AUTOMOTIVE FUNDAMENTALS

Course Summary:

An introductory automotive program that focuses on what all car owners should know and be able to do. 

Course Outline: 

This program focuses on the fundamental knowledge and experience in owning and maintaining an automobile. Discover how to choose a quality repair facility, buy a car, choose an insurance policy, handle roadside emergencies, diagnose common problems, and communicate effectively with technicians. You will learn about safety, tools, automotive systems, and how to complete basic maintenance and repairs. For individuals that want to pursue Automotive Technology as a career, this course provides a solid foundation critical to maintenance, light repair, auto ownership, and how cars work.   

Course Requirements:

 Activities are both hands-on and Internet-based. Most hands-on activities can be completed with a limited number of tools. Some activities can also be completed more than once to extend hours of instruction, enhancing the student’s skill set.    

Standards Correlation: 

This curriculum has been correlated to the ASE Education Foundation Maintenance and Light Repair (MLR) Task List. “The ASE Education Foundation is a non-profit organization that evaluates and accredits entry-level automotive technology education programs against standards developed by the automotive service industry. It also develops career-readiness education for students which fuse local partnerships, rigorous standard-based education, workplace experience, and mentorship together.” Accredited programs train students to become ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) Certified. This course correlates to beginning MLR standards (over 60%), making it an ideal first course in becoming an Automotive Technician. For a program to be MLR certified, ASE requires 540 hours of instruction. Completing our course provides the first 135 hours.  

Course Materials: Online computer access at home. Other material TBD Categories: 

Academic Elective; Automotive 

Target Levels: Grade 8-12 

Prerequisite: No prerequisites for this class High School Credits: This course can be either a 1/2 credit or 1 credit course and covers 135 hours of instruction. 

This course is availabe in two semesters but can be separated out so that your student just takes the first semester.

1st Semester

Buying an Automobile

Automotive Expenses

What to Expect at Repair Facilities

Safety Around the Automobile

Auto Care and Cleaning

Fluid Level Check including oil change

Alternative Fuels and Designs

Automotive Accessories

Common Automotive Problems

Roadside Emergencies incl flat tires

All about Tires and Brakes 

2nd Semester

How Cars Work

Tools and Equipment

Electrical System

Lubrication System

Fuel System

Cooling System and Climate Control

Ignition System

Suspension, Steering and Tires

Brake System

Drivetrain

Exhaust and Emissions

Teacher:  Andy Huddle 

Andy has worked 20 years with Michelin North America in the fields of tire/wheel mounting quality management, auditing, inventory control and forecasting. BS Management and BS Statistics - University of Tennessee - 30 years automotive experience including building engines, transmissions, driveshafts, U and CV joints, batteries, starting systems, electrical wiring/troubleshooting, suspension components, braking systems and their maintenance incl ABS , engine coolant system, fuel systems including both carburetors and fuel injection systems, power steering, engine maintenance, tires changes, wear, blow outs, flats, inspections, aged tires, wheels, bearings, A/C, lubrication and fluid types and exhaust.  Experience in fabrication, welding and modifying components for high performance.  Emphasis on the balance of reliability, cost and safety. 

Schedule:  

Thursday  2:30 PM - 4:00 PM 

September 12 - December 12, 2024 (Thanksgiving Break Week of November 25, 2024)

Christmas Break - December 16 - January 6, 2025

January 9 - May 1, 2025 (Spring Break March 17, 2025)

Tuition: 

$ 575 (two semesters)

$ 350  (one semester)

 **Annual Registration Fee: $85 per student or $145 for family.**