Automotive Electrical Course

Lesson 1 • Voltage, Current, and Resistance

This section defines the three fundamental electrical quantities and their units. It links each quantity to measurable vehicle circuit behaviour.

Lesson 2 • Atomic Structure and Electron Flow

This section covers atomic theory, free electrons, and conductors versus insulators. It provides the physical basis for understanding current flow in vehicle wiring.

Lesson 3 • Series, Parallel, and Series-Parallel Circuits

This section analyses how components combine in different circuit topologies. Learners calculate voltage drops and current paths in each configuration.

Lesson 1 • Wire Types and Gauge Selection

This section explains wire construction, insulation ratings, and gauge sizing for current capacity. It connects proper gauge selection to circuit protection and heat prevention.

Lesson 2 • Connectors, Terminals, and Splices

This section covers connector types, terminal crimping, and splice methods used in vehicle harnesses. Proper technique prevents high-resistance faults and intermittent failures.

Lesson 3 • Grounds and Return Paths

This section explains chassis ground strategy and the consequences of poor ground connections. Learners test ground integrity and locate ground distribution points.

Lesson 4 • Fuses, Relays, and Circuit Breakers

This section describes overcurrent protection devices and relay switching logic. Learners locate, test, and replace these components using wiring diagrams.

Lesson 1 • Tracing Power and Ground Paths

This section teaches systematic circuit tracing from battery positive through loads to ground. Learners verify each node matches expected voltage using the diagram.

Lesson 2 • Component Location and Harness Routing

This section connects diagram references to physical component locations in the vehicle. Learners use location views and harness routing charts to find components quickly.

Lesson 3 • Schematic Symbols and Conventions

This section introduces standardised symbols for all common electrical components. Accurate symbol recognition is the prerequisite for all diagram-based diagnostics.

Lesson 4 • Wire Colour Codes and Numbering

This section explains manufacturer colour-coding systems and wire identification numbering. Learners match diagram wire IDs to physical harness wires during tracing.

Lesson 1 • Battery Construction and Chemistry

This section explains electrochemical reactions, plate construction, and electrolyte function. Understanding chemistry predicts failure modes and guides correct testing methods.

Lesson 2 • Battery Testing and Replacement

This section applies load testing, conductance testing, and open-circuit voltage methods. Learners select replacement batteries matching OEM specifications.

Lesson 3 • Charging System Diagnosis

This section applies voltage drop testing and oscilloscope analysis to isolate charging faults. Learners distinguish battery, alternator, and wiring failures systematically.

Lesson 1 • Solenoid and Relay Operation

This section explains pull-in and hold-in windings, plunger movement, and main contact closure. Learners trace the control circuit from ignition switch to solenoid trigger.

Lesson 2 • Cranking Circuit Voltage Drop Testing

This section uses voltage drop measurements to locate high-resistance faults in the cranking circuit. Learners compare measured drops to specifications and identify corrective actions.

Lesson 3 • No-Crank and Slow-Crank Diagnosis

This section applies a structured diagnostic strategy to cranking complaints using test data. Learners distinguish electrical faults from mechanical engine resistance issues.

Lesson 1 • Exterior Lighting Systems

This section examines headlight, tail light, turn signal, and brake light circuit designs. Learners trace multiplex and conventional lighting circuits to isolate faults.

Lesson 2 • Parasitic Battery Drain Diagnosis

This section teaches milliamp draw measurement and module sleep-mode awareness. Learners isolate excessive drain to a specific circuit using fuse pull and current clamp methods.

Lesson 3 • Wiper and Washer Systems

This section describes wiper motor speed control, park position circuits, and washer pump operation. Learners test motor current draw and switch continuity.

Lesson 4 • Horn, Power Windows, and Mirrors

This section analyses motor-driven accessory circuits including reversing motor control. Learners apply voltage and current testing to diagnose slow or inoperative accessories.

Lesson 1 • Common Sensor Technologies

This section covers thermistor, potentiometer, Hall-effect, and reluctor sensor designs. Learners identify sensor type from wiring and test each with appropriate equipment.

Lesson 2 • Scan Tool Data Interpretation

This section applies live data PID monitoring and freeze frame analysis to sensor and actuator faults. Learners correlate scan data with meter measurements to confirm diagnoses.

Lesson 3 • Sensor Signal Types and Characteristics

This section classifies sensors by output type: analog voltage, digital frequency, and switched. Signal type determines the correct test method and expected waveform.

Lesson 4 • Control Module Inputs and Outputs

This section maps how modules receive sensor data, process logic, and drive outputs. Learners use wiring diagrams to identify module pin functions and test each circuit.

Lesson 1 • Structured Diagnostic Process

This section applies a repeatable six-step diagnostic process to complex electrical complaints. Systematic methodology reduces misdiagnosis and unnecessary part replacement.

Lesson 2 • Oscilloscope Fundamentals for Automotive Use

This section configures oscilloscope time base, voltage scale, and trigger for automotive signals. Waveform capture reveals faults invisible to a multimeter.

Lesson 3 • Waveform Analysis of Sensors and Actuators

This section interprets waveform shape, amplitude, and timing for common sensors and actuators. Pattern recognition distinguishes normal operation from electrical faults.

Lesson 4 • CAN Bus Architecture and Operation

This section explains CAN high and low differential signalling, bus topology, and termination. Learners measure bus voltage and resistance to verify network integrity.