AUTO-110: Automotive Electrical Systems

School
Business, Entrepreneurship, and Professional Development
Division
Automotive Technology
Department
Automotive Technology
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Automotive
Course Number
110
Course Title
Automotive Electrical Systems
Credit Hours
3.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
92.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
92.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Catalog Course Description

A basic automotive electricity and electronics course, including the study of the fundamentals of and operation and service required for batteries, cranking motors, alternators, regulators, and certain accessories used on current-production automobiles. NOTE: Course topics and laboratory experiences help the student prepare for ASE certification and State of Michigan licensure in automotive electrical systems, but certification/license are not included in this course.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Basic Electricity and Circuits
  2. Magnetism, Electromagnetism and EMI Suppression
  3. Semiconductors and Solid State Electronics
  4. Automotive Wiring and Basic Circuit Components
  5. Batteries
  6. AC Charging Systems and Alternators
  7. Starting System Overview
  8. Starter Motors
  9. Inputs and outputs of various electronic control modules, their functions, and how they relate to vehicle and engine operation
  10. Fuel and ignition system overview
  11. Body Electrical and Electronic Systems
  12. Vehicle Communication Networks
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
  1. Use electronic diagnostic tools and equipment commonly found in a modern repair facility and interpret results.
  2. Perform measurement of voltage, current and resistance in automotive electrical circuits.
  3. Interpret automotive electrical wiring diagrams and diagnosis circuit for intermittent faults.
  4. Identifying and diagnosing shorts and opens in automotive electrical circuits.
  5. Diagnose Starting/Charging system fault
  6. Perform electrical system repairs to industry standards/OEM integrity of aftermarket service and diagnostic information.
  7. Explain the differences in Network protocols
  8. Perform a PMI
  9. Diagnosis communications network fault using DSO
  10. Diagnose a BCM controlled accessory operation failure

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Homework, quizzes, lab reports and final examination. Measurable objectives will be evaluated by the instructor based accuracy and proficiency of completion.

General Course Requirements and Recommendations

Students must take notes on demonstrations, carefully read and analyze assigned course materials, and perform exercises to determine their competence in servicing modern electrical systems.

Outcomes

Satisfies Wellness Requirement
No
Effective Term
Fall 2024