What Will I Learn

Some people are unsure about how they'll learn automotive repair through an internet website. Will I be able to fix any type of car? The answer to both of these questions is yes.

The topics in this first lesson will serve as a solid foundation of knowledge for you to build on as you move through the program. We'll start by reviewing the basics of four-stroke engine operation and some important engine performance terminology that you should know. Then, we'll talk about the basic operating systems that make up the automobile. Finally, we'll end your first study unit with a discussion of automotive tools and safe work practices.

If you've already worked on automobiles in the past, you may already know some of the information we'll discuss in this first study unit. If so, that's great! You'll have a head start on completing the rest of the program. (Remember, though, it won't hurt to review these important concepts.) If you're new to these automotive topics, take some time to study this first lesson carefully. As you proceed through the program, the study units will quickly become more challenging, covering more detailed automotive repair topics. You'll learn all the hands-on skills you need to perform repairs on every automotive system. For example, later in the program, you'll learn about engine rebuilding, brakes, electrical systems, fuel systems, transmissions, computer control systems, emission control systems, and all sorts of high-tech automotive testing and repair techniques.

Don't let the idea of high-tech? automotive systems intimidate you. Remember that today's automobiles are similar in many ways to those of years past. Yes, today's engines contain electronic control systems, but these systems are simply add-ons? to the same old gas-powered engine. All the other fundamental engine components have remained the same for many years. Today's engines still have pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, oil pumps, bearings, and so on, just like the engines in our grandparents' day. In fact, it's far more likely that a problem will occur in one of these basic mechanical components than in an electronic component. Therefore, while today's technicians must know about the latest electronic systems, they still need the same foundation of basic knowledge that was required in years past.

In this program, we'll concentrate on the repair of automobiles and light trucks (such as minivans, pickup trucks, and sport utility vehicles). As you'll quickly learn, while the exact design of a vehicle will vary from one manufacturer to another, all gas-powered vehicles work according to the same principles. Therefore, you'll be able to apply the skills you learn in this program to just about any type of automobile or light truck there is-both domestic and foreign. It's important to keep this in mind, because imported cars account for a large percentage of the vehicles sold today in the United States. When you complete the program, you'll have the basic skills you need to work on almost any vehicle manufactured and sold today.

Also, since many of the basic principles of operation, repair, and troubleshooting apply to other types of vehicles, you'll be able to further your training in the future if you wish. Perhaps someday you'll want to learn to repair medium or heavy trucks, buses, or diesel engines. If so, this program can provide you with a strong foundation in basic skills that you'll be able to expand on at a later date.