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Question 1

Score: 0/0

A technician is diagnosing a vehicle where the steering wheel does not return to center after making a turn. Which component should be inspected FIRST?

Steering gear adjustment

Steering column U-joints and flexible coupling

Power steering pump pressure

Tie rod ends

to track

2026 Statistics

Key Facts: ASE A4 Exam

Scored Questions

ASE A4 Exam

60 min

Time Limit

ASE

~70%

Passing Score

ASE

$53

Exam Fee

ASE (plus $34 registration)

5 years

Certification Valid

ASE

28%

Wheel Alignment

Key content area

The ASE A4 Suspension and Steering exam has 40 scored questions plus 10 research questions, with a 60-minute time limit. The exam covers 4 content areas: Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair (30%), Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair (30%), Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair (28%), and Wheel and Tire Diagnosis and Service (12%). ASE certifications are valid for 5 years and are recognized throughout the automotive industry.

Sample ASE A4 Practice Questions

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1A technician is diagnosing a vehicle where the steering wheel does not return to center after making a turn. Which component should be inspected FIRST?

A.Steering gear adjustment

B.Steering column U-joints and flexible coupling

C.Power steering pump pressure

D.Tie rod ends

Explanation: The steering column U-joints and flexible coupling are the first components to inspect when the steering wheel does not return to center. Binding in these components can prevent the steering wheel from returning to center properly. The U-joints should rotate smoothly without binding or excessive play. While steering gear adjustment and power steering pressure can affect steering feel, binding in the column components is the most common cause of poor steering return.

2When replacing a steering column with an airbag, what is the proper procedure?

A.Disconnect the battery and wait 30 seconds before beginning work

B.Remove the airbag fuse only

C.Disconnect the battery and wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work

D.No special precautions are needed if the ignition is off

Explanation: When servicing steering columns or components equipped with airbags, the battery must be disconnected and the technician must wait at least 3 minutes (or follow manufacturer-specified time) for the airbag system capacitor to discharge completely. This prevents accidental airbag deployment. Additionally, the service manual procedure for disabling and enabling the airbag system must be followed exactly.

3Technician A says that collapsible steering columns are designed to absorb energy during a frontal collision. Technician B says that tilt and telescoping steering columns require special lubrication procedures. Who is right?

A.A only

B.B only

C.Both A and B

D.Neither A nor B

Explanation: Both technicians are correct. Collapsible steering columns are indeed designed to compress and absorb energy during a frontal collision, reducing the risk of driver injury. Tilt and telescoping steering columns do require special lubrication and maintenance procedures to ensure smooth operation and prevent binding. Always follow manufacturer specifications for lubrication types and intervals.

4A vehicle has excessive steering play and a clunking noise when turning the steering wheel. The noise appears to come from the steering column area. What is the most likely cause?

A.Worn rack and pinion steering gear

B.Worn intermediate shaft U-joint

C.Low power steering fluid

D.Worn outer tie rod ends

Explanation: A worn intermediate shaft U-joint is the most likely cause of excessive play and clunking noise originating from the steering column area. The intermediate shaft connects the steering column to the steering gear and contains U-joints that can wear out over time, causing play and noise. The location of the noise is the key diagnostic clue - if it comes from the column area, suspect the intermediate shaft or column components rather than the rack and pinion or tie rods.

5What type of power steering fluid should be used in most modern vehicles with hydraulic power steering?

A.Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) only

B.The specific fluid type specified by the vehicle manufacturer

C.Any hydraulic fluid

D.Engine oil

Explanation: Always use the specific power steering fluid type specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Some vehicles require automatic transmission fluid (ATF), while others require specific power steering fluids with different viscosity and additive properties. Using the wrong fluid can cause seal damage, poor performance, or system failure. Check the owner's manual or service information for the correct fluid specification.

6During a power steering pressure test, the pressure reading is normal when the steering wheel is turned to the left stop but below specification when turned to the right stop. What is the most likely cause?

A.Faulty power steering pump

B.Internal leakage in the steering gear

C.Restricted power steering hose

D.Worn steering linkage

Explanation: When power steering pressure is normal in one direction but low in the other, internal leakage in the steering gear is the most likely cause. The power steering pump is working correctly if it produces normal pressure in one direction. Internal seals or valves in the steering gear that are specific to one direction of assist may be leaking or damaged. This would require steering gear replacement or rebuilding.

7A vehicle with rack and pinion steering has a power steering fluid leak. The leak appears to be coming from the area where the steering column connects to the steering gear. What component is most likely leaking?

A.Power steering pump seal

B.Rack and pinion steering gear input shaft seal

C.Power steering hose connection

D.Steering column U-joint

Explanation: The rack and pinion steering gear input shaft seal is the most likely source of a leak at the connection between the steering column and steering gear. This seal prevents power steering fluid from leaking where the input shaft enters the steering gear housing. If the seal wears out or is damaged, fluid will leak at this location. The input shaft seal can be replaced on some steering gears, while others require complete gear replacement.

8When adjusting a conventional (non-rack and pinion) steering gear, what two adjustments are typically made?

A.Worm bearing preload and sector lash

B.Rack preload and pinion depth

C.Worm depth and sector angle

D.Pinion preload and rack backlash

Explanation: Conventional recirculating ball steering gears typically have two main adjustments: worm bearing preload and sector lash (also called pitman shaft overcenter preload). Worm bearing preload removes play in the worm shaft bearings, while sector lash adjusts the mesh between the sector shaft and the ball nut. These adjustments must be made in the correct sequence and to manufacturer specifications to ensure proper steering feel and prevent premature wear.

9A technician is performing a power steering system flush. What is the correct procedure?

A.Drain the reservoir and refill with new fluid

B.Disconnect the return hose, run the engine while adding new fluid until clean fluid exits

C.Use a power steering fluid exchange machine following manufacturer procedures

D.Both B and C are acceptable methods

Explanation: Both methods are acceptable for flushing a power steering system. The manual method involves disconnecting the return hose, directing it into a drain container, running the engine while turning the steering wheel, and adding new fluid until clean fluid exits. Power steering fluid exchange machines are also available and provide a more complete flush by exchanging nearly all the fluid. Always follow manufacturer-specified procedures and use the correct fluid type.

10A vehicle equipped with electric power steering (EPS) has intermittent loss of power assist. Technician A says a failing torque sensor could be the cause. Technician B says a poor ground connection could be the cause. Who is right?

A.A only

B.B only

C.Both A and B

D.Neither A nor B

Explanation: Both technicians are correct. Electric power steering systems rely on input from the torque sensor to determine how much assist to provide. A failing torque sensor can cause intermittent or incorrect assist. Additionally, EPS systems require good electrical connections, including proper grounding. A poor ground connection can cause intermittent operation, error codes, or complete loss of assist. Both components should be checked when diagnosing intermittent EPS problems.

About the ASE A4 Exam

The ASE A4 Suspension and Steering certification tests knowledge of steering systems diagnosis and repair, suspension systems diagnosis and repair, wheel alignment diagnosis and adjustment, and wheel and tire diagnosis and service. Passing this exam earns you the A4 certification, part of the ASE Master Automobile Technician credential.

Questions

40 scored questions

Time Limit

60 minutes

Passing Score

~70%

Exam Fee

$53 (exam) + $34 (registration) (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE))

ASE A4 Exam Content Outline

30%

Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair

Steering columns and steering shafts, steering gear types and diagnosis, power steering systems (hydraulic and electric), steering linkage components and inspection

30%

Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair

Front suspension components (control arms, ball joints, struts, springs), rear suspension systems (leaf springs, coil springs, control arms), shock absorbers and struts, stabilizer bars and links

28%

Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair

Camber, caster, toe angles and their effects, SAI and included angle, thrust angle and setback, four-wheel alignment procedures, ride height inspection

12%

Wheel and Tire Diagnosis and Service

Tire inspection and tread wear patterns, tire mounting and balancing, TPMS systems, tire repair procedures, wheel runout and damage inspection

How to Pass the ASE A4 Exam

What You Need to Know

Passing score: ~70%
Exam length: 40 questions
Time limit: 60 minutes
Exam fee: $53 (exam) + $34 (registration)

Keys to Passing

Complete 500+ practice questions
Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
Focus on highest-weighted sections
Use our AI tutor for tough concepts

ASE A4 Study Tips from Top Performers

1Master steering system diagnosis — know how to identify worn components and system failures

2Understand suspension component wear patterns and their effects on handling

3Study wheel alignment angles: camber, caster, toe, SAI, and their interrelationships

4Know the alignment adjustment sequence: caster first, then camber, then toe

5Learn tire wear patterns and what they indicate about alignment problems

6Understand power steering system diagnosis including pressure testing

7Study TPMS operation and service procedures

8Know proper torque procedures for suspension and steering fasteners

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is the ASE A4 Suspension and Steering exam?

The ASE A4 exam is considered moderately difficult with a 60-70% pass rate. It requires hands-on experience combined with theoretical knowledge. Most technicians with 2+ years of experience who study for 25-35 hours pass on their first attempt. The exam tests practical diagnostic skills and alignment knowledge.

How many questions are on the ASE A4 exam?

The ASE A4 exam has 40 scored multiple-choice questions plus 10 unscored research questions (50 total), with a 60-minute time limit. The research questions are used for future exam development and do not count toward your score. You need approximately 70% to pass.

What experience do I need to take the ASE A4 exam?

ASE recommends 2 years of on-the-job experience in suspension and steering repair before testing. However, you can take the exam without experience. If you pass without meeting experience requirements, you receive certification once you complete the experience. Formal training from an automotive program can substitute for part of the experience requirement.

How do I become an ASE Master Technician?

To become an ASE Master Automobile Technician, you must pass all eight A-series exams: A1 Engine Repair, A2 Automatic Transmission/Transaxle, A3 Manual Drive Train and Axles, A4 Suspension and Steering, A5 Brakes, A6 Electrical/Electronic Systems, A7 Heating and Air Conditioning, and A8 Engine Performance. Certifications are valid for 5 years.

How much does ASE certification cost?

The ASE A4 exam costs $53 per test. There is also a $34 registration fee per test window (you can take multiple tests in one window for a single registration fee). Recertification costs $41 per test. Many employers reimburse ASE certification costs as part of their technician development programs.