CAA Automotive Systems and Parts 2

Question 1

An appraiser inspecting a vehicle notices a sweet smell and white exhaust smoke at startup that persists after warm-up. Which component failure is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Leaking head gasket

Answer

A failed head gasket lets coolant into the combustion chamber, producing sweet-smelling white smoke that continues after warm-up.

Question 2

Which part of a unibody vehicle, if damaged, typically has the greatest impact on its appraised value because it is integral to structural integrity?

Accepted Answer

Rear quarter panel and inner structure

Answer

On a unibody, quarter panels are welded structural members, so damage there requires sectioning and lowers value more than bolt-on parts.

Question 3

A blue-gray smoke from the exhaust during acceleration most commonly indicates what condition?

Accepted Answer

Engine burning oil

Answer

Blue-gray smoke is the classic sign of oil being burned in the combustion chamber, often from worn rings or valve seals.

Question 4

What is the primary function of a catalytic converter?

Accepted Answer

Convert harmful exhaust gases into less harmful emissions

Answer

The catalytic converter uses precious-metal catalysts to convert CO, HC, and NOx into CO2, water, and nitrogen.

Question 5

A vehicle with a CV joint that clicks loudly during tight turns most likely has a problem in which system?

Accepted Answer

Front-wheel-drive axle

Answer

Clicking during turns is the classic symptom of a worn outer CV joint on a front-wheel-drive axle shaft.

CAA - Certified Automotive Appraiser Practice Test

CAA - Certified Automotive Appraiser Practice Test

CAA Automotive Systems and Parts 2