Calling all car enthusiasts!  This class is an incredibly comprehensive overview of the auto industry - past and present - and the mechanics of modern day cars.  

In addition to discussion, demonstrations, diagrams, and videos will be utilized often to bring a visual understanding to the topic being discussed each week.    

Each week, discussion topics will be shared in the presentation to continue the conversation in our virtual classroom.  Learners will be asked to share details related to the weekly topic about their own family car or their favorite car model.  

Topics covered in this class:
- History of cars: first automobile, first production automobile, a timeline of major events, and a balanced look at Henry Ford’s genius and flaws 
- Vehicle types and usage
- Overview of the automotive industry
-Types of engines:  gas, diesel, and hybrid
- Internal combustion engine principles
- Engine components and functions:  alternator, throttle body, water pump, and oil pump
- Transmission types:  manual and automatic
- Discussion about FWD, RWD, AWD, and 4WD
- Drivetrain components:  Driveshafts, axles, transfer case 
- Brake types:  Disc, drum, regenerative braking 
- Brake system components: hydraulic lines, calipers, pads, ABS, parking brake
- Suspension types: independent and dependent
- Steering components: steering rack and column 
- Wheel alignment basics:  camber, toe, caster
- Electrical system basics
- Battery maintenance and charging system
- Wiring system and an intro to wiring diagrams
- Safety components:  airbags and seatbelts
- Electronic safety systems: lane aid, traction control, cruise control, blind spot, back-up cameras 
- Maintenance: oil change, fluid checks, tire maintenance, and warning lights 
- Basic safety for tools and equipment use
- Handling and disposal of hazardous materials
- Overview of career paths in the automotive industry
- Educational pathways and certifications

Benefits of this class:
Learning about the mechanics of a car equips young people with practical skills, enhances safety, opens up career opportunities, fosters appreciation for technology, promotes environmental awareness, and cultivates valuable life skills.