CAR Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. What should an automotive recycler do if a purchased vehicle has a lien recorded on its title? → Obtain a lien release from the lienholder before processing the vehicle
2. Which certification ensures that recycled auto parts meet quality standards? → ARA Gold Seal Certification.
3. What is the purpose of removing the catalytic converter from a scrapped vehicle? → It contains valuable recyclable metals.
4. When processing an electric vehicle, what is the primary purpose of the components identified by bright orange-colored cabling? → To carry high-voltage current between the main battery, inverter, and motor.
5. Why is it important to properly store and dispose of refrigerants from scrapped vehicles? → Improper disposal can lead to environmental damage.
6. When preparing a vehicle hulk for crushing or shredding, what is the primary reason for ensuring all hazardous materials and fluids have been removed? → To prevent the release of pollutants and avoid costly environmental cleanups.
7. What is 'parts interchangeability' in automotive recycling? → The ability of a part from one vehicle to function correctly in another compatible vehicle
8. Which of the following is a best practice for parts storage to maintain inventory quality? → Store parts by vehicle make and model with proper labeling and protection from weather
9. What is the primary function of an inventory management system like Checkmate in an automotive recycling facility? → To buy, inventory, price, and sell parts efficiently
10. Why should automotive recyclers participate in industry price guide systems such as the Hollander Parts Price Guide? → To set competitive and market-consistent prices based on industry benchmarks
11. Under NMVTIS regulations, within how many days of acquisition must licensed automotive recyclers report vehicles to the system? → Within 30 days of acquisition
12. Why should batteries be removed from scrapped vehicles immediately? → They contain hazardous chemicals and should be recycled.
13. What is the purpose of an Environmental Management System (EMS) in recycling? → It helps facilities improve compliance and sustainability.
14. Which of the following best management practices is a key requirement for an automotive recycler's Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)? → Storing cracked lead-acid batteries in a covered area on an impervious surface
15. Under the ARA grading system, what does a Grade B designation typically indicate? → Part is in good used condition with minor wear but fully functional
16. What is the primary safety concern when handling hazardous materials in auto recycling? → They pose risks of fire, chemical burns, and pollution.
17. Which of the following is considered the most critical initial step in the vehicle dismantling process to ensure environmental safety and regulatory compliance? → Vehicle depollution
18. Which regulation governs hazardous waste disposal in automotive recycling? → Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
19. Which of the following BEST describes a 'core charge' in the automotive recycling industry? → A deposit collected that is refunded when the customer returns the old part for recycling
20. What should be done with fluids removed from recycled auto parts? → They should be stored and disposed of properly.
21. Which safety equipment is required when handling hazardous automotive fluids? → Gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.
22. What is a best practice for managing customer expectations when a hard-to-find part must be sourced from another recycler? → Communicate a realistic delivery estimate, transfer cost, and part condition upfront
23. What does the ARA Hollander Interchange system primarily help recyclers do? → Cross-reference parts across different vehicle makes and models
24. Under most US state laws, who is responsible for notifying the DMV when a vehicle is acquired for dismantling? → The automotive recycler
25. What is the first step in vehicle dismantling? → Drain all fluids from the vehicle.
26. Why is recording the odometer reading important when cataloging a used engine for resale? → It helps customers assess the engine's wear level and remaining useful life
27. What is the purpose of a Bill of Sale in automotive recycling inventory transactions? → To document the legal transfer of ownership of a vehicle or part
28. How should a recycling facility manage used oil and other vehicle fluids? → They should be properly stored and recycled.
29. What is a 'core' in the context of automotive recycling parts sales? → A remanufacturable part returned to receive a rebuilding credit
30. What safety precaution should be taken when handling airbags in a dismantled vehicle? → Wear protective gloves and deactivate the airbag first.