Automotive Technology
15 courses · Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
AT 100 Introduction to Automotive Technology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is an introduction for students with minimal to no background in the automotive field. The course covers the basic theory and operation of the automobile, and related systems such as engine cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, and more. The introduction to basic electricity covers batteries, starting, and charging systems. Through laboratory practices, this course also offers a practical introduction to automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and minor maintenance and repair.
AT 105 Automotive Electricity and Electronics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- (Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in): AT 100
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course offers an in-depth introduction to automotive electrical and electronic systems, basic electrical theory, wiring diagrams, body control modules, and computer networks. Hands-on laboratory practices using electrical/electronic testing equipment for troubleshooting and repair.
AT 110 Automotive Engine Performance
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AT 100 and AT 105
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course emphasizes the description and operation of conventional and electronic ignition systems, sensors and actuators, and computerized engine controls. Laboratory practices will focus on diagnosing engine performance-related concerns and diagnostic trouble codes using testing equipment and scan-tool communications.
AT 115 Automotive Fuel Injection and Fuel Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AT 100 and AT 105
- Transfers to
- CSU
In-depth introduction to fuel management systems and the various fuels currently used in automotive engines, including gasoline multi-port, sequential, and direct injection. Topics also include air-fuel ratio and sensor response. Students will apply technical knowledge through laboratory practices to troubleshoot and diagnose electronic fuel systems.
AT 120 Automotive Transmissions, Transaxles, and Drive Lines
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AT 100
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers the hydraulic and mechanical functions, and repair of automotive transmissions and transaxles. Students will disassemble, inspect, reassemble, and test three-speed conventional transmissions, clutches, universal joints, drive lines, and differentials.
AT 125 Automotive Machining
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.50 hours lecture, 4.50 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
The various testing and machining operations involved in an automotive machine shop. Areas covered include cylinder head service and repair, connecting rod service, cylinder boring and honing, crankshaft service, and various other automotive machining and measuring techniques.
AT 130 Automotive Brake Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- (Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in): AT 100
- Transfers to
- CSU
The hydraulic, mechanical, and electronic functions of modern automotive brake systems. Hands-on laboratory covers conventional and electronic brake systems' troubleshooting, and complete system repair of power, drum, and disc brakes.
AT 135 Automotive Suspension, Wheels, and Steering Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- (Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in): AT 100
- Transfers to
- CSU
Introduction to front and rear wheel alignment using the latest equipment technology. Topics covered are steering, geometry, turn radius, ball joints, toe track, camber, caster, suspension, bearing service, wheel balance, and tire wear identification.
AT 160 Associated Studies in Automotives
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
Applied science and technology as related to the automotive field. Areas covered include metrics, Ohms Law and electron theory, metal alloys and their properties and uses, thermal expansion, gas laws, limits and fits, and friction and torque.
AT 165 Automotive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- (Completion of, or concurrent enrollment in): AT 100
- Transfers to
- CSU
The principles of operation and servicing of modern automotive air conditioning systems. Lecture and laboratory practices will cover refrigeration, heating, ventilation, ducting, and electrical systems. Students will complete and receive EPA certification in the handling and disposal of refrigerants.
AT 170 Auto Repair Shop Experience
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 6.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
The student gains valuable skill development in the maintenance, repair and diagnosis in automotive technology. The class runs in a similar format to an actual repair shop where students service cars supplied by the Palomar community.
AT 197 Topics in Automotive
- Units
- 0.5-3
- Hours
- 0.50-3.00 hours lecture, 1.50-9.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Topics in automotive technology. See Class Schedule for specific topic offered. Course title will designate subject covered.
AT 210 Automotive Specialized Electronics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AT 100 and AT 105 Recommended Preparation: AT 110
- Transfers to
- CSU
Advanced electronic principles and automotive computer-controlled networks. Identification, diagnosis, repair, and verification of malfunctioning electronic components. Function and operation of semiconductors, diodes, transistors, and capacitors.
AT 215 Automotive Emission Control
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- AT 105; AT 110
- Transfers to
- CSU
Advanced Engine Performance theory and diagnoses as it relates to emission control systems and five-gas emission analysis. This course also covers the Level II Smog Check Training, which includes the program rules and regulations from Title XVI of the California Code of Regulations. Students will demonstrate competency using the smog check inspection equipment and demonstrate the ability to perform a full Smog Check. At the successful completion of this course, the student will be awarded a Level II Smog Check Training certificate of completion by the Bureau of Auto Repair, thus completing eligibility to apply for the State examination for a California Smog Inspector License.
AT 225 Automotive Engine Rebuilding
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 4.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
The complete rebuilding of at least one automobile engine using the machine tools and techniques of industry.