Automotive Technology
The purpose of the Automotive Technology program is to train students for employment in automotive service and repair. The laboratory phase of courses uses modern tools and equipment while performing actual “live” service and repairs on automobiles. The classroom phase includes discussion of principles on the operation of automotive systems and components, demonstration of repair techniques, textbook assignments, and quizzes. Basic mechanic hand tools, supplies, books, and working clothes are required for enrollment. A tool list is available from the instructor.
The Automotive Technology program prerequisite requires placement at English 100 or higher, and QM 107C or higher, or consent of instructor, for all Automotive Technology courses except AMT 80 and AMT 100. Students must maintain a valid driver’s license throughout the duration of the Automotive course of study.
The Automotive Technology program offers two different pathways towards certificates and degrees, Automotive Technology (AMT) and Auto Body Repair and Painting (ABRP).
The Automotive Technology program curriculum is aligned with the accrediting bodies of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Graduates are eligible to take the ASE Certification test. The State of Hawaiʻi requires both the repair shop and the mechanic to be licensed. Additional requirements for automotive technicians include two years of on-the-job training or one year of on-the-job training and a two-year degree in automotive repair to qualify for certification. State certification information can be found at the ASE certification site: https://ase.com/ase-certification-tests
Call the Program Coordinator, Lawrence Martinson, at (808) 984-3678 or by emailing lkmartin@hawaii.edu for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to communicate with customers and other industry trade professionals.
- Demonstrate effective retrieval of instructional and repair information for automotive diagnosis and repair procedures.
- Demonstrate the ability to identify characteristics and functions of automotive components.
- Demonstrate the ability to diagnose, service, and repair automotive vehicles.
- Demonstrate proper pre-employment skills including resume writing, interview preparation, and professionalism related to automotive repair industry.
Degrees and Certificates
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Automotive Technology (AAS), Associate in Applied Science -
Automotive Technology - Auto Body Repair and Painting Concentration (AAS), Associate in Applied Science -
Automotive Technology (CA), Certificate of Achievement -
Automotive Technology - Auto Body Repair and Painting (CA), Certificate of Achievement -
Automotive Technology (CO), Certificate of Competence
Course Descriptions
AMT 80: Small Engine Repair
AMT 100: Introduction to Automotive Technology
Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies, or consent.
AMT 129: Engines Repair
Covers shop safety, tools, and all components found in the modern internal combustion engine. Designed to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental operation and construction of internal combustion engines. Instruction includes theory and laboratory(shop) activities in which students learn how to inspect, service, maintain, diagnose, and repair automobile engine malfunctions. This course includes live work. Students are required to have a valid driver's license. (Formerly AMT 30)
At least 10th grade reading skill.
AMT 100 and AMT 141, both with grade C or better; and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 141: Electrical/Electronics Systems I
AMT 100 with grade C or better(or concurrent), and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 144: Heating and Air Conditioning
AMT 100 with grade C or better, and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 145: Manual Drive Trains and Axles
Examines principles of operation, diagnosis, and repair of standard transmissions and transaxles, clutches, drive shafts, and drive axles. Explains use of automotive tools and testing equipment. (Formerly AMT 46)
At least 10th grade reading skill, or consent.
AMT 100 with grade C or better(or concurrent), and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 149: Automatic Transmissions and Transaxles
AMT 241 with grade C or better(or concurrent), and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 152: Brake Systems
AMT 100 with grade C or better(or concurrent), and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 154: Suspension and Steering Systems
AMT 100 with grade C or better(or concurrent), and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 241: Electrical/Electronics Systems II
AMT 141 with grade C or better, and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 250: Engine Performance
Provide students with an introduction to the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Engine Performance Test (A6). This course is designed to provide the student with the ability to retrieve and record diagnostic trouble codes, diagnose drivability concerns and make the necessary repairs. Course content includes diagnostic and repair strategies in Electrical and Electronic Systems, Engine Performance and Emissions systems. This course is also intended for the student as a test preparation course for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A6 and A8 certification exams. The simulator training will be based on the "Composite Vehicle" by the use of simulator boards and computer-based training methods prior to live vehicle work. This is an introductory study of computerized engine controls and diagnosis as it pertains to the function and control of the engine, fuel, ignition, and emission control systems. Emphasis will be placed on system components and their operational characteristics. Basic troubleshooting techniques of the engine, fuel, ignition, and emission control systems will be demonstrated. (Previously AMT 240 and AMT 246.)
At least 10th grade reading skill.
AMT 100, AMT 129 (or concurrent), and AMT 141 (or concurrent), all with grade C or better; and ENG 19 with grade C or better, or placement at least ENG 22, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout the duration of the automotive course of studies.
AMT 262: Advanced Diagnostic and Repair
Applies diagnostic skills and techniques in advanced automotive mechanics technology with emphasis on realism in lab and shop operations. Includes students being prepared to take the ASE certification exam in the following areas: suspension and steering, electrical/electronics, engine performance, automatic transmission/ transaxle, manual drive train and axles, brakes, heating and air conditioning, and engine repair. (Formerly AMT 60)
AMT 100, 129, 141, 144(or concurrent), 145, 149, 152, 154, 241, and 250, all with grade C or better; and ENG 100 with grade C or better, or consent. Student must maintain a valid Driver’s license throughout duration of the automotive course of studies.