/accident insurance. The tool set includes the basic tools that most employers require for an entry-level position. Part-time students are required to purchase only those tools required by the specific course(s) in which they are enrolled.
All Automotive Technology students are encouraged to join SkillsUSA, membership in which provides students an opportunity to develop their leadership skills and to become proficient in public speaking and parliamentary procedure. SkillsUSA also offers students an opportunity to demonstrate their occupational skills through competitions that are held annually on both the state and national level.
Whether taking classes or working on a job site, students enrolled in this program will be required to perform the same job duties and be able to meet the same physical requirements that they will as a graduate in the field. Graduates may be required to lift and carry 50 pounds safely, work safely using hand and power tools and electrical equipment, and stand, squat, stoop, or kneel for long periods of time on concrete floors.
NOTE: Students must achieve a cumulative grade-point average of 2.0 with a final grade of C- or better in ENGL 1110G Composition I and a final grade of C- or better in all required AUTO courses/Technical Requirements.
Automotive Technology - Associate of Applied Science
Basic Automotive Technology - Certificate of Completion
Intermediate Automotive Technician - Certificate of Completion
AUTO 111. Automotive Mechanics Basics
4 Credits (4)
Basic maintenance procedures of the major components of the automobile using service repair manuals, hand and power tools, precision measurement equipment, fasteners and chemicals. Restricted to: Community Colleges only.
AUTO 112. Basic Gasoline Engines
5 Credits (2+6P)
Principles of gasoline engine operation. Identification, design, function of engine components; engine disassembly and reassembly; trouble shooting, and rebuilding heads.
AUTO 113. Automotive Electricity and Electronics PT I
4 Credits (2+4P)
Topics include mastery of DC electricity, use of digital multimeters, troubleshooting electrical problems in starting, charging and accessory systems. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 114. Automotive Electricity and Electronics PT II
4 Credits (2+4P)
Advanced AC and DC automotive electronic circuits. Troubleshooting electronically controlled components including supplemental restraint systems and convenience accessories. Restricted to Community Colleges campuses only.
Prerequisite: AUTO 113.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand and demonstrate safety rules related to electronically controlled automotive systems.
- Diagnosis and demonstrate knowledge of series, parallel, and combination circuits, and their applications as applied to automotive repair.
- Demonstrate use of wiring diagrams as a diagnostic aide.
- Demonstrate use of meters, handheld labscopes, scan tools, and other diagnostic equipment.
- Demonstrate use of repair manuals, both hard copy and electronic.
- Demonstrate knowledge, diagnose and repair Air Bag Supplemental Inflatable Restraint systems
- Demonstrate knowledge, diagnose and repair various convenience electronic systems.
- Interpret customer concerns, create and complete a diagnostic routine and successfully repair an electrical problem.
- Diagnose and repair starting and charging systems.
AUTO 115. Automotive Engine Repair
4 Credits (2+4P)
Principles of gasoline engine operation. Identification of engine parts, operation, and function. Disassembly and reassembly. Engine problem diagnoses (cooling system, lubrication system, engine noises). Restricted to Community Colleges only.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand internal combustion engine theory.
- Identify all components of an engine and their function.
- Identify worn engine components and determine necessary repairs.
- Effectively present engine issues and corrections using verbal and written communication.
- Diagnose cooling system issues and the effect on various components.
- Rebuild/ reassemble an engine to specifications.
- Understand the operation and rationale of forced induction.
- Identify methods of increasing engine efficiency.
AUTO 117. Electronic Analysis and Tune-Up of Gasoline Engines
5 Credits (2+6P)
Theory and operation of ignition and emission control systems and fuel system. Use of troubleshooting equipment and diagnostic equipment.
Prerequisite: AUTO 120 or consent of instructor.
AUTO 119. Manual Transmission/Clutch
5 Credits (2+6P)
Manual transmission, transfer cases, and clutch operating principles. Students will diagnose problems, remove and replace, disassemble, repair, and assemble units.
AUTO 120. Electrical Systems
4 Credits (2+4P)
Troubleshooting and repair of starters, alternators, and associated circuits. Reading electrical diagrams, diagnosis and repair of electrical accessories.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
AUTO 122. Automotive Brakes
4 Credits (2+4P)
Focus is on theory, diagnosis, and service of drum, disc, and anti-lock braking systems, brake component machining, hydraulic component reconditioning, friction and hardware replacement. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 123. Job Shadowing
1 Credit (1)
Observing a professional in a real-world work setting, while gaining on-the-job training. Student will meet in a weekly class or online.
Learning Outcomes
- Work with colleagues in the diagnosing and repair of automobiles.
- Understand basic tool needs to meet industry requirements.
- Prepare for various pay scales (straight time, flat-rate, hourly).
- Understand daily operations in a live shop setting.
- Understand the roles in the automotive field to include Technician, Service Writer, Shop Foreman, and Service Manager.
AUTO 124. Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning
4 Credits (2+4P)
R12 and R134A air conditioning systems maintenance diagnosis and repair. R12 to R134A conversion procedures. Troubleshooting automatic temperature controls and leak detection. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 125. Brakes
5 Credits (2+6P)
Theory of operation, diagnosis, repair, and maintenance of disc and drum brakes; safety and use of special tools.
AUTO 126. Suspension, Steering, and Alignment
5 Credits (2+6P)
Types of steering systems, suspension maintenance and repair, four- wheel alignment procedures.
AUTO 127. Basic Automatic Transmission
4 Credits (2+4P)
Theory and operation of the automatic transmission; maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair of components.
AUTO 129. Automotive Steering and Suspension
4 Credits (2+4P)
Diagnosis/service of suspension components including shocks, springs, ball joints, manual and power steering systems and four wheel alignment are some areas covered. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 130. Introduction to Transportation Industry
3 Credits (3)
State and national traffic statutes that relate to the trucking industry. A Commercial Driver's License Learner s Permit will be obtained through successful completion of the course.
Prerequisites: Must be 18 years of age, have a current driver's license and consent of instructor.
AUTO 131. Class A CDL
3 Credits (1+4P)
Instruction in how to perform proper pre-trip inspection; hands-on training with a tractor-trailer unit on the backing range and street driving to develop skills necessary to pass Class A DCL exam. Restricted to Community Colleges campuses only.
Prerequisite(s): Class A CDL restricted license (permit) and either restriction of D.O.T.
AUTO 132. Automotive Air-Conditioning and Heating Systems
4 Credits (2+4P)
Theory and operation, reading schematic diagrams, troubleshooting, repair, and replacement operations performed.
AUTO 137. Fuel Systems and Emission Controls
4 Credits (2+4P)
Covers theory and operation of fuel system and emission control. Troubleshooting, vacuum diagrams, overhaul, repair and adjustment of carburetion and fuel injection.
Prerequisites: AUTO 117 or consent of instructor.
AUTO 160. Hybrid\Electric Vehicles
4 Credits (2+4P)
Theory and operation of Hybrid and Electric vehicles with emphasis on electrical motor subsystems and battery management systems.
Prerequisite: AUTO 113, AUTO 115.
Prerequisite/Corequisite: AUTO 205.
Learning Outcomes
- Use automotive scanners and test equipment effectively.
- Explain the difference between hybrid and electrical vehicles.
- Identify faulty electrical components and determine necessary repairs.
- Effectively present issues and corrections using verbal and written communication.
- Demonstrate proper safety when working with hybrid/EV batteries.
- Demonstrate knowledge of differences between hybrid and fully electric vehicles and their benefits.
- Perform routine service on hybrid and electric vehicles.
AUTO 162. Advanced Non-Structural Repair I
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course will involve the students in all phases of minor non-structural collision damage repairs. It will encompass sheet metal repair, advanced panel replacement and alignment.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 161.
AUTO 164. Automotive Industry Collision Repair I
4 Credits (2+4P)
This advanced course is a continuation of AUTO 161, 162, and 163. This course will incorporate all areas of major non-structural collision damage repair. Through practical application the student will learn how to effectively repair all heavy collision damage using current I-CAR repair standards and procedures.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 163.
AUTO 165. Automotive Industry Collision Repair II
4 Credits (2+4P)
This advanced course is a continuation of AUTO 164 with emplasis on time efficiency. This course will involve the student in all areas of major collision damage repair. The student will be exposed to all applicable I-CAR industry procedures and standards involved in sheet metal and composite panel repair.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 164.
AUTO 172. Introduction to Automotive Refinishing
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course is designed to incorporate all aspects of surface preparation, paint safety, refinishing materials, and refinishing fundamentals. Students will receive instructions for the application of acrylic enamel and base coat/clear coat refinishing systems.
AUTO 174. Intermediate Automotive Refinishing
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course encompasses all areas of surface preparation, damage repair and refinishing procedures that are necessary for achieving a proper spot repair. Students will also be exposed to safe work habits in the refinishing area and correct automotive detailing procedures.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 172.
AUTO 176. Automotive Color Adjustment & Blending
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course will help develop the skills needed to match any type of paint. It will expose the student to color theory, color evaluation, color matching, and other color adjustment factors. The student will be instructed in multiple panel paint blending techniques as well.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 174.
AUTO 178. Automotive Overall Refinishing
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course encompasses all areas of automotive refinishing. This advanced course is a continuation of AUTO 176 with emphasis in achieving industry refinishing times and standards consistent with that of I-CAR. The student will be exposed to surface preparation and refinishing techniques involved with overall coat/clear coat refinishing system.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 176.
AUTO 181. Frame and Structural Repair
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course will involve the student in all areas of frame and structural damage repairs. Through theory and practical application, the student will learn how to diagnose and repair various types of damage include: mash, twist, sag, and side sway. This course will expose the students to safe work habits while using measuring and straightening equipment.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 165.
AUTO 182. Structural Panel Replacement
4 Credits (2+4P)
This course is a continuation of AUTO 181 with infancies in structural panel replacement. The student will be exposed to frame and unibody measuring equipment and their proper use in sectioning procedures. Through theory and practical application the student will learn how to ID structural components, properly separate spot welds, position and weld new body panels in place.
Prerequisite(s): AUTO 181.
AUTO 200. Engine Performance
4 Credits (2+4P)
Theory and operation of ignition, emission control systems, fuel systems, and exhaust systems. Use of troubleshooting and diagnostic equipment. May be repeated up to 4 credits.
Prerequisite/Corequisite: AUTO 113, AUTO 115.
Learning Outcomes
- Use automotive scanners and test equipment effectively
- Identify all emission control components of an engine and their function
- Identify faulty ignition components and determine necessary repairs
- Effectively present engine issues and corrections using verbal and written communication
- Diagnose fuel system issues and the effect on various components
- Demonstrate knowledge of differences between different fuel delivery methods and their benefits
- Understand the operation and rationale of forced induction
- Identify methods of increasing engine efficiency
AUTO 201. Engine Performance I
4 Credits (2+4P)
Theory, function, service and analysis of engine related subsystems including ignition, fuel, starting, and charging systems. Emphasis is placed on diagnosis and operation of electronic engine control management systems. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 203. Engine Performance II
4 Credits (2+4P)
Study of engine management systems and emission control systems, their function and relationship to vehicle performance and air pollution. Emphasis is placed on the analysis and repair of non-compliant vehicles. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
Prerequisite: AUTO 201.
Learning Outcomes
- Be able to explain basic electrical theories.
- Be able to explain basic and advanced engine designs and engine operating theory.
- Be able to explain engine cooling and lubricating systems.
- Be able to explain intake and exhaust systems
- Test battery, starting and charging systems
- Test ignition systems including point type, electronic trigger type, and distributor-less systems.
- Test automotive fuel system including fuel tanks, lines, filters and pumps.
- Test basic electronic fuel injection systems.
- Test automotive computer input devices and controlled devices 1
- Demonstrate ability to work with PC based automotive software including Alldata,
AUTO 205. Manual Drive Train and Axles
4 Credits (2+4P)
Operation, diagnosis, maintenance, repair or replacement of manual transmissions, clutch assemblies, differentials, drivelines, axles, and manual transaxles. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 206. Automatic Transmissions
5 Credits (2+6P)
Operation, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of automatic transmissions including rear wheel drive, front wheel drive, and electronically controlled transmissions and transaxles. Restricted to Community Colleges only.
AUTO 208. Introduction to Alternative Fueled Vehicles
3 Credits (3)
Course will familiarize student with conditions that are resulting in the alternative fueled vehicle movement as well as the design and safety precautions unique to each alternative fuel. Propulsion systems covered include electric vehicles, bio-fueled vehicles, hybrid-electric vehicles and hydrogen powered vehicles, along with other emerging technologies as appropriate. Restricted to: Community Colleges only.
AUTO 209. Hybrid Vehicle Service Techniques
3 Credits (3)
Designed for experienced automotive technicians, this course will cover safety procedures, design, operational overview and service techniques as well as minor diagnosis and repair of all classifications of hybrid-electric vehicles. Each student must possess legal Class '0' high voltage gloves and liners to attend this class. Restricted to: Community Colleges only.
AUTO 210. Light Diesel
4 Credits (2+4P)
Theory and operation of light duty diesel engines with emphasis on highway diesel usage including major engine subsystems and fuel management systems.
Prerequisite/Corequisite: AUTO 113, AUTO 115.
Learning Outcomes
- Use automotive scanners and test equipment effectively.
- Identify all emission control components included on diesel engines and their function.
- Identify faulty emission components and determine necessary repairs.
- Effectively present engine issues and corrections using verbal and written communication
- Diagnose fuel system issues and the effect on various components.
- Demonstrate knowledge of differences between different fuel delivery methods and their benefits.
- Understand the operation and rationale of forced induction.
- Identify methods of increasing engine efficiency.
AUTO 221. Cooperative Experience I
1-6 Credits
Supervised cooperative work program. Student is employed in an approved occupation and supervised and rated by the employer and instructor. Student will meet in a weekly class. Graded S/U.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
AUTO 255. Special Problems in Automotive Technology
1-5 Credits
Individual studies in areas directly related to automotive technologies. May be repeated for a maximum of 12 credits.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor.
AUTO 290. ASE Certification Preparation
1 Credit (1)
This is the capstone course for the Automotive Technology Program and is a requirement for graduation. Consent of Instructor required. Restricted to: AUTO majors. Restricted to Community Colleges campuses
Learning Outcomes
- write technical reports explaining customers complaint(s), specific component malfunction(s) and related problems to include repair procedures, specifications, parts and costs associated with each specific repair
- determine, categorize and document component or systems malfunctions which will be discussed in class
- adequately identify safety hazards associated with electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic and mechanical systems before participating in any lab project
- use a systematic approach to identify, diagnose and repair new hydro, electrical and mechanical systems
- identify all related parts and components before attempting to repair each system
- clearly identify and understand the specific function of each component before these systems and subsystems are dismantled for repairs
- demonstrate proficiency in locating, identifying and following procedures for repairs as outlined on the Mitchell and All-DATA computer information systems
- retrieve all phases of automotive information needed to repair the following: Electrical and Electronics, Engine Repair, Engine Performance, Automatic transmissions, Heating And Air Conditioning Systems
- demonstrate proficiency in the proper usage of on-board computer scanners used to identify and properly diagnose possible malfunction within a specific on-board computer system 1
- demonstrate proficiency in the proper use of scanners, information and vehicle specifications to determine needed repairs 1
- identify, evaluate, diagnosis and repair electrical, electronic and mechanical systems and subsystems
AUTO 295. Special Topics
1-6 Credits
Topics to be announced in the Schedule of Classes.
Name: George Ruiz, Assistant Professor
Office Location: DATS 156A
Phone: (575) 527-7598
Email: gruiz@dacc.nmsu.edu
Name: James Collier, Instructor
Office Location: DATS 156B
Phone: (575) 527-7754
Email: JCollier@dacc.nmsu.edu
Name: Omar Pardo, Lab Technician
Office Location: DATS 156
Phone: (575) 527-7559
Email: OPardo@dacc.nmsu.edu
Name: Megan Hernandez-Smith, Advanced Technologies Academic Advisor
Office Location: DATS 155C
Phone: (575) 528-7242
Email: mehernandez@dacc.nmsu.edu
Name: Karina Diven, Advanced Technologies Administrative Assistant
Office Location: DATS 155
Phone: (575) 527-7590
Email: KDiven@dacc.nmsu.edu