ASE B5 Mechanical & Electrical Components study plan

Calculate voltage, current, resistance, and voltage drop for series and parallel circuits using Ohm's law, then verify each calculation with a multimeter on a practice board or vehicle.

Test battery state of charge, cranking voltage, and parasitic draw, recording each reading against the manufacturer's specification for at least three vehicles.

Trace the full starting circuit and charging circuit on a wiring schematic, naming the function of every component from battery to starter and from alternator back to battery.

Write the step-by-step pinpoint test sequence for a no-crank complaint and for a no-charge complaint, listing expected readings at each step.

Locate opens, shorts, and high-resistance faults on a schematic by selecting the correct test (voltage drop versus resistance) for each fault type.

Perform one crimp repair and one solder repair on a sample harness, then confirm continuity and insulation integrity with a multimeter and visual inspection.

Diagnose lighting, wiper, horn, and power-accessory circuits for at least three faults, documenting the symptom, test, reading, and root cause.

Explain how fuses, relays, grounds, and circuit protection devices interact, and demonstrate relay coil and contact testing.

Identify the major engine mechanical systems (valve train, timing drive, lubrication, intake and exhaust) and state the function and failure symptom of each component.

Inspect belts, hoses, mounts, and gaskets and classify each as serviceable, worn, or failed using measurable criteria.

Interpret transmission fluid condition and level, and describe torque converter and planetary gearset operation in plain language.

Diagnose common driveline complaints by matching symptoms such as CV joint clicking, U-joint play, and differential whine to their likely causes.

Identify hydraulic brake system components, including master cylinder, proportioning valve, calipers, wheel cylinders, and ABS hydraulic units, and state each component's function.

Measure pad thickness, rotor thickness and runout, and drum diameter with the correct tools, then compare each measurement to specification.

Bleed a hydraulic brake system in the correct sequence and explain the properties and handling rules of DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 fluid.

Diagnose pedal-feel complaints (spongy, low, hard, fading) and list the likely causes and confirming tests for an ABS warning light.

Identify suspension designs (MacPherson strut, double wishbone, solid axle) and name the components and wear points of each.

Perform a dry-park steering test and a bounce test, then correlate the results with worn tie rods, ball joints, bushings, or struts.

Interpret camber, caster, and toe readings and match text-described tire wear patterns to the alignment angle most likely responsible.

Diagnose hydraulic power steering and electric power steering complaints, distinguishing pump, rack, sensor, and module faults.

Explain the refrigeration cycle component by component and describe the pressure and temperature relationship at the evaporator and condenser.

Interpret high-side and low-side gauge readings for six text-described operating scenarios and assign the correct diagnosis to each.

Describe blower motor, blend door, and mode door control circuits, then outline a diagnostic path for a no-cool and a no-heat complaint.

Sequence the refrigerant recovery, evacuation, leak check, and recharge procedure and state the safety and handling rules for refrigerant.

Identify SRS components, including front and side airbags, seat belt pretensioners, clockspring, impact sensors, and the control module, and state the function of each.

Sequence the safe service procedure for an SRS system: disable power, wait the specified time, verify deactivation, and use only the specified tester rather than a general ohmmeter.

Pressure-test a cooling system, test a thermostat and radiator cap, and identify water pump, fan clutch, and electric fan faults from observed symptoms.

Describe coolant flow through the engine, radiator, and heater core, and match coolant type and condition to service recommendations.

Complete a full-length timed practice exam under exam conditions and score every domain separately.

Build an error log that records every missed question, the domain, the reason for the error, and the correcting fact.

Re-drill the two lowest-scoring domains until each reaches at least 85% on a targeted follow-up set.

Review the quick-reference sheets and fault logs created in weeks 1 through 7 and consolidate them into a single final review sheet.