MTTC Automotive Trade Test study plan

Diagnose four-stroke engine mechanical faults by tracing compression, vacuum, and oil-pressure symptoms to a specific cause on paper

Explain the function and failure modes of the major engine mechanical subsystems: lubrication, cooling, valve train, and timing drive

Build a one-page diagnostic decision tree that links compression-test, cylinder-leakage, and vacuum-gauge readings to likely faults

List the engine-performance-related electrical and fuel inputs that affect drivability, and note which sensor failures produce which symptom

Apply engine-performance diagnostic strategy to fuel, ignition, and air-induction complaints by ordering tests from least to most invasive

Interpret scan-tool data for fuel trim, mass airflow, oxygen sensor, and misfire counters and tie abnormal values to a root cause

Describe how a starting and charging system interacts with engine performance and no-start complaints

Trace a basic wiring diagram for a sensor circuit and identify power, ground, signal, and reference voltage points

Explain the behavior of series, parallel, and series-parallel circuits and apply Ohm's law to calculate voltage drop, current, and resistance

Identify the correct meter, test light, or scope for a given electrical test and state the safety precautions for each

Demonstrate safe use of hand tools, lifting equipment, and jack stands by writing a step-by-step procedure for a vehicle lift

Describe proper handling, storage, and disposal of shop chemicals and fluids per environmental rules

Compare automatic transmission power-flow paths, clutch packs, and torque converter operation and explain how each affects shift quality

Describe manual transmission and clutch operation, including gear ratios, synchronizers, and release mechanisms

Identify suspension and steering component functions and explain how worn parts produce specific handling complaints

Explain the purpose and sequence of a four-wheel alignment and the effect of camber, caster, and toe on tire wear and steering feel

Diagnose common steering and suspension complaints by matching symptoms such as pull, wander, vibration, and uneven tire wear to probable causes

Explain hydraulic and antilock braking system operation, including master cylinder, proportioning, and wheel-speed sensor functions

Describe brake inspection and service procedures, including measurement of pad, rotor, and drum wear against specification

Identify safety-critical brake and steering defects that require the vehicle to be taken out of service

Outline the refrigeration cycle and explain the function of the compressor, condenser, expansion device, and evaporator

Describe safe refrigerant handling, recovery, evacuation, and charging procedures and the environmental rules that govern them

Diagnose common HVAC complaints such as no cooling, weak airflow, and blend-door temperature problems by test sequence

Explain how the HVAC system interacts with electrical controls, blower circuits, and engine cooling

Describe the components of an effective CTE lesson plan and align objectives, activities, and assessments for an automotive task

Explain how to differentiate instruction and integrate safety training into hands-on automotive lab work

Summarize workplace safety, environmental compliance, and professional ethics obligations for an automotive technician

Identify the rights, responsibilities, and documentation practices expected in a professional shop setting

Review all nine domains using a weighted checklist and log every missed item from practice sets

Retake timed practice sets for the two heaviest domains and score at or above 85 percent

Rehearse written explanations of diagnostic reasoning for engine performance and electrical faults

Finalize a test-day plan covering timing, question strategy, and content areas needing one last review