NAVTTC Auto Mechanic study plan

Label the four-stroke cycle and identify intake, compression, power and exhaust valve events on a cutaway or diagram with 90% accuracy.

Explain compression ratio, valve timing and camshaft drive layout, and state the symptom pattern for a jumped timing belt.

List the standard diagnostic sequence for a no-start petrol engine and match five common symptoms to probable causes.

Perform and record a dry and wet compression test procedure, including the interpretation of a wet-versus-dry pressure difference.

Describe cylinder head removal and refitting steps, including torque sequence and angle-torque practice for stretch bolts.

Diagnose abnormal engine noise by classifying knock, tap and rattle against bearing, tappet and piston causes.

Explain turbocharger and intercooler operation and list the checks for boost loss and oil seal failure.

Interpret a cooling-related head gasket failure using combustion gas test and coolant loss evidence.

Identify clutch components and explain release bearing, pressure plate and friction disc wear symptoms.

Describe manual gearbox power flow for three forward gears and reverse, and explain synchromesh action.

Diagnose clutch slip, drag and judder by linking each to a specific component and test.

Explain differential, final drive and constant velocity joint function and list wear inspection points.

Explain automatic transmission torque converter and planetary gearset operation at a conceptual level.

Describe hydraulic brake system layout, including master cylinder, proportioning valve and bleeding sequence.

Diagnose brake fade, pull and spongy pedal by naming the cause and the corrective action for each.

Identify suspension types, shock absorber and spring inspection criteria, and state the checks for worn bushings and ball joints.

Explain ABS operation, wheel speed sensor function and the meaning of a stored ABS fault code.

Measure battery voltage, parasitic drain and charging output using a multimeter, and state acceptable ranges.

Trace a cranking circuit from battery to starter through relay and ignition switch, and test each segment.

Interpret a basic wiring diagram and identify series, parallel and ground return paths.

Diagnose charging system undercharge and overcharge using alternator output and voltage drop tests.

Describe petrol fuel injection and common rail diesel fuel delivery at a component level, and list the checks for a lean-running fault.

Explain lubrication system flow, oil pump, filter bypass and the causes of low oil pressure.

Describe cooling system flow, thermostat and radiator function, and the procedure for pressure testing and air bleeding.

Explain steering box, rack and pinion and power steering operation, and list leak and play inspection points.

Define camber, caster, toe and steering axis inclination, and state the handling symptom of each being out of specification.

Describe the wheel alignment procedure and the pre-alignment checks that must precede measurement.

Diagnose tyre wear patterns and match each pattern to an alignment or suspension cause.

Demonstrate correct use and inspection of torque wrench, micrometers, vernier calipers and dial gauge, and state calibration checks.

List workshop hazards and the correct control for each, including jack and stand use, fuel handling and battery charging.

Explain personal protective equipment requirements and safe handling of coolant, brake fluid and used oil.

Apply a systematic five-step diagnostic routine to two integrated case faults spanning engine and electrical systems.