AUTONATOMY DEVELOPMENT PREVIEW · V31 · Private browser-based prototype

Current course additions · v89

Brakes, Suspension and HVAC are working interactive courses, not just planned headings in the earlier v70 architecture. The older map below is retained as a historical baseline.

Braking Systems · 57 lessons → Suspension Systems · 25 lessons → Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning · 5 lessons →

ARCHITECTURE BASELINE 1.1 · VERSION 69

Autonatomy Master Curriculum

Main Course → Subcourse → Unit → Lesson. Mini Courses are focused standalone pathways; Labs are linked activities.

Engine Performance is a standalone main course. Engine Systems covers engine mechanics, lubrication and cooling; Engine Performance covers engine management, drivability and emissions. All 41 working lesson pages and 33 standalone labs are retained. Legacy URLs are preserved.

14 main courses · 65 subcourses · 41 existing lessons · 12 planned mini courses · 33 labs

Main courses & subcourses

Vehicle Fundamentals PLANNED

Basic vehicle knowledge before a student chooses a technical system.

What an Automobile Is & Does PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Major Vehicle Systems & Components PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Body Styles & Vehicle Types PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Gasoline, Diesel, Hybrid & EV Overview PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Driver Complaints & Basic Observations PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Automotive Electrical Systems ACTIVE

Electrical theory, circuits, components and foundational diagnostic methods.

Electrical Fundamentals BUILT

Electrical Theories & Principles — Open unit ↗

  1. Understanding Electricity
  2. Electric Charge and Current
  3. What Makes a Circuit Complete?
Circuit Fundamentals PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Electrical & Electronic Components PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Wiring Diagrams & Circuit Identification PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Electrical Testing & Diagnosis PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Advanced Electrical ACTIVE

Vehicle electrical applications, distributed controls and more complex circuits.

Lighting Systems BUILT

Exterior Lighting Circuits — Open unit ↗

  1. Turn Signals & Hazard Lights
  2. Headlamp & Parking Lamp Circuits
  3. Brake & Reverse Lamp Circuits
  4. Exterior Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

Lighting Control & Diagnostics — Open unit ↗

  1. Relay & BCM Lighting Control
  2. BCM Lighting Diagnostic Challenge
  3. PWM Lighting Control Lab
  4. Automatic Headlamp & Sensor Lab
Starting & Charging Systems PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Body Electronics & Controls PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Power Distribution & Ground Management PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Vehicle Communication Networks PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Engine Systems ACTIVE

Engine construction, mechanical operation, internal components, lubrication and cooling.

Engine Fundamentals BUILT

Engine Operation & Major Components — Open unit ↗

  1. How a Four-Stroke Engine Works
  2. Piston, Rod & Crankshaft
  3. Valves & Camshaft Timing
Engine Mechanical Systems PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Lubrication & Cooling PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Engine Performance ACTIVE

Engine management, air/fuel/ignition control, emissions, drivability and practical fault diagnosis.

Engine Control & Systems Diagnostics BUILT

Air–Fuel Control & Feedback (legacy integrated unit) — Open unit ↗

  1. Fuel Trim & Air–Fuel Diagnosis
  2. Oxygen Sensor & Air–Fuel Feedback
  3. MAF & MAP Diagnostics
  4. Electronic Throttle Control
  5. Ignition Timing & Spark Advance
  6. Crankshaft & Camshaft Position Sensors
  7. Fuel Injector Timing & Pulse Width
  8. Fuel Pressure & Delivery Diagnostics
  9. Misfire Detection & Diagnostic Reasoning
  10. Catalytic Converter & Downstream Oxygen Sensor Diagnostics
  11. EVAP System & Leak Diagnostics
  12. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Diagnostics
  13. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Diagnostics
  14. Turbocharger Boost & Charge-Air Diagnostics
  15. PCV, Crankcase Pressure & Intake Vacuum Diagnostics
  16. Engine Compression & Cylinder Leak-Down Diagnostics
  17. The Challenger: Engine Performance Diagnostic Capstone
Emissions & Aftertreatment PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Applied Engine Performance Diagnostics BUILT

Applied Engine Performance Diagnostics — Open unit ↗

  1. Cranks, but Won’t Start: A Diagnostic Decision Lab
  2. Starts, Then Stalls: A Diagnostic Decision Lab
  3. Hesitation & Loss of Power Under Load
  4. Rough Idle & Idle Speed Control
  5. Hard Starting: Cold vs. Hot
Advanced Engine Performance Systems PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Automatic Transmissions & Transaxles ACTIVE

Torque conversion, geartrain operation, hydraulic and electronic control, diagnosis.

Automatic Transmission Fundamentals BUILT

Torque Conversion, Planetary Power Flow & Holding Devices — Open unit ↗

  1. How a Torque Converter Works
  2. Planetary Gear Power Flow
  3. Holding & Apply Devices
Hydraulic & Electronic Controls BUILT

Hydraulic Pressure, Valve Bodies & Solenoid Logic — Open unit ↗

  1. Hydraulic Pressure & Clutch Apply
  2. Valve Body & Shift Solenoid Logic
Transmission Service & Diagnostics PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Advanced Automatic Transmission Designs PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Manual Transmissions & Clutches PLANNED

Manual torque transfer, shift mechanisms and clutch diagnosis.

Manual Transmission Fundamentals PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Clutch Systems & Actuation PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Manual Transmission Service & Diagnosis PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Drivetrain & Axles PLANNED

Power transfer from the transmission output to the road.

Driveshafts, U-Joints & CV Joints PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Differentials & Final Drives PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Axles, Hubs & Bearings PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Transfer Cases, AWD & 4WD PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Drivetrain Noise & Vibration Diagnosis PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Braking Systems PLANNED

Service and diagnostic pathways for mechanical, hydraulic and electronically controlled brakes.

Brake Fundamentals PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Hydraulic Brake Systems PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Disc & Drum Brakes PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

ABS, Traction & Stability Control PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Brake Inspection & Diagnostics PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Steering & Suspension PLANNED

Vehicle handling, load management, alignment and chassis diagnosis.

Steering Systems PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Suspension Systems PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Wheel Alignment & Geometry PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Tires, Wheels & Ride PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Steering & Suspension Diagnostics PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning PLANNED

Cabin climate systems, refrigeration and electronic control.

HVAC Fundamentals PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Refrigeration & A/C Components PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Heating, Air Distribution & Cabin Air PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Electronic Climate Controls PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

HVAC Performance & Diagnostics PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

ADAS & Driver Assistance PLANNED

Driver assistance functions, service preparation and vehicle-specific calibration workflows.

ADAS Fundamentals & Driver Assistance Functions PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Cameras, Radar & Other ADAS Sensors PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Pre-Calibration Inspection & Conditions PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

ADAS Calibration Concepts & Procedures PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Post-Repair Verification & Documentation PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Systems PLANNED

Electrified powertrains, high-voltage architecture and safe service principles.

Hybrid & EV Fundamentals PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

High-Voltage Safety & Isolation PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Battery Packs & Battery Management PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Electric Motors, Inverters & Drive Units PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Charging, Thermal Systems & Diagnostics PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Service Practice & Integrated Diagnostics PLANNED

Cross-system technician skills; vehicle-specific diagnostic content stays with its owning system.

Shop Safety, Tools & Procedures PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Service Information & Documentation PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Scan Tools, DTCs & Live Data PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Diagnostic Process & Test Planning PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Service Writing & Customer Communication PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Cross-System Diagnostic Challenges PLANNED

Units and lessons not yet developed.

Mini courses · planned short pathways

Mini courses are curriculum proposals, not finished offerings or standalone labs.

Ohm’s Law PLANNED

Home: Circuit Fundamentals

Electrical theory + worked problems + assessment; currently a catalog concept, not a finished mini course.

Reading Wiring Diagrams PLANNED

Home: Wiring Diagrams & Circuit Identification

Symbols, circuit paths, connector and splice interpretation.

Multimeter Essentials PLANNED

Home: Electrical Testing & Diagnosis

Meter setup and safe voltage, resistance and current measurement.

ADAS Calibration Basics PLANNED

Home: ADAS Calibration Concepts & Procedures

Calibration purposes, prerequisite conditions and procedure literacy.

Voltage Drop Detective PLANNED

Home: Electrical Testing & Diagnosis

Loaded-circuit testing with fault-isolation challenge.

Understanding Relays PLANNED

Home: Power Distribution & Ground Management

Coil/control vs switched-power path and common failures.

Fuel Trim in 15 Minutes PLANNED

Home: Engine Control & Systems Diagnostics

Short explanation, evidence examples and self-check.

Clutch Apply Essentials PLANNED

Home: Hydraulic & Electronic Controls

Fluid paths, fill timing, apply pressure and torque capacity.

Finding an Intake Leak PLANNED

Home: Applied Engine Performance Diagnostics

Symptom-to-test micro-course with diagnostic practice.

Brake Fluid & Bleeding PLANNED

Home: Hydraulic Brake Systems

Fluid handling, procedure decisions and checks.

Alignment Terms Explained PLANNED

Home: Wheel Alignment & Geometry

Camber, caster, toe and related vehicle behavior.

High-Voltage Safety Orientation PLANNED

Home: High-Voltage Safety & Isolation

Safety awareness; does not certify a student for live high-voltage work.

Curriculum rules

  1. One canonical home per subject. Engine Performance is a main course distinct from Engine Systems; cross-links do not create duplicate owning courses.
  2. A mini course is a self-contained focused learning pathway with an objective, instruction, practice and check; a standalone lab is an activity, not a mini course by default.
  3. Unit belongs to one subcourse; lesson belongs to one unit; a lab can be referenced by multiple lessons without being duplicated.
  4. Publish status cannot be inferred from a catalog card; mark built only when linked instructional content exists.
  5. Course titles and IDs form a working baseline, not a prohibition on change. Revise the manifest first; maintain redirects/aliases for old paths.
  6. Foundational subject lives with its owning system; cross-system diagnostics can link to system-specific lessons rather than copying them.
  7. Preserve existing Engine Performance lesson and lab URLs under /courses/engines/performance/ as legacy working URLs until a deliberate, link-safe migration.

Version 69 corrects the hierarchy without changing lesson file locations. Planned courses are not yet built.

Current course additions · v89

Brakes, Suspension and HVAC are working interactive courses, not just planned headings in the earlier v70 architecture. The older map below is retained as a historical baseline.

Braking Systems · 57 lessons → Suspension Systems · 25 lessons → Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning · 5 lessons →

AUTONATOMY · COMPLETE CONSOLIDATED EDITION · VERSION 67

All courses. One place.

Explore every working course pathway in this build: 41 individual lessons across Electrical, Advanced Electrical, Engine Systems, and Automatic Transmissions. Planned material remains clearly labeled within its course.

Automotive Electrical Systems ↗

Electrical Fundamentals · Unit 1 ↗

  1. Understanding Electricity
  2. Electric Charge and Current
  3. What Makes a Circuit Complete?

Interactive Electrical Lab ↗

Open interactive electrical lab ↗

Advanced Electrical ↗

Lighting Systems · Unit 1 ↗

  1. Turn Signals & Hazard Lights
  2. Headlamp & Parking Lamp Circuits
  3. Brake & Reverse Lamp Circuits
  4. Exterior Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

Lighting Systems · Unit 2 ↗

  1. Relay & BCM Lighting Control
  2. BCM Lighting Diagnostic Challenge
  3. PWM Lighting Control Lab
  4. Automatic Headlamp & Sensor Lab

Engine Systems ↗

Engine Fundamentals · Unit 1 ↗

  1. How a Four-Stroke Engine Works
  2. Piston, Rod & Crankshaft
  3. Valves & Camshaft Timing

Engine Performance ↗

Engine Performance · Unit 1 ↗

  1. Fuel Trim & Air–Fuel Diagnosis
  2. Oxygen Sensor & Air–Fuel Feedback
  3. MAF & MAP Diagnostics
  4. Electronic Throttle Control
  5. Ignition Timing & Spark Advance
  6. Crankshaft & Camshaft Position Sensors
  7. Fuel Injector Timing & Pulse Width
  8. Fuel Pressure & Delivery Diagnostics
  9. Misfire Detection & Diagnostic Reasoning
  10. Catalytic Converter & Downstream Oxygen Sensor Diagnostics
  11. EVAP System & Leak Diagnostics
  12. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Diagnostics
  13. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Diagnostics
  14. Turbocharger Boost & Charge-Air Diagnostics
  15. PCV, Crankcase Pressure & Intake Vacuum Diagnostics
  16. Engine Compression & Cylinder Leak-Down Diagnostics
  17. The Challenger: Engine Performance Diagnostic Capstone

Engine Performance · Unit 2 ↗

  1. Cranks, but Won’t Start: A Diagnostic Decision Lab
  2. Starts, Then Stalls: A Diagnostic Decision Lab
  3. Hesitation & Loss of Power Under Load
  4. Rough Idle & Idle Speed Control
  5. Hard Starting: Cold vs. Hot

Automatic Transmissions & Transaxles ↗

Transmission Fundamentals · Unit 1 ↗

  1. How a Torque Converter Works
  2. Planetary Gear Power Flow
  3. Holding & Apply Devices

Hydraulic & Electronic Controls · Unit 2 ↗

  1. Hydraulic Pressure & Clutch Apply
  2. Valve Body & Shift Solenoid Logic

Prototype status: This is a consolidated local preview, not a deployed website or a production learning management system. Simulation values are educational examples; use vehicle-specific service data for real testing.

AUTOMOTIVE LEARNING · REIMAGINED

Learn how it works.
Prove you know it.

Build real automotive understanding through clear lessons, interactive practice, and challenges that meet you where you are.

Explore Courses →See How It Works
Sample learning experienceLevel 1
Electrical Fundamentals / Unit 1

Build a simple circuit

Explore the components. Then explain what makes current flow.

+ −
BAT⏻
SW✹
LAMP
Course progressExample · 40%
Next: Test your understanding →
FIND YOUR PATH

Explore our courses

Start with a complete automotive system, choose a focused subcourse, or tackle a mini course when you need one skill.

How courses are organized →
BUILT TO STAY ORGANIZED

One clear path from course to concept

Each course lives in the catalog. Inside it, students follow units and lessons, with smaller topics and activities contained within a lesson.

01

Choose a course

Main course → subcourse or standalone mini course.

02

Open a lesson

Subcourse → unit → lesson, with a consistent learning menu.

03

Learn and practice

Topics → concepts → interactions → knowledge checks.

HOW IT WORKS

Learning that goes beyond watching

A consistent experience helps students understand, practice, and demonstrate what they know.

1

Learn clearly

Plain-language explanations, diagrams, and familiar examples build the foundation.

2

Try it yourself

Use activities and simulations to apply ideas before working on real vehicles.

3

Meet the challenge

Check your understanding, revisit what is unclear, and build confidence as you progress.

MEET THE CHALLENGER

A little pressure.
A lot of learning.

Autonatomy's Challenger turns “I think I get it” into “I can explain it and use it.” Expect playful questions, practical scenarios, and new levels of understanding.

Explore a course →
CHALLENGE PREVIEW · ELECTRICAL

A lamp goes out. What's the first thing you need to know?

Pick an answer and explain why. (Interactive challenge to be built.)

Power available?Circuit complete?Component good?What's the symptom?
YOUR LEARNING SPACE

Pick up where you left off.

Your My Learning area will connect enrolled courses, lesson progress, activities, and completed learning. Student accounts and saved progress are planned; this page is currently a preview.

Student access ↗
VERSION 13

Create. Publish. Explore.

Open Course Studio, save a new learning pathway and choose Publish to catalog. Your course then appears in Courses with working navigation between every part.

Open Course Studio →
NEW IN V89 · MERGED INTO THE V70 WEBSITE

Brakes, Suspension & HVAC are ready to explore

Course material from v71–v88 is integrated into this edition. These are offline, conceptual teaching previews; other subjects and v70 tools remain in place.

7 active subcourses · 57 lessons · 12 labs

Braking Systems

Explore hydraulic, disc, drum, ABS, electronic parking brakes and inspection through 57 lessons and 12 conceptual interactive labs.

Explore Braking Systems →
5 active subcourses · 25 lessons · 5 labs

Suspension Systems

Study suspension fundamentals, springs and dampers, front and rear layouts, and electronically controlled suspension. Geometry and advanced diagnostics are planned.

Explore Suspension Systems →
1 active subcourse · 5 lessons · 1 labs

Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Study heat transfer, airflow, cabin climate controls, initial troubleshooting and safety. The six advanced HVAC subcourses are planned.

Explore HVAC Systems →
COURSE CATALOG · DEVELOPMENT PREVIEW

Find your next question.

Explore automotive systems, dive into a focused subject, or choose a bite-sized skill. Every path will lead to connected units, lessons, and challenges as we build them.

Home/Course Catalog
EXPLORE THE FRAMEWORK

Choose how you want to learn

Explore Electrical, Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension and HVAC lessons. Planned subjects are labeled separately.

Browse master curriculum → View every available lesson →

Main courses

Big picture → complete automotive system
Main course
Main coursePreview available

Advanced Electrical

Explore advanced vehicle electrical systems, starting with exterior lighting and turn-signal diagnosis.

Path: Advanced Electrical → Lighting Systems
Open learning pathway →
Main course
Main courseSample available

Engine Systems

Study engine construction, operation, lubrication, cooling, and mechanical condition.

Path: Engine Systems → Engine Fundamentals
Open learning pathway →
Main course
Main courseLessons available

Engine Performance

Diagnose engine controls, air/fuel delivery, ignition, emissions, and drivability complaints.

Path: Engine Performance → Engine Control & Systems Diagnostics
Open Engine Performance →
Main course
Main course57 lessons · 12 labs

Braking Systems

Explore hydraulic, disc, drum, ABS, electronic parking brakes and inspection through 57 lessons and 12 conceptual interactive labs.

Path: Braking Systems → 7 active subcourses
Open active course →
Main course
Main course25 lessons · 5 labs

Suspension Systems

Study suspension fundamentals, springs and dampers, front and rear layouts, and electronically controlled suspension. Geometry and advanced diagnostics are planned.

Path: Suspension Systems → 5 active subcourses
Open active course →

Subcourses

Focused subjects within main courses
Subcourse
SubcoursePreview available

Electrical Fundamentals

Start with electrical theory, current, voltage, resistance, and complete circuits.

Path: Electrical Systems → Electrical Fundamentals
Explore preview →
Subcourse
SubcourseInteractive preview

Lighting Systems

Operate and diagnose turn signals and hazards in an interactive virtual circuit.

Path: Advanced Electrical → Lighting Systems
Open subcourse →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Brake System Fundamentals

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Braking Systems.

Path: Braking Systems → Brake System Fundamentals
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Hydraulic Brake Systems

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Braking Systems.

Path: Braking Systems → Hydraulic Brake Systems
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Disc Brake Systems

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Braking Systems.

Path: Braking Systems → Disc Brake Systems
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Drum Brake Systems

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Braking Systems.

Path: Braking Systems → Drum Brake Systems
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Parking & Electronic Brakes

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Braking Systems.

Path: Braking Systems → Parking & Electronic Brakes
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Suspension Fundamentals

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Suspension Systems.

Path: Suspension Systems → Suspension Fundamentals
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Springs, Struts & Dampers

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Suspension Systems.

Path: Suspension Systems → Springs, Struts & Dampers
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Front Suspension Architecture

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Suspension Systems.

Path: Suspension Systems → Front Suspension Architecture
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

Rear Suspension Architecture

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Suspension Systems.

Path: Suspension Systems → Rear Suspension Architecture
Open lessons →
Subcourse
SubcourseLessons available

HVAC Fundamentals

Working lessons, knowledge checks and linked interactive learning in Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning.

Path: Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning → HVAC Fundamentals
Open lessons →

Mini courses

Focused standalone skills · planned
Mini course
Mini coursePlanned

Ohm’s Law

Practice voltage, current, resistance, and basic circuit calculations.

Path: Mini course → Electrical principles
Page and lessons in development
Mini course
Mini coursePlanned

Reading Wiring Diagrams

Learn common circuit symbols, connector details, and how to trace a circuit.

Path: Mini course → Electrical diagnostics
Page and lessons in development
Mini course
Mini coursePlanned

Multimeter Essentials

Explore meter setup, measurement modes, and safe testing habits.

Path: Mini course → Electrical testing
Page and lessons in development
Mini course
Mini coursePlanned

ADAS Calibration Basics

Understand why calibrations are needed and the distinction between static and dynamic procedures.

Path: Mini course → ADAS fundamentals
Page and lessons in development

How a learning path connects

Every course will follow a consistent hierarchy. Mini courses can stand alone and also appear as relevant recommendations inside a larger course.

Main course→ Subcourse→ Unit→ Lesson→ Topic & activity→ Knowledge check

See the Electrical Systems sample →

COURSE CREATION

Build your own course

Create course drafts, design knowledge checks, and export a standalone clickable site.

Open Course Studio →
YOUR OWN COURSES · LOCAL PREVIEW

Published from Course Studio

Your saved courses appear here after you select Publish to catalog in Course Studio. Your built-in Electrical Fundamentals course stays above. Published content here is saved only in this browser; use Export published page to move it elsewhere.

YOUR PUBLISHED LEARNING PATHWAY

Explore your course

Navigate your courses, subcourses, units, lessons and knowledge checks.

Student-facing local preview · These courses are published in this browser only; no online enrollment, accounts, or synced grades.

Main course · Working preview

Automotive Electrical Systems

Follow the energy. Understand how circuits work, how components respond, and how technicians approach electrical problems—one clear learning step at a time.

Explore Electrical Fundamentals →View subcourses ↓

This is a development preview. It is not an enrollment page, and only the Electrical Fundamentals sample pathway is currently linked.

Sample conceptCircuits 101
A circuit is a complete path.

What changes when the switch opens?

+ −
BATSWLAMP
Understand → Apply → ExplainConcept preview
Home/Course Catalog/Automotive Electrical Systems
THE BIG PICTURE

Learn the system before chasing the fault.

Electrical systems touch nearly every modern vehicle function. This main course brings related subjects together in one organized home. The subcourses below focus on individual skills, while units and lessons provide the actual learning experience.

What this main course covers

Electrical theory, circuit behavior, common components, measurements, and diagnostic reasoning. Start with fundamentals or jump to a focused subject as the course library grows.

LEARNING GOALS

What you'll work toward

These are draft course-level goals that we'll refine as we build the individual subcourses.

  • Explain voltage, current, resistance, and the conditions required for current to flow.
  • Recognize major circuit types and predict how a circuit responds to a change.
  • Identify basic electrical components and describe their purpose.
  • Interpret simple wiring diagrams and choose an appropriate test approach.
  • Use observations and measurements to reason through an electrical fault.
CHOOSE A FOCUSED PATH

Explore the subcourses

A main course is the subject hub. Select a subcourse to reach its units, lessons, activities, and knowledge checks. Planned subcourses are visible here so we can develop them without losing the overall map.

SUBCOURSE 01Sample available

Electrical Fundamentals

Start with electrical theory, current flow, voltage, resistance, conductors, and what makes a circuit complete.

Open subcourse →
SUBCOURSE 02Planned

Circuit Fundamentals

Explore series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits and the relationships between current, voltage, and resistance.

Page and lessons not built yet
SUBCOURSE 03Planned

Electrical Components

Investigate switches, relays, resistors, diodes, capacitors, sensors, and how they behave in a circuit.

Page and lessons not built yet
SUBCOURSE 04Planned

Electrical Testing & Diagnosis

Learn safe measurement habits, voltage drop, circuit testing, and how to isolate common electrical faults.

Page and lessons not built yet
HOW EVERYTHING CONNECTS

From big idea to hands-on challenge

We keep the hierarchy consistent so every new subject can fit into the same structure.

  1. Level 1Main courseThe complete automotive system.
  2. Level 2SubcourseA focused part of the system.
  3. Level 3Unit → LessonOrganized explanations and examples.
  4. Level 4Activity → CheckApply a concept and test understanding.

Ready to enter the first sample pathway?

Open Electrical Fundamentals, view its unit, and try the introductory lesson. This is a working preview, not a completed or graded course.

Go to Electrical Fundamentals →
Automotive Electrical Systems / Subcourse 01

Electrical Fundamentals

Understand the ideas behind every electrical diagnosis. Explore the difference between voltage and current, the role of resistance, and what makes an electrical circuit work.

Explore Unit 1 →View unit roadmap ↓

Development preview · One sample unit and lesson available · No enrollment or saved grades yet

Your learning route

Start simple. Build understanding.

Each part answers a smaller question, building toward practical circuit reasoning.

Idea→Example→Practice→Check
Current sample: Electrical Theories & Principles · Unit 1
Home/Course Catalog/Electrical Systems/Electrical Fundamentals
SUBCOURSE OVERVIEW

Electrical ideas you can explain—not just memorize.

This subcourse is the starting point within Automotive Electrical Systems. It introduces essential electrical concepts before more advanced circuit analysis, components, and testing.

What belongs here?

Electrical charge and current, voltage, resistance, complete circuits, sources and loads, conductors and insulators, and the effects of electricity. As we develop the units, each lesson will connect these ideas to straightforward automotive examples.

YOUR LEARNING GOALS

What you'll learn to do

Draft outcomes for this subcourse. We will refine them as the units and assessments are developed.

  • Describe electric charge and what electrical current means.
  • Distinguish voltage, current, and resistance using clear examples.
  • Explain why a source and a complete conductive path are necessary in a simple circuit.
  • Identify examples of conductors, insulators, sources, and loads.
  • Describe common effects of current, such as heat, light, and magnetism.
  • Predict what happens when a switch interrupts a simple circuit.
UNIT ROADMAP

Choose where to begin

Units organize related lessons. Only the first unit is connected in this prototype; future units are included here to show the intended structure.

01
Sample available

Electrical Theories & Principles

What electricity is, the conditions for current flow, and foundational circuit ideas. Contains one connected introductory lesson.

Open unit →
02
Planned

Electrical Quantities & Terminology

Voltage, current, resistance, power, and the language of electrical measurement.

Not built yet
03
Planned

Conductors, Insulators & Circuit Paths

How materials and connections affect electrical pathways in automotive examples.

Not built yet
04
Planned

Electrical Effects & Everyday Applications

Light, heat, magnetism, and other ways electrical energy is used in a vehicle.

Not built yet
A LOOK INSIDE

Try the first lesson

The first lesson demonstrates the learning-page template and a short interactive check.

UNIT 01 · LESSON 01

Understanding Electricity

Explore electrical current in a simple battery-and-lamp circuit. Then answer a question about what allows current to flow.

Open sample lesson →
01 · UnderstandRead the core idea in plain language.
02 · ConnectApply the idea to a familiar circuit.
03 · ChallengeTry the interactive knowledge check.

Looking for the bigger picture?

Return to Automotive Electrical Systems to see how this subcourse connects to the complete learning pathway.

← Main course overview
Automotive Electrical Systems / Electrical Fundamentals / Unit 01

Electrical Theories & Principles

Start with the ideas that make electrical systems understandable: electric charge, the conditions for current flow, and how a basic circuit works.

Start Lesson 1 →Guided Study Path →View lesson roadmap ↓
Home/Catalog/Electrical Systems/Electrical Fundamentals/Unit 1
UNIT OVERVIEW

What this unit is about

Every electrical diagnosis begins with understanding what is moving, why it moves, and what must be present for it to move. We begin with simple examples, then connect those ideas to automotive circuits.

One simple question starts it all

What makes an electrical circuit work? A voltage difference can drive current through a complete conductive path. By the end of this unit, students should be able to explain that idea in their own words and recognize it in familiar examples such as a battery, switch, wires, and lamp.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

What you should be able to explain

These are draft unit-level learning goals; we'll refine them alongside the finished lessons.

  • Describe electric charge and electrical current in simple language.
  • Explain why a voltage difference and complete path are needed for sustained current.
  • Recognize the roles of a source, conductors, switch, and load in a basic circuit.
  • Explain what changes when a switch opens or closes the circuit.
LESSON ROADMAP

Your path through Unit 1

Choose an available lesson and work through the sequence. Lesson 4 remains planned.

01
Sample lesson available

Understanding Electricity

Explore the conditions for current flow through a simple circuit, then try an interactive knowledge check.

Open lesson →
02
Interactive lesson available

Electric Charge and Current

Use an adjustable charge-flow model to distinguish coulombs from amperes.

Open lesson →
03
Interactive lesson available

What Makes a Circuit Complete?

Compare a healthy loop, open switch, and high-resistance return path.

Open lesson →
04
Planned

Electrical Effects

Recognize how electrical energy can produce light, heat, and magnetism.

Not built yet
THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE

How we'll work through a lesson

Our reusable lesson design will move from an understandable explanation to an example students can interact with.

01 · UnderstandStart with an idea explained in plain language.
02 · ExploreConnect the concept to a circuit, diagram, or simulation.
03 · ChallengeCheck understanding and get immediate feedback.
UNIT CHECK

Unit assessment

Sample knowledge check available

Try the six-question Electrical Fundamentals concept check and review each answer. It is a sample formative assessment, not a complete final Unit 1 test.

Open sample Assessment Center →

The sample check is formative and does not verify physical skills.

Back to Electrical Fundamentals

See how Unit 1 connects to the remaining units in this subcourse.

← Subcourse overview
PRACTICE · NOW AVAILABLE

Interactive Electrical Lab

Three short exercises: change voltage and resistance, choose a diagnostic next step, and take a Challenger knowledge check.

Open Interactive Lab →
Continue with Understand0 / 4 sample learning activities · Review the sample electricity lesson.
Continue → · Study Hub
ELECTRICAL FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 01

Understanding Electricity

Electricity makes more sense when you can explain what a complete circuit needs—and see what changes when the circuit opens.

Concept lessonInteractive circuitKnowledge checkDevelopment preview · No saved progress
Home/Electrical Systems/Electrical Fundamentals/Unit 1/Lesson 1
YOUR LEARNING LENS · OPTIONAL

Make this practice yours

Choose a starting point. You can switch levels whenever you need a simpler explanation or a greater challenge.

Full learning profile →

Preferences are saved locally in this browser when available.

Text + practical example · Automotive

Foundation learning lens

Your chosen learning level.

Current is the rate of charge flow. A voltage difference and a complete conductive path let current pass through a load.

Example from your chosen field

Picture a battery, headlamp, and ground strap.

The Challenger · practice prompt

Point to the source, load, switch and return path.

This is a thinking prompt, not a scored physical skills assessment.

Edit learning profile →
SAME PRINCIPLE · DIFFERENT EXPLANATIONS

Electricity in your world

Electrical current requires a closed conductive path.

Automotive example

A headlamp goes out when its only circuit path opens.

THE CHALLENGER · PRACTICE, NOT A GRADE

What happens when the switch opens?

Practice level changes this question, not your access to lessons. A correct browser answer does not verify hands-on skill.

Before you begin

Here's what you'll learn

By the end of this short lesson, you should be able to:

  • Explain current as the rate of flow of electric charge.
  • Identify the voltage source, complete path, switch, and load in a simple circuit.
  • Predict what happens to the lamp when the switch opens or closes.
01 · Understand

What makes current flow?

Electric current is the rate at which electric charge passes a point. A voltage difference provides the driving condition for current through a conductive path.

In our simple battery-and-lamp circuit, a sustained current needs a source of voltage and a complete path through the lamp and back to the source. The lamp converts electrical energy into light and heat.

Think of it this way: Closing the switch completes the loop. Opening the switch interrupts the only path, so the lamp goes out.

Find the four parts

Source: Battery. Conductors: Wires. Control: Switch. Load: Lamp.

02 · Explore

Try it: complete the circuit

Operate the switch. Observe the lamp, the current-path indicator, and the explanation below. This is a conceptual illustration, not a real electrical test.

+BATTERYSWITCHLAMPSimplified battery • switch • lamp loop
Switch open · Lamp OFF

The circuit is open. The only conductive path is interrupted, so the lamp is off.

Animated blue segments illustrate current through the complete path when the switch is closed. They do not show individual electrons or the actual speed of charge carriers.

03 · The Challenger

Can you predict the outcome?

Challenge: You have a good battery and lamp, but the switch in their only circuit path is open. What happens?

This is an ungraded practice check. Your selection is not stored, and completing it does not award a certificate.

04 · Connect it to the workshop

From knowing to doing

Conceptual knowledge: You can explain why opening a switch stops current through a lamp in this simple one-path circuit.

Practical skill is different: On a properly prepared low-voltage training board, a student would identify components and verify operation using approved lab instructions and supervision. This webpage alone cannot verify hands-on competence.

Quick recap

A voltage difference can drive current through a complete conductive path. The switch controls whether that path is complete; the lamp is the load.

Personal review checkmark · optional

Have you reviewed this lesson?

Mark this page after you have worked through it. This records only your self-reported review on this device; it is not a grade, verified assessment, or proof of hands-on skill.

View My Learning dashboard →

Take the sample electrical knowledge check →

← Back to Unit 1Subcourse overview →Explore the Interactive Lab →Next lesson →

Continue to Lesson 2: Electric Charge and Current →

ELECTRICAL FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 03

What Makes a Circuit Complete?

Trace the path and compare three common conditions using an interactive circuit model.

Concept lessonInteractive workbenchKnowledge checkDevelopment preview · Practice is not graded
Home/Electrical Fundamentals/Unit 1/Lesson 3
Before you begin

What you will learn

  • Identify source, load, conductors, switch, and return path.
  • Explain why a circuit can have source voltage but no current when open.
  • Compare an ideal healthy loop with an open path and an unwanted high-resistance return connection.
01 · Understand

Every working load needs a complete path.

A basic lamp circuit starts at a source, passes through the switch and load, and returns to the source. The source provides a voltage difference; a closed conductive path allows current through the load.

An open circuit is a break in the only path. Current through that path stops even though the source may still show voltage. A high-resistance connection does not necessarily break the path: it can consume some of the available voltage while current is flowing.

Diagnostic question: Do you have a complete path that can carry current under load—not simply voltage at one test point?
02 · Explore

Compare three circuit conditions

This idealized 12 V DC model uses a fixed 6 Ω lamp-equivalent resistor, plus an optional 3 Ω unwanted return resistance. A real incandescent lamp changes resistance as its filament heats.

Circuit-condition workbench

Circuit current2 A
Voltage across load12 V
Return-path voltage drop0 V

Lamp at nominal model brightness

For the open-switch case, the readouts show steady-state current and drops across the load/return only; voltage across the open switch is not shown. The model is not a live diagnostic test.

03 · The Challenger

Read the circuit before replacing the lamp.

The modeled loop is complete, but it has 3 Ω of unwanted return resistance. What happens to the load voltage?

04 · Connect it to the workshop

Where the simulation ends

With the lamp commanded on and current flowing, a trained technician can compare voltage across the load with the voltage drop along the return path. A high return-path drop under load points toward unwanted resistance in that path; a feed reading alone does not prove the load has adequate voltage across it.

Practical skill is different: A browser model does not confirm component condition or authorize work on a live vehicle. Follow approved low-voltage training procedures and use the correct meter setup.
← Lesson 2Unit 1 roadmap →

Lesson 4: Electrical Effects is still planned; it has not been created in this release.

ELECTRICAL FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 02

Electric Charge and Current

Separate the amount of charge from its rate of flow, then explore how current and time affect total charge.

Concept lessonInteractive workbenchKnowledge checkDevelopment preview · Practice is not graded
Home/Electrical Fundamentals/Unit 1/Lesson 2
Before you begin

What you will learn

  • Distinguish electric charge from current.
  • Explain the difference between coulombs and amperes.
  • Use the relationship Q = I × t for a steady current.
01 · Understand

Charge is the amount; current is the rate.

Imagine counting how much water passes a point in a pipe. The amount of water is different from the rate at which it passes. Electrical charge and electrical current are different in the same way.

Charge (Q) is measured in coulombs (C). Current (I) is the rate at which charge passes a point, measured in amperes (A). One ampere means one coulomb passes a point each second.

Do not confuse these ideas: A current reading tells you how much charge passes per second; it does not tell you how fast an individual electron travels along a wire.

In a car

When you turn on a lamp, a complete circuit can sustain charge flow. A greater current means more charge passes a chosen point per second, not that the lamp is consuming electrons as fuel.

02 · Explore

Change current and time

Move the sliders to compare a rate (amperes) with the total amount of charge passing a point during an interval (coulombs). Assume a constant current during the selected interval.

Charge-flow workbench

Charge passing the point20 C
Charge per second2 C/s
RelationshipQ = I × t

The bar compares calculated charge against an 80 C reference. It is not a visualization of individual electrons or charge-carrier speed.

03 · The Challenger

Calculate before you click.

A steady current of 1.5 A flows for 4 seconds. How much charge passes a point?

04 · Connect it to the workshop

What could you actually measure?

A DC ammeter or current clamp (used correctly with a suitable circuit) measures current in amperes; it does not directly display the accumulated charge that has passed during an interval. You can calculate that charge from measured steady current and elapsed time.

Hands-on skills remain separate: This browser exercise cannot verify safe meter hookup or real circuit measurement. Avoid connecting a meter in current mode directly across a battery.
← Lesson 1Lesson 3: Complete Circuits →
Continue with Understand0 / 4 sample learning activities · Review the sample electricity lesson.
Continue → · Study Hub
ELECTRICAL FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · ACTIVITY LIBRARY

Interactive Electrical Lab

Explore a circuit model, practice diagnostic reasoning, and choose your Challenger level. Each activity works in your browser, on a phone or laptop.

3 interactive stationsRepeat as often as you likeConceptual practice onlyNo saved grades
Home/Electrical Systems/Electrical Fundamentals/Unit 1/Interactive Lab
Start here

Practice without pressure

These stations are reusable templates for future Autonatomy lessons: a parameter-based simulation, a diagnostic scenario, and a question bank with different challenge levels. They are learning activities—not measurements on a real car or proof of hands-on competence.

Electrical safety: Use the simulator only. Do not connect this webpage to a vehicle or a physical electrical circuit.

Station 01 · Interactive model

Ohm’s Law workbench

Change the source voltage and resistance. Watch how the calculated current and resistor power change in an ideal, simple DC circuit.

Current · I = V / R120 mA
Power · P = V × I1.44 W
Circuit stateEnergized

At 12 V through 100 Ω, the model calculates 120 mA of current and 1.44 W of resistor power.

Simplified model: an ideal voltage source and one resistor. Real automotive systems include component ratings, tolerances, wiring losses, and additional loads.

Station 02 · Diagnostic reasoning

Choose your next test

Scenario: A simple 12 V lamp does not illuminate. With the circuit commanded ON, the battery measures 12 V. Both lamp terminals measure 0 V relative to battery negative.

Which next step best helps you locate the fault?

The readings suggest the lamp is not receiving supply voltage, but they do not identify the exact failed component. A systematic follow-up test is needed.

Station 03 · The Challenger

Choose your challenge level

What happens to current when a switch opens the only path in a simple battery–lamp circuit?

This is an ungraded knowledge check. A correct answer here does not establish practical electrical competence.

Optional · Your practice

Mark your lab practice

If you worked through these activities, you can mark them as practiced on this device. This does not record your answers, grade a diagnostic skill, or verify hands-on competence.

View My Learning dashboard →
What's next

Connect the practice to the lesson

Return to the lesson to revisit current flow and the switch/lamp demonstration, or return to Unit 1 to see where this activity fits in the learning route.

← Understanding ElectricityUnit 1 overview →
MY LEARNING · OPTIONAL PERSONALIZATION

Make the lesson fit the learner.

Choose how ideas are explained, try a short conceptual knowledge check, and explore a practice level. You remain in control of your pathway.

My Learning/Learning Profile
01 · YOUR PREFERENCES

How do you want to learn?

Pick a presentation style and a familiar work setting. These change examples and the explanation in our sample lesson; they do not change the underlying electrical principles.

See changes in the lesson →

No preference is a label of intelligence. You can switch levels at any time.

02 · OPTIONAL CONCEPT CHECK

Find a comfortable starting point.

Answer five short electrical questions. Your result suggests a practice level; it does not measure hands-on skill, award credit, or lock any lesson.

03 · YOUR DATA

Keep your choices portable.

In this prototype, your preferences and concept-check answers are saved in this browser when permitted. They are not a student account and do not sync automatically to another device.

Keep exported files private if they include personal learning information. Use the JSON export before switching devices or browsers.

Continue with Understand0 / 4 sample learning activities · Review the sample electricity lesson.
Continue → · Study Hub
MY LEARNING · DEVELOPMENT PREVIEW

Your learning dashboard

Pick up where you left off, see the learning pathway, and mark the sample lesson or lab you have reviewed. These are personal demo checkmarks—not test scores, course completion, or a certificate.

1 published sample lesson1 interactive labMore courses in planning
Home/My Learning
YOUR NEXT STEP

Choose how you want to study

Switch between Foundation, Applied and Challenge practice any time. Your preferred explanation and example setting follow you into the sample lesson and Study Hub.

Open your personalized Study Hub →
NEW · GUIDED STUDY PATH

A connected learning journey

Follow the sample electrical lesson into an experiment, a diagnostic question, an assessment and your own written reflection. Self-reported review flags stay on this device.

Open Study Hub → · Guided Study Path →
NEW · ASSESSMENT CENTER

Knowledge, practice & achievements

See your latest and highest scores on the sample concept check, then log a separate self-reported virtual practice exercise. Physical skills are not verified in this preview.

Not attemptedLatest concept check
Not attemptedHighest concept check

0 / 3 demo badges · Browser-only, non-credential achievements

Open Assessment Center →
NEW · LEARNING PROFILE

Choose your learning lens

Set an explanation style, pick examples from your field, and try an optional five-question concept check. Your choices will change the sample lesson’s example and Challenger prompt.

Foundation · Text + practical example · Automotive

Open Learning Profile →
Your learning snapshot

Electrical Fundamentals

Review status is based only on whether you manually marked the available sample lesson. The interactive lab is tracked separately. Planned lessons are not counted.

0 / 1Published lessons marked reviewed
0 / 1Labs marked practiced

0% of available sample lessons marked reviewed · Not a grade or measure of mastery.

Continue sample lesson →Open interactive lab
Your current pathway

Electrical Systems → Electrical Fundamentals

The links below point to real pages in this development build. Items that have not been developed yet are labeled planned.

Unit 1 · Electrical Theories & Principles

Unit overview and lesson roadmap

View Unit 1
Available
Lesson 1 · Understanding Electricity

Current, voltage source, a complete path, and a switch.

Open lesson →
Not marked
Interactive Electrical Lab

Ohm’s Law model, diagnostic reasoning, and The Challenger.

Open lab →
Not marked
Lesson 2 · Electric Charge and Current

Educational content not developed yet.

Planned
Units 2–4 · Electrical Fundamentals

These are roadmap entries, not available learning pages yet.

Planned
Prototype only

How this dashboard saves your marks

When you select “Mark lesson reviewed” or “Mark lab practiced,” this browser attempts to save only those two checkmarks on this device. It does not create a student account, upload your information, synchronize between your phone and laptop, record quiz answers, or award credentials.

Clearing this browser’s data also removes these marks. Browser or device changes will not carry them over. Secure student accounts and verified learning records belong to a later development phase.

Continue with Understand0 / 4 sample learning activities · Review the sample electricity lesson.
Continue → · Study Hub
MY LEARNING · ASSESSMENTS & ACHIEVEMENTS

Show what you understand.
Practice what you can do.

Try a six-question electrical concept check, log a virtual exercise, and see clearly what has—and has not—been demonstrated.

Home/My Learning/Assessment Center
Latest attemptNot attemptedYour most recent concept check
Highest attemptNot attemptedBest of 0 attempts
Competence recordNot verifiedPhysical skills require observation and instructor sign-off.
01 / conceptual understanding

Electrical fundamentals · knowledge check

Six questions test circuit operation, basic electrical relationships, and introductory diagnostic reasoning. You can retry; your latest and highest results are stored separately.

This is a formative sample covering the existing lesson and related basics—not a complete Unit 1 assessment, certification, or proof of hands-on ability.

02 / practical learning · separate record

Virtual practice reflection

Return to the sample interactive electrical lab. Change the circuit settings, observe how the simulated measurements change, and explain one cause-and-effect relationship.

Open the interactive electrical lab →Review Understanding Electricity →

Real-world skill: Identifying wiring, choosing a meter setting, making safe measurements and interpreting results on a real training board require separate hands-on demonstration and observation by a qualified instructor. No hands-on certification is issued here.

03 / personal milestones

Your demo achievements

These badges recognize sample activity inside your browser. They are not qualifications, graded course completion, or third-party credentials.

← Back to My LearningLearning Profile →
ABOUT AUTONATOMY · OUR VISION

Don't just memorize it. Make it make sense.

Autonatomy is an automotive learning platform in development, designed to turn complex systems into clear explanations, meaningful practice, and challenges that reveal real understanding.

Explore the course framework →

Development preview · Course offerings and student services are not yet live.

Curiosity leads.
Understanding follows.
Practice proves it. A learning experience built for the way people actually learn.
WHY WE'RE BUILDING THIS

Our mission

Help learners understand automotive technology, connect the theory to what happens on a vehicle, and recognize the difference between knowing an answer and being able to do the work.

Start where you are

Explain ideas in accessible language, then offer deeper levels when you're ready for more.

Make it interactive

Use diagrams, guided questions, virtual practice, and diagnostic scenarios—not just pages of text.

Prove what you know

Combine knowledge checks with practical reasoning and, when appropriate, real hands-on work.

OUR LEARNING PHILOSOPHY

A path from first question to real-world application

A good lesson should help you understand what something is, why it matters, how it works, and how to tell when it doesn't.

Understand

Begin with a simple explanation, everyday comparison, and a clear mental model.

Apply

Work through visuals, interactive exercises, and automotive examples with feedback.

Demonstrate

Explain the reasoning, solve a problem, and know what needs more practice.

HOW IT FITS TOGETHER

Organized to grow with you

Our course framework helps learners move from a broad automotive system to a focused activity without losing their place.

Follow a learning pathway

  • Main course: an automotive system or major subject.
  • Subcourse: a focused subject within that system.
  • Unit: related lessons grouped around a goal.
  • Lesson: topics, explanations, and examples.
  • Activity and knowledge check: practice and feedback.

Take a focused route

Mini courses are planned as shorter, standalone explorations of a topic—such as Ohm's Law—without requiring a learner to complete a full main course first.

As we develop the platform, learners should be able to revisit earlier lessons and choose deeper challenges when ready.

See the course catalog →
MEET THE CHALLENGER

A little pressure. A lot of learning.

The Challenger is our playful teaching persona: a guide who asks the question behind the question, exposes shaky assumptions, and makes the next challenge feel worth taking on.

You can learn the core material without the extra challenge. When you're ready, The Challenger invites you to explain why, not just choose an answer.

THE CHALLENGER ASKS

“The lamp has a good battery. Why isn't it lighting up?”

Start with what the circuit needs, then decide what you'd test first. A correct guess is a start; a defensible diagnosis is the goal.

WHO WE'RE DESIGNING FOR

Different starting points. One shared goal: understanding.

Autonatomy is being designed for curious beginners, automotive students, instructors, and practicing technicians who want to revisit fundamentals or explore a system in greater depth.

Take a look around

Explore the connected sample pages while we continue building the courses and interactive learning tools.

Browse courses →

This is a development preview, not an accredited training program. Enrollment, saved progress, certificates, and payment features are not active.

SUPPORT

Contact & support

This preview is not yet a live service. Contact details and student support workflows will be added before launch.

Development preview

No support inbox or contact form is connected. Please do not enter personal information into this prototype.

← Back to homepage
AUTONATOMY · DEVELOPMENT TOOLS

Website readiness

Version 20 · Quality-review snapshot. The site is a working learning prototype, not a live student service.

QUALITY REVIEW

What has been checked

We inspected 477 local page/asset references across 25 HTML files and found no missing relative targets. In a browser-content test, 21 preview routes rendered at desktop and phone widths without page-wide horizontal overflow or JavaScript page errors. The six-question assessment displayed results at both widths.

This is a limited functional test, not a security or production-readiness certification. The test environment blocks direct browser navigation to file:// and localhost, so extracted-site clickthrough was checked by relative path rather than full end-to-end browser navigation.

Full test report: open documentation/QA_REPORT_V20.md from the downloadable ZIP.Return to Course Studio →
READY FOR LOCAL PREVIEW

What you can use now

Explore the homepage and connected course pages, read the sample blog, experiment with virtual labs, create course and Library drafts, and practice with the demonstration assessment. The single-file preview is convenient for phone review; the extracted ZIP is the multi-page development project.

Saved work depends on browser storage and the origin where you open the site. A different phone, a different browser, or a newly hosted copy does not automatically inherit your edits. Export your data regularly.

BEFORE A PUBLIC STUDENT LAUNCH

Critical remaining work

Separate authoring from public pages.Course Studio, Library Studio, and Simulation Studio are currently visible to website visitors. A real deployment needs private admin access and publishing from a trusted source.
Choose real data storage.Browser-local “Publish” is not a shared online catalog. Select a backend or build process so students on other devices receive the same approved material.
Add authentication and student records.Accounts, secure progress sync, assessments and permission management are not implemented.
Validate educational accuracy and accessibility.Review course claims, simulation assumptions, image alternatives, keyboard workflows and actual mobile devices before release.
Decide how to deploy.A static hosting preview can display fixed pages. A full student platform requires additional infrastructure for authoring, stored progress, and credentials.
YOUR NEXT ACTION

Test the extracted project on both devices

Extract Version 20 on your laptop. Open PREVIEW-OPEN-ME.html for an all-in-one preview, or open index.html for the individual-page website. Navigate through Home → Courses → Electrical Systems → Electrical Fundamentals → Unit 1 → Lesson 1. Then open Library → Blogs and Lab Center. Repeat on your phone using the all-in-one preview. Record any visual or interaction issues in the project change log.

Do not publicly upload this development project unchanged; it includes authoring tools and demonstration student features.

AUTONATOMY · COURSE CREATION SYSTEM

Course Studio

Create your own main courses, subcourses, units, lessons, and knowledge checks. Your course tree and student preview update as you work. Export both your editable course data and a standalone, student-facing HTML preview.

Website Readiness · v20 →
Home/Courses/Course Studio
Build & edit

Course editor

Choose a course part from the left, or select Add main course to begin. Add each level under its parent to keep the website organized.

Connected navigation preview

What your student sees

CONNECT TO THE CATALOG

Publish your course

Finish editing and select Save changes above, then publish a snapshot of your draft. Published courses appear in the main Course Catalog and become connected learning pages in this browser.

Local preview only: Publishing does not upload anything online or sync phone and laptop. Keep editable JSON backups and export the student page for sharing.

How this version works

Drafts remain editable in Course Studio. Select Publish to catalog after saving, and your course will appear in the catalog in the same browser. Export editable JSON and a student HTML page for durable backups and portable sharing.

The existing Electrical Fundamentals sample remains in the original website and is not editable here yet. Drafts do not become individual permanent pages of the main website until they are integrated into a later build. Local browser storage may not carry between phone and laptop or between different file previews: use JSON export/import to move work. No student accounts, grades, or certificate system is active.

AUTONATOMY · KNOWLEDGE LIBRARY

Explore beyond the course.

Read ideas that make automotive systems click. Then test what you know in interactive labs—at your own pace.

Read a blog →Enter Lab Center →
LIBRARY COLLECTIONS

Choose how you want to explore.

Two collections to start. We can add more later without changing the course structure.

Blogs
Read · Understand · Connect

Short, practical reads that explain the why behind automotive systems. Begin with an electrical diagnostic mystery.

Explore Blogs →
Interactive Lab Center
Test · Observe · Reason

Experiment with virtual controls, watch system responses, and make diagnostic decisions before touching a vehicle.

Explore Labs →
✎ Manage Library →
⚡ Simulation Studio →
How the Library fits: These resources are available outside a course. Lessons can also link here so a student can revisit an explanation or practice a skill without losing their place.
LIBRARY · BLOGS

Ideas worth opening the hood for.

Short reads that connect electrical theory, real symptoms, and practical diagnostic thinking.

✎ Manage Library →
FEATURED READ

Latest from the library

Start with the featured example, then explore articles published from Library Studio below.

Electrical diagnostics

Why 12 Volts Doesn't Always Mean a Good Circuit

5-minute readConcept + diagnostic example

A meter reads battery voltage at the lamp connector, but the lamp stays dim. Learn why a voltage reading without load context can mislead you—and how voltage drop reveals the hidden problem.

Read the blog →
← Back to Library
LIBRARY · ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS

Why 12 Volts Doesn't Always Mean a Good Circuit

An automotive circuit can look healthy on a voltmeter and still struggle to power its load. Here's why.

Featured blog · Electrical Fundamentals
About 5 minutesTechnical preview

A customer says their headlamp is dim. You probe the connector with a digital multimeter and see 12.6 V. Case closed? Not yet.

Voltage is potential—not proof of useful current

A voltage measurement tells you the electrical potential difference between two test points. It does not, by itself, tell you whether the circuit can deliver enough current while the headlamp is operating.

Imagine corrosion in a ground connection. With the lamp disconnected, a high-impedance digital meter may still show nearly the full battery voltage across the open connector. The meter draws very little current, so there is little voltage lost across that unwanted resistance during the measurement.

What changes when the lamp is connected?

The load draws current. Any resistance in the feed or ground path now develops a voltage drop. If too much of the source voltage is lost across a damaged connection, the lamp receives less voltage and may glow dimly.

Think like a diagnostician.

Ask not only “Is voltage present?” but “Where is the source voltage going while the circuit is doing its job?”

Use voltage-drop testing under load

With the circuit safely energized and the load operating, compare the voltage across each section of the path. A significant drop across a wire or connection points toward unwanted resistance in that section. Always use the vehicle's service information and appropriate test conditions for acceptable values.

  • Battery: Confirm available source voltage under the relevant load.
  • Feed path: Measure across the positive-side wiring and connections while current flows.
  • Ground path: Measure from the load's ground terminal to battery negative while current flows.
  • Load: Compare the voltage across the lamp to the source voltage and the observed behavior.

Take it from theory to practice

Our interactive Voltage Drop Detective lab lets you vary ground resistance, observe current and voltage at the lamp, and diagnose where voltage is being lost. The lab is a simplified teaching model, not a substitute for vehicle-specific procedures or safe hands-on assessment.

Try the Voltage Drop Detective lab →← More Blogs
LIBRARY · INTERACTIVE LAB CENTER

Experiment. Observe. Diagnose.

Practice your reasoning in virtual labs you can run on a phone or laptop. No account or special software needed for these previews.

✎ Manage Library →
OPEN LABS

Your first virtual workbench

Start with a simplified circuit that behaves differently when a ground connection develops unwanted resistance.

Live simulation · Electrical

Voltage Drop Detective

5–10 minute activityPhone & laptopInteractive preview

Adjust ground resistance in a 12.6 V lamp circuit, compare voltage readings under load, and identify which part of the circuit is stealing voltage from the lamp.

Launch interactive lab →
Live simulation · Advanced Electrical

Turn Signal & Hazard Light Lab

Lighting SystemsPhone & laptopDiagnostic practice

Operate left/right signals and hazards, inject faults and check simulated voltages.

Open interactive lighting lab →
YOUR EXPERIMENTS

Simulations made in Studio

Saved and locally published experiments appear here.

⚡ Create a simulation →
The Lab Center is a separate collection. We can link any lab to multiple lessons later without duplicating the lab itself.
INTERACTIVE LAB CENTER · ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS

Voltage Drop Detective

The headlamp is getting dim. Change one ground connection and investigate what happens to current, the lamp, and the voltage drops.

Hands-on reasoning · Virtual model

This simplified series circuit uses a 12.6 V source, 0.08 Ω feed wiring, a fixed 5.6 Ω lamp model, and a ground path you can change. The model treats resistance as constant; a real incandescent lamp's resistance varies with temperature.

01 · MODIFY THE CIRCUIT

Change the ground connection

Move the slider to add corrosion-like resistance to the ground path. Observe the values with the lamp connected and energized.

0.03 Ω · healthy example2.00 Ω · severe fault

The numbers are illustrative; do not use them as universal pass/fail specifications for a particular vehicle.

02 · OBSERVE THE READINGS

Measurements under load

Source voltage12.60 V
Circuit current2.21 A
Voltage across lamp12.36 V
Ground-path drop0.07 V
Feed-path drop0.18 V
Total voltage drop12.60 V

Healthy example: most of the source voltage is available across the lamp.

03 · THE CHALLENGER

Find the fault

Choose Add bad ground, then compare all three voltage drops. Where is the unwanted resistance located?

Read the companion blog →← All labsLibrary home
AUTONATOMY · CREATOR TOOLS

Library Studio

Create, edit, preview, and organize blogs and interactive lab listings. Work locally, export an editable backup, and generate a standalone student-facing Library snapshot.

⚡ Open Simulation Studio →

Editor

Choose Blog or Lab to begin.

Select an entry to edit it, or add a new one.

Choose a Library entry to read or practice.

LIBRARY · CREATOR TOOLS · VERSION 17

Simulation Studio

Build configurable electrical experiments from three working models. Preview your student lab, save a draft, and export a standalone HTML experiment.

Experiment editor

Choose a starter model to begin.

Create a simulation to edit it here.

Student preview

LIBRARY · INTERACTIVE LAB CENTER

Your interactive simulation

Change the controls and explain what the measurements reveal.

AUTONATOMY · DEVELOPMENT TOOLS

Website Publisher

Create a portable, student-facing HTML website from your approved course, blog, and interactive lab content.

VERSION 21 · STATIC WEBSITE EXPORT

Make your learning site portable

First, save and Publish to Catalog in Course Studio, or set Library entries and simulations to Published. This exporter includes published content only; editable drafts, learning profiles, assessment records and local progress stay out of the download.

Your existing course and library examples are represented in the export by a sample electrical lesson, blog and voltage-drop lab. The full multi-page V20 development website and authoring interfaces are not included in this student-facing export.

Content in this browser

Checking published content…

What you can do with index.html

Open it directly on a phone or laptop to browse the pages and run the included labs without a server. When ready, upload it to the root of a static hosting site as index.html. Videos and externally hosted images still require an internet connection. This export does not provide user accounts, synced progress, payments or verified credentials.

Keep the ZIP project private. It contains authoring tools and experimental student features. Upload the generated student-facing index.html, not the complete development ZIP, when testing a public site.

← Course Studio Publishing details

AUTONATOMY · CONTENT & BACKUPS

Master Content

Keep your course drafts, published lessons, blogs, and interactive labs together in one portable project file.

VERSION 22 · PROJECT MANAGEMENT

One master file for your content

The site still saves edits in this browser during your work session. Use Export master JSON to save an editable project file you can move between devices, then import it to continue editing.

Current content in this browser

Checking…

The editable website preview is a single HTML file with the current content embedded. It is a private development copy, not a public student website. Open it on a second device, choose Master Content → Load packaged content, then confirm the restore. Changes on that device are not written back to the HTML automatically: export a new JSON file or preview after editing.

Open an existing master project

Importing replaces the existing course drafts, published courses, Library entries, and simulations in this browser. Back up your existing content first. Assessment records and student preferences are not part of the master content.

Publishing students’ website

Once you have finished editing and published your content inside Course Studio and Library Studio, open Release Packager to download a separate student-facing index.html. The master JSON and editable development preview are not public learner sites and should be kept private.

Read version 22 documentation →

PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT WORKSPACE · NO SECURE LOGIN

Website Administration

One place to check what you have created, open your editing tools, preserve your content, and prepare a student-facing export. The counts below are taken from this browser only.

Your content at a glance

Live inventory of your custom content. The original demonstration course, blog, and lab are not included in these counts.

0Published main courses
0Editable course parts
0Published custom blogs
0Published custom labs & simulations
View course catalog →View Library →

Manage your website

Select the part of Autonatomy you want to work on.

Master Content

Export or restore the four authoring collections as an editable JSON project.

Manage backups →

Publisher

Export published student-facing content as a separate HTML site.

Open Publisher →

Design Studio · New

Preview and save brand colors, typography, page spacing, logo mark, and homepage sections.

Open Design Studio →

Content status

Draft and locally published items are separate. Publishing here does not upload anything to the internet.

Content typeDraft / editablePublished snapshot
Course parts00
Blogs00
Library labs00
Simulation Studio00

A course part saved in Course Studio can also exist in its published snapshot, so those two columns need not add up to a total. Built-in sample content is not counted.

Website design reference

The approved color palette used by this development preview. These are the original default colors. Use Design Studio to preview and save changes.

Navy · #101B31
Blue · #315DCE
Gold · #FFBA5A
Background · #F5F7FB

Design Studio changes the shared major elements in the development preview. A few older components still use fixed colors.

Before you share or publish

Development checklist

    Do not upload this development ZIP or editable preview as a public student website. It contains authoring interfaces without access control. Use the separate student-facing export for testing published content, and complete a security and hosting review before a public launch.

    VERSION 25 · OFFLINE RELEASE WORKFLOW

    Release Packager

    Save your private editing project separately from the student-facing website. Build and preview a fresh release from what you have actually published in this browser.

    CHECK BEFORE PACKAGING

    What's going into this release?

    Checking saved content…

    Your authoring drafts are excluded from the student site. Save and publish content in Course Studio, Library Studio and Simulation Studio before creating a release.

    PUBLIC · STUDENT RELEASE

    Student website ZIP

    One self-contained index.html with the course catalog, published content, sample blog and lab, connected navigation and saved theme. No admin tools or editable drafts.

    PRIVATE · AUTHOR BACKUP

    Editable project snapshot

    Download the complete single-file development preview with your editable course and Library data, plus separate content and theme backups. Keep it private.

    Available from the connected single-file preview. Keep the separate full source-code ZIP safe as well.

    Deployment checklist

    1. Publish your finished content inside the Studios; review the counts above.
    2. Preview the separate student site and test its course links, blog and interactive lab on phone and laptop.
    3. Download both ZIPs. Keep your private project backup and full source-code ZIP off the public website.
    4. Upload only the student site's index.html to the web host's site root when you decide to launch.
    5. After editing, create another student ZIP and replace the uploaded student file.

    Accounts, paid enrollments, synchronized progress and secure admin login still need backend infrastructure. A student ZIP is a static educational preview, not a production LMS.

    Ready to prepare the next release.

    MY LEARNING · STUDENT EXPERIENCE

    Your Study Hub

    One starting point for the sample electricity lesson, interactive practice, knowledge check and reflection. See what you have recorded on this device and jump directly to the next activity.

    My Learning/Study Hub
    YOUR LEARNING LENS · OPTIONAL

    Make this practice yours

    Choose a starting point. You can switch levels whenever you need a simpler explanation or a greater challenge.

    Full learning profile →

    Preferences are saved locally in this browser when available.

    SAME PRINCIPLE · DIFFERENT EXPLANATIONS

    Electricity in your world

    Electrical current requires a closed conductive path.

    Automotive example

    A headlamp goes out when its only circuit path opens.

    THE CHALLENGER · PRACTICE, NOT A GRADE

    What happens when the switch opens?

    Practice level changes this question, not your access to lessons. A correct browser answer does not verify hands-on skill.

    ELECTRICAL FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 1

    Understanding Electricity

    These are four sample activity records from the existing pages. They do not represent unit completion or a grade.

    0 / 4 sample learning activities
    PICK UP WHERE YOU LEFT OFF

    Continue with Understand

    Review the sample electricity lesson.

    Open Understand →
    1. 1
      Understand · concept lessonNot yet recordedRead the lesson, then use its “Mark lesson reviewed” button.Open lesson →
    2. 2
      Experiment · virtual labNot yet recordedTry the simulator, then mark virtual practice in the lab page.Open lab →
    3. 3
      Check understanding · concept questionsNot yet recordedAn attempt counts as participation, not a passing score.Open assessment →
    4. 4
      Reflect · explain it in your own wordsNot yet recordedSave your notes in the Guided Study Path.Open reflection →
    Continue with Understand0 / 4 sample learning activities · Review the sample electricity lesson.
    Continue → · Study Hub
    GUIDED LEARNING · SAMPLE STUDENT JOURNEY

    From “I get it” to “I can explain it.”

    One connected practice route through an electrical concept, an interactive experiment, a diagnostic decision and a knowledge check. Choose your pace, revisit any step and write your own explanation.

    Open sample lesson →
    STUDY PATH · YOUR CHOSEN PRACTICE LEVEL

    Electricity in your world

    Electrical current requires a closed conductive path.

    Automotive example

    A headlamp goes out when its only circuit path opens.

    THE CHALLENGER · PRACTICE, NOT A GRADE

    What happens when the switch opens?

    Practice level changes this question, not your access to lessons. A correct browser answer does not verify hands-on skill.

    My Learning/Electrical Fundamentals · Unit 1/Guided Study Path
    YOUR PRACTICE ROUTE

    Understanding Electricity

    Move between reading, exploring, diagnosis and reflection. Review flags show only what you've chosen to revisit; they are not grades or verified hands-on competency.

    0 of 5 practice steps reviewed
    Continue: Understand ↓
    01
    CONCEPT · 5 MIN PREVIEW

    Understand the circuit

    To explore

    Read the sample lesson. Locate the battery, switch, wires and lamp. Explain why a voltage difference and a complete conductive path are both required for steady current.

    Open lesson →
    02
    INTERACTIVE EXPLORATION

    Change one thing

    To explore

    Open the interactive electrical lab. Change voltage or resistance and predict the change in current. Then compare your prediction with the numerical readouts.

    Open interactive lab →
    03
    THE CHALLENGER · THINK LIKE A TECH

    Make a diagnostic decision

    To explore

    A headlamp is dim. With the lamp switched on, a voltage-drop measurement across its ground return is unusually high. What is the most useful conclusion?

    Explore the Library →
    04
    CONCEPT CHECK

    Check your understanding

    To explore

    Take the sample electrical knowledge assessment. Review the explanation for any question you miss; you may retry. Its result is separate from physical workshop skill.

    Open assessment →
    05
    IN YOUR OWN WORDS

    Explain it back

    To explore

    Your answer is a personal practice note, not graded or validated. Do not enter personal or sensitive information.

    Practice flags and notes are stored in this browser only.

    ← Unit overviewMy Learning →
    PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT WORKSPACE · V24

    Design Studio

    Adjust Autonatomy’s look, preview changes across the website, and save or transfer an editable theme. Your course content stays untouched.

    ← Website Administration

    Your design controls

    Changes preview immediately. Choose Save theme to keep them in this browser. Reset restores the original approved colors and layout.

    Brand colors

    Typography & layout

    Logo treatment

    Uploading a small logo replaces the letter inside the current square mark only. A full logo and favicon would need a separate design pass.

    Homepage sections

    These controls only show or hide optional homepage sections; they do not delete any content.

    Your approved Version 23 design is the default.

    Live design preview

    Try a color or typography change above. The preview below updates immediately, as do the shared header, buttons and backgrounds on the rest of this development website.

    A · AUTONATOMYCourses   Library
    LEARN · EXPLORE · CHALLENGEAutomotive knowledge is horsepower.

    Build understanding through clear explanations, interactive labs, and real diagnostic thinking.

    Explore courses →
    Electrical Fundamentals

    Unit 1 · Electrical theories & principles

    Keep contrast strong enough for students to read text and buttons comfortably.

    What saving actually does

    Settings are stored in this browser for the local development site. Download the theme JSON to back up or transfer the design to another device.

    Changes are not written back into the downloaded original ZIP or automatically applied to the separate student-facing Publisher export. We will add a fully packaged theme export in a later development step.

    Private prototype only: This authoring panel has no secure owner login. Do not upload the editable project as a public site.

    MAIN COURSE · ENGINES

    Engine Systems

    Learn how an engine converts fuel energy into crankshaft rotation—and how the major mechanical, lubrication, cooling, and control systems work together.

    Explore Engine Fundamentals →
    THE BIG PICTURE

    What belongs in Engine Systems?

    This main course will hold the engine subjects we develop over time. The cards marked planned are a roadmap, not finished lessons.

    Available preview

    Engine Fundamentals

    Identify the main moving parts and understand the four-stroke operating cycle.

    Open subcourse →
    Planned

    Engine Mechanical Systems

    Study cylinders, pistons, rings, valvetrain, timing, sealing, and mechanical condition.

    Content not built yet
    Planned

    Lubrication & Cooling

    Follow oil and coolant flow and connect system operation to heat and friction control.

    Content not built yet
    Related main course · Available

    Engine Performance

    Engine Performance is a separate main course covering controls and drivability; continue here when you finish engine fundamentals.

    Open Engine Performance →

    Where this pathway starts

    1. Main courseEngine Systems
    2. SubcourseEngine Fundamentals
    3. Unit 1Engine Operation & Major Components
    4. Lesson 1How a Four-Stroke Engine Works
    5. Try itInteractive engine-cycle workbench + knowledge check

    Start with the moving parts.

    You'll follow the piston through a complete 720° four-stroke cycle and distinguish intake, compression, power, and exhaust.

    Enter Engine Fundamentals →

    ENGINE SYSTEMS · SUBCOURSE 01

    Engine Fundamentals

    Meet the components inside a reciprocating engine, then see how their movements work together through the four-stroke cycle.

    Open Unit 1 →Back to Engine Systems

    What you will learn

    Identify

    Recognize the piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, cylinder, camshaft, and intake/exhaust valves.

    Explain

    Describe how piston movement and valve operation produce the four-stroke cycle.

    Connect

    Explain how pressure acting on a piston creates torque at the crankshaft.

    Subcourse unit roadmap

    Unit 1 · Available

    Engine Operation & Major Components

    Engine parts, piston travel, and the four-stroke cycle. Three interactive sample lessons are available.

    Open Unit 1 →
    Unit 2 · Planned

    Engine Construction & Geometry

    Cylinder layouts, displacement, bore, stroke, compression ratio, and assemblies.

    Unit 3 · Planned

    Engine Systems & Service

    Lubrication, cooling, timing, inspections, and foundational service concepts.

    ENGINE FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01

    Engine Operation & Major Components

    Start with the engine’s major moving components and see how a four-stroke cycle converts pressure into rotation.

    Start Lesson 1 →Back to subcourse

    Your lesson roadmap

    Lesson 1 · Available

    How a Four-Stroke Engine Works

    Explore intake, compression, power, and exhaust in an interactive model.

    Open interactive lesson →

    What students should be able to explain

    • What each of the four strokes accomplishes.
    • Whether the piston moves upward or downward during each stroke.
    • Which valve is nominally open during intake and exhaust.
    • Why four strokes require two crankshaft revolutions in a typical four-stroke engine.

    This is a conceptual model. Real valve opening and closing events overlap the stroke boundaries, and engine designs vary.

    ENGINE FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 01

    How a Four-Stroke Engine Works

    A four-stroke engine completes intake, compression, power, and exhaust in two crankshaft revolutions. Follow the piston and valves to see what changes during each stroke.

    Back to Unit 1Next: Piston & Crankshaft →

    Before you interact

    A stroke is one piston movement between top dead center (TDC) and bottom dead center (BDC). TDC is the piston's highest position; BDC is its lowest. The connecting rod and crankshaft turn this up-and-down motion into rotation.

    Intake

    Piston down; fresh air enters through the intake valve.

    Compression

    Piston up; both valves nominally closed as the charge is compressed.

    Power

    Combustion raises gas pressure and pushes the piston downward.

    On the exhaust stroke, the rising piston expels burned gases through the exhaust valve.

    Explore the complete engine cycle

    Tap each stroke or advance one stroke at a time. Watch the piston position, airflow arrows, and valve status change.

    IntakeExhaustCylinder

    Simplified piston positions and valve states; not an exact mechanical animation.

    INTERACTIVE WORKBENCH

    Intake

    Intake valve
    Exhaust valve
    Crank rotation
    Cycle length720° / 2 revolutions

    Check your understanding

    THE CHALLENGER

    Which stroke moves the piston upward with both valves closed?

    Practice feedback only. This answer is not saved as a grade.

    Connect this to real shop work

    Try explaining why a conventional four-stroke engine completes a cycle in 720° but the crankshaft turns only 360° per revolution. Then inspect a physical engine or training model to identify its piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, and valve train.

    A browser model demonstrates concepts; it does not verify hands-on proficiency. Actual spark and valve timing vary by engine.

    ← Back to Unit 1

    ENGINE FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 02

    Piston, Rod & Crankshaft

    Trace how piston movement becomes crankshaft rotation. Select a component, turn the crank, and investigate what really happens at top and bottom dead center.

    ← Unit overviewNext: Valves & Camshaft →

    Start with the moving parts

    In a conventional reciprocating engine, pressure acts on the piston. The wrist pin joins the piston to the connecting rod, and the rod turns the crankshaft. The cylinder guides the piston; the flywheel helps smooth the crankshaft's speed. Real assemblies also have piston rings, bearings, lubrication and many other parts.

    Identify

    Piston and cylinder

    The piston travels between top dead center (TDC) and bottom dead center (BDC) inside the cylinder.

    Connect

    Wrist pin and rod

    The wrist pin pivots; the rod carries force between the piston and crank throw.

    Convert

    Crankshaft

    The crank throw converts the rod's changing force direction into torque on the rotating crankshaft.

    Explore the mechanism

    Choose a component to highlight it. Drag the crank-angle control to turn the crank and watch the piston and rod move. The geometry is a simplified slider–crank model drawn to scale relative to itself, not to a specific vehicle.

    TDCBDCSchematic · not a service diagram

    The crank rotates 360° for every revolution; the piston travels down and up once per revolution.

    COMPONENT EXPLORER
    PistonReceives gas force and moves inside the cylinder. Rings help seal the combustion chamber.
    Crank angle0°
    Piston travel from TDC0%
    Stroke positionTDC
    Rotation0.00 rev

    At exact TDC and BDC the piston briefly stops and reverses direction while the crank continues turning. Piston speed is not constant during a stroke.

    The Challenger: predict the movement

    QUICK KNOWLEDGE CHECK

    After the crankshaft rotates 180° from TDC, where is the piston in this model?

    Practice question only; not a recorded grade or a hands-on skills verification.

    Connect this to real shop work

    With an instructor and an approved training engine, identify the piston, wrist pin, connecting rod and crankshaft. Explain what you would inspect for wear and proper lubrication before reassembly. Follow the applicable service procedure; do not rotate or disassemble an engine that has not been made safe.

    ← Lesson 1Lesson 3: Valves & Camshaft →
    ENGINE FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 03

    Valves & Camshaft Timing

    See how the camshaft opens valves and how valve motion is synchronized with a four-stroke engine's crankshaft.

    ← Unit overviewReview moving parts ↗

    What controls the valves?

    The crankshaft tracks piston movement. A timing belt, chain, or gears synchronize it with the camshaft, whose lobes open the valves through a valvetrain. Valve springs close the valves when their actuating mechanism permits. On a typical four-stroke engine, the camshaft turns at half the crankshaft speed.

    Intake valve

    Lets the fresh charge enter the cylinder when opened by the valvetrain.

    Exhaust valve

    Lets combustion products leave the cylinder when opened by the valvetrain.

    Timing drive

    Maintains the intended relationship between crankshaft position and camshaft position.

    Explore the simplified timing cycle

    Select a stroke or move the crank through 720°. The camshaft readout turns one full revolution while the crank completes two. Valve states are intentionally simplified to show each stroke's main purpose.

    IntakeExhaustCamshaft (1:2)Conceptual drawing · not actual valve timing
    TIMING EXPLORER
    StrokeIntake
    Crank0°
    Camshaft0°
    Valve statusIntake open
    IntakeIntake valve open; piston moves down and fresh charge enters.

    Real valve timing varies with engine design and operating conditions. Intake and exhaust valves may begin opening or finish closing before or after dead-center positions, and overlap may occur. This model illustrates the core cycle, not a timing specification or valve-clearance procedure.

    The Challenger: find the relationship

    QUICK KNOWLEDGE CHECK

    On a conventional four-stroke engine, the crankshaft rotates 720°. How far does the camshaft rotate?

    Practice question only; not a recorded grade or a hands-on skills verification.

    Connect this to real shop work

    On a safe, approved training engine, locate its camshaft drive and identify intake and exhaust valvetrain components. A service manual—not this conceptual model—determines actual alignment marks, interference-engine precautions, torque specifications and service procedures.

    ← Lesson 2Return to Unit 1 →
    MAIN COURSE · ENGINE PERFORMANCE

    Engine Performance

    Explore engine management, air–fuel and ignition control, emissions, drivability, and diagnostic reasoning.

    Course roadmap

    UNIT 1 · AVAILABLE

    Air–Fuel Control & Feedback

    Explore 17 interactive lessons and the Unit 1 diagnostic capstone.

    Open Unit 1 →
    UNIT 2 · AVAILABLE

    Applied Engine Performance Diagnostics

    Move from individual components to real-world diagnostic decisions. Test competing hypotheses, interpret scan data alongside physical measurements, and document why the evidence supports a cause.

    Open Unit 2 →
    PLANNED

    Advanced Control Systems

    Future units will explore system-level control strategies and diagnostic integration.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1

    Air–Fuel Control & Feedback

    Understand what fuel trims tell you—and what they cannot tell you.

    LESSON 1 · AVAILABLE

    Fuel Trim & Air–Fuel Diagnosis

    Compare idle and higher-load conditions with simulated faults.

    Open Lesson 1 →
    LESSON 2 · AVAILABLE

    Oxygen & Air–Fuel Ratio Sensors

    Compare narrowband and wideband feedback with simulated ECM correction.

    Open Lesson 2 →
    LESSON 3 · AVAILABLE

    MAF & MAP Diagnostics

    Compare airflow, manifold pressure, sensor faults, and modeled fuel correction.

    Open Lesson 3 →
    LESSON 4 · AVAILABLE

    Electronic Throttle Control

    Compare pedal signals, ECM command, actual throttle angle, and modeled airflow.

    Open Lesson 4 →
    LESSON 5 · AVAILABLE

    Ignition Timing & Spark Advance

    Compare ECM timing command, knock correction, and observed spark timing.

    Open Lesson 5 →
    LESSON 6 · AVAILABLE

    Crankshaft & Camshaft Position Sensors

    Compare CKP and CMP waveforms, crank reference, and engine-cycle synchronization.

    Open Lesson 6 →
    LESSON 7 · AVAILABLE

    Fuel Injector Timing & Pulse Width

    Compare injector command, CKP/CMP synchronization, RPM, and fuel delivery faults.

    Open Lesson 7 →
    LESSON 8 · AVAILABLE

    Fuel Pressure & Delivery Diagnostics

    Investigate pump capacity, restrictions, injector flow, and pressure-sensor bias under changing load.

    Open Lesson 8 →
    LESSON 9 · AVAILABLE

    Misfire Detection & Diagnostic Reasoning

    Compare cylinder contribution, misfire counts, operating conditions, and confirming tests.

    Open Lesson 9 →
    LESSON 10 · AVAILABLE

    Catalytic Converter & Downstream Oxygen Sensor Diagnostics

    Compare sensor patterns, check monitor conditions, and investigate catalyst, exhaust, and sensor faults.

    Open Lesson 10 →
    LESSON 11 · AVAILABLE

    EVAP System & Leak Diagnostics

    Command purge and vent valves, compare pressure trends, and isolate leaks, valve faults, and sensor faults.

    Open Lesson 11 →
    LESSON 12 · AVAILABLE

    Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Diagnostics

    Compare EGR command, valve movement, flow feedback, and restricted-passage faults.

    Open Lesson 12 →
    LESSON 13 · AVAILABLE

    Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Diagnostics

    Compare commanded cam advance, actual cam position, CKP/CMP references, and oil-control faults.

    Open Lesson 13 →
    LESSON 14 · AVAILABLE

    Turbocharger Boost & Charge-Air Diagnostics

    Compare boost request, physical manifold pressure, MAP reporting, wastegate control, and charge-air faults.

    Open Lesson 14 →
    LESSON 15 · AVAILABLE

    PCV, Crankcase Pressure & Intake Vacuum Diagnostics

    Distinguish unmetered intake air, ventilation restrictions, excessive PCV flow, and combustion blow-by.

    Open Lesson 15 →
    LESSON 16 · AVAILABLE

    Engine Compression & Cylinder Leak-Down Diagnostics

    Compare relative and mechanical compression, identify leak paths, and separate mechanical misfire causes from fuel and ignition faults.

    Open Lesson 16 →
    LESSON 17 · AVAILABLE

    The Challenger: Engine Performance Diagnostic Capstone

    Investigate six interactive customer complaints. Collect complementary test evidence and defend each diagnosis across air, fuel, ignition, mechanical and emissions systems.

    Open Lesson 17 →
    AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS · FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 2

    Hydraulic & Electronic Controls

    Follow pressure generation, solenoid commands, valve routing and hydraulic clutch apply.

    LESSON 1 · AVAILABLE

    Hydraulic Pressure & Clutch Apply

    Manipulate pump speed, pressure command and clutch fill time, then solve five hydraulic fault tickets.

    Open Lesson 1 →
    LESSON 2 · AVAILABLE

    Valve Body & Shift Solenoid Logic

    Match controller commands to actual valve routes and apply pressure; diagnose five faults using independent evidence.

    Open Lesson 2 →
    PLANNED

    Pressure Testing & Shift Diagnosis

    Compare command, line pressure, clutch pressure and slip before replacing components.

    AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS · FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 2 · LESSON 1

    Hydraulic Pressure & Clutch Apply

    Connect pump supply and line-pressure command to actual clutch apply and evidence-based diagnosis.

    Illustrative model only. Use vehicle-specific OEM information and appropriate pressure-test safety precautions for actual transmissions.

    AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS · FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 2 · LESSON 2

    Valve Body & Shift Solenoid Logic

    Compare commanded solenoids, electrical current, actual hydraulic selection, clutch apply pressure, and shaft-speed ratios.

    Illustrative educational model; use service information and approved safety procedures for actual transmissions.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 2

    Applied Engine Performance Diagnostics

    Move from individual components to real-world diagnostic decisions. Test competing hypotheses, interpret scan data alongside physical measurements, and document why the evidence supports a cause.

    LESSON 1 · AVAILABLE

    Cranks, but Won’t Start: A Diagnostic Decision Lab

    Investigate four no-start tickets by comparing scan data, fuel supply, ignition power and mechanical timing.

    Open Lesson 1 →
    LESSON 2 · AVAILABLE

    Starts, Then Stalls: A Diagnostic Decision Lab

    Four service tickets: capture the stall, compare independent measurements, and defend the most-supported cause.

    Open Lesson 2 →
    LESSON 3 · AVAILABLE

    Hesitation & Loss of Power Under Load

    Four look-alike customer complaints: compare load-dependent evidence before naming the fault.

    Open Lesson 3 →
    LESSON 4 · AVAILABLE

    Rough Idle & Idle Speed Control

    Four rough-idle complaints: compare load response, airflow, purge flow, and cylinder contribution.

    Open Lesson 4 →
    LESSON 5 · AVAILABLE

    Hard Starting: Cold vs. Hot

    Compare cold and hot start failures using temperature, fuel-pressure, crank-signal and battery evidence.

    Open Lesson 5 →
    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 13

    Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Diagnostics

    Compare commanded cam advance, actual cam phasing, and CKP/CMP sensor feedback.

    Illustrative teaching model; use OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 14

    Turbocharger Boost & Charge-Air Diagnostics

    Compare ECM boost request, wastegate control, physical manifold pressure, and MAP feedback.

    Illustrative teaching model; use OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 15

    PCV, Crankcase Pressure & Intake Vacuum Diagnostics

    Follow crankcase airflow and distinguish PCV-flow problems from intake leaks and excessive engine blow-by.

    Illustrative teaching model; use OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 16

    Engine Compression & Cylinder Leak-Down Diagnostics

    Compare dry, wet, and relative compression with cylinder leak-down evidence to distinguish mechanical sealing faults from ignition and fuel concerns.

    Illustrative teaching model; use OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 17

    The Challenger: Engine Performance Diagnostic Capstone

    Integrate air, fuel, ignition, mechanical, and emissions evidence across six diagnostic cases. Collect tests before selecting a fault hypothesis.

    Illustrative teaching model; use OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 2 · LESSON 1

    Cranks, but Won’t Start: A Diagnostic Decision Lab

    Investigate four cranks-but-won’t-start service tickets. Compare engine-position reference, fuel-pump feed, ignition-coil supply, and mechanical timing evidence before selecting your next action.

    Illustrative teaching model; use OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 2 · LESSON 2

    Starts, Then Stalls: A Diagnostic Decision Lab

    Investigate four engines that start and stall. Capture the failure event and distinguish restricted idle airflow, unwanted purge flow, intermittent fuel-pump feed, and a hot CKP signal dropout.

    Training simulation only; time-aligned evidence is illustrative. Use vehicle-specific service information and safe procedures for actual diagnostics.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 2 · LESSON 3

    Hesitation & Loss of Power Under Load

    Investigate four demand-dependent customer complaints using controlled snapshots and independent diagnostic tests.

    Training simulation only; readings are illustrative. Use vehicle-specific service information and safe procedures for actual diagnostics.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 2 · LESSON 4

    Rough Idle & Idle Speed Control

    Use load response, airflow and cylinder-specific evidence to diagnose four look-alike rough-idle complaints.

    Illustrative training simulation only. Follow OEM service information and safe test procedures on actual vehicles.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 2 · LESSON 5

    Hard Starting: Cold vs. Hot

    Diagnose temperature-dependent starting faults by comparing cold soak, immediate warm restart, and hot soak.

    Illustrative training simulation only. Follow OEM service information and safe test procedures on actual vehicles.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 12

    Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Diagnostics

    Compare commanded EGR, actual flow, and sensor feedback.

    Illustrative teaching model; follow OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 11

    EVAP System & Leak Diagnostics

    Command purge and vent valves, compare pressure trends, and isolate faults.

    Illustrative teaching model; follow OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 10

    Catalytic Converter & Downstream Oxygen Sensor Diagnostics

    Compare oxygen-sensor traces and investigate catalyst, exhaust, and sensor faults.

    Illustrative teaching model; follow OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 9

    Misfire Detection & Diagnostic Reasoning

    Interpret cylinder contribution, misfire counters, and test evidence.

    Illustrative teaching model; follow OEM procedures for actual diagnosis.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 8

    Fuel Pressure & Delivery Diagnostics

    Compare fuel pressure, delivery capacity, injector commands, and mixture feedback.

    Illustrative port-injection teaching model; follow OEM procedures for actual testing.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 7

    Fuel Injector Timing & Pulse Width

    Connect crank and cam references to injector commands and fuel delivery.

    Illustrative four-cylinder port-injection teaching model; not an OEM diagnostic procedure.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 1

    Fuel Trim & Air–Fuel Diagnosis

    Explore a simplified closed-loop fueling model, then compare idle and higher-load fuel-trim patterns.

    Training model only; not a vehicle-specific diagnostic procedure.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 2

    Oxygen Sensor & Air–Fuel Feedback

    Explore a simplified closed-loop fueling model, then compare idle and higher-load fuel-trim patterns.

    Training model only; not a vehicle-specific diagnostic procedure.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 3

    MAF & MAP Diagnostics

    Explore a simplified closed-loop fueling model, then compare idle and higher-load fuel-trim patterns.

    Training model only; not a vehicle-specific diagnostic procedure.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 4

    Electronic Throttle Control

    Explore a simplified closed-loop fueling model, then compare idle and higher-load fuel-trim patterns.

    Training model only; not a vehicle-specific diagnostic procedure.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 5

    Ignition Timing & Spark Advance

    Explore a simplified closed-loop fueling model, then compare idle and higher-load fuel-trim patterns.

    Training model only; not a vehicle-specific diagnostic procedure.

    ENGINE PERFORMANCE · UNIT 1 · LESSON 6

    Crankshaft & Camshaft Position Sensors

    Explore a simplified closed-loop fueling model, then compare idle and higher-load fuel-trim patterns.

    Training model only; not a vehicle-specific diagnostic procedure.

    Main course · Advanced Electrical

    Advanced Electrical

    Explore vehicle electrical systems as complete circuits: understand how controls, loads, wiring and grounds work together—and how technicians locate faults when they don't.

    Explore Lighting Systems →All courses
    Home › Courses › Advanced Electrical

    Choose a system to investigate

    Subcourses give each advanced electrical system its own learning pathway. The Lighting Systems preview is available now; other pathways below are planned.

    Preview available

    Lighting Systems

    Turn signals, hazards and the relationship between driver commands, flashing lamps, power and ground.

    Open subcourse →
    Planned

    Starting & Charging Systems

    Control circuits, high-current paths, voltage drop and system diagnosis.

    Planned

    Body Electronics & Controls

    Relays, solid-state switching, modules and electrical control strategies.

    Development preview · This course does not yet include other lighting lessons or a complete assessment.

    Advanced Electrical · Subcourse

    Lighting Systems

    Follow the control request through the circuit to the lamps. Build the habit of predicting what should happen before choosing a diagnostic test.

    Open Unit 1 →Advanced Electrical
    Home › Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems

    What you will learn

    Operate

    Explain left, right and hazard commands and the intended lamp behavior.

    Observe

    Compare normal operation with open lamps, lost power and unwanted resistance.

    Diagnose

    Use symptoms and simulated meter readings to choose a plausible fault location.

    Subcourse roadmap

    Unit 1 · Preview available

    Exterior Lighting

    Start with the Turn Signal & Hazard Light Lab. One interactive lesson is available now.

    Open Unit 1 →
    Unit 2 · Planned

    Headlamps & Parking Lamps

    Headlamp requests, beam selection, controls and electrical diagnosis.

    Unit 3 · Planned

    Stop & Reverse Lamps

    Switch inputs, output control and fault isolation.

    Lighting Systems · Unit 1

    Exterior Lighting

    Start with turn signals and hazard lights: what each switch requests, which lamps should illuminate, and what a fault changes.

    Begin Lesson 1 →Lighting Systems
    Home › Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit 1

    Unit 1 lesson roadmap

    Lesson 1 · Available

    Turn Signals & Hazard Lights

    Operate the stalk, observe flashing lamps, introduce faults, and use the simulated meter and Challenger questions.

    Open lesson and lab →
    Lesson 2 · Available

    Headlamp & Parking Lamp Circuits

    Switch between park, low and high beams; introduce faults; interpret voltage and current readings.

    Open lesson and lab →
    Lesson 3 · Available

    Brake & Reverse Lamp Circuits

    Operate the pedal and gear selector, introduce faults and interpret voltage readings.

    Open lesson and lab →
    Lesson 4 · Available

    Exterior Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

    Receive a customer complaint, inspect all exterior lights, test circuits and identify the hidden fault.

    Open diagnostic challenge →
    Unit 2 · Available

    Lighting Control & Diagnostics

    Relay and BCM lighting control: compare the request, coil and lamp load circuits.

    Open Unit 2, Lesson 1 →
    Unit 2 · Available

    BCM Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

    Find a hidden fault with switch inputs, BCM commands and circuit measurements.

    Open Unit 2, Lesson 2 →
    Unit 2 · Available

    PWM Lighting Control Lab

    Explore duty cycle, scope waveforms and electronically controlled lamp faults.

    Open Unit 2, Lesson 3 →
    Unit 2 · Available

    Automatic Headlamp & Ambient Light Sensor Lab

    Compare ambient-light sensor data, BCM command and lamp measurements.

    Open Unit 2, Lesson 4 →
    Advanced Electrical · Lighting Systems · Unit 1 · Lesson 2

    Headlamp & Parking Lamp Circuits

    Predict which lamps should operate, introduce an electrical fault, and select a diagnostic test.

    ← Unit 1 roadmap
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit 1 › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Identify parking, low-beam and high-beam requests; distinguish a supply interruption from an individual lamp fault; explain why a loaded ground measurement matters.

    Observe

    Compare the four lamp indicators as the switch changes.

    Diagnose

    Introduce an open feed, open bulb or resistive ground.

    Explain

    Interpret simulated voltages and choose the next test.

    Interactive Headlamp & Parking Lamp Lab

    Simplified educational model. Vehicle-specific lighting strategies vary.

    ← Lesson 1: Turn SignalsUnit roadmap →
    ADVANCED ELECTRICAL · LIGHTING SYSTEMS · UNIT 1 · LESSON 3

    Brake & Reverse Lamp Circuits

    Operate the pedal and gear selector, introduce faults and diagnose circuit behavior.

    Unit roadmap →
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit roadmap → › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Identify parking, low-beam and high-beam requests; distinguish a supply interruption from an individual lamp fault; explain why a loaded ground measurement matters.

    Observe

    Compare the four lamp indicators as the switch changes.

    Diagnose

    Introduce an open feed, open bulb or resistive ground.

    Explain

    Interpret simulated voltages and choose the next test.

    Interactive Headlamp & Parking Lamp Lab

    Simplified educational circuit; actual vehicle strategies and readings vary.

    ← Lesson 2Unit roadmap →
    ADVANCED ELECTRICAL · LIGHTING SYSTEMS · UNIT 1 · LESSON 4

    Exterior Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

    Investigate a customer complaint, operate the vehicle and defend your diagnosis with measurements.

    Unit roadmap →
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit roadmap → › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Investigate an unknown fault, compare lamp behavior and loaded voltage measurements, then select a diagnosis and evidence.

    Observe

    Receive a customer complaint without knowing the hidden fault.

    Diagnose

    Operate the vehicle and measure circuit test points.

    Explain

    Submit your diagnosis and supporting evidence.

    Interactive Exterior Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

    Simplified educational circuits, not manufacturer-specific diagnostic procedures.

    ← Lesson 2Unit roadmap →
    ADVANCED ELECTRICAL · LIGHTING SYSTEMS · UNIT 2 · LESSON 1

    Relay & BCM Lighting Control

    Operate a driver request, relay coil and lamp circuit; compare direct switching and BCM control.

    Unit roadmap →
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit roadmap → › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Compare low-current control and high-current load circuits, introduce faults and interpret simulated meter readings.

    Observe

    Distinguish a driver request from the lamp current path.

    Diagnose

    Trace a BCM ground-side relay command and the switched contact output.

    Explain

    Measure supply and ground-side voltage to narrow down a fault.

    Interactive Relay & BCM Lighting Lab

    Simplified training architecture; use manufacturer service information for actual vehicles.

    ← Lesson 2Unit roadmap →
    ADVANCED ELECTRICAL · LIGHTING SYSTEMS · UNIT 2 · LESSON 2

    BCM Lighting Diagnostic Challenge

    Investigate a hidden fault by comparing the driver request, BCM command, relay control and lamp circuit.

    Unit roadmap →
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit roadmap → › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Receive a customer complaint, operate the headlamp switch, inspect scan-tool data and use simulated meter readings to support your diagnosis.

    Observe

    Compare the driver request with the BCM command.

    Diagnose

    Test the relay coil supply, ground-side control and contact output.

    Explain

    Submit a fault diagnosis with supporting evidence.

    Interactive BCM Diagnostic Challenge

    Simplified training architecture; use manufacturer service information for actual vehicles.

    ← Lesson 2Unit roadmap →
    ADVANCED ELECTRICAL · LIGHTING SYSTEMS · UNIT 2 · LESSON 3

    PWM Lighting Control Lab

    Explore pulse-width modulation, average lamp-feed voltage and a simplified oscilloscope waveform.

    Unit roadmap →
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit roadmap → › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Change the BCM duty-cycle command and switching frequency, inspect the lamp and scope, and introduce an output or load fault.

    Observe

    Explain PWM duty cycle and switching frequency.

    Diagnose

    Compare lamp-feed waveform, average voltage and lamp response.

    Explain

    Distinguish an output fault from an open load or ground.

    Interactive BCM Diagnostic Challenge

    Simplified training architecture; use manufacturer service information for actual vehicles.

    ← Lesson 2Unit roadmap →
    ADVANCED ELECTRICAL · LIGHTING SYSTEMS · UNIT 2 · LESSON 4

    Automatic Headlamp & Sensor Lab

    Explore ambient-light sensor inputs, automatic BCM decisions and headlamp-circuit diagnostics.

    Unit roadmap →
    Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit roadmap → › Lesson 2

    Learning objectives

    Change ambient light, compare scan data and lamp measurements, and introduce faults to distinguish input, command and load problems.

    Observe

    Explain the AUTO switch request and ambient-light sensor input.

    Diagnose

    Compare sensor PID, BCM command, lamp feed, ground and current.

    Explain

    Identify a faulty sensor signal versus a lamp output or ground fault.

    Interactive BCM Diagnostic Challenge

    Simplified training architecture; use manufacturer service information for actual vehicles.

    ← Lesson 2Unit roadmap →
    Advanced Electrical · Lighting Systems · Unit 1 · Lesson 1

    Turn Signals & Hazard Lights

    Operate the lighting circuit. Then introduce a fault, compare symptoms and simulated voltage readings, and explain your diagnosis.

    Go to the simulator ↓Unit 1 roadmap
    Home › Courses › Advanced Electrical › Lighting Systems › Unit 1 › Lesson 1

    What you should be able to explain

    Normal operation

    Which lamps flash for left, right and hazard requests?

    Fault behavior

    What changes when a bulb opens, a fuse opens or ground resistance rises?

    Diagnostic reasoning

    Which observation or voltage measurement would help locate the fault?

    Interactive Turn Signal & Hazard Light Lab

    Work through the controls, fault selection, simulated meter and Challenger exercise below. The same simulation is also available in the Library.

    Open lab full screen →Return to Unit 1

    Educational simulation: 12-volt simplified model. Vehicle wiring, flasher logic, lamp monitoring and fault behavior vary by model.

    MAIN COURSE · DRIVETRAIN

    Automatic Transmissions & Transaxles

    Follow engine torque through the converter, geartrain, holding devices, hydraulic controls and finally to the drive wheels.

    Explore Transmission Fundamentals →
    THE BIG PICTURE

    What belongs in this main course?

    Transmission Fundamentals Units 1 and 2 are available: power flow, holding devices, and hydraulic controls.

    Available preview

    Automatic Transmission Fundamentals

    Torque conversion and foundational planetary power flow.

    Open subcourse →
    Available · Unit 2

    Hydraulics & Controls

    Pump supply, pressure regulation, solenoid logic, clutch apply and hydraulic diagnostic reasoning.

    Two interactive lessons availableOpen hydraulic controls →
    Planned

    Service & Diagnostics

    Fluid, inspections, faults, scan data and transmission-specific testing.

    Content not built yet

    Start here: trace the power path

    1. Main courseAutomatic Transmissions & Transaxles
    2. SubcourseAutomatic Transmission Fundamentals
    3. Unit 1Torque Transfer & Gearsets
    4. Lesson 1How a Torque Converter Works
    5. Lesson 2Planetary Gear Power Flow

    Learn how parts work together.

    Use the converter and planetary simulators to explain the difference between transmitting torque, multiplying torque, changing ratio and reversing rotation.

    Begin the subcourse →

    AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS · SUBCOURSE

    Transmission Fundamentals

    Get to know the basic transmission components and explain how torque, speed and direction change along the power path.

    Open Unit 1 →Back to Main Course

    What you will learn

    Identify

    Distinguish the impeller, turbine, stator, sun gear, ring gear and carrier.

    Explain

    Describe fluid torque transfer, converter slip and lockup clutch function.

    Predict

    Determine gearset output direction and speed when different members are held or driven.

    Subcourse unit roadmap

    Unit 1 · Available

    Torque Transfer & Gearsets

    Three interactive lessons: torque converter operation, planetary power flow, and holding/apply devices.

    Open Unit 1 →
    Unit 2 · Available

    Hydraulic & Electronic Controls

    Pump flow, pressure regulation, shift-solenoid routing, clutch apply and ten diagnostic tickets.

    Open Unit 2 →
    Unit 3 · Planned

    Service & Diagnostic Workflows

    Fluid service, pressure testing, scan data and shift complaint isolation.

    TRANSMISSION FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01

    Torque Transfer & Gearsets

    Study how a fluid coupling transmits input torque and how a simple planetary gearset can change speed, direction and torque.

    Start Lesson 1 →Back to Subcourse

    Your lesson roadmap

    Available · Lesson 1

    How a Torque Converter Works

    Explore impeller, turbine, stator and lockup clutch behavior under different driving conditions.

    Open interactive lesson →
    Available · Lesson 2

    Planetary Gear Power Flow

    Drive, hold and connect gearset members; observe how output speed and direction change.

    Open interactive lesson →
    Available · Lesson 3

    Holding & Apply Devices

    Apply or release an input clutch, band, one-way clutch and direct clutch; investigate reaction, coast and incompatible commands.

    Open interactive lesson →

    Explain it before you diagnose it

    By the end of this preview, distinguish converter torque multiplication from planetary gear reduction; identify what makes output reverse; and explain why converter lockup changes slip without changing the gearset's selected ratio.

    TRANSMISSION FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 01

    How a Torque Converter Works

    Explore how the impeller transfers energy to transmission fluid, how the turbine receives it, and when the stator and lockup clutch change converter behavior.

    ← Unit OverviewNext: Planetary Gearsets →

    Start with the major components

    A conventional hydrodynamic torque converter couples the engine to a transmission through moving fluid. The engine-driven impeller accelerates fluid; the turbine extracts energy from that fluid; the stator redirects returning fluid during torque multiplication; and the lockup clutch can create a more direct mechanical connection.

    Impeller

    Connected to the converter housing and driven by the engine; sends fluid toward the turbine.

    Turbine

    Receives momentum from fluid and transmits torque to the transmission input.

    Stator

    On a one-way clutch, redirects return flow when useful and freewheels when the flow direction changes.

    Converter behavior and lockup strategy vary by design. This teaching model illustrates operating principles; it is not a vehicle-specific test procedure.

    Explore converter operation

    Select a condition to see how fluid slip, stator action and lockup differ. The descriptions represent general principles, not measured torque or efficiency values.

    IMPELLERTURBINESTATORENGINE INPUTOUTPUTConceptual flow only

    Fluid arrows are conceptual. This drawing does not calculate or animate actual flow velocity.

    Acceleration

    Impeller speed
    Turbine speed
    Stator
    Lockup clutch

    The Challenger: explain the change

    When a fully applied lockup clutch eliminates converter slip, what changes directly?

    ← Unit overviewLesson 2: Planetary Gear Power Flow →
    TRANSMISSION FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 02

    Planetary Gear Power Flow

    Learn what changes when you drive, hold or link the sun gear, ring gear and carrier. Predict output speed and direction with an idealized simple planetary gearset.

    ← Torque ConverterUnit Overview →

    Meet the gearset

    The sun gear is centered inside the ring gear. Planet gears mesh with both and rotate on a carrier. A gearset's output depends on which member receives input, which is held, and which is used as output.

    Drive

    Connect a gearset member to the input torque path.

    Hold

    Prevent a member from rotating using an appropriate reaction or holding device.

    Output

    Use the remaining member to transmit torque and rotation downstream.

    Try the planetary power-flow simulator

    Choose a simplified configuration and change input speed. Observe forward reduction, reverse direction or 1:1 direct drive.

    SUNRINGCARRIER links planet centers

    Diagram identifies members only; it is not an animated meshing or clutch schematic.

    Sun gear
    Ring gear
    Carrier

    Input speed: 1,000 rpm

    Idealized sample gearset: 30 sun teeth / 70 ring teeth. No clutch slip or mechanical losses modeled.

    Output speed
    Input:output speed ratio


    The Challenger: reverse power flow

    In our simple planetary reverse example, which member is held?

    Real automatic transmissions use multiple gearsets and apply/holding devices. This calculator models a single ideal gearset only, not a particular vehicle's 1st–6th/reverse power flow or torque capacity.

    ← Lesson 1: Torque ConverterNext: Holding & Apply Devices →
    TRANSMISSION FUNDAMENTALS · UNIT 01 · LESSON 03

    Holding & Apply Devices

    Watch how an input clutch, band, one-way clutch and direct clutch affect the power flow of one simplified planetary gearset.

    ← Planetary Gear Power FlowUnit Overview →

    Meet the devices

    A friction clutch couples rotating members to transmit torque. A band can hold a drum and the member connected to it stationary. A one-way clutch can hold or transmit torque in one direction and overrun in the other. Real transmissions combine these devices in different ways; a device name alone does not identify which gearset member it controls.

    Forward clutch

    In this teaching example, connects the engine input to the sun gear.

    Band

    Provides a positive ring-gear hold while applied, including the illustrated coast condition.

    One-way clutch

    Supplies ring reaction in the modeled forward-drive direction; overruns during the modeled coast condition.

    Direct clutch

    Locks sun and ring together for 1:1 gearset rotation when an input path exists.

    Interactive device-apply workbench

    Use a single ideal 30-tooth sun / 70-tooth ring planetary gearset. The carrier is the output in forward drive. Select which devices are applied, then switch between drive and coast to investigate the reaction path.

    FORWARD REDUCTION

    Ring is held; carrier is the output

    SUN
    Input    RING
    Held    CARRIER
    Output
    Ideal speed ratio3.33:1
    Carrier output300 rpm

    Adjust the controls to inspect device behavior.

    Path: Input sun → carrier; ring held

    Educational assumptions: ideal single planetary gearset, fixed sample tooth counts, no hydraulic pressure, clutch slip, torque capacity, shifting sequence or vehicle-specific holding-device layout. In coast, the slider is not a prediction of wheel-driven speed. An incompatible band/direct-clutch combination is flagged instead of simulated.

    Observe → reason → verify

    Experiment A: Start with the one-way clutch selected and the band off. Change Engine driving vehicle to Vehicle coasting. Explain why a one-way clutch can provide reaction in one torque direction yet release when torque reverses.

    Experiment B: Apply the band and observe the coast display. In this model, a positive ring hold supplies a mechanical path for engine braking; a one-way clutch alone does not.

    Experiment C: Turn on direct clutch. Observe 1:1 when the band is off, then apply the band. Explain why locking the ring to the driven sun and holding the ring stationary are incompatible commands.

    The Challenger · Which device keeps the ring held during the modeled coast condition?

    The Challenger · Why does the model flag direct clutch + ring-holding band?

    ← Lesson 2: Planetary Power FlowUnit 1 overview →