RBSE SS Voc Automotive study plan

Label and explain the function of every major component of a four-stroke petrol and diesel engine, from air intake to exhaust, without notes.

Sequence the correct dismantling and reassembly order for an engine top-end overhaul and state the torque-checking method for each fastener group.

Measure cylinder bore wear with a bore gauge and taper with a micrometer, then compare readings against a stated service limit.

Describe the purpose and adjustment procedure for valve clearance on both mechanical and hydraulic lash systems.

Produce a one-page fault chart linking low compression, oil consumption and abnormal noise to their likely engine causes.

Explain the operation of the lubrication and cooling systems and trace oil and coolant flow through each circuit.

Diagnose overheating and low-oil-pressure scenarios by ranking probable causes from cheapest to most invasive to check.

Describe the construction and service checks for the cylinder head, gasket and timing drive, including belt and chain tensioning.

Outline common rail and direct-injection petrol fuel system layouts and identify the high-pressure safety precautions for each.

Calculate engine swept volume, compression ratio and valve timing events from given bore, stroke and clearance figures.

Compare manual gearbox, torque-converter automatic, CVT, AMT and dual-clutch layouts by power path and typical failure modes.

Explain clutch operation, release mechanism and the checks used to confirm slip, drag and judder.

Trace power flow through a propeller shaft, universal joint, differential and final drive, and state the purpose of each.

Describe steering geometry angles (camber, caster, toe, KPI, included angle) and predict the handling effect of each being out of specification.

Identify suspension types and worn-component symptoms, and describe how to test shock absorbers, bushes and ball joints on the vehicle.

Explain battery construction, ratings (CCA, Ah, reserve capacity) and the correct procedure for testing, charging and jump-starting safely.

Trace starting and charging circuits from battery to motor and alternator, and interpret voltage-drop results to locate high resistance.

Describe ignition system evolution from contact breaker to coil-on-plug and state the diagnostic signature of each.

Read and interpret a wiring diagram to identify circuit protection, relays, grounds and connector pinouts for a given load.

Explain the role of sensors and actuators in engine management and how a scan tool reads live data and stored codes.

Describe multiplexed networks (CAN, LIN) at a block level and explain how a network fault presents as multiple unrelated symptoms.

Perform and record a structured road test and customer-interview routine that converts a complaint into a testable fault statement.

Apply a six-step diagnostic process to at least three case studies, documenting each decision point and rejected hypothesis.

Interpret emissions gas readings and OBD monitor status to distinguish ignition, fuelling and catalyst faults.

Build a preventive maintenance schedule with service intervals, fluid specifications and inspection points for one vehicle model.

Select the correct measuring instrument for a given task and state its resolution, range and calibration check.

Demonstrate reading and recording with vernier caliper, micrometer, dial indicator, feeler gauge, torque wrench and multimeter, including zero/parallax errors.

Classify automotive materials (steels, aluminium alloys, cast iron, composites, elastomers) by properties and typical application.

Describe heat treatment and its effect on component strength, hardness and service life.

Explain safe use of hand and power tools, including torque wrench care, puller use and lifting equipment selection.

Identify body panel materials and construction methods, and describe panel preparation, repair and replacement decisions.

Sequence the refinishing process from bare metal to final polish, naming each product layer and its purpose.

Diagnose common paint defects (orange peel, runs, blistering, colour mismatch) and state their cause and correction.

Apply workshop safety rules for fuel, battery, high-voltage, lifting and compressed air, and select the correct PPE for each task.

Describe waste segregation and disposal duties for oils, coolants, solvents, batteries and tyres under environmental rules.

Prepare and interpret vehicle documentation: registration, insurance, fitness certificate, emission certificate and service history.

Explain the purpose and basic content of job cards, estimates, invoices and warranty claims in a workshop.

Draft a short business case for a small automotive service outlet covering services, pricing, staffing and break-even logic.

Complete two timed mixed-domain mock tests and review every wrong answer to its source concept.

Build a personal revision sheet of the 40 facts you most often miss across all eight domains.