ASE A5 Brakes practice test
The A5 test runs from hydraulics to ABS: pedal-feel diagnosis, pulls and pulsation, boosters, and electronic brake systems. One of the most popular ASE tests — and one where symptom-to-cause reasoning is everything.
A brake fluid reservoir is low but no leaks are found anywhere. Technician A says worn disc pads can explain the low level as the caliper pistons move outward. Technician B says the fluid should simply be topped off and the vehicle returned. Who is correct?
How the A5 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 a fixed passing percentage — scores are scaled. Around 65–70% correct is the commonly cited range; aim above 80% in practice so you walk in with margin. The certificate is issued once ASE verifies your required work experience.
What the A5 test covers
The official task list for A5 Brakes breaks down into these content areas — the practice bank above draws from all of them:
- Hydraulic system — master cylinder, fluid, bleeding, and valves
- Drum brakes — self-adjusters, hardware, and machining limits
- Disc brakes — pads, rotors, calipers, runout, and thickness variation
- Power assist — vacuum booster tests and hydro-boost
- ABS, traction, and stability control — sensors, diagnosis, and service precautions
- Wheel bearings and related hardware
Frequently asked
- How many questions are on the ASE A5 test?
- The A5 test has 45 scored questions plus about 10 unscored research questions, with a 75-minute time limit.
- What symptom questions come up most on A5?
- Pedal-feel diagnosis (spongy, sinking, pulsating, hard), brake pull direction logic, and noise causes. Learn what each symptom proves and rules out.
- Does A5 cover electric parking brakes?
- Modern task lists include electronic brake systems and their service precautions, such as placing an electronic parking brake in service mode before pad replacement.