Inspection Practice Exam Questions And

ASE T8 Preventive Maintenance & Inspection Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a preventive maintenance program?
• Reduce labor costs
• Prevent breakdowns and extend equipment life
• Increase fuel consumption
• Replace parts unnecessarily

Rationale: Preventive maintenance is designed to detect and correct

problems before failures occur, thereby extending equipment life and avoiding costly repairs.

2. When performing an oil change, the oil filter should be replaced:

• Every 50,000 miles
• Every oil change 1 / 4

• Only when it leaks
• Every 100,000 miles

Rationale: Replacing the oil filter at every oil change ensures contaminants

are removed from the system and the engine is protected.

3. Tire pressure should be checked:

• Once a year
• Only when tires look flat
• Monthly and before long trips
• Only in cold weather

Rationale: Regularly checking tire pressure ensures proper tire wear, fuel

efficiency, and safe handling.

• Which of the following is a sign that a serpentine belt needs

replacement?

• Smooth, shiny surface
• Proper tension
• Cracks or fraying
• Uniform color

Rationale: Cracks, fraying, or glazing on the belt indicate wear and the

potential for failure, signaling replacement is needed.

5. The primary function of coolant in a vehicle is to:

• Lubricate the engine
• Clean the engine 2 / 4

• Regulate engine temperature
• Improve fuel economy

Rationale: Coolant absorbs and dissipates heat, preventing overheating

and protecting engine components.

• During a preventive maintenance inspection, a loose battery cable

should be:

• Ignored if the vehicle starts
• Cleaned only
• Tightened and cleaned
• Replaced

Rationale: Loose or corroded battery cables can prevent starting, so they

must be cleaned and tightened to maintain proper electrical connection.

• When inspecting brake pads, a minimum thickness of ____ is generally

considered safe for most vehicles:

• 1/16 inch
• 1/32 inch
• 1/4 inch
• 1/8 inch

Rationale: Brake pads should be replaced at or above 1/8 inch thickness to

ensure proper braking performance and safety.

• What is the main cause of premature tire wear?
• Cold weather 3 / 4

• Improper alignment or inflation
• Tire brand
• Fuel type

Rationale: Incorrect wheel alignment or tire pressure causes uneven wear

patterns and shortens tire life.

• Which of the following fluids should be checked at every preventive

maintenance inspection?

• Transmission fluid
• Brake fluid
• Engine oil
• All of the above

Rationale: Checking all essential fluids ensures proper operation, prevents

damage, and avoids costly repairs.

• What is a common sign that a vehicle’s suspension components

need inspection?

• Fuel efficiency increases
• Uneven tire wear or excessive bouncing
• Brake pedal feels firm
• Engine runs smoothly

Rationale: Worn shocks, struts, or bushings cause poor handling and

uneven tire wear, indicating maintenance is required.

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