RBSE Prav Voc Automotive study plan

Explain the four-stroke cycle of both spark-ignition and compression-ignition engines, naming each stroke and the valve and piston events that define it.

Identify and state the function of the major engine components: cylinder block, head, piston, rings, connecting rod, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, and timing drive.

Describe the difference between petrol and diesel combustion, including ignition by spark versus ignition by compression heat.

Calculate engine displacement and compression ratio from bore, stroke, and clearance volume, and interpret what a change in compression ratio does to efficiency and knock risk.

Label a cooling system and a lubrication system flow path, stating where the thermostat, water pump, radiator, oil pump, and filter sit in the circuit.

Explain how a manual gearbox achieves different ratios through gear pairs and how the synchroniser prevents gear clash during a shift.

Trace torque flow through a clutch, gearbox, propeller shaft, differential, and final drive to the road wheels, and state the purpose of each stage.

Compare automatic, CVT, and dual-clutch transmissions on how they change ratio and where they lose efficiency.

Describe the layout and function of front and rear suspension types, including MacPherson strut, double wishbone, and leaf spring, and identify which alignment angles each allows adjusting.

Explain the effect of camber, caster, toe, and steering axis inclination on tyre wear and straight-line stability.

Perform a full periodic service sequence on a training vehicle or simulator: engine oil and filter, air filter, fluid level checks, belt inspection, and tyre condition and pressure.

Select the correct tool for ten given workshop tasks and justify each choice by fastener type, torque, and access constraints.

Demonstrate correct use of a torque wrench, including setting, applying, and resetting it, and explain why a torque wrench is not used to loosen fasteners.

Measure brake pad thickness, tyre tread depth, and battery terminal voltage with the correct instrument, and record each reading to the precision the instrument allows.

Interpret a vehicle service schedule and build a checklist that covers every item due at a stated mileage.

Explain the purpose of the battery, starter motor, alternator, and earth return path, and trace the cranking and charging circuits from component to component.

Use a multimeter to measure voltage, resistance, and current, and state which measurement mode applies to testing a circuit for an open, a short, and excessive resistance.

Describe how a hydraulic braking system generates, transmits, and multiplies force, naming the master cylinder, proportioning valve, caliper, and wheel cylinder.

Explain the operation of ABS and the role of the wheel speed sensors, hydraulic modulator, and ECU during a low-friction stop.

Identify the safety systems fitted to a modern vehicle, including airbags, seat belt pretensioners, and stability control, and state the precautions required before working near them.

Apply a structured diagnostic routine to a described fault: gather the customer complaint, confirm the symptom, form a hypothesis, test, and verify the repair.

Interpret fault codes and live data from an OBD scan tool, and distinguish a code that identifies a failed component from one that identifies a symptom.

Diagnose three given scenarios, such as a no-crank condition, an overheating engine, and a brake pedal that sinks, by stating the most likely causes in order of probability and the test that would confirm each.

Perform a visual and functional inspection of steering, suspension, and braking components and record wear against specification.

Explain why a repair is not complete until the original complaint is re-tested and the cause, not only the symptom, has been addressed.

Identify the hazards and required controls for ten workshop situations, including fuel handling, battery charging, lifting a vehicle, welding, and working with compressed air.

Demonstrate correct use of a two-post lift or jack and axle stands, including checking the lifting points and testing stability before working underneath.

Explain the correct storage, labelling, and disposal route for waste oil, coolant, brake fluid, and used batteries under environmental regulations.

Select the correct personal protective equipment for a stated task and justify each item chosen.

Describe the fire classes present in a workshop and match each to the correct extinguisher type.

Describe the architecture of a battery electric vehicle, including the traction battery, inverter, motor, and regenerative braking, and contrast its service requirements with those of an internal combustion vehicle.

Explain how hybrid systems, start-stop, and advanced driver assistance systems change the way a technician diagnoses and repairs a vehicle.

Draft a quotation for a repair, separating parts, labour at a stated hourly rate, and consumables, and calculate the total including tax.

Write a customer-facing explanation of a technical fault in plain language, avoiding jargon, and confirm the customer's understanding.

Outline the steps and considerations for starting an independent workshop, covering licensing, insurance, tooling investment, and record keeping.

Complete a timed full-length practice paper under exam conditions and record the score for each domain.

Review every incorrect answer and write the correct reasoning in your own words rather than copying the answer key.

Re-drill the two weakest domains identified by the practice paper until you can explain each key concept without notes.

Recite the key formulas, specifications, and safety rules from memory in a single condensed revision sheet.

Simulate the practical stations you will be assessed on and rehearse the spoken explanation you would give an examiner.