Automotive Parts, Service Advising and Collision Estimating
Overview
Start your career in the automotive industry. Train for entry-level roles as a Parts Technician, Service Advisor, or Autobody Estimator while building hands-on skills in automotive systems, inventory operations, service writing, and collision damage estimating.
| Tuition | $9,736 |
|---|---|
| Credential | Certificate |
| Length | 8 months |
| Hours | Full-time |
| Delivery | Class-based |
| Campus | Broadway |
What to expect
Lecture, group work, case studies, discussions, presentations, guest speakers, online activities.
What you will learn
- Identify and interpret automotive parts, components, and systems using industry-standard resources.
- Provide accurate service recommendations using vehicle history, customer concerns, and manufacturer specifications.
- Communicate effectively with customers, technicians, and suppliers.
- Apply inventory control, procurement, and cataloguing practices in a parts department setting.
- Use dealership management systems (DMS), electronic catalogues, and parts lookup software.
- Interpret service estimates, warranty policies, and repair procedures.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and customer service in a retail/service environment.
- Interpret collision damage and prepare basic estimates using autobody industry standards and software tools.
- Adhere to safety regulations and workplace procedures.
Program duration and maximum time for completion
The program is 8 months in length. Students have a maximum of three (3) years to complete the program.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation, or equivalent
- Composition 12 with a minimum ‘C-‘ grade, or equivalent
- Workplace Math 10 with a minimum ‘C-‘ grade, or equivalent
Department Assessment:
If you are unable to provide either of the above, you can contact the Department Head to make an appointment for a department assessment.
Learn more about VCC's academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended considerations
-
Program tasks require differentiating colours for safety codes, wiring, and detailed visual assessments in automotive work.
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Program environment involves exposure to:
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Automotive chemicals, including fuels, oils, lubricants, coolants, and cleaning agents;
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Dust and airborne particles; and
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Loud machinery noise, power tools, and equipment vibrations
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Program availability
Fall 2026 |
|
|---|---|
| Program start date | Sep |
| Status | Closed |
| Application opens | Mar 10, 2026 |
Winter 2027 |
|
| Program start date | |
| Status | Open |
| Application opens | Apr 7, 2026 |
| Application deadline | Oct 1, 2026 |
Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| AUTO 1010 | Introduction to Automotive Industry | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1020 | Automotive Systems Fundamentals | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1030 | Customer Service & Communication Skills | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1040 | Parts & Inventory Management 1 | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1050 | Safety and Shop Procedures | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1135 | Service Advising & Repair Order Writing | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1145 | Parts & Inventory Management 2 | 3.0 |
| AUTO 1155 | Dealership & Warranty Operations | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1165 | Computer Applications for Parts & Service | 2.5 |
| AUTO 1175 | Autobody Collision Estimating | 2.5 |
| Total Credits | 25.5 | |
This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and costs
| Application fee | $36 | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $9,736 | |
| Student union | $144 | |
| College initiative | $77 | |
| Campus resource | $195 | |
| Medical and dental | $285 | Explore medical insurance options |
| U-Pass | $375 | Get your student transit pass |
| Graduation | $45 | |
| Total | $10,893 |
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit.
Refund policies vary for domestic and international students. Review the applicable policy for eligibility, deadlines, and refund amounts.
Need help with tuition?
Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.
Technical requirement
How to apply
Ready to apply?
Online
You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.
Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5
International students
Apply to VCC international programs online. Check the availability status for your desired program and intake before applying.
Contact us
Advising services
Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: [email protected]
Advising services for International students
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