Welcome to the Vanguard High School home page for the automotive program. Thank you for coming by. Here is a quick breakdown of what we do...

Essentially, the Maintenance and Light Repair program for the Vanguard High School Automotive Program can be broken down into four levels:

Level 1 is primarily an introduction to the automotive repair industry. It teaches relevant history, personal and shop safety, chemical safety, and informs of various organizations related to the automotive repair industry such as OSHA, EPA, SAE, ASE, etc. Level 1 informs of career opportunities and exposes students to a variety of tools and equipment. Students learn how to use online diagnostic software, how to identify an automobile, how to check various fluids for contamination, and how to adjust and/or change various fluids. Students learn how to lift a vehicle, how to inspect the under carriage, and how to identify abnormalities. Students learn how to change tires and repair tire punctures. Finally, students learn about the various parts of an engine and how to check and/or adjust certain engine functions. Level 1 should be thought of as a basic introduction to automobiles.

Level 2 focuses heavily upon the electrical aspect of automotive repair. Students learn how to read and use electrical diagnostic equipment to a much greater degree. Students will develop a greater understanding of the science and math behind automotive electrical and electronic systems. Students are exposed to lab scopes and lab pattern analysis and diagnostics, as well as global and atmospheric properties that influence electrical diagnostics. Students will also learn to read electrical wiring diagrams, solder wires, etc. Math and science both play a heavy, but relatively easy to understand role in level 2.

Level 3 primarily addresses steering and suspension functions, as well as various braking systems and related functions. Level 3 students learn the basics of vehicle wheel alignment and suspension characteristics. Students also learn how to diagnose, check, adjust, service, and replace wheel and axle bearings, as well as drum and disc brake components. Students will learn how to resurface both drum and disc brake rotors.

Level 4 informs students of engine performance related matters, as well as HVAC; Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Students learn of varying sensors, switches, solenoids, computer inputs and outputs, automotive networking, interior climate control, etc. Students are exposed to in-depth computer systems analysis, multi-networking architecture and analysis, and relevant diagnostic processes. Math, science, and understanding atmospheric properties all play a significant and more advanced role in level 4.