Automotive Technology
23 courses · Yuba College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026
AUTO-21 Introduction to Automobiles
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers a comprehensive study of automobiles. Emphasis is placed on fundamental operating principles, nomenclature, structural analysis, major design theories, systems function, systems service, minor repair procedures, major repair complexities, current laws and regulations, political action, and personal economics/decision making. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-50B Advanced Engine Performance and Diagnosis
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 27 lab hours
- Advisory
- Advanced level course suitable for students who have substantial industry experience in diagnosis or have completed a college level electrical, fuels, and diagnostic courses. Basic computer skills to navigate the internet, access publisher online work, homework, and post homework to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of advanced engine performance diagnosis. Emphasis is placed on automotive and diesel diagnostic methods and repair, fuels, electrical, and emissions control. Labs include diagnostic skills in drivability, onboard diagnostics I & II, including scan tools, meter usage, lab scopes, computerized analyzers and dynamometer five-gas emission diagnostic equipment and other related equipment as it pertains to gas or diesel electronic engine management systems. Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) L1 certification is offered upon successful completion of final test. Students are strongly encouraged to have college-level reading, basic mathematics, and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-51.20 Automotive Technical Skills
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers basic automotive technical skills used by all automotive service and repair technicians. Emphasis is placed on tool selection, use and maintenance of tools, practical measuring skills, bolt and nut thread repair techniques, electrical circuit meter usage and problem solving techniques. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.30 Manual Drivetrains/Gas/Diesel Vehicles
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of automotive manual drivetrains. Emphasis is placed on standard transmissions and transaxles, clutches, drive shafts, drive axle assemblies, transfer cases, gears, bearings, lubrication theory, normal maintenance adjustments and service operations, problem diagnosis and overhaul procedures for gasoline and diesel vehicles. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.36 Heating and Air Conditioning Systems
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of automotive heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems. Emphasis is placed on heating, cooling, and air conditioning systems, engine cooling system, adjustment procedures, problem diagnosis, system operation with normal service, repair procedures, and introduction to automatic temperature systems. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.40 Brake Systems
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of automotive braking systems. Emphasis is placed on brake theory, hydraulic operation, hydraulic control valves, power brake units, electronic control systems and anti-lock brake systems (ABS), industry standards and practices for the inspection, diagnosis, service, and repair of automotive and light truck braking systems. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.41 Alignment and Suspension
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of automotive alignment and suspension systems. Emphasis is placed on suspension and steering operating theory, 4-wheel alignment, front and rear-wheel alignment, tire repair and balancing, replacement of suspension and steering components, and rebuilding of steering gears and pumps. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.44 Electrical Systems
- Units
- 6
- Hours
- 74 lecture hours, 108 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of current automotive electrical systems. Emphasis is placed on theory, diagnosis, service and wire repair techniques, fundamentals of circuit construction, ignition systems, charging and starting systems, domestic and import computer management systems, wiring diagrams, multi-meters and scanners. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.45 Engine Diagnosis and Rebuilding
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 108 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of automotive engine diagnosis and rebuilding. Emphasis is placed on theory of operation, pre-teardown diagnosis, disassembly techniques, engine cleaning methods, measurement tools, component identification, lubrication systems, assembly break-in procedures, and introducing alternative fuel and hybrid engine drivetrains. Students are strongly encouraged to have college-level reading, basic mathematics, and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.61A Engine Repair Experience
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20; AUTO-52.45
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive engine repair. Emphasis is placed on engine failure diagnosis, tear-down, machining and assembly. This course is intended primarily for students with prior practical experience in automotive engine repair. Students are strongly encouraged to have problem solving and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.61C Electrical Systems Experience
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-52.44
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive electrical systems. Emphasis is placed on extensive multimeter usage, scan tools, battery and starting test equipment to make diagnostic decisions, and refine skills in reading wiring diagrams. Intended primarily for students with prior practical experience in automotive electrical systems. Students are strongly encouraged to have problem solving and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.61D Engine Performance Experience
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-52.44
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive engine performance. Emphasis is placed on scan tools, lab scopes, wiring diagrams, online resources, off-the-car diagnosis, and efficient use of electronic service manuals. Intended primarily for students with prior practical experience in automotive engine performance. Students are strongly encouraged to have problem solving and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.62A AUTO Transmission/Transaxle Exp
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-53.31
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive automatic transmissions and transaxles. Emphasis is placed on diagnosis of mechanical and electrical systems, techniques for pre-assembly, disassembling, and on the road dyno testing of completed transmissions. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.62B Manual Drivetrain/Axles Experience
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-52.30
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive manual drivetrains and axles. Emphasis is placed on removal and installation considerations, diagnosis of transmissions, clutches, transfer cases, differentials, and electrical systems used in manual drivetrain and axle systems. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.62C Alignment and Suspension Experience
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-52.41
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive alignment and suspension. Emphasis is placed on 4-wheel alignment, tire repair, balancing, replacement of suspension and steering components, electrical diagnosis as it relates to tire pressure monitoring system, and ride control. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.62D Brakes Experience
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-52.40
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive brake systems. Emphasis is placed on diagnosing and repairing disc and drum brake systems, wheel and hub bearings, electrical diagnosis as it relates to anti-lock brake systems (ABS) and traction control. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.62E Heating and Air Conditioning Exp
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-52.36
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers individualized advanced techniques with a strong emphasis on specialized training in automotive heating and air conditioning. Emphasis is placed on recovering and recharging of air conditioning system, heating system, semi/AUTO-air controls, engine cooling system, and electrical diagnosis. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-52.81 Hybrid and Alternative Fuel Vehicles
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 27 lecture hours, 27 lab hours
This course covers a comprehensive study of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles. Emphasis is placed on safety when using high voltage, maintenance, drivability, inverter power transfer, battery technologies, hydrogen electric power, and fuel cell technology. Labs include performing scheduled hybrid maintenance services. Introduction to hybrid vehicle diagnosis and repair. Development of entry-level skills needed to work on hybrid vehicles. Students are strongly encouraged to have college level reading, basic mathematics, and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-53.22 Hydraulics (Fluid Power)
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of hydraulics (fluid power). Emphasis is placed on basic principles of hydraulics, pumps, fluids, linear and rotary actuators, reading automotive hydraulic schematics, robotics, and agricultural industry. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-53.31 Automatic Transmission/Gas and Diesel Vehicles
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 54 lecture hours, 54 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of automatic transmissions and transaxles. Emphasis is placed on operating principles, planetary gear sets, hydraulic operations, electronic controls, torque converters, normal maintenance adjustments and service operations, problem diagnosis, and overhaul procedures for automotive and truck applications. Students are strongly encouraged to have college-level reading, basic mathematics, and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-53.33 Fuel Systems
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 108 lab hours
- Corequisite
- AUTO-21; AUTO-51.20
- Advisory
- Concurrent enrollment in AUTO-53.44 is strongly recommended. It is also recommended that a student enroll in both AUTO-53.33 and AUTO-53.44 for ASE/BAR Automotive A6 and A8 Engine Performance certification. Students will need this certification for enrollment in AUTO-53.55 (Advanced Tune-up course) and AUTO-95 (CA Smog Licensing course) the following semester.
This course covers a comprehensive study of conventional and advanced automotive fuel systems. Emphasis is placed on electronic fuel injection, computerized fuel management systems, 5-gas analyzers and combustion theory. Students are strongly encouraged to have college-level reading, basic mathematics, and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-53.55 Advanced Tune-Up
- Units
- 5
- Hours
- 36 lecture hours, 162 lab hours
- Prerequisite
- AUTO-53.33; AUTO-52.44
- Advisory
- Computer skills recommended: navigating the internet, accessing publisher online work, homework, and posting to the course learning management system.
This course covers a comprehensive study of advanced automotive tune-up. Emphasis is placed on problems pertaining to fuel delivery, ignition, emission, computers and electronic engine controls, wiring systems, and mechanical engine diagnostics. Latest diagnostic strategies and extensive troubleshooting, use of diagnostic test equipment, lab oscilloscopes, scan-tools, and emission analyzers. Students are strongly encouraged to have college-level reading, basic mathematics, and computer literacy skills. Grades are P/NP Option.
AUTO-95 State Emission Control License
- Units
- 7
- Hours
- 117 lecture hours, 30 lab hours
- Advisory
- Advanced level course suitable for students who have substantial industry experience in diagnosis or have completed a college level electrical, fuels, and diagnostic courses. Basic computer skills to navigate the internet, access publisher online work, homework, and post homework to the course learning management system.
The course prepares students for a Smog Check Inspection/Repair license. Intended for students that possess ASE/BAR certifications in the following areas: A6-Automotive Electrical; A8-Automotive Engine Performance; L1-Advanced Engine Performance and/or students that are currently enrolled in electrical, automotive fuel systems and advanced engine performance/diagnostic courses. This is an intensive review of automotive electrical/electronic, engine mechanical, emission controls, and computer control systems as they relate to automotive emissions controls. This course satisfies the ASE/BAR certification requirement when applying for Smog Check technician licenses and may be used by the applicant in lieu of the ASE certifications. Grades are P/NP Option.