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Certificate of Achievement
Automotive Technology - Transmission Service

The courses listed in this certificate compile a comprehensive list of job-related skills needed to enter the automotive field.  The skills acquired during class will help one complete the ASE Certification Test in the areas of A-2 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle and/or A-3 Manual Drive Train and Axles.  The certificate is designed to prepare an individual for entry-level employment as an Automatic Transmission and/or Manual Transmission Service/Repair Technician.

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

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Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2024-2025 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
AUTO 103 - Introduction to Automotive Service and Repair: Undercar ServiceM3.0
AUTO 103 - Introduction to Automotive Service and Repair: Undercar Service (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This is an introductory course designed to provide students with the fundamentals of the drive train, steering, suspension, and brake systems of the 21st century automobile. Students have access to training vehicles to complete required tasks by which they learn basic automotive tool and equipment use and how to safely perform basic repair and maintenance operations. This course is required for the General Service Technician Certificate of Achievement. It is designed to be a companion course to AUTO 101 and AUTO 106, and is one of the three prerequisite courses for AUTO 107. Students are encouraged to complete all three courses in order to obtain a firm foundation in this subject.

Total Semester Units:3.0 
1st Semester
HOND 125 - Power Train System Service and Transmission DiagnosticsM4.0
HOND 125 - Power Train System Service and Transmission Diagnostics (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 103
Transfers to: CSU

This course in power train service and light repair addresses topics related to manual transmissions, automatic transmissions/ transaxles, differentials, clutches, and drive shafts. Emphasis is placed on correct procedures for sustaining transmission service life, identifying service intervals for prolonging component life, procedures for proper transmission removal and reinstallation, and inspection of components. Students are informed about specific power train -related faults, how problems are diagnosed, and protocols for updating transmission shift logic using updated computer software. Topics are facilitated through classroom discussions, live demonstrations, and student laboratory exercises. Students use scan tools, flushing equipment, computers, and a variety of specialty tools to complete classroom and laboratory exercises.

AUTO 220 - Manual Drive Trains and AxlesM4.0
AUTO 220 - Manual Drive Trains and Axles (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 103
Transfers to: CSU

This course covers the theory of operation, methods of repair, service, equipment operation, and techniques of problem diagnosis related to modern manual transmissions, transaxles, drivelines, differentials, and four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive (4WD/AWD) systems. Procedures for imported and domestic vehicles are developed through classroom discussion, demonstrations, and laboratory experiences. This course prepares students for the Automotive Service Excellence (A.S.E.) A-3 Exam and is intended for automotive majors. Students with permission from the Division of Career and Technical Education (CTE) may re-enroll only one time for certification or licensure standards.

AUTO 230 - Automatic Transmission/TransaxleM4.0
AUTO 230 - Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: AUTO 103
Transfers to: CSU

This course is designed to provide instruction in automatic transmission/transaxle systems. Topics include application of friction materials, planetary gear components, hydraulic components (both hydraulically and electronically controlled), fluid types, and sealing materials. In the course, students learn skills in diagnosing, removing, disassembling, reassembling, and rebuilding transmission units to manufacturer’s specifications, as well as part nomenclature and function.This course prepares the student for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A2 exam and is intended for automotive majors. Students with permission from the Division of Career and Technical Education (CTE) may re-enroll only one time for certification or licensure standards.

Total Semester Units:12.0 
Total Units for Automotive Technology - Transmission Service COA program 15.0 
Notes:
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
Legend:
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
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