NABTEB Motor Vehicle Mechanics study plan

Sketch and label the major components of a four-stroke petrol engine, stating the function of each in one sentence

Explain the four strokes of both petrol and diesel cycles, identifying valve and injector events on a timing diagram

Calculate engine capacity and compression ratio from given bore, stroke and clearance volume figures

Describe the path of coolant and lubricant through the engine, naming the pump, galleries, filter and radiator elements

Sequence the steps of an engine overhaul from removal to run-in, justifying the order of each stage

Select and correctly use measuring tools (micrometer, bore gauge, feeler gauge, vernier caliper) to check bore wear, taper and ovality

State the correct tightening sequence and torque procedure for a cylinder head and big-end bearings

Identify workshop hazards and match each to the correct PPE, fire extinguisher class or machine guard

Compare carburettor and electronic fuel injection operation, listing three advantages of each fuel delivery method

Trace the low- and high-tension circuits of a coil ignition system and explain how a faulty coil produces a weak spark

Describe how the ECU uses coolant temperature, oxygen and throttle position sensor signals to adjust fuelling

Set ignition timing to specification and explain the effect of over-advanced and retarded timing on performance and emissions

Diagnose clutch slip, drag and judder from described symptoms, and outline the inspection steps for each

Explain the power flow through a manual gearbox in three different gear ratios, naming shaft, gear and synchroniser components

Describe the construction and operation of the propeller shaft, universal joints and the final drive differential

Explain why a vehicle needs a differential and how crown wheel and pinion backlash and tooth contact are checked

Define camber, caster, kingpin inclination, toe-in and toe-out, and state the handling fault produced by each being out of specification

Identify the components of a rack-and-pinion and a steering box layout, and locate the adjustment points for play

Compare independent and rigid axle suspension layouts, naming spring, damper and linkage components

Describe how to check a shock absorber, ball joint and wheel bearing for wear and state the pass/fail criteria used

Explain the hydraulic principle behind braking force and describe the function of master cylinder, wheel cylinder, servo and proportioning valve

Sequence the correct procedure for bleeding a hydraulic braking system, including fluid grade and safety precautions

Measure brake pad thickness and disc run-out, and judge the result against typical service limits

Diagnose brake pull, spongy pedal, grabbing and ABS warning light faults, listing the test performed for each

Read a simple vehicle wiring diagram and trace a lighting circuit from battery through fuse, switch and earth

Test a battery, alternator and starter motor with a multimeter and state the readings that indicate a serviceable unit

Explain the operation of the charging and starting systems and identify the causes of a no-crank and a no-charge fault

Describe how sensors and actuators communicate with the ECU, and how to perform a voltage-drop test on an earth circuit

Construct a preventive maintenance schedule for a light vehicle at 5 000, 20 000 and 40 000 km intervals

Apply a systematic fault-diagnosis routine (verify, gather information, test, conclude, verify repair) to three unfamiliar complaints

Compile personal error list from earlier weeks and re-test every weak area

Complete a timed full-length mock examination under exam conditions and review every wrong answer