Automotive Restoration Technology (Certificate Program)

The Automotive Restoration Technology Curriculum is designed to provide individuals with the skills needed to work in an entry-level position in the automotive restoration industry.

Program Length: 3 semesters

Program Site: Ybor City Campus Training Center

Class Time: Monday - Thursday,  5:30pm - 9:30pm

Course Requirements for Automotive Restoration Technology Certificate
Hours Required for Completion: 1000 clock hours


Semester I - Fall

  • Introduction to Auto Restoration
  • Chassis and Drive Trains Solutions
  • Chassis and Drive Trains Solutions Lab

Semester II - Spring

  • Non-Structural Damage Repair
  • Non-Structural Damage Repair Lab
  • Wood and Metal Restoration

Semester III - Summer

  • Painting and Refinishing
  • Finishing Touches
Click here for 2013 Tuition and Fees

Contact Jason Cancel at 813.253.7633 or email jcancel2@hccfl.edu for details.

Course Description

Introduction to Automotive Restoration

This course introduces students to the world of vintage automobile restoration form the invention of the automobile to current restoration techniques that will bring these cares back to life. Students will learn all steps needed from damage and restoration appraisal, to calculating parts and supplies for repairs. Students will also learn how to break down a vehicle, cataloging and labeling all parts. They will also begin training on neutralizing rust, and the removal of top paints and undercoats, undoing years of old finishes and body repairs.

Chassis and Drive Trains Solutions

This course introduces principles of operation of automotive drive trains. Students will earn to identify, remove, clean and restore all mechanical components on a vehicle. This includes engine, transmission, suspension and break systems. It will cover mechanical testing and troubleshooting techniques to ensure a quality build. Finally, students will reinstall components in final assembly and vehicle startup.

Non-Structural Damage Repair

This is an introductory course dealing with basic auto body repairs from sheet metal replacement to panel alignment. Students will learn to remove and replace doors, fenders and hoods, and align them to a proper fit. This course focuses on older models vehicles with an emphasis on welding in metal plates and patches for the removal and repairing of rust. Students will also learn to repair dents and prepare surfaces for fillers, primers and undercoats.

Wood and Metal Restoration

This course introduces various wood materials used in early automobile construction and how best to approach repairs and replacement options. Students will also learn different welding techniques and applications for sheet metal and frame restorations such as exposing, cutting, welding, and grinding all damaged areas.

Painting and Refinishing

This course covers topics relating to all safety and environmental issues. Students will learn about automotive finishes, past and present and the preparation of vehicle and parts for paint as well as proper paint application. It also includes troubleshooting and solving paint application problems and defects. Students will also learn proper buffing and polishing techniques.

Finishing Touches

This course focuses on all final and finishing touches needed to complete a restoration project. Such techniques included are proper final assembly and trim and chrome polish. Students will also learn the art of pin striping and wood graining.