Light Vehicle Maintenance Certificate
Total Program Credits: 12
(formerly Automotive Engine Repair Certificate)
The Light Vehicle Maintenance Certificate program is designed to provide the student with skills necessary for entry-level employment at a light vehicle service and engine repair facility.
This program includes basic entry-level concepts of service and repairs of modern automotive vehicles.
Instruction includes: basic propulsion system functions, basic electrical (Ohm's law, batteries, starting and charging) systems, comprehensive brake system overview, including basic brake system diagnosis, service and repairs, basic fuel system diagnosis, identification and limited service.
Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the Light Vehicle Maintenance Certificate, the graduate will be able to:
Demonstrate industry knowledge through safety OSHA, EPA practices and procedures.
Demonstrate appropriate industry-utilized systematic approaches when performing basic vehicle maintenance.
Define three Cs and demonstrate mastery through repair order write-up, and documentation.
Identify vehicle problems based on classroom theory and lab practices.
Identify and explain the need for basic vehicle maintenance.
Locate, interpret and apply online manual information provided by the manufacturer or any other automotive online manual website.
- Explain preventive maintenance and basic service procedures for automotive systems according to manufacturer specifications and industry standards.
- Use appropriate diagnostic tools and manufacturer service information to identify root causes of basic vehicle system concerns.
- Inspect brake, electrical, and engine system components for wear, damage, and specification compliance using industry-standard tools and manufacturer service information.
- Model professional workplace readiness through the use of safety protocols and technical communication standards.
- Justify maintenance and repair decisions using inspection findings and manufacturer specifications to confirm appropriate service actions.
(Reviewed Spring 2026)
Placement Measures
Program Map for Students
| AUT 112 ◊ Introduction to Automotive Technology | Core Course | 3 |
| AUT 127 ◊ # Automotive Electricity & Electronics I | Core Course | 4 |
| AUT 114 ◊ # Fuel Management Systems | Core Course | 4 |
| AUT 136 ◊ # Brake Systems | Core Course | 4 |
Total Credit Hours: 12
See AUT course descriptions.
Chairperson: Ken Davis, Ext. 3970, email: kennethdavis@triton.edu
KEY
(CERT) |
| General Education |
Communications, Fine Arts, Humanities, Life Science, Mathematics, Physical Science, Social and Behavioral Science (see individual degree requirements). |
| Core Course |
Course(s) listed in a semester the student is required to take. |
| Program Elective |
Course(s) that faculty recommend and are listed in the ‘Program Electives’ section (if any) for this program. |
If intending to transfer, choose courses accepted by your transfer institution. |
| General Elective |
Course(s) chosen by the student, if needed, above and beyond core courses and program electives (if any), to complete the Program Total Credits. |
| ◊ symbol |
This course is articulated. (course transfers to 3 or more Illinois State schools, as an elective or equal course-to-course) |
| # symbol |
This course has a prerequisite. (course(s) student takes prior to taking this course) |