Automotive Technology

Program Description

The Automotive Technology curriculum, the only one of its kind in the City University of New York, prepares the student for a career as an automotive technician. This curriculum develops understanding of operational principles, service sequences and diagnostic techniques for the automobile. Upon completion of this curriculum, the graduate is prepared for entry-level positions in various areas of the automotive industry dealing with development, testing, diagnosis and service of mechanical, hydraulic, electrical and thermodynamic automotive systems.

Automotive Technology graduates are employed in a variety of automotive-oriented positions including test technician, diagnostician, equipment sales and service, independent business administrator, dealership service manager, service writer, engine machinist, fuel injection, automatic transmission and engine management specialist, as well as general service technician.

Further training and education can lead to careers in technical education, engineering, insurance appraisal, accident investigation and other specialties. The program articulates with SUNY Empire State College. See the Transfer Planning web site for more information.

The Automotive Technology associate degree program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation (http://www. aseeducation.org/).

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Automotive Technology program requirements, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate proper safety procedures, accident prevention and shop procedures in an active garage.

2. Demonstrate understanding of fundamental internal combustion engines and be able to perform basic mechanical diagnosis and repair.

3. Calculate hydraulic pressures within a drum and disc brake system.

4. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of computer diagnostic equipment, such as proper use of a scan tool and oscilloscope.

5. Calculate gear ratios and demonstrate understanding of torque multiplication in transmissions.

6. Explain how alignment angles can affect a vehicle’s handling performance and tire wear.

7. Demonstrate a working knowledge of manifold gauge set readings and how they relate to air conditioning performance.

8. Use wiring schematics and electrical test equipment to diagnose electrical problems.

9. Diagnose automatic transmission issues including torque converter operation.

Upon successful completion of the Automotive Technology Option requirements, students will be able to:

1. Recognize different configurations of hybrid vehicles, and how to interact with them safely.

2. Demonstrate emissions diagnostics by utilizing knowledge of 5 gas analyzation, stoichiometry, and interaction with the OBD2 system.

Upon successful completion of the Electric Vehicles Option requirements, students will be able to:

1. Use a working knowledge of safety regulations and procedures as they pertain to electric vehicles.
2. Identify the technology and components associated with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and be proficient in their operation.
3. Demonstrate diagnostic techniques for both electric and autonomous vehicles.

Program Director: Professor Clem Drummond