A competency-based automotive mechanics curriculum was developed at Big Bend Community College (Washington) in order to provide the basis for an advanced placement procedure for high school graduates and experienced adults through a competency assessment. In order to create the curriculum, Big Bend Community College automotive mechanics instructors, in conjunction with the joint advisory committee and Moses Lake High School automotive mechanics instructors, reviewed exemplary curricula, compiled competency lists, and had competencies rated and varified by advisory committee members. The final curriculum consists of six modules. An assessment form and procedures for advanced placement for students and adults also was developed. (Most of this document consists of a section of student learning objectives and an automotive mechanics competency-based curriculum handbook. The objectives are divided into first-year and second-year programs and cover the subjects of the modules. The curriculum handbook explains the procedure for advanced placement, and provides an automotive mechanics assessment form and a list of competencies. It contains six competency modules that cover the following topics: shop skills and safety; engine service; brakes, suspension, and steering; electrical systems; fuel system; and power trains. Each competency module contains a list of tasks, a performance objective, and enabling objectives that show successful performance of the task.) (KC)