• 81 questions

ASE Certification Test Practice

Unofficial test prep for the eight ASE automobile tests, engine repair to engine performance, every answer with its public source.

What limits the back-and-forth (end) movement of the crankshaft?

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Unofficial practice questions, not affiliated with the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Bank checked October 8, 2026.

ASE automobile tests: questions and time limits

TestQuestionsTime limitScored questionsRecertification testMaster statusCheckedSourceOfficial practice test
A1 Engine Repair5575 minutes45. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.23 questions in 30 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A2 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle5575 minutes45. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.23 questions in 30 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A3 Manual Drive Train and Axles5060 minutes40. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.20 questions in 30 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A4 Suspension and Steering5060 minutes40. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.20 questions in 30 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A5 Brakes5575 minutes45. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.23 questions in 30 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A6 Electrical/Electronic Systems6090 minutes50. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.25 questions in 45 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A7 Heating and Air Conditioning6075 minutes50. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.25 questions in 30 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A8 Engine Performance6075 minutes50. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.25 questions in 45 minutes.One of the eight tests, A1 to A8, required for Master Automobile Technician status.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9
A9 Light Vehicle Diesel Engines6075 minutes50. The other 10 are research questions that are not counted, and they are not marked.25 questions in 30 minutes.Not required for Master Automobile Technician status, and not in the question bank above.October 8, 2026the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), "How Long are the Tests?", and ASE's page for tests A1 to A9ASE's own page for tests A1 to A9

Next step Weak on engines? ASE A1 practiceOne test in depth: ASE A5 brakes

All 81 questions

A1 Engine repair 10

  • How does a pressurized cooling system help prevent boilover? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 9-10, Radiator Pressure Cap. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area D, Lubrication and Cooling Systems.
  • How does a wet cylinder sleeve differ from a dry sleeve? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 3, cylinder sleeves. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area C, Engine Block.
  • How fast does the camshaft of a four-stroke engine turn? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 2, valve train timing. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area B, Cylinder Head and Valve Train.
  • On the most common three-ring piston, how are the rings arranged from the top? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 3, piston rings. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area C, Engine Block.
Show all 81 questions (77 more)

A1 Engine repair, continued

  • What does the vibration damper on the crankshaft do? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 3, crankshaft (vibration damper). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area C, Engine Block.
  • What is valve overlap in a four-stroke engine? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 2, Valve Overlap. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area B, Cylinder Head and Valve Train.
  • What limits the back-and-forth (end) movement of the crankshaft? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 3-10, Crankshaft Bearings. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area C, Engine Block.
  • Why are some exhaust valves hollow and partly filled with metallic sodium? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 3-12, Valves and Seats. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area B, Cylinder Head and Valve Train.
  • Why is a hydraulic tensioner preferred with a timing chain rubbing block? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 3, camshaft drive (chain tensioners). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area B, Cylinder Head and Valve Train.
  • Why is a thermostat fitted in the cooling system? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 9-9, Thermostats. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Repair (Test A1), content area D, Lubrication and Cooling Systems.

A2 Automatic transmission 10

  • At what temperature is automatic transmission fluid level almost always checked? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Checking the Fluid. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area B, In-Vehicle Maintenance and Repair.
  • Automatic transmission fluid looks milky. What is a possible cause? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Checking the Fluid. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • Fluid on the transmission dipstick is brown and smells burnt. What does that indicate? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Checking the Fluid. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • In a simple planetary gearset, what gives direct drive? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Planetary Gears. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • Technician A says a torque converter multiplies torque most with the vehicle standing still at full throttle. Technician B says there is no torque multiplication once the stator freewheels. Who is right? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Coupling (torque converter operation). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • Technician A says overfilling an automatic transmission does no harm because the extra fluid stays in the pan. Technician B says overfilling can foam the fluid and lead to burned clutches. Who is right? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Fluid Replacement. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area B, In-Vehicle Maintenance and Repair.
  • What does the stator do in a torque converter? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Coupling (torque converter operation). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • What is the principal purpose of a lockup clutch in a torque converter? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 21-9, Lockup Torque Converter. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • Which member of a simple planetary gearset is held to obtain reverse? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Planetary Gears. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.
  • Which member of a torque converter turns at engine speed whenever the engine runs? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Coupling (torque converter operation). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (Test A2), content area A, Transmission/Transaxle Diagnosis.

A3 Manual drive train and axles 9

  • A clutch drags: the disk keeps turning with the pedal fully down. Which is a listed cause? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Clutch malfunctions (Dragging). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area A, Clutch Diagnosis and Repair.
  • A clutch slips under load. Which adjustment fault is a listed cause? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 7, Clutch malfunctions (Slipping). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area A, Clutch Diagnosis and Repair.
  • A hum from the rear of the car changes as the road surface changes. What does that point to? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 11, Troubleshooting the differential. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area E, Drive Axle Diagnosis and Repair.
  • A manual transmission jumps out of gear. What are the most likely causes? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 11, Testing transmissions for malfunctions. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area B, Transmission Diagnosis and Repair.
  • A noise in the rear axle is present only when the car rounds a corner. Where is the trouble likely to be? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 11, Troubleshooting the differential. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area E, Drive Axle Diagnosis and Repair.
  • A noise is heard only while the clutch is disengaged. Technician A says the release bearing could be at fault. Technician B says the pilot bearing could be at fault. Who is right? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 11, Testing transmissions for malfunctions. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area A, Clutch Diagnosis and Repair.
  • A shaft is driven through one conventional universal joint at an angle. What happens to its speed? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 28, section II, Conventional Universal Joints. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area D, Drive Shaft and Universal Joint.
  • A transfer case is hard to shift. What is checked before the unit is taken out? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 11, Troubleshooting transfer cases. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area F, Four-Wheel Drive/All-Wheel Drive.
  • Why does a gear case start to leak when its oil level is too high? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 11, Cause of Leaking Lubricants. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Manual Drive Train and Axles (Test A3), content area B, Transmission Diagnosis and Repair.

A4 Suspension and steering 9

  • A ball joint has a built-in wear indicator. What shows that the joint must be replaced? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 12, Alignment procedures. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area B, Suspension Systems.
  • A car still pulls after an alignment. Technician A says a front tire worn on one side can pull toward its worn side even with correct alignment. Technician B says wheel bearing end play should be corrected before any alignment check. Who is right? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 12, Alignment procedures. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area C, Wheel Alignment.
  • A steering wheel is 16 inches or less in diameter. How much free play at the rim does 49 CFR 570.7 allow? 49 CFR Part 570, Vehicle in Use Inspection Standards, section 570.7(a), System play. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area A, Steering Systems.
  • At what tire pressure must a tire pressure monitoring system light its low pressure warning? 49 CFR 571.138 (FMVSS 138, Tire pressure monitoring systems), S4.2, TPMS detection requirements. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area D, Wheel and Tire.
  • How is steering linkage play checked under 49 CFR 570.7? 49 CFR Part 570, Vehicle in Use Inspection Standards, section 570.7(b), Linkage play. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area A, Steering Systems.
  • How is toe-in adjusted? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 12, Toe-in and steering wheel adjustment. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area C, Wheel Alignment.
  • In the shock absorber check of 49 CFR 570.8, how long may a vehicle keep rocking after one end is pushed down and released? 49 CFR Part 570, Vehicle in Use Inspection Standards, section 570.8(b), Shock absorber condition. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area B, Suspension Systems.
  • Toe-out on turns is outside specification. What is done? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 12, Steering geometry (turning radius). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area C, Wheel Alignment.
  • Which alignment angle is a directional control angle but not a tire-wearing angle? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 12, Steering geometry. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Suspension and Steering (Test A4), content area C, Wheel Alignment.

A5 Brakes 10

  • A car pulls to one side during braking. Which is a listed cause? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 6, Car pulls to one side. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area C, Disc Brake Diagnosis and Repair.
  • How does an antilock system respond when it senses that a wheel is about to lock? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 6, Antilock brakes. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area D, Electronic Brake Control Systems.
  • In the road test of 49 CFR 570.5, within what distance must the service brakes stop a vehicle from 20 miles per hour? 49 CFR Part 570, Vehicle in Use Inspection Standards, section 570.5(d)(2), Road test. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area A, Hydraulic, Power Assist, and Parking Brake Systems.
  • Technician A says a skidding wheel gives less braking effect than one that is still rolling. Technician B says maximum retardation comes only after the wheel has locked. Who is right? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 34-5, Maximum Retardation Point. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area D, Electronic Brake Control Systems.
  • Vehicle speed is doubled. How much energy must the brakes overcome to stop it? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 34-2, Braking Requirements. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area A, Hydraulic, Power Assist, and Parking Brake Systems.
  • What does FMVSS 135 require of a brake fluid reservoir so that the level can be checked? 49 CFR 571.135 (FMVSS 135, Light vehicle brake systems), S5.4.4, Fluid level indication. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area A, Hydraulic, Power Assist, and Parking Brake Systems.
  • What does Pascal's law say about force applied to a confined liquid? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 34-23, Principles of the Hydraulic System. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area A, Hydraulic, Power Assist, and Parking Brake Systems.
  • What is brake fade? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 34-11, Disadvantages (drum brakes). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area B, Drum Brake Diagnosis and Repair.
  • Which boiling point must be marked on a brake fluid container under FMVSS 116? 49 CFR 571.116 (FMVSS 116, Motor vehicle brake fluids), S5.2.2.2, Packaging and labeling. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area A, Hydraulic, Power Assist, and Parking Brake Systems.
  • Why is a disc brake less prone to fade than a drum brake? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 34-13, Disk brake mechanisms. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Brakes (Test A5), content area C, Disc Brake Diagnosis and Repair.

A6 Electrical systems 11

  • A connection in a circuit becomes dirty and loose. What happens to the circuit? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 11, Ohm's law and resistance. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area A, General Electrical/Electronic System Diagnosis.
  • A good battery cannot be kept fully charged. Where is the fault usually found? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 4, Troubleshooting the alternator. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area C, Charging System.
  • A replacement alternator has been fitted. Technician A says it must be polarized before the engine is started. Technician B says polarizing is a step for dc generators. Who is right? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 4, Troubleshooting the charging system. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area C, Charging System.
  • How does the total resistance of a parallel circuit compare with the resistance of its branches? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 11, Parallel Circuits. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area A, General Electrical/Electronic System Diagnosis.
  • One bulb burns out in a series circuit. What happens to the rest of the circuit? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 11, Series Circuits. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area A, General Electrical/Electronic System Diagnosis.
  • What converts the alternating current of an alternator to direct current? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 4, Alternators and Rectifiers. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area C, Charging System.
  • What happens to the electrolyte as a lead-acid battery discharges? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 12-4, Discharge. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area B, Battery and Starting System.
  • What is the specific gravity of the electrolyte in a lead-acid storage battery, as TM 9-8000 gives it? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 12, Electrolyte. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area B, Battery and Starting System.
  • What makes the lamps flash in a thermal turn signal flasher unit? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 16, Flasher Unit. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area D, Lighting Systems.
  • Why must a starter drive have an overrunning clutch or a similar device? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 14-4, Starter Motor Drives. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area B, Battery and Starting System.
  • With the ignition, lights and accessories off, an ammeter shows current leaving the battery. How is the faulty circuit found? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 4, Battery drain test. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Electrical/Electronic Systems (Test A6), content area E, Body Electrical Systems.

A7 Heating and air conditioning 11

  • A compressor thumps, and its suction line is cool and sweating, yet there is no cooling. What is the usual cause? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, Malfunctions of components (compressor). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area A, HVAC and Engine Cooling System.
  • A line must be opened on a charged air conditioning system. Technician A says the refrigerant must first be extracted with approved equipment. Technician B says a small charge may be released to the air. Who is right? 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart B (Servicing of Motor Vehicle Air Conditioners), section 82.32(e), Properly using. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area B, Refrigeration System Component Diagnosis and Repair.
  • An abnormally cold, frosty spot is found on the condenser. What does it usually indicate? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, Malfunctions of components (condenser). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area B, Refrigeration System Component Diagnosis and Repair.
  • In a cycling-clutch system, what does the thermostatic switch do as the evaporator temperature falls? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, Thermostatic switch. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area C, Operating Systems and Related Controls.
  • Technician A says the desiccant in the receiver/drier adds oil to the refrigerant. Technician B says the compressor lowers the pressure of the refrigerant leaving the evaporator. Who is right? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, The receiver/drier and The compressor. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area C, Operating Systems and Related Controls.
  • What does the evaporator do? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, The evaporator. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area A, HVAC and Engine Cooling System.
  • What does the expansion valve or expansion tube do? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, The expansion system. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area C, Operating Systems and Related Controls.
  • What is one purpose of a closed (coolant recovery) cooling system? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 9-12, Closed Cooling System. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area A, HVAC and Engine Cooling System.
  • What is the most common malfunction of an expansion valve? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, Malfunctions of components (expansion valve). Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area B, Refrigeration System Component Diagnosis and Repair.
  • Who may service the refrigerant of a motor vehicle air conditioner for pay, under 40 CFR 82.34? 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart B (Servicing of Motor Vehicle Air Conditioners), section 82.34(a), Prohibitions and required practices. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area A, HVAC and Engine Cooling System.
  • Why must the evaporator be kept above 32 °F? US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992), chapter 13, The evaporator. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Heating and Air Conditioning (Test A7), content area A, HVAC and Engine Cooling System.

A8 Engine performance 11

  • A spark plug runs too cold for the engine. What happens to it? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 15, spark plug heat range. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area B, Ignition System.
  • An engine runs very rich for a long time. What is the risk to the catalytic converter? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 7-8, Catalytic Converter. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area A, General Diagnosis.
  • How are the injectors of an electronic timed injection system connected to the fuel supply? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 4-26, Timed Fuel Injection Systems. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area C, Fuel, Air Induction and Exhaust Systems.
  • How does the fuel pressure regulator of an electronic injection system keep fuel pressure constant? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 4-26, Timed Fuel Injection Systems. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area C, Fuel, Air Induction and Exhaust Systems.
  • Technician A says the EGR valve should flow exhaust gas while the engine is still cold, to cut NOx. Technician B says the EGR valve does not operate during heavy engine loading. Who is right? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 7, Exhaust gas recirculation. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area D, Emissions Control Systems.
  • What does leaded gasoline do to a catalytic converter? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 7-8, Catalytic Converter. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area D, Emissions Control Systems.
  • What is preignition? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 4, Preignition. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area A, General Diagnosis.
  • What makes an injector open in an electronic timed injection system? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), paragraph 4-26, Timed Fuel Injection Systems. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area E, Computerized Engine Controls.
  • What stores fuel vapors from the tank while the vehicle is shut down? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 7, Fuel evaporation control system. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area D, Emissions Control Systems.
  • Which is a cause of detonation? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 4, Detonation. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area A, General Diagnosis.
  • Why is more spark advance needed at part throttle than at wide-open throttle? US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985), chapter 15, centrifugal and vacuum advance. Outline: ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026), Engine Performance (Test A8), content area B, Ignition System.

How this list was compiled: Our own questions, written to the test specifications and task lists of tests A1 to A8 in the ASE Automobile Study Guide (copyright 2026, https://ase.com/wp-content/uploads/ASE_Automobile_Study_Guide.pdf, linked from https://ase.com/tests/a1-a9/; the list of test series is at https://ase.com/tests/ase-certification-test-series/; all opened 2026-10-08). The eight tests have 45, 45, 40, 40, 45, 50, 50 and 50 scored questions; the bank holds 10, 10, 9, 9, 10, 11, 11 and 11 in that order. Every fact was read on 2026-10-08 in the public text the question names: US Army TM 9-8000, Principles of Automotive Vehicles (1985); US Navy NAVEDTRA 14050, Construction Mechanic, Advanced (1992); 49 CFR Part 570 and 49 CFR 571.116, 571.135 and 571.138 at ecfr.gov; and 40 CFR Part 82, Subpart B. The sample questions printed in the study guide were not used. Licence: Questions, choices and explanations are original work of this site.

How it works

This unofficial ASE certification test practice has 81 questions of our own on automobile tests A1 to A8. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

Read the full guide

What the ASE certification tests cover

Tests A1 to A8 lead to Master Automobile Technician status: engine repair, automatic transmission, manual drive train, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance. The bank holds 9 to 11 questions on each.

An auto mechanic quiz with reasons

These auto mechanic test questions and answers each name the Army or Navy training manual or federal rule behind them. The manuals explain how systems work, not the newest electronic controls.

Timed or on paper

Exam mode asks 45 mixed questions in 75 minutes, the scored count and time limit of tests A1, A2 and A5. For an ASE practice test PDF, print the paper test and save it.

  • A Technician A and Technician B question is two true-or-false statements. Judge each one alone, then choose.

Questions and answers

How many questions on ASE test day?

It depends on the test. In ASE's 2026 study guide, A1, A2 and A5 have 55 questions, A3 and A4 have 50, and A6 to A9 have 60. Ten on each are unscored research questions. The table above gives the time limits.

How to prepare for ASE test questions?

For ASE test preparation, start with ASE's free study guide, which prints the task list and question counts for each test. Then practice one topic at a time here and repeat your missed pile.

Are these the real ASE exams?

No. The real tests are closed and proctored. Every question here is our own, written from ASE's published task lists and public manuals, and none copies the sample questions in the study guide. A score here is practice only.

Can I take an ASE certification test online?

Mostly no. By ASE's 2026 guide to certification, a first-time test other than G1 is taken at a test center. Recertification tests and the G1 test can be taken with remote proctoring. This practice page is free and online.

Is this an ASE mechanic test for cars or trucks?

Cars and light trucks. The A series is the ASE automotive test for vehicles up to Class 3. Medium and heavy trucks, collision repair, parts, transit buses and school buses have their own test series, which this page does not cover.

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