ASE Practice Test #5

Question 1

All of these claims about replacing and removing transmissions are accurate, EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

The front drive axles need to be marked in relation to the front hubs.

Answer

Front drive axles are typically splined and designed to fit into the front hubs in any rotational orientation, meaning there is no specific alignment required for balance or function upon reinstallation. In contrast, driveshafts connected to differential flanges should be marked to maintain their original balance and prevent vibration issues. Disconnecting the battery and supporting the engine are crucial safety and procedural steps.

Question 2

On an electronic DI system, the negative primary coil connection connects the 12-volt test light to ground. When the engine starts, this light flutters. When the coil secondary wire is connected to ground when the engine is cranking, a spark tester likewise doesn't light. Which explanation is the MOST plausible one?

Accepted Answer

Defective ignition coil

Answer

The fluttering test light on the primary coil connection indicates that the ignition module is correctly switching the primary circuit on and off, meaning the module and pickup coil are likely functioning. However, the absence of spark at the secondary wire, despite proper primary circuit operation, points directly to an internal failure within the ignition coil itself. The coil is failing to step up the voltage to produce a high-energy spark.

Question 3

What should you do first when trying to diagnose coolant consumption?

Accepted Answer

Perform a cooling system pressure test

Answer

Performing a cooling system pressure test is the most effective first step when diagnosing coolant consumption because it can quickly identify both external and internal leaks. By pressurizing the system to its operating pressure, even small leaks that might not be visible under normal conditions can be revealed, providing a comprehensive assessment of the system's integrity. While visual checks and oil condition are important, a pressure test offers a more definitive starting point.

Question 4

When loaded, the transaxle abruptly shifts out of gear. Which of these is MOST likely to be the cause?

Accepted Answer

Maladjusted, loose or worn shift linkage

Answer

When a transaxle abruptly shifts out of gear under load, it often indicates that the gear is not fully engaged or is being dislodged due to external forces. Maladjusted, loose, or worn shift linkage prevents proper engagement or allows the linkage to move, causing the transmission to pop out of gear, especially when torque is applied. The other options relate to internal transmission issues or clutch problems, which would manifest differently.

Question 5

Which of these places doesn't frequently have coolant leaks?

Accepted Answer

Faulty gasket

Answer

While gaskets can certainly fail, components like hoses, water pumps, and core plugs are often exposed to more direct wear, vibration, and corrosive elements, leading to more frequent leaks. Hoses degrade over time, water pumps have moving parts and seals that wear out, and core plugs corrode, making these more common points of failure compared to many engine gaskets which are designed for long-term sealing under stable conditions.