Automotive Electrician Courses

Individuals looking to become specialists in automotive electrical systems generally have to take an automotive technology course. These courses provide electrical training as part of the coursework, and students can choose courses that focus primarily on vehicle electronics and electrical systems. Students may be able to train on specific car manufacturer's systems as part of their course or as a separate component. After graduating from the course, mechanics can learn from more experienced mechanics on the job.

The Universal Technical Institute offers courses in automotive technology on 10 campuses in various states in the U.S. These courses last 51 weeks, and participants have an option to undertake extra courses focusing on specific manufacturer's technology. These extra courses last up to 15 weeks and focus on Ford, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan and Toyota. Students learn about the electronic control systems of vehicles and how to diagnose and repair them. Graduates of the 51-week course can also go on to take more courses to specialize in the repair of MINIs, Volvos or Porsches.

Students who want to specialize in automotive electrical systems can choose distance learning from the Penn Foster Career School. The Auto Repair Technician diploma offered by the school takes at least one year to complete, but students can study at their own pace. The course covers electrical systems, electronic control systems, engine repair, fuel and braking systems and other automotive repair subjects. The course fee covers books, exam preparation materials and support from the school staff.

Potential automotive electricians can get an Associate of Science degree from Ventura College in Southern California. The course prepares students for a variety of careers, including repairing and diagnosing automotive electrical systems. The college also offers training for existing mechanics who want to update their skills and the choice of a certificate instead of a degree course. Ventura College works closely with car manufacturers to increase the chances of graduates getting jobs as entry-level automotive technicians.

Students of automotive technology who are interested in specializing in vehicle electrical systems can also take free online courses to boost their understanding of the subject. The Autoshop 101 website provides free training modules on car electrical systems, along with practice questions for exams. Free online courses are purely for interest and will not result in any official qualification to the student.