ASE A5 case studies
ASE A5 · Put your knowledge to work in context.
ASE A5, part of the ASE Automobile Certification Test Series, is a multiple-choice certification test for automotive service professionals who diagnose and repair brake systems. It is aimed at working technicians - and at students preparing to enter the trade - who want third-party, industry-recognized verification of their brake knowledge rather than an employer-specific credential. The ASE A5 case studies are 5 cases and about 3,604 words.
1Pedal Sinks at a Stop - Master Cylinder or Something Downstream?
A 2017 half-ton pickup with four-wheel disc brakes and a vacuum booster comes in with a complaint that the brake pedal slowly sinks toward the floor when held at a long red light. Initial apply is firm and stopping distance feels normal.
767 words, about 4 min2Rear Drum Drag After Another Shop's Brake Job
A 2010 cargo van with rear drum brakes comes in after a rear brake job at another shop. The right rear drum is hot enough to smell after a 10-mile drive, and the van pulls right during light braking.
759 words, about 4 min3Pulsation Returns After an Off-Car Rotor Resurface
A 2019 midsize sedan has a pulsation felt in the steering wheel and pedal when braking from 60 to 30 mph. The front rotors were resurfaced off the car 4,000 miles ago.
721 words, about 4 min4Hard Pedal on a Hydro-Boost Truck
A 2013 diesel three-quarter-ton truck with hydro-boost brakes has a hard brake pedal and long stopping distances. Power steering assist feels normal, the fluid is at the full mark and not foamy, and there are no external leaks.
670 words, about 3 min5Low-Speed ABS Activation While Turning Right
A 2015 SUV comes in with the ABS light on and a complaint that the ABS kicks in at low speed while turning right into a parking space, and the pedal pulses. The light resets after a restart.
687 words, about 3 min