ASE G1 study plan

Identify and locate the major mechanical systems of a gasoline engine (block, heads, valvetrain, timing drive, lubrication, cooling) on a diagram and on a live engine.

Explain the four-stroke cycle and correlate each stroke to valve, piston, and ignition events.

Diagnose three common engine mechanical complaints (oil consumption, coolant loss, unusual noise) by listing the test that confirms each cause.

Perform and interpret a compression test and a cylinder leak-down test, stating pass/fail criteria.

Trace the lubrication and cooling circuits from pump to return, naming each component and its failure symptom.

Describe the purpose and operation of the battery, starting, and charging systems using correct terminology (CEMF, parasitic draw, voltage drop).

Calculate expected voltage drop and resistance in a series/parallel circuit using Ohm's law.

Demonstrate safe and correct use of a DMM to measure voltage, resistance, current, and voltage drop on a live circuit.

Diagnose an open, short-to-ground, and high-resistance fault using a wiring diagram and a systematic test sequence.

Interpret OBD-II readiness monitors, freeze-frame data, and stored/pending DTCs to build a diagnostic path.

Connect and use a scan tool to read live data (fuel trims, O2 response, MAF/MAP, coolant temp) and state what each value indicates.

Explain the relationship between air/fuel metering, ignition, and emission control as it applies to a driveability complaint.

Diagnose a no-start, a rough idle, and a misfire by selecting the correct test sequence and interpreting the results.

Verify fuel delivery (pressure, volume, and injector operation) and ignition output using the correct tools.

Explain how fuel trim values shift in response to vacuum leaks, weak fuel delivery, and faulty sensors.

Distinguish mechanical, ignition, and fuel-related causes of a misfire and justify the diagnosis with data.

Identify the major components of an automatic transmission/transaxle and describe the function of the torque converter, planetary gearset, and hydraulic control circuit.

Perform and interpret a fluid level/condition check and explain the diagnostic meaning of fluid color, smell, and debris.

Describe the operation of disc, drum, and parking brake systems and identify the cause of common pedal-feel complaints (spongy, low, hard, fading).

Measure brake pad/shoe and rotor/drum thickness and compare results to specification.

Describe the power flow through a clutch, manual transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axle, and name the failure symptom for each stage.

Explain the difference between front-engine FWD, RWD, and AWD/4WD layouts including CV joints, universal joints, and transfer cases.

Identify suspension types (strut, SLA, live axle) and steering types (rack-and-pinion, recirculating ball) and their alignment implications.

Explain camber, caster, toe, and thrust angle, and predict the handling or tire-wear symptom produced by each being out of specification.

Explain the refrigeration cycle and identify the function of the compressor, condenser, expansion device, and evaporator.

Describe safe refrigerant handling, recovery/recycling procedures, and the required personal protective equipment.

Diagnose a no-cool and a no-heat complaint using pressure readings, vent temperature, and blend-door/actuator checks.

Trace the control circuit for a blower motor and HVAC actuator through a wiring diagram and state how to test each component.

Re-test every domain and rank them from weakest to strongest by score.

Re-study only the two lowest-scoring domains, focusing on the specific missed objectives rather than broad review.

Practice time management by completing a full-length timed practice exam under test-day conditions.

Explain, in writing, the correct diagnostic sequence for five frequently missed question types.