Automotive Technology
Automotive Technology
If you love cars or are curious about how they work, the Automotive Technology program at Oxnard College is a great way to turn that interest into a career. The program is designed for everyone—whether you’re just starting out or already working in automotive repair and want to keep up with all the latest technology.
You can choose to work toward an Associate of Science Degree or pick from eight different Certificates of Achievement, depending on what fits your goals best. Classes cover everything you’d expect, like engine performance, brake systems, electrical work, transmissions, and more. You’ll even learn about business management, alternative fuels, and the latest in hybrid and electric vehicles.
The program also offers a special pathway if you’re interested in becoming a licensed Vehicle Safety Inspector, Emissions or Smog Inspector in California. Throughout your studies, you’ll have the chance to get hands-on experience and prepare for ASE certification, which is highly respected in the industry.
All your instructors are ASE certified themselves, so you know you’re learning from people who’ve been there and know what it takes. Plus, the program’s NATEF certification means it meets high standards for training. We are connected to local dealerships and agencies through various means, internships, entry level jobs and dealership training programs.
When you finish, you’ll have the skills and confidence to start your career in auto technology or move up if you’re already working. With friendly support and practical training, Oxnard College helps you get ready for a future with new understanding of the automotive world.

This short course will cover selected areas of automotive technology. This course will meet the smog license update training requirements of the State of California, Bureau of Automotive Repair.
This course explores the use of Hybrid and Electric battery power for vehicle transportation. Topics will include safety when using high voltage, maintenance, drivability, inverter, DC/DC power transfer, and battery technology. Physics of battery storage, hybrid generation systems, Electric vehicle applications and their integrated systems from many manufacturers will be discussed. Hybrid and high voltage service and maintenance procedures. This course will assist the student in passing the L-3 ASE exam.
This course covers the theory of operation, installation, testing, trouble-shooting, and repair of vehicles powered by gaseous fuels with a focus on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as well as an introduction to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). Both dedicated and after-market systems will be covered. Gasoline and diesel powered vehicles are discussed with an emphasis on computer-controlled fuel injection. Components are thoroughly examined in this course to include everything from storage up to the injector(s). Successful completion of this course will prepare students for the CNG Inspector's Certification.
This course focuses on light-duty passenger electric vehicles (EVs). It provides a practical introduction to advanced EV designs and propulsion systems. The course includes: EV design and construction; the testing, assembly, operation, and maintenance of EVs; the influence of aerodynamic design; advanced technology batteries, super-capacitors, intelligent charging systems; hydrogen fuel cell technology, and alternative EV drive systems. Successful completion of this course will prepare students for the ASE L3 (Light Duty Hybrid/EV Vehicle Specialist Certification).
This course focuses light-duty passenger hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). It provides a practical introduction to advanced HEV design and propulsion systems. The course includes: HEV design and construction; the testing, assembly, operation, and maintenance of HEVs; the influence of aerodynamic design; advanced technology batteries, super-capacitors, intelligent charging systems; hydrogen fuel cell technology, and alternative EV drive systems. Successful completion of this course will prepare students for the ASE L3 Light Duty Hybrid/EV Vehicle Specialist Certification.
This course is a comprehensive overview of the automobile, basic operation principles and repair procedures. Systems included are ignition, charging, cranking, cooling, fuel, lubrication, brakes, engine operation and front suspension. Students will obtain skills related to, information acquisition and retrieval; writing repair orders and related documents; hardware identification, use and repair; gasket, seal and sealants use; bearing identification & repair; fluid services; wheel & tire service. Outside online safety certifications will be included in the course.
This course provides state-of-the-art training in automobile emission control systems, fuel injection systems, ignition systems, and engine computer controlled operating systems. This course fulfills career training as required by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation and California State Smog Inspectors License. The goal of this course is to prepare students for Industry accepted ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification. This course will provide students with entry-level automotive technician skills necessary for immediate employment.
This advanced course provides technical preparation in the skills required to diagnose engine control management systems of modern vehicles. The L-1 certification by ASE requires the most current knowledge and preparation in the series of tests offered by ASE for automobiles. Students will use manufacturer approved scan tools, lab scopes, digital volt meters and other state-of-the-art test equipment. Systems covered will include the engine management computer control, and other computer control systems (such as the anti-lock brake and supplemental restraint computer systems) and how they interact. Preparation for the ASE L-1 certification in advanced engine performance will be included.
This course introduces students to automotive electrical system theory and application. Discussion and training include charging and starting, ignition, accessories, and electronics. This course will cover reading wiring diagrams and diagnostics of electrical problems. Labs will provide skills necessary to recognize electrical problems in computer controls and all systems using electricity on vehicles. This course provides vocational preparation and skills required in diagnosis, adjustment, repair and maintenance of the electrical systems of modern automotive vehicles. The course includes practice of electrical service equipment and procedures for the overhaul of electrical components and circuitry in automobiles. Preparation for the Industry ASE A-6 Certificate is included.
This course is designed for advanced students or technicians in the auto service industry. This course covers various types of electronic systems, ignition systems, computer management, and fuel injection control systems. Students will learn advanced computer diagnostics including proper software updating and repairs to interactive infotainment systems.
This course provides technical preparation in the basic skills required to diagnose, adjust, repair, and overhaul the automotive transmission and drive line. All phases of transmission diagnosis and repair work will be covered. Quality inspection and reassembly procedures will be stressed. Preparation for the ASE certification is included.
This course is offered to assist employed mechanics and automotive technology students in preparing for the ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification examinations. This course will cover nine specific test areas: engine repair, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning, brakes, suspension and steering, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, engine performance, and advanced engine performance specialist. In addition, test taking skills will be demonstrated in this course and students will be taught practical applications of wiring diagrams and electrical service.
This course provides technical preparation in the basic skills required to diagnose, adjust, repair, and overhaul the automotive internal combustion engine. All phases of machine work will be covered. Quality inspection and reassembly procedures will be stressed. Preparation for the ASE certification is included.
This course is for the student who wants to understand automotive steering and suspension systems. This course provides the technical skills and preparation required in diagnosis, adjustment, replacement and repair of all types of suspension systems commonly used in the automotive industry. Factory type scan tools will be used for interaction with the vehicle steering and suspension control systems. Alignment geometry, angles and adjustment is practiced. Skills used for diagnosing body computer systems will be taught as part of the course. Preparation for the ASE A-7 certification exam is included.
This course will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform smog check inspections. Students who successfully complete this course will have met the California Bureau of Automotive Repair's training requirements to qualify to sit for the smog check inspector licensing examination.
This course is for the student who wants to understand automotive braking systems, including hydraulic and friction principles. This course will study drum and disc brake systems learning how the systems function. The course includes hands on practice and completing tasks directly related to braking systems. The course will cover computerized anti-lock brake controls giving students skills in diagnosis and repair. Preparation for the ASE A-5 certification test is included.
This course covers the automotive service management operations of an automotive business/dealership as related to service advisor/manager by focusing on the repair order as a legal document, appointment systems, telephone skills, communication strategies, product knowledge, selling skills, customer service, warranties, and cost reduction methods. Successful completion of the class will prepare students for the ASE Automobile Service Consultant (C1) Exam.
This course provides a comprehensive study of the principles of operation and theory of automotive air conditioning. This course offers a study of design features of each manufacturer to include servicing, troubleshooting, diagnosis and system repair. Students will be given practical skills for servicing, repair, and diagnosis. At the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to demonstrate shop safety regarding working procedures and hazardous materials and waste handling; Research and identify correct procedures and specifications for maintenance and repair; Perform diagnosis, service and maintenance procedures in a timely manner to industry standards; Successfully pass the ASE or MACS EPA 609 Freon handling certificate.
Work Experience Education provides supervised employment extending classroom occupational learning at an on-the-job learning station relating to the students’ educational or occupational goals. Each unit of credit requires 54 hours of employment during the semester. Work Experience Education is available to all students with employment.
- Automotive Air Conditioning Service, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Brake Systems, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Emissions Systems, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Engine Performance, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Service Advising, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Steering and Suspension, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Technology, Certificate of Achievement
- Automotive Transmission and Driveline Systems, Certificate of Achievement