vcc.ca
HPAS 1230: Automatic Transmission and Transaxle
Effective date
January 2026
Department
Auto Serv Tech Diploma Intl
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course explores automatic transmissions and transaxles, covering various types such as conventional planetary, dual-clutch (DCT), and constant velocity (CVT) systems. Students will learn about the components and operation of these systems, including gear ratios, power flow, hydraulics, and electronics. The course emphasizes essential service procedures, including testing, inspection, lubrication, fluid exchanges, software updates, and relearns. Additionally, students will apply maintenance procedures to ensure the optimal performance and longevity of automatic transmissions and transaxles.
Credits
1.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
HPAS 1000.
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe the components and operation of different types of automatic transmissions and transaxles, such as conventional planetary, dual-clutch (DCT), and constant velocity (CVT), including gear ratios, power flow, hydraulics and electronics.
- Apply service procedures on automatic transmissions and transaxles, including testing, inspection, lubrication, and fluid exchanges, as well as software updates and relearns.
- Perform maintenance procedures for automatic transmissions and transaxles, including filtration and fluid exchange.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 12.5
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 25
Total Hours: 37.5
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 25
Total Hours: 37.5
Instructional Strategies
Classroom activities are lectures, demonstrations, audio-visual presentations and exercises. Practical experience takes place in an active shop setting. The extensive workshop experience provides reinforcement of theoretical concepts, develops hand skills, and familiarity with repair procedures, electronic equipment and standard safety procedures. All modules are designed to enable the student to work independently and in groups.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
70%
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
15 |
Assignments related to Automatic Transmission and Transaxle. |
|
Quizzes/Tests |
15 |
|
|
Final Exam |
30 |
Students are given final exam at the end of the course to assess their theoretical knowledge. |
|
Lab Work |
30 |
Practical knowledge and skills are evaluated in the shop while students are working on training aids and customer vehicles. |
|
Participation |
10 |
Demonstrated engagement with course activities and discussions. |
Course topics
- Automatic transmission and transaxles
- Service transmission
- Software updates and relearns
Learning resources
Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service (Published by Pearson)
Moodle (LMS)
Moodle (LMS)
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.