CAR Study Guide 2026

The purpose of a core charge in auto recycling is to incentivize customers to return their old, worn-out parts (the 'core') when purchasing a recycled or remanufactured replacement. This deposit system ensures a continuous supply of used parts for recycling and remanufacturing, promoting resource recovery and reducing waste.

Airbags contain pyrotechnic charges designed to rapidly inflate during a collision. Improper handling, such as cutting into the module or exposing it to heat, can cause accidental deployment, leading to serious injury or even death. Therefore, airbags must be disarmed or removed following strict safety protocols to prevent unintended detonation.

The odometer reading helps customers assess how much wear an engine has accumulated and make an informed decision about its expected remaining useful life.

The Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest is a key component of the EPA's system to track hazardous waste from the time it leaves the generator until it reaches the off-site facility that will treat, store, or dispose of it. This ensures a chain of custody and legal accountability, a concept known as "cradle-to-grave" responsibility.

The ARA Code of Ethics requires members to refuse to purchase vehicles suspected of being stolen and to report them to law enforcement, upholding both legal compliance and professional ethics.

Used lead-acid batteries must be stored upright to prevent acid leaks through the vent holes. They should be placed on a non-reactive, impermeable, and curbed surface to contain any potential leaks of corrosive sulfuric acid. Stacking batteries increases the risk of short circuits and case damage.