AARC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AARC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What must be done to airbags before dismantling? → Deploy or remove safely
2. Why are airbag deployments regulated? → Prevent explosive hazards
3. When an AARC-certified recycler purchases a salvage vehicle from an insurance company, what document is typically received instead of a clean title? → A salvage title or certificate of title branded as 'salvage'
4. According to EPA regulations (40 CFR Part 279), which of the following actions would cause used oil to be managed as a listed hazardous waste? → Mixing it with a listed hazardous solvent, such as carburetor cleaner.
5. What is the function of an SDS? → Details on chemical safety
6. A recycler receives a vehicle with a VIN plate that appears to have been tampered with. What is the correct course of action? → Refuse the purchase and report the suspected VIN tampering to law enforcement
7. An AARC-certified recycler selling to body shops should be familiar with which industry-standard estimating system that insurers use to specify parts? → CCC ONE, Mitchell, or Audatex (Solera)
8. What is the first step in vehicle dismantling? → Drain fluids
9. What does a cylinder compression test on a used gasoline engine primarily assess? → The condition of pistons, rings, and valves inside each cylinder
10. What is a core principle of ethical recycling? → Environmental compliance
11. What must be done before recycling a vehicle? → Verify ownership
12. What does the ARA parts grading system evaluate? → Damage and condition
13. Under ARA grading standards, a 'Grade A' used auto part is best defined as: → A part in excellent condition with no visible damage and fully functional
14. Which pricing strategy do most AARC-certified recyclers use to ensure competitive and consistent used parts pricing? → Reference to industry price guides such as Hollander or Car-Part.com market data
15. What is the purpose of the 'odometer disclosure statement' required during vehicle title transfer? → To provide an accurate mileage record and prevent odometer fraud
16. What is the purpose of inventory management software? → Track and locate parts
17. When AARC recyclers dismantle a vehicle for parts, which record must be retained to demonstrate legal ownership of the dismantled vehicle? → The title or other proof of lawful acquisition
18. Which system helps automate dismantling records? → Inventory management system
19. What does 'LKQ' stand for in the recycled auto parts industry? → Like Kind and Quality
20. What is the benefit of performing a 'hot test' on a used engine before listing it for sale? → It verifies the engine runs correctly under normal operating temperature
21. What happens to non-salvageable metal parts? → Sent to metal recycling
22. What tool is often used to separate parts? → Impact wrench
23. Why is staff training important? → Understand safe and ethical practices
24. Which grading standard is most commonly used by AARC members when selling recycled auto parts to ensure consistent quality communication with customers? → ARA Grade A/B/C system
25. What is a hotkey function in inventory systems? → Shortcut for common entries
26. Which liquid is hazardous and must be captured carefully? → Transmission fluid
27. When a customer returns a recycled part claiming it is defective, what is the recommended first step for an AARC-certified recycler? → Inspect the part and verify the defect claim before issuing a refund or replacement
28. Which component is typically sold 'as-is' with a no-return policy because testing it would destroy its function? → Airbags and SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components
29. When purchasing a vehicle at a salvage auction, an AARC-certified recycler should review the vehicle history report for which critical red flags? → Odometer rollback, flood damage, title washing, and prior salvage brands
30. Which document outlines company values? → Code of ethics