Automotive Technology
27 courses · Butte College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Winter 2027 · Spring 2027
AUT 3 Specialized Automotive Electronics
- Units
- 6
- Hours
- 68 hours lecture, 102 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course teaches students the fundamentals of electricity and electronics used currently in the Automotive industry, including semi-conductors and microcomputers. Electrical measuring devices, wire repair, circuits, schematics and practical diagnostic procedures are emphasized. Microcomputer inputs, processing, outputs, testing, and operation will be explained. Students will acquire the fundamental knowledge and skills to diagnose and service modern automotive electrical and electronic systems, with emphasis on advanced diagnostic routines needed to correct circuit anomalies such as shorts, opens, and parasitic draws.
AUT 6 Automotive Electrical Systems Lecture
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 34 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces the theory, operation, and repair in the areas of electrical/electronic systems. Battery function and diagnosis are covered. Topics also include vehicle lighting systems, starting and charging systems, and supplemental restraint systems of a modern vehicle.
AUT 7 Automotive Electrical Systems Lab
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 102 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students will develop and demonstrate the hands-on skills needed to repair automotive electrical/electronic systems. Topics include verification, diagnosis and repair of vehicle charging and starting systems, lighting systems, and supplemental restraint systems.
AUT 8 Auto Engines Lecture
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 51 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers the operation, design, construction, fault diagnosis, service and repair procedures of the internal combustion engine.
AUT 9 Automotive Engines Lab
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 153 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students will develop and demonstrate the hands-on skills needed to repair the internal combustion engine and related components. Students will learn the proper use of hand and power tools and test equipment used in the automotive industry.
AUT 20 Automotive Brakes/Suspension and Steering Systems Lecture
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 51 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces the theory, operation, diagnosis and repair in the areas of base brake systems, anti-lock brake systems, and steering and suspension systems. Topics include: the application of Pascal's Law, disk and drum brake systems and their related components, drum brake systems, anti-lock brake system operation, diagnosis and repair, suspension system operation, diagnosis and repair including electronic suspension and steering systems.
AUT 21 Automotive Brakes/Suspension and Steering Systems Lab
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 153 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students will develop and demonstrate the hands-on skills needed to verify, diagnose and repair vehicle systems, sub systems, and components. Topics include: brake systems including both drum and disc brake systems, Anti-lock Brake Systems (ABS), steering and suspension systems, and electronic steering and suspension systems.
AUT 22 Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning Lecture
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 34 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students study the theory and principles of operation of automotive Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems as well as engine cooling system operation and repair. Basic laws of heat transfer, refrigeration and compression/expansion of liquid/vapor are introduced.
AUT 23 Automotive Heating and Air Conditioning Lab
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 102 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course students will develop and demonstrate the hands-on skills required to diagnose, adjust, repair and maintain modern automotive Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) and engine cooling systems. Students will use modern test equipment for diagnosis. Specific skills are developed by the use of special tools used in servicing and repair of automotive HVAC and engine cooling systems.
AUT 30 Gas/Diesel Engine Performance Lecture
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 85 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course introduces the theory, operation, and repair of the ignition, fuel, engine management, and emission control systems on gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles. It will help students identify, analyze and devise comprehensive assessments and diagnostic procedures of vehicle issues or abnormal operations commonly seen in the industry.
AUT 31 Gas/Diesel Engine Performance Lab
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 255 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course, students will develop and demonstrate hands-on skills required to diagnose and repair ignition, fuel, engine management, and emission control systems found in modern gasoline and diesel vehicles. Students will learn to identify and analyze common vehicle issues or abnormal operations encountered in the industry, devise comprehensive diagnostic and repair procedures, and effectively demonstrate these skills.
AUT 33 High Performance Engine Tuning & Testing
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 34 hours lecture, 51 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers the methods used to enhance an internal combustion engine's efficiency and power output, test various engine modifications using industry standard tools, and work with a dynamometer.
AUT 52 Automatic Transmissions/Transaxles Lecture
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 51 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides theory and principles of operation in automatic transmissions/transaxles, to include diagnostic, testing and repair of each system.
AUT 53 Automatic Transmissions/Transaxles Lab
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 153 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course enhances skills in diagnosing, testing, and repair procedures of automotive transmissions/transaxles, drive lines and axles. Shop practice includes diagnostics, testing, and repairing of each system.
AUT 56 Manual Transmissions/Drivetrains Lecture
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 34 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides theory and principles of operation in automotive manual transmissions/transaxles, drive lines and axles. Shop practice includes diagnostics, testing, and repairing of each system.
AUT 57 Manual Transmissions/Drivetrains Lab
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 102 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3 (or concurrent enrollment)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides theory and principles of operation in manual transmissions and transaxles, front and rear axles, drive lines and transfer cases. Shop practice includes diagnostics, testing, and repairing of each system.
AUT 60 EV, Hybrid and Alternative Fuel Technologies
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 17 hours lecture, 51 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 3
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers the theory of operation and service of electric vehicles and other alternative fuel-powered cars and light trucks. Topics include fuel tank and high-voltage battery inspection service, regenerative braking systems, motor/generator and transmission, and fuel cell technologies. Emphasis is placed on safety precautions necessary when servicing electric, hybrid and alternative-fueled vehicles. Students will be working on and around the high voltage electrical systems.
AUT 73 Diesel Industry Technologies Lecture
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 51 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course develops the skills needed to safely diagnose, repair and maintain the systems and sub-systems specific to heavy duty and over-the-road diesel powered vehicles. Topics will include: Diagnosing problems in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and electronic systems with industry standard test equipment; Troubleshooting the sophisticated electronic controls that govern engine performance and horsepower as well as transmission and braking systems; Troubleshooting steering, hydraulic, pneumatic systems, brakes, axles, differentials, electric motors, and compressors. Students will learn heavy-duty industry standardized safety inspection procedures.
AUT 74 Diesel Industry Technologies Lab
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 153 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
In this course, students will develop and demonstrate safe work habits along with the hands-on skills needed to diagnose and repair refrigeration units, mobile hydraulic components, heavy duty powertrain units, pneumatic systems, and truck wheel alignments. Emphasis will be placed on the ability to accurately perform heavy-duty maintenance and safety inspections in a timely manner.
AUT 81 Honda PACT Employment Preparation I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 17 hours lecture, 102 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course prepares the student for Honda or Acura dealer employment by offering the same training content that dealer technicians must complete. Students will learn fundamental skills in all eight Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification categories with a focus specific to Honda and Acura. This course is for students in an ASE Foundation accredited automotive program.
AUT 82 Honda PACT Employment Preparation II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 17 hours lecture, 102 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 81
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course prepares the student for Honda or Acura dealer employment by offering the same training content that dealer technicians must complete. Students will learn advanced skills in all eight Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification categories with a focus specific to Honda and Acura. This course is for fourth semester students in an ASE Education Foundation accredited automotive program.
AUT 83 Honda PACT Skills Certification
- Units
- 1.5
- Hours
- 76.5 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AUT 81, AUT 82
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course prepares the student for Honda or Acura dealer employment by offering the same lab training content and certification that dealer technicians must complete. Students will learn and certify hands-on skills in all eight Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification categories with a focus specific to Honda and Acura. This course is for students who have completed an ASE Education Foundation accredited automotive program and finished Honda PACT Employment Preparation I and II courses at Butte College.
AUT 97 Special Problems-AUT
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 51-153 hours independent study
- Prerequisite
- Permission of instructor
- Transfers to
- CSU
Supervised study and practice in solving special problems in the student's career major. Any student interested in registering for a Special Problems course should contact a full-time instructor or chair/coordinator in the appropriate area no later than the last day of the tenth week of instruction. Students may not petition for a Special Problems course until they have completed satisfactorily 12 units of study at Butte College. 51-153 hours Independent Study. This course may be repeated to a maximum of 3.00 units.
AUT 99 Work Experience-AUT
- Units
- 0.5-8
- Hours
- 25.5-408 hours independent study
- Prerequisite
- Permission of Work Experience Education instructor and employment supervisor
- Transfers to
- CSU
Work experience is an experiential course where students apply what they have learned in the classroom to a work environment. The course offers students the opportunity to develop technical skills, explore possible career choices, build confidence, network with people in the field, and transition into the world of work. Work experience may include paid or unpaid employment. Students may earn one semester unit of college credit in this course for every fifty-one hours of work experience. Students may enroll in this course up to 8 unit(s) to complete the entire curriculum of the course. A maximum of sixteen units can be earned in work experience courses during a student’s enrollment with Butte College.
AUT 101 Automotive Shop Fundamentals
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 34 hours lecture, 51 hours lab
Fundamental introduction to the major systems of the automobile including safety and preventative maintenance services. This course will focus on Auto Shop Fundamentals and repair for individuals with little to no automotive repair or auto shop experience. Topics will include: Automotive industry tools and usage, Automobile systems theory and repair, vehicle maintenance, emergency roadside repair, buying a used vehicle, safety inspection, and automotive industry career opportunities.
AUT 200 Chassis, Engines, Electrical, Auto Skills Practice
- Units
- 0.5-1
- Hours
- 25.5-51 hours lab
- Corequisite
- Must be enrolled in a minimum of 2 units of AUT courses (excluding AUT 3, AUT 101)
This class is a supervised lab experience designed to update and enhance technical skills in the following areas: Engines, Brakes/Chassis, Electrical, and Heating/Air Conditioning (AC) Systems. Instruction will be a combination of laboratory demonstrations and skills practice. This course may be repeated to a maximum of 1.00 units to complete the entire curriculum of the course. Pass/No Pass only. Open Entry/Open Exit.
AUT 201 Emissions and Transmissions Auto Skills Practice
- Units
- 0.5-1
- Hours
- 25.5-51 hours lab
- Corequisite
- Must be enrolled in a minimum of 2 units of AUT courses (excluding AUT 3, AUT 101)
This course is a supervised lab experience designed to update and enhance technical skills in one or more of the following areas: Electrical, Computer/Emission Controls, Drivability and Transmissions/Drive Trains. Instruction will be a combination of laboratory demonstrations and skills practice. This course may be repeated to a maximum of 1.00 units to complete the entire curriculum of the course. Pass/No Pass only. Open Entry/Open Exit.