Lecture/Discussion
Thursday 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
June 4, 2026 – July 23, 2026
Vocational-Technical Building, V122C
Explanation of Course Alignment
AUTO 2243 Alignment, Steering & Suspension provides students with the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to inspect, diagnose, service, and repair steering, suspension, wheel, tire, and alignment systems. Students will utilize industry-standard equipment, OEM service information, and professional diagnostic procedures to identify and correct steering, suspension, and alignment concerns.
This course supports the Automotive Technology Associate in Applied Science degree and applicable certificate pathways within the Automotive Technology Program. Course content is aligned with current industry practices and emphasizes the inspection, diagnosis, and repair procedures commonly performed by entry-level automotive technicians.
Students will develop competencies in tire and wheel service, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), steering and suspension inspection, component replacement, wheel alignment procedures, and the safe use of automotive service equipment. Successful completion of this course prepares students for continued study in advanced automotive systems and entry-level employment within the automotive service industry.
The course description is incorrect on KCC.EDU
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Inspect, diagnose, and repair steering system components using manufacturer service information and industry-standard diagnostic procedures.
- Inspect, diagnose, and repair suspension system components including springs, shocks, struts, control arms, bushings, and related hardware.
- Perform wheel alignment measurements and adjustments using computerized alignment equipment and manufacturer specifications.
- Diagnose tire wear, ride quality, handling, pull, and vibration concerns and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
- Use automotive service information, electronic diagnostic tools, and alignment equipment to support steering, suspension, and alignment service operations.
- Demonstrate safe and professional work practices while performing steering, suspension, wheel, tire, and alignment service procedures.
Faculty Contact Information
Half hour after class or as needed
James Stafford is the Automotive Technology Program Coordinator at Kankakee Community College. Students in this course will gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment, service information, and diagnostic procedures. Emphasis is placed on professionalism, safety, critical thinking, and developing the skills needed for success in today's automotive service industry.
Course Information
At the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Evaluate and determine needed repairs to A/C system.
- Diagnose the temperature control problems in the heater/ventilation system; determine needed repairs
- Evaluate and determine mechanical failures in the HVAC system.
- Evaluate and determine electrical failures in the HVAC system.
- Describe refrigerant storage, labeling, testing and recycling.
Textbook/s and Course Materials
Required Materials
• Electude online training subscription (voucher purchased through the KCC Bookstore)
• Access to Canvas and KCC email
• Safety glasses meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards
• Work pants or jeans
• Short-sleeve shirt appropriate for laboratory activities
Students will utilize Electude online learning modules, instructor-developed course materials, OEM service information, and hands-on laboratory activities throughout the course. All course assignments, announcements, grades, assessments, and supplemental materials will be distributed through Canvas.
Specialized high-voltage personal protective equipment (PPE), insulated tools, testing equipment, and training aids required for laboratory activities will be provided by Kankakee Community College.
Because this is a hybrid course, students are expected to have reliable internet access and the ability to complete online coursework between scheduled face-to-face class meetings.
Students who are not properly dressed for laboratory activities or who fail to follow safety requirements may be restricted from participating in laboratory activities until the issue is corrected.
Methods of Evaluation
Final course grades will be determined using the following grading categories:
Homework (Electude Assignments) – 35%
Hands-On Laboratory Activities and Workbook Assignments – 35%
Tests and Final Exam – 30%
Letter grades will be assigned as follows:
A = 94–100%
B = 84–93%
C = 77–83%
D = 70–76%
F = Below 70%
Homework assignments are completed through Electude and must be completed by the assigned due dates. Hands-on laboratory grades are based on participation, technical skill development, worksheet completion, diagnostic procedures, safety practices, and proper use of tools and equipment. Tests may include written, practical, and performance-based assessments covering classroom and laboratory content.
Completion of all Electude assignments and modules assigned by the instructor is required before taking quizzes and examinations. Students who have not completed the assigned Electude coursework by the due date will receive a zero for the associated quiz or examination. Quiz and examination grades will not be recorded until all prerequisite Electude coursework has been completed.
Summative assessment questions may originate from Electude assignments, classroom discussions, laboratory activities, demonstrations, worksheets, quizzes, tests, and instructor presentations.
The Automotive Technology Program utilizes grading standards that reflect industry expectations. Students are encouraged to achieve a minimum score of 80 percent or higher to demonstrate competency in course outcomes.
Business, Technology & Human Services
Dean, Paul Carlson; 815-802-8858; V105; pcarlson@kcc.edu; Division Office – W102; 815-802-8650
Course Policies
Attendance
Attendance is essential for success in Automotive Technology courses. Much of the learning in this course occurs through hands-on laboratory activities that cannot be fully replicated outside of class. Students are expected to arrive on time and remain for the entire class session.
Students are responsible for all material, assignments, demonstrations, quizzes, and laboratory activities missed due to absence or tardiness. Failure to attend class does not constitute withdrawal from the course. Students wishing to withdraw must complete the appropriate college withdrawal process.
Homework and Electude Assignments
Electude assignments are a required component of this course and are designed to prepare students for classroom instruction, quizzes, and laboratory activities.
Completion of all Electude assignments and modules assigned by the instructor is required before taking quizzes and examinations. Students who have not completed the assigned Electude coursework by the due date will receive a zero for the associated quiz or examination. Quiz and examination grades will not be recorded until all prerequisite Electude coursework has been completed.
Laboratory Safety
Safety glasses meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards must be worn at all times while in the laboratory.
Students are required to wear appropriate shop attire including work pants or jeans and a short-sleeve shirt suitable for shop activities. Students who are not properly dressed or who fail to follow safety procedures may be removed from the laboratory and may receive a reduction in participation or laboratory grades.
Students must follow all instructor directions, equipment operating procedures, and shop safety rules. Unsafe behavior may result in removal from the laboratory and disciplinary action consistent with college policies.
Tools, Equipment, and Shop Conduct
Students are expected to use tools and equipment responsibly and only for their intended purpose. Equipment may only be operated after receiving instruction and approval from the instructor.
Work areas must be kept clean and organized. Students are responsible for returning tools, equipment, and shop materials to their proper locations at the conclusion of each laboratory activity.
Service Information and Repairs
Students will utilize OEM service information and approved repair procedures during laboratory activities. All repairs and inspections must be completed according to instructor guidance and industry standards.
Course Changes
The instructor reserves the right to modify assignments, laboratory activities, assessments, and course schedules as needed to meet instructional objectives or accommodate equipment, vehicle, facility, or scheduling limitations.
EXPECTATIONS FOR CLASSROOM AND ONLINE BEHAVIOR
Students are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner consistent with industry expectations. Respect for fellow students, instructors, equipment, facilities, and vehicles is required at all times.
Classroom Expectations
• Arrive on time and prepared for class.
• Participate actively in classroom discussions, demonstrations, and laboratory activities.
• Check Canvas and KCC email regularly for course announcements and assignments.
• Cell phones should not be used during instruction unless authorized by the instructor for educational purposes.
• Headphones, earbuds, and other personal audio devices are not permitted during class or laboratory activities.
• Students are expected to maintain a professional and respectful learning environment.
Laboratory Expectations
• Safety glasses meeting ANSI Z87.1 standards must be worn at all times in the laboratory.
• Students must wear work pants or jeans and a short-sleeve shirt appropriate for shop activities.
• Follow all shop safety rules and instructor directions.
• Use jack stands whenever a vehicle is raised. Never rely on a floor jack as the sole means of vehicle support.
• Obtain instructor approval before operating shop equipment or performing unfamiliar procedures.
• Obtain instructor approval before bringing personal vehicles into the laboratory for service.
• Use exhaust extraction equipment whenever operating a vehicle inside the shop.
• Keep work areas clean and organized throughout the laboratory session.
• Return all tools, equipment, and service information to their proper locations when finished.
• Report damaged tools, equipment concerns, accidents, and injuries immediately.
• Place vehicle keys on the driver's side dashboard when service is complete.
• Verify battery state of charge before returning a vehicle to service or leaving it for the next class.
Online Expectations
• Complete Electude assignments by the assigned due dates.
• Maintain academic integrity on all assignments, quizzes, tests, and laboratory documentation.
• Communicate professionally when using email, Canvas messages, or other electronic communication tools.
• Students are responsible for monitoring course announcements, assignment deadlines, and schedule updates posted through Canvas.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policy
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT, Copilot, Gemini, and similar technologies may be used to assist with learning, studying, and understanding course concepts. However, AI-generated work may not be submitted as a student's own work without instructor permission.
Students are expected to complete all Electude assignments, quizzes, tests, laboratory activities, diagnostic procedures, and workbook assignments using their own knowledge and skills. Any work submitted for grading must accurately reflect the student's understanding of the material.
The use of AI to generate answers for quizzes, tests, workbook questions, laboratory documentation, or other graded assessments is prohibited unless specifically authorized by the instructor. Students must be able to explain, demonstrate, and perform any procedure, diagnosis, calculation, or repair process submitted for credit.
Because Automotive Technology is a hands-on technical field, students will be evaluated not only on written work but also on their ability to safely perform procedures, utilize service information, operate equipment, and demonstrate competency in laboratory activities.
Misuse of AI or submission of AI-generated work as original student work may be considered academic dishonesty and may result in disciplinary action consistent with college policies.
The Automotive Technology Program is designed to develop safe, skilled, and professional technicians. Students are expected to demonstrate the same level of responsibility, professionalism, and attention to detail that would be required in a professional automotive repair facility.
Course Calendar
Week 1 – June 4, 2026
Course Introduction, Shop Safety, Tires and Wheels Fundamentals
Electude Assignments:
• Chapter 1: Properties of Tires and Wheels
• Chapter 2: Tires
• How To: Change Tires on the Rim
• How To: Repairing a Flat Tire
• Steering and Suspension: How To Modules
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 1 – Steering and Suspension Component Identification and Shake-Down Inspection
Week 2 – June 11, 2026
Tires, Wheels, Wheel Balancing, and TPMS Fundamentals
Electude Assignments:
• Chapter 3: Wheels
• Chapter 4: Wheel Balancing
• Chapter 5: Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• How To: Balance Wheel
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 2 – Tire Inspection, Tire Service, and Tire Wear Identification
Week 3 – June 18, 2026
Tire Service Procedures and Wheel Balancing
Electude Assignments:
• Chapter 7: Suspension and Steering Introduction
• Chapter 8: Steering
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 3 – Tire Mounting and Wheel Balancing
Quiz 1
Week 4 – June 25, 2026
TPMS Operation and Steering System Fundamentals
Electude Assignments:
• Chapter 9: Suspension Systems
• Chapter 10: Suspension Components and Types
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 4 – TPMS Inspection and Relearn Procedures
Week 5 – July 2, 2026
Suspension System Design and Component Inspection
Electude Assignments:
• Chapter 6: Wheel Bearings
• Chapter 11: Shock Absorbers
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 5 – Ball Joint Inspection and Dial Indicator Measurement
Quiz 2
Week 6 – July 9, 2026
Steering Component Inspection and Repair Procedures
Electude Assignments:
• Chapter 12: Wheel Alignment Geometry
• Chapter 13: Alignment
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 6 – Inner and Outer Tie Rod Replacement
Week 7 – July 16, 2026
Wheel Alignment Theory and Adjustment Procedures
Electude Assignments:
• A4 Suspension and Steering ASE Preparation Test
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 7 – Four-Wheel Alignment After Tie Rod Replacement
Quiz 3
Week 8 – July 23, 2026
Suspension Service Procedures, Course Review, and Final Assessment
Laboratory Activity:
• Lab 8 – Strut Removal and Installation
Comprehensive Final Exam
Course calendar is subject to change based on instructional needs, vehicle availability, equipment availability, and weather conditions.
College Policies, Resources and Supports
For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non- Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu under the Academic Regulations & Conduct Guide.
KCC offers various academic and personal resources for all students. Many services are offered virtually, as well as in person. Please visit Student Resources - Kankakee Community College to access student resources services such as:
- Clubs and organizations
- Counseling and referral services
- Office of disability services
- Student complaint policy
- Transfer services
- Tutoring services, etc.
The materials on this course are only for the use of students enrolled in this course for purposes associated with this course. Further information regarding KCC's copyright policy is available at https://kcc.libguides.com/copyright.
|Course syllabus/calendar is subject to change.