ASE A2 Cheat Sheet 2026

The 21 highest-yield ASE A2 facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. While checking fluid on a torque converter automatic, a technician finds the fluid on the dipstick is pink and milky. Which is the most likely cause? → Coolant entering the fluid through a leaking transmission cooler in the radiator
2. When air testing an assembled clutch drum by directing compressed air into its apply passage, which result points to a failed piston seal? → Air escapes with a hiss and the piston moves weakly or not at all
3. A technician retrieves DTC P0741. Which condition does this code describe? → Torque converter clutch circuit performance or stuck off
4. A technician finds automatic transmission fluid in the vacuum hose that runs to the vacuum modulator. What is the most likely cause? → A ruptured modulator diaphragm
5. While draining the pan on a high-mileage transmission, a technician finds bronze-colored particles on the pan magnet. What do they most likely indicate? → Worn bushings or thrust washers
6. Which statement correctly describes a Hall-effect input speed sensor used in an electronically controlled transmission? → It requires a supply voltage and produces a digital on/off signal
7. A technician checks an installed one-way roller clutch by turning the inner race by hand. Which behavior is correct for a good unit? → It locks in one direction and freewheels in the other
8. Why must new clutch friction plates be soaked in the specified ATF before assembly? → To saturate the lining so it does not scuff or burn on its first engagements
9. A technician disassembling a clutch pack finds the steel plates blued and the friction plates dark, glazed and flaking. What is the most likely cause? → Prolonged slippage that generated excessive heat
10. When installing a lip-type seal on a clutch apply piston, how should the seal lip face? → Toward the apply pressure side, so fluid pressure presses the lip against the bore
11. A vehicle equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) needs a fluid service. Which fluid should the technician use? → The CVT fluid specified by the vehicle manufacturer
12. After a transmission range sensor is replaced, the engine cranks in Neutral but not in Park. Which is the most likely cause? → The range sensor is not aligned with the manual shaft
13. During inspection of a clutch drum, a technician finds that the check ball in the piston area is stuck in its seat. What problem can this cause? → The clutch may drag because residual fluid is not released from the apply chamber
14. When reinstalling a transmission pan with a new gasket, which procedure best prevents leaks and a warped pan flange? → Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to the specified torque in stages
15. During air testing of a band servo, air is applied to the apply passage. Which result indicates a servo in good condition? → The piston moves the apply pin smoothly and returns when the air is released
16. Transmission fluid on the dipstick looks milky and pink. What is the most probable cause? → A leaking transmission cooler inside the radiator
17. Which tools are used to accurately measure the inside diameter of a transmission bushing so it can be compared to specification? → A telescoping gauge and an outside micrometer
18. A transmission has been overfilled by about a quart. Which symptom is most likely? → Foamy, aerated fluid with erratic shifts and fluid expelled from the vent
19. A technician checks steel clutch plates and finds one that is dished and warped. What should be done? → Replace the plate, because warping causes uneven clamping and hot spots
20. A vehicle with an automatic transmission stalls or bucks every time it is brought to a stop in gear, and runs normally in Neutral. Which fault is most likely? → A torque converter clutch that fails to release
21. What is the maximum time a stall test should normally run at full throttle with the brakes applied? → 5 seconds