ASE Practice Test (A2: Automatic Transmission/Transaxle) 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A vehicle with an automatic transmission slips in all forward gears but operates normally in reverse. The MOST likely cause is:
- A worn or slipping forward clutch pack (Correct answer)
- A faulty torque converter clutch solenoid
- Low line pressure in the reverse circuit only
- A stuck open pressure regulator valve
Correct answer: A worn or slipping forward clutch pack
The forward clutch pack is applied in all forward gear ranges. If it is worn or slipping, the vehicle will slip in all forward gears. Reverse uses different clutch and band components, which is why reverse operation remains normal.
Question 2: During a stall speed test, the stall speed is 300 RPM HIGHER than the manufacturer's specification. This indicates:
- Torque converter stator clutch is slipping (Correct answer)
- Engine is producing too much power
- Transmission clutches and bands are holding properly
- Torque converter is functioning correctly
Correct answer: Torque converter stator clutch is slipping
A stall speed higher than specification indicates the torque converter stator one-way clutch is slipping. A low stall speed typically points to engine performance issues, not a high one.
Question 3: A technician is checking line pressure on an automatic transmission. Line pressure is low in all ranges. The MOST likely cause is:
- A clogged transmission filter
- A faulty pressure regulator valve or worn pump (Correct answer)
- A stuck shift solenoid
- An open circuit in the TPS sensor
Correct answer: A faulty pressure regulator valve or worn pump
Low line pressure in all ranges points to a problem with the main pressure source — typically a worn hydraulic pump or a stuck-open pressure regulator valve. A clogged filter can cause low pressure but would also cause other drivability symptoms.
Question 4: A vehicle with an electronically controlled automatic transmission has a harsh 1-2 shift. Technician A says the 1-2 shift solenoid may be faulty. Technician B says the 1-2 accumulator may be weak or damaged. Who is correct?
- Technician A only
- Technician B only
- Both Technician A and Technician B (Correct answer)
- Neither Technician A nor Technician B
Correct answer: Both Technician A and Technician B
Both technicians are correct. A faulty shift solenoid can cause incorrect apply pressure timing, resulting in harsh shifts. A weak or damaged accumulator cannot properly cushion clutch apply, also resulting in harsh shifts.
Question 5: When performing a transmission fluid condition check, the fluid appears dark brown and has a burned odor. This indicates:
- Normal ATF oxidation from high mileage use
- Overheating causing clutch material contamination (Correct answer)
- The fluid was recently changed with incorrect viscosity
- Water contamination from a failed cooler
Correct answer: Overheating causing clutch material contamination
Dark brown, burnt-smelling ATF indicates the transmission has been overheating, causing clutch friction material to burn and contaminate the fluid. Normal fluid is red or light pink; water contamination typically makes fluid appear milky or foamy.
Question 6: A torque converter is being inspected after removal. The converter pilot is damaged and out of round. This will MOST likely cause:
- Transmission slipping in all forward gears
- Vibration and noise during torque converter operation (Correct answer)
- Harsh engagement when shifting into reverse
- Converter shudder only during light throttle acceleration
Correct answer: Vibration and noise during torque converter operation
A damaged or out-of-round torque converter pilot causes the converter to run off-center, leading to vibration and noise. The pilot aligns the converter to the crankshaft, and any damage there will create rotational imbalance.
ASE Practice Test (A2: Automatic Transmission/Transaxle) 1
A vehicle with an automatic transmission slips in all forward gears but operates normally in reverse.
The MOST likely cause is: