ASE A1 Engine Repair practice test
The A1 test covers mechanical engine work: diagnosing noises and smoke, measuring wear, and repairing the head, block, and lubrication and cooling systems. These questions mirror the real test’s style — mostly diagnosis, including the two-technician format.
Rod bearing oil clearance is being checked. Technician A says the width of the crushed Plastigage strip is compared to the package scale to read the clearance. Technician B says the crankshaft must not be rotated while the Plastigage is installed. Who is correct?
How the A1 test works
45 scored questions
+ ~10 unscored research questions
75 minutes
computer-based, at a test center
$62 per test
plus one $34 registration fee per order
Valid 5 years
then a shorter recertification test
ASE does not publish one universal passing percentage; the passing standard is set by test. TorquePrep uses 80% as a conservative practice target, not as an official ASE cut score. The certificate is issued once ASE verifies your required work experience.
What the A1 test covers
The official task list for A1 Engine Repair breaks down into these content areas — the practice bank above draws from all of them:
- General engine diagnosis — noises, smoke color, leaks, compression, leak-down, and vacuum tests
- Cylinder head and valve train — valves, guides, seats, camshafts, and timing drives
- Engine block — pistons, rings, crankshaft, bearings, and cylinder measurement
- Lubrication and cooling — oil pressure diagnosis, pump wear, thermostat, and pressure testing
Frequently asked
- How many questions are on the ASE A1 test?
- The A1 test has 45 scored questions plus about 10 unscored research questions, with a 75-minute time limit.
- Is the A1 test mostly memorization?
- No — most questions are diagnostic scenarios: a symptom is described and you pick the most likely cause or the correct test procedure. Practice reasoning through symptoms, not memorizing part names.
- Do I need work experience to take A1?
- You can take the test at any time, but the certificate is only issued once ASE verifies the required hands-on work experience (or approved training in place of part of it).
Exam length, timing, fees, and content areas checked September 11, 2026 against the official ASE test table and ASE study guides.