GM Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Which of the following best describes the GM CPO 'bumper-to-bumper' limited warranty coverage? → Covers most vehicle components excluding wear items
2. Under GM's approved parts policy, which fluid type must always be used when servicing a GM automatic transmission under warranty? → GM-approved DEXRON transmission fluid (specific grade per application)
3. What is the primary purpose of standardized procedures in Engine Systems? → To ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all practitioners
4. GM's Rear Automatic Braking (RAB) system is designed to prevent which type of collision? → Low-speed backing collisions
5. On GM vehicles equipped with rear HVAC, where is the secondary expansion device typically located? → At the rear HVAC module under the rear cargo area or rear of the passenger compartment
6. How does GM Authorized Service benefit the overall brand reputation of General Motors? → By ensuring consistent service quality across certified dealerships
7. Before opening a GM AC system for service, a technician must first perform which step? → Recover all refrigerant using a certified recovery machine
8. How should a GM technician verify the correct refrigerant charge after an AC system recharge? → By measuring high and low side pressures and comparing to temperature-pressure charts
9. When replacing a GM engine control module (ECM), why must the replacement unit be a GM-approved part rather than a generic programmed module? → Generic modules may not support GM's proprietary security protocols and calibration data
10. Which GM system uses seat-mounted sensors to detect occupant weight and disable the passenger airbag for small occupants? → Both PSS and OCM are the same system with different names
11. What role does continuing education play in Diagnostic Technology? → Keeping practitioners current with evolving best practices and new developments
12. What additional benefit often comes with a GM Approved Pre-Owned vehicle? → Extended warranty coverage
13. What GM accreditation standard governs the minimum hours a dealership's service department must be open each week? → The GM Service Hours Availability Standard within the Dealer Operating Standards
14. Under GM's Courtesy Transportation Program, which of the following is the dealer's primary responsibility? → Ensure vehicles meet GM's minimum safety and condition standards
15. GM's Automatic High Beam (IntelliBeam) system switches between high and low beams based on which input? → Forward camera detection of oncoming and leading vehicle lights
16. In GM's accreditation framework, what does 'market representation planning' primarily determine? → Where GM authorizes dealers to be located based on customer demand in a geographic area
17. What is the primary purpose of the GM Parts Traceability system? → To verify part authenticity and ensure approved parts are used in repairs
18. Which GM feature provides audible and visual warnings when the vehicle approaches preset speed thresholds in Teen Driver mode? → Speed Alert
19. What is the primary purpose of GM's Dealer Standard Accounting (DSA) guidelines in the service department? → To ensure uniform financial reporting across all authorized dealerships
20. A dealership receives a batch of GM-branded parts from an unfamiliar third-party distributor at a steep discount. The parts department manager should: → Verify the distributor is an authorized GM parts supplier before accepting
21. What is the purpose of GM's Dealer Technology Requirements within the accreditation framework? → To ensure dealers use approved DMS and communication platforms integrated with GM systems
22. A GM technician performs a leak test on an AC system using which preferred method per current GM service procedures? → Electronic refrigerant leak detector or UV dye with UV lamp
23. On a GM vehicle, what condition would cause the PCM to set a P0171 (System Too Lean, Bank 1) diagnostic trouble code? → A large vacuum leak causing unmetered air to enter the intake
24. Which approach is most effective for problem-solving in Transmission and Drivetrain? → Systematic analysis followed by evidence-based decision making
25. Which document must be completed and retained by an authorized GM dealer when a vehicle is sold under the GM Employee Discount program? → The GM Employee Purchase Authorization form
26. On a GM dual-zone climate control system, what allows each side of the vehicle to maintain independent temperature settings? → A blend door actuator for each temperature zone
27. A customer wants to know if a GM CPO vehicle qualifies for special financing rates. What is the correct answer? → GM Financial may offer special APR for CPO vehicles
28. What is the most important foundational concept in Electrical Systems? → Understanding core principles and their practical application in Electrical Systems
29. A GM vehicle's automatic climate control is not responding to temperature inputs. The blower operates normally. Which component should be diagnosed first? → The HVAC control module and blend door actuators
30. A service advisor quotes a customer using a non-GM aftermarket brake caliper. Under GM Certified Service guidelines, this practice is: → Discouraged; approved GM or ACDelco parts should be the default recommendation