Automotive General Service Technician

DIPLOMA, 35 CREDITS

If the hum of a smooth running engine gets you revved up, read on.  Imagine the feeling of accomplishment from being able to diagnose and repair automotive problems.  Automotive General Service Technician students will develop knowledge and skills in electronics, drive axle and drive power train repair, engine and transmission diagnosis and repair, steering, suspension and brake systems, fuel systems, electronic engine control diagnosis and drivability.  This hands-on program is designed to give students intensive training and experience in the disagnosis, repair and service of current, as well as, past vehicle models.  

Automotive service technicians and mechanics typically do the following:

  • 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

Students enrolling in the Automotive program will be supplied tools at no cost to you. Once you are certain this career is for you, you should purchase your own equipment.  

Location: Albert Lea
Program Starts: Fall
Course Plan: Two Semesters
Faculty: Jack Longress

Required Core Courses
AUTO1205 Automotive Fundamentals 3 CR
AUTO1207 Automotive Welding 2 CR
AUTO1212 Engine Diagnosis 2 CR
AUTO1311 Engine Theory and Repair 3 CR
AUTO1321 Steering and Suspension 3 CR
AUTO1322 Wheel Alignment 3 CR
AUTO1341 Fuel Systems I 4 CR
AUTO1423 Brake Systems 4 CR
AUTO1431 Basic Automotive Electronics 3 CR
AUTO1451 Clutches and Manual Trans/Transaxles 1 CR
AUTO1432 Intermediate Electronics 2 CR
AUTO1435 Introduction to ADAS and AV 1 CR
General Studies Courses
GSCL1270 Employment Search Skills 1 CR
CCLS1000 First Year Experience 1 CR
MATH1020 Technical Math 2 CR


For in-depth information including outcomes, program fees, course descriptions, and more please visit the Automotive General Service Technician program page at riverland.edu.