vcc.ca
ACRD 2270: Automotive Electrical Systems
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Auto Collision Refinishing Dip
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
In this course students learn troubleshooting and repairs techniques used for basic auto electrical circuits. Students are also introduced to advanced vehicle systems and how to perform vehicle data scans to determine system and component functionality.
Credits
2.5
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Describe characteristics of electricity.
- Describe basic electrical circuits.
- Diagnose simple electrical faults.
- Perform basic wire repairs.
- Describe advanced driver assist systems (ADAS) and components.
- Describe diagnostic trouble codes.
- Perform pre- and post-repair data scans.
- Verify system calibration.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
None
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 50
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 12.5
Total Hours: 62.5
Clinical, Lab, Rehearsal, Shop, Kitchen, Simulation, Studio: 12.5
Total Hours: 62.5
Instructional Strategies
Instructional strategies may include lectures, demonstrations, assigned homework, group work, individual work, field trips, and project work in an authentic shop environment.
Grading System
Percentages-STBC
Passing grade
70%
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Assignments |
25 |
Quizzes and Assignments (formative - theory) |
|
Exam |
20 |
Theory exam (summative - theory) |
|
Project |
30 |
Practical assignments (preparation, task completion, cleanup, document writing-service report etc.) |
|
Participation |
25 |
Observable active participation and team work |
Course topics
- Basic Automotive Electrical and Electronics
- Damage Analysis of Advanced Automotive Systems: Introduction to Advanced Electrical Systems
- On-Board Diagnostics and Scan Tools
- Pre- and Post-repair Vehicle Scanning
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.