Automotive Service Technician Foundation Archives

A student diagnosing a radiator fan not working in an automotive workshop

Radiator Fan Problems: Overheating at Idle, A/C Clues, and Electrical Tests

A radiator fan not working can cause overheating at idle and weak A/C performance. Learn how techs test relays, fuses, wiring, sensors, and fan motors.

23 September 2026

An automotive student diagnosing bad EVAP purge valve symptoms with a scan tool

Purge Valve Problems: Hard Starts After Refuelling, EVAP Codes, and Test Clues

Hard starting after refuelling can point to an EVAP purge-valve problem. Learn how technicians connect symptoms, trouble codes, scan data, and leak tests to confirm the cause before replacing parts.

18 September 2026

An auto mechanic trainee in game-based training at our auto mechanic school.

Want To Become A Mechanic? Discover The Benefits Of Game-Based Training

Off the top of your head, what are some of the qualities of video games that make them so popular and enjoyable for many people? Their entertaining and engaging nature? Their interactivity and audio-v

27 October 2023

A car with wheels in proper alignment is easier to steer

4 Signs a Car Needs a Wheel Alignment That Auto Mechanics Should Notice

Wheel alignment, or suspension angles, are optimized and set by car manufacturers. Over time, the wheels and steering components can go out of alignment. They will do so more quickly if a driver goes

8 November 2019

3 Tips for Acing Your Auto Mechanic Apprenticeship Interview

In a survey, one third of employers indicated that they know if they are going to hire an applicant within the first 90 seconds of an interview. This gives you, a student hoping to achieve your dream

11 January 2017

3 Things for Students in Mechanic Certification Programs to Know About Car Audio Systems

Vehicle audio systems have been around since 1930 when Motorola introduced the very first car radio. At the time, the technology was extremely expensive. In fact, Motorola’s radio cost $130 USD per

10 January 2017

Why the Average Age of Vehicles on the Road Is Rising and What it Means for Auto Mechanic Careers

Auto sales are fairly high, and yet the average age of cars on the road in Canada continues to rise. According to a TD report, the average age hit 9.3 years as of 2012. While that is a fair bit lower

20 December 2016

Understanding Automotive Systems: A Guide for Auto Service Training Students

If you’re interested in automotive mechanics, you’ll know that every vehicle is essentially a finely tuned machine. From Ferraris to Fords, under almost every convertible roof or shiny hood orname

15 October 2015

Can’t Decide which Auto Career to Pursue? Here are 4 that are In-Demand Right Now!

It can be difficult to decide on an automotive career when there are so many to choose from. Whether you want to work on fast engines or sell the country’s most popular models, Canada’s au

15 September 2015

Top Signs of Transmission Trouble

Mechanical auto problems, as opposed to electrical auto problems, are usually coupled with distinct sounds and sensations that are key indicators that something isn’t functioning the way it was

6 May 2014

How to Become an Automotive Technician

With the growing demand for the trades in BC, and even across Canada, starting or switching careers into the trades may be the break that you’ve been looking for. If you have always been intereste

4 October 2013

Green Meets Cutting Edge: Highlights from the Frankfurt Auto Show

If you’ve been waiting with baited breath to see the unveiling of the latest fleet of cars to fill your wish list from the Frankfurt Auto Show, then your wait is over. One of the largest automotive

13 September 2013

www.privatetraininginstitutions.gov.bc.ca

Kevin Holter

The practicum is very important. It is your chance to see how a shop runs and they should all consider it to be the worlds longest job interview. I was hired at Auto West BMW which was a very good success for me and I owe it all too hard work and ATC.

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