WAT I DISSECT

Students dissecting a car's engine bay

What is WAT I DISSECT?

A barrier-free, open-ended learning space for all engineering departments at the University of Waterloo to explore the world of engineering. 

Every term, any engineering student can drop in, grab a tool, and tear apart an automobile for fun. There are no grades involved, no strict instructions, and zero pressure. Students can follow their curiosity and explore at their own pace, making it one of the most hands-on experiences available on campus. The project cars are generously sponsored by Logels Auto Parts. 

Hands-on exploration

Bridging theory and physical hardware: For many students, this is a great opportunity to use industry-standard tools and see how complex mechanical systems fit together in an important, everyday item.  

Two students working underneath the hood of a car

Under the hood

Students get direct access to engines, belts, and fluid systems–components they’ve only ever seen in textbook diagrams.

Students taking apart a car

Full disassembly

From seats to suspension, every component is fair game–building confidence and intuition that transfers directly to co-op positions and design teams.

Students and staff examining a car engine.

Engine teardown

Tearing down an engine block is a rite of passage. Students leave with practical knowledge in automotive systems. 

See photos from past engineering dissections: 

Winter 2026

Two students posing for a picture at an engineering car dissection session
Students taking off the door of a minivan.
Students taking off the trunk door of a minivan.
Students taking out the interior of a minivan.
Students examining the parts of a minivan.
Students taking out the interior of a minivan.
Students working underneath the hood of a minivan.
Disassembled minivan.

Fall 2025

Student in an engine bay taking parts out
Student taking apart the interior of a car
Group of students grabbing tools for car dissection
Student examining trunk door of a car.
Students examining underneath the hood of a car.

Summer 2025

Students taking apart a car
A student and a mentor taking a part a car
Two students disassembling a car door
Students taking apart a car
Group of students taking apart a car

Summer 2024

Students examining a car
Students examining a car engine
Students tearing off a door panel of a car
Stripped down car with a student working in it
Stripped down car with students working on it in the background
2 students standing with an older vehicle

Upcoming events:

Students working underneath a car hood.
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 11:30 am - 1:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

WAT I DISSECT spring term sessions

WAT I DISSECT is back! Swing by the Sedra Student Design Centre in E5 to get hands-on experience with a car provided by Logel's Auto Parts, and learn more about its systems. Get more information about our WAT I DISSECT sessions here. Students from all engineering disciplines are welcome! No registration required, just come by as your schedule allows, with closed-toed shoes and get your hands dirty.

Students working underneath a car hood.
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 11:30 am - 1:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

WAT I DISSECT spring term sessions

WAT I DISSECT is back! Swing by the Sedra Student Design Centre in E5 to get hands-on experience with a car provided by Logel's Auto Parts, and learn more about its systems. Get more information about our WAT I DISSECT sessions here. Students from all engineering disciplines are welcome! No registration required, just come by as your schedule allows, with closed-toed shoes and get your hands dirty.

Students working underneath a car hood.
Thursday, May 21, 2026 11:30 am - 1:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

WAT I DISSECT spring term sessions

WAT I DISSECT is back! Swing by the Sedra Student Design Centre in E5 to get hands-on experience with a car provided by Logel's Auto Parts, and learn more about its systems. Get more information about our WAT I DISSECT sessions here. Students from all engineering disciplines are welcome! No registration required, just come by as your schedule allows, with closed-toed shoes and get your hands dirty.

Students working underneath a car hood.
Friday, May 22, 2026 11:30 am - 1:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

WAT I DISSECT spring term sessions

WAT I DISSECT is back! Swing by the Sedra Student Design Centre in E5 to get hands-on experience with a car provided by Logel's Auto Parts, and learn more about its systems. Get more information about our WAT I DISSECT sessions here. Students from all engineering disciplines are welcome! No registration required, just come by as your schedule allows, with closed-toed shoes and get your hands dirty.