Automotive Brakes and Chassis

The Automotive Brakes and Chassis Certificate offers both theoretical and hands-on training for brake and suspension systems. Course work prepares students to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) exams. Students enrolling in the program should have the desire and ability to work with their hands, demonstrate critical thinking, possess a high degree of mechanical aptitude, and enjoy working in a shop environment. Program completers should be able to find employment as advanced entry-level apprentice automotive technicians.

The former 7-unit certificate had an average of 40 completers per year; we anticipate the new certificate will have 30 completers.

1. Demonstrate the correct use of safetyprocedures utilized by a mobile equipment repair technician.
2. Locate and interpret technical manuals from online computerized databases.
3. Demonstrate the appropriate use and maintenance of hand, shop, and precisiontools.
4. Prepare initial, revised, and final repair orders in compliance withCalifornia law (BAR).
5. Research and identify correct procedures and specifications for maintenanceand repair of suspension and steering systems.
6. Research and identify correct procedures and specifications for maintenanceand repair of braking systems.
7. Demonstrate the proper use of a Digital Multimeter (DMM) during diagnosis ofelectrical circuit problems, including: source voltage, voltage drop, currentflow, and resistance.
8. Analyze and diagnose a mobile equipment charging system using appropriateelectrical tools and equipment.
9. Analyze and diagnose a mobile equipment starting system using appropriateelectrical tools and equipment.
10. Analyze and diagnose a mobile equipment low-voltage battery system usingappropriate electrical tools and equipment.
11. Test the Controller Area Network (CAN) BUS system signal with a DigitalStorage Oscilloscope (DSO). Set up the DSO to capture the CAN hi (+) and CAN lo(-) signals.

This certificate is designed for the future Automotive Technician who wants to start their career and demonstrates technical knowledge skills to excel in their chosen field.

Course	Title	Units	Year/Semester (Y1 or S1)
ATL 101	Transportation Information Systems and Shop Practices	3	Y1
ATL 105	Service Writing and Shop Management	2	Y1
ATL 140	Automotive Suspension and Steering Systems	3	Y1
ATL 150	Automotive Braking Systems	3	Y1
ATL 161	Mobile Electrical Systems 1	3	Y1
ATL 162	Mobile Electrical Systems 2	3	Y1

This certificate replaces the existing Automotive Certificate and aligns with industry certifications.

Michael Pratt from Mendocino College serves on the SRJC ATL advisory committee and has confirmed support at the 4.14.23 and 11.17.23 meetings – minutes available if needed. Attempts were made by ATL program director, Jesse Kosten, to contact College of Marin as follows: 2.9.24 – First email sent to Ron Palmer, Department Chair - rpalmer@marin.edu 2.21.24 – Called Ron at 628-234-8532 2.21.24 – Email forwarded to Alina Varona, Dean - arvarona@marin.edu 2.22.24 – Called Ron and left voicemail stated need to hear back from him on this issue. 628-234-8532