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Program Overview

Automotive Technology courses provide the basic knowledge and skills to start a rewarding career as an entry-level service technician in the high-demand automotive service and repair industry. Per the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $49,670 (as of May 2024).

The employment of automotive service technicians and mechanics is projected to grow 3 percent from 2023 to 2033, about as fast as the average for all occupations.  About 67,800 openings for automotive service technicians and mechanics are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifies individuals who have completed an automotive repair training program and tests to ensure they know how to work on mechanical, electrical, and other automotive systems. When someone holds the ASE certification, they are considered an expert in the automotive industry.

Tasks performed by automotive service technicians and mechanics:

  • Identify problems, often by using computerized diagnostic equipment
  • Plan work procedures, using charts, technical manuals, and experience
  • Test parts and systems to ensure that they work properly
  • Follow checklists to ensure that all critical parts are examined
  • Perform basic care and maintenance, including changing oil, checking fluid levels, and rotating tires
  • Repair or replace worn parts, such as brake pads, wheel bearings, and sensors
  • Perform repairs to manufacturer and customer specifications
  • Explain automotive problems and repairs to clients

Program Benefits

  • Get a competitive advantage when starting a new career or upgrading existing skills.
  • Learn to use tools and equipment, read gauges, install batteries, select the right part, and understand the mechanics.
  • Convenient evening classes.
  • Certification is voluntary; however, most service and repair facilities and dealerships require technicians to be certified by Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Certification typically leads to higher salaries.

Program Courses

Students are eligible to receive a certificate upon the successful completion of each course. (New course numbers effective spring 2026 semester.)

  • AUT-302 Auto Technician: Basic Theory 
  • AUT-305 Auto Tech: Electrical Systems
  • AUT-307 Auto Tech: Engine Performance 
  • AUT-309 Auto Tech: Brakes Systems 
  • AUT-312 Auto Tech: Introduction to Light Diesel 

Course Descriptions

AUT-302 Auto Technician: Basic Theory

Cost: $580 (includes $60 lab fee)

This course provides students with basic entry-level fundamentals of automotive internal combustion engine systems, history, maintenance, and repair.  Students will explore diagnostic repairs, electrical system diagnosis, brake inspection and service, engine performance, periodic maintenance, oil changes, lubrication, and coolant system service. The course utilizes Auto Service Excellence (ASE) content.  12 sessions. 

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Spring 2026 Semester

SYN #24344

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1/20-2/26
6:00-9:30 p.m.
Location: Annex C, Room 002

AUT-309 Auto Technician: Brake Systems

Cost: $300 (includes $60 lab fee)

This class provides students with basic automotive brake system fundamentals.  Students will learn brake theory, troubleshooting, hands-on service, and repairing today’s brake systems, and shop safety regulations. The course utilizes Auto Service Excellence (ASE) content. Six sessions.

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Spring 2026 Semester

SYN #20453

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3/18-4/6
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Location: Annex C, Room 002

AUT-307 Auto Technician: Engine Performance

Cost: $300 (includes $60 lab fee)

This course provides students with hands-on skills to diagnose and repair engine performance issues. Topics include ignition systems, fuel and air induction, and computer systems diagnostics. Emphasis is placed on using diagnostic tools and interpreting scan data to ensure optimal engine operation. The course utilizes Auto Service Excellence (ASE) content. Six sessions. 

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Spring 2026 Semester

SYN #24346

Mondays and Wednesdays, 2/18-3/16
6-9 p.m.
Location: Annex C, Room 002

AUT-305 Auto Technician: Electrical Systems

Cost: $300 (includes $60 lab fee)

This course provides students with basic electrical system diagnosis, battery diagnosis, and service, starting system, charging system, lighting systems: head and tail, parking, dash, and courtesy, stop and hazard, turn, signals and backup light, gauges warning devices, driver information system diagnosis and repair, horn, wiper and washer, body and miscellaneous accessories diagnostic and repair. The course utilizes Auto Service Excellence (ASE) content. Six sessions. 

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Spring 2026 Semester

SYN #24345

Mondays and Wednesdays, 1/26-2/11
6-9 p.m.
Location: Annex C, Room 002

AUT-312 Auto Technician: Introduction to Light Diesel

Cost: $510 (includes $60 lab fee)

This course provides basic diesel engine operation and diagnosis. Students will be exposed to diesel technology used in the light-duty diesel market, fuel controls, diagnostic systems, and emission controls. Students will learn service procedures for common diesel faults. The course utilizes Auto Service Excellence (ASE) content. 10 sessions. 

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Spring 2026 Semester

SYN #24347

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3/17-4/16
6-9 p.m.
Location: Annex C, Room 002

See also

Learn about the ASE Certification
View the Occupational Outlook Handbook

 

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Contact Us

301-546-0062 | tdi@pgcc.edu

Barbara McCreary, Program Director

Prince George's Community College
Annex C, Room 002
301 Largo Road
Largo, MD 20785

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