Effective Date

08/16/2026

Engine Performance Certificate

Pathway:

Engine Performance

Certificate Type:

Basic

Curriculum Code:

AUT.EGP.CERT (C447C)

Total Program Credits: 19

The Engine Performance certificate program is designed to provide the student skills to seek entry-level employment as an engine performance technician.

Instruction includes complete fuel system diagnosis, repair and adjustment, battery, starting, charging and ignition system testing, scope/engine analyzer usage both analog and digital, and computerized engine control systems.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Engine Performance Certificate program, the graduate will be able to:

Demonstrate industry knowledge through safety OSHA, EPA practices and procedures.

Analyze vehicle symptoms or assess vehicle situations based on previous knowledge and classroom/shop experience.

Explain proper procedures when dealing with a check engine or emissions related problem.

Communicate with instructors applying the target language utilized in a repair facility or as technicians in the industry.

Determine a systematic approach more suitable to the situation encountered to repair/replace or diagnose an engine performance issue.


  1. Explain diagnostic, service, and repair procedures for engine performance systems according to manufacturer specifications and ASE industry standards.
  2. Use scan tools, diagnostic equipment, and manufacturer service information to identify root causes of engine performance concerns.
  3. Integrate scan tool diagnostics and vehicle network communication analysis to evaluate engine management system performance and identify electronic system faults.
  4. Model professional workplace readiness through the use of safety protocols and technical communication standards.
  5. Justify engine performance repair decisions using diagnostic evidence and manufacturer specifications to confirm root cause identification and appropriate corrective actions.

(Reviewed Spring 2026)


Placement Measures

Program Map for Students

Semester One: Fall

CourseCategoryCredits
AUT 112 Introduction to Automotive Technology

Core Course

3

AUT 114 # Fuel Management Systems

Core Course

4

AUT 127 # Automotive Electricity & Electronics I

Core Course

4

Semester Two: Spring

CourseCategoryCredits
AUT 129 # Automotive Electricity & Electronics II

Core Course

3

AUT 226 # Engine Performance & Diagnosis

Core Course

5

Semester Three: Summer

CourseCategoryCredits
AUT 230 # Computerized Engine Controls

Core Course

5

Total Credit Hours: 19

See AUT course descriptions.

Chairperson: Ken Davis, Ext. 3970, email: kennethdavis@triton.edu

 KEY
(CERT)
General Education Communications, Fine Arts, Humanities, Life Science, Mathematics, Physical Science, Social and Behavioral Science (see individual degree requirements).
Core Course Course(s) listed in a semester the student is required to take.
Program Elective Course(s) that faculty recommend and are listed in the ‘Program Electives’ section (if any) for this program. If intending to transfer, choose courses accepted by your transfer institution.
General Elective Course(s) chosen by the student, if needed, above and beyond core courses and program electives (if any), to complete the Program Total Credits.
◊ symbol This course is articulated. (course transfers to 3 or more Illinois State schools, as an elective or equal course-to-course)
# symbol This course has a prerequisite. (course(s) student takes prior to taking this course)

Last Updated

6/23/2026 4:55:33 PM