Truman College 1145 W. Wilson Ave. Chicago, IL 60640 (773) 907-4000

Technical Center Occupational Programs > Automotive Technology

1200 West Sunnyside Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60640
(773) 907-3995

Map of the Technical Center Building

Automotive Technology Program FAQs

What is Automotive Technology?

Automotive Technology offers both a basic and advanced certificate. The program helps students learn and master the most current auto repair techniques. The program provides hands on instruction and on-the-job-training.

Is the program accredited?

Yes. The program is accredited by the Illinois Community College Board, Illinois Board of Higher Education, North Central Association of Post Secondary Institutions and is certified by the Veterans Administration. The program is NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) and ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified.

Where is the program located?

The Truman College Technical Center is located at 1200 West Sunnyside, Chicago, IL 60640. Our telephone number is (773) 907-3995.

Is the center near public transportation?

Yes. The Howard/Dan Ryan (Red Line) train stops at Wilson (one half block from Truman College). The Broadway and Montrose buses also stop at the same location. Please refer to our directions and maps.

How can I pay for the program?

Financial aid is available for those who qualify. The first step in determining eligibility is to complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Can I attend if I live outside of Chicago?

Yes. If your district does not have an automotive program, contact your Community College for a chargeback letter. You may also pay out of district tuition and fees if your community college has an automotive program.

Do I need a high school diploma or GED certificate?

No. But all applicants are required to take a placement exam for admissions. Please visit the Assessment Center or call (773) 907-4889.You will be required to take the TABE (Test of Adult Basic Education) test.

Course Listing

Automotive Technology

Automotive Technology105 0101 - Introduction to Automotive Technology
This course provides an introduction that focuses on theory and hands-on experience. This course is designed to provide students with adequate knowledge about safety procedures, regulations, material handling, basic tools and equipment usage. Furthermore, students are presented with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of servicing a vehicle, such as preventive maintenance, lubrication and cooling systems, as well as other supporting systems of the automobile. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Placement test, or consent of department chair (CC).
Credit Hours: 4
2 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0103 - Engine Construction and Reconditioning
This course provides the fundamentals of the internal combustion engine. Laboratory work consists of disassembly, inspection and reassembly of an engine by manufacture specifications. In addition, this course offers instruction in testing, diagnosing and troubleshooting of engine problems. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Auto Tech 101 or concurrent enrollment in Auto Tech 101 or consent of department chair (CC).
Credit Hours: 4
2 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0104 - Electrical Systems and Power Accessories
Introduction to theory, diagnosis and repair of automotive electrical and electronic components and systems. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the courses.
Prerequisites: Auto Tech 101 or concurrent enrollment in Auto Tech 101 or consent of department chair.
Credit Hours: 4
2 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0106 - Fuel Systems
This further study of the fuel system provides students with an opportunity to acquire knowledge of the construction, operating principles and components of automotive fuel systems. Students perform service on carburetors as well as fuel injection systems in accordance with established industry standards. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Automotive Technology 0101 and 0104.
Credit Hours: 5
2 lecture hours and 9 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0109 - Brake Systems
This course is designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to service today’s automotive electrical systems. Selected topics include the reading of wiring diagrams, electrical accessories diagnosis and operation and design of the ignition system. Students learn circuit testing and the proper handling of advanced solid state electronics such as air bags and computers. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Auto Tech 101 or concurrent enrollment in Auto Tech 101 or consent of department chair (CC).
Credit Hours: 4
2 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0204 - Electrical Systems II
This course is designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to service today’s automotive electrical systems. Selected topics include the reading of wiring diagrams, electrical accessories diagnosis and operation and design of the ignition system. Students learn circuit testing and the proper handling of advanced solid state electronics such as air bags and computers. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Credit Hours: 3
1 lecture hour and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0207 - Transmissions and Transaxles
This course studies the design, construction, theory, operation and service of automatic transmissions. Instruction in troubleshooting and diagnosing during disassembly, inspection and reassembly of automatic transmissions is offered. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Automotive Technology 0101 and 0212.
Credit Hours: 4
1 lecture hour and 9 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0209 - Steering and Suspension
This course examines the design, operation and construction of the steering and suspension systems. Selected topics include suspension repair, front and rear alignments and wheel balancing. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Auto Tech 101 or concurrent enrollment in Auto Tech 101 or consent of department chair (CC).
Credit Hours: 4
4 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0210 - Performance and Driveability
This course covers the construction, operation and testing of the ignition system. Training is offered on the use of oscilloscopes, infrared gas analyzers, and other diagnosis equipment such as scan tool testing. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Automotive Technology 0101, 0104, 0204 and 0106.
Credit Hours: 5
2 lecture hours and 9 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0212 - Manual Drive Train and Axles
This course studies the design, construction, operation and service of manual transmissions, clutches, drivelines, differentials and axles. Theory and troubleshooting is covered during the disassembly, inspection and reassembly of manual transmissions. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Auto Tech 101 or concurrent enrollment in Auto Tech 101 or consent of department chair (CC).
Credit Hours: 4
2 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
Automotive Technology105 0215 - Heating and Air Conditioning
This course provides and studies the principles of operation, construction and service techniques for various automobile air conditioning and heating systems. Selected topics included are the handling, recovery and recycling of refrigerants. In addition, lab work involves testing, diagnosing, repairing and servicing of air conditioning systems. Writing assignments, as appropriate to the discipline, are part of the course.
Prerequisites: Automotive Technology 0101.
Credit Hours: 4
2 lecture hours and 6 lab hours per week based on sixteen weeks.
 
For specific times and dates of course offerings please check the class schedule or SOARS.
Truman College 1145 W. Wilson Chicago, IL 60640 (773) 907-4000