About Auto & Shop Information

Auto & Shop Information combines two related areas: automotive knowledge and shop/workshop knowledge. The automotive portion covers engine systems, electrical systems, brakes, transmissions, and basic vehicle maintenance. The shop portion covers common hand and power tools, fasteners, measuring instruments, and workshop safety. On the CAT-ASVAB, you have approximately 7 minutes for 25 questions (split between auto and shop). This section contributes to several composite line scores including MM (Mechanical Maintenance) and CO (Combat), making it important for mechanical and combat-related military jobs.

Topics Covered

Engine Systems (4-stroke cycle)
Cooling & Lubrication Systems
Electrical & Ignition Systems
Brake Systems
Transmission & Drivetrain
Hand Tools (wrenches, pliers, etc.)
Power Tools (drills, saws, etc.)
Fasteners (bolts, screws, nails)
Measuring Tools (calipers, micrometers)
Workshop Safety Practices

Sample Questions

Sample Question 1
In an automatic transmission, what does the torque converter do?
  • Shifts gears
  • Transfers engine power to transmission
  • Stores fuel
  • Cools the engine
The torque converter transfers and multiplies engine power to the transmission using fluid.
Sample Question 2
What is the function of the clutch in a manual transmission vehicle?
  • Apply brakes
  • Connect/disconnect engine from transmission
  • Steer the vehicle
  • Control air conditioning
The clutch connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission to allow gear changes.
Sample Question 3
What is the function of a car's differential?
  • To change gear ratios
  • To allow wheels to rotate at different speeds during turns
  • To transmit power from engine to transmission
  • To store brake fluid
The differential allows the drive wheels to rotate at different speeds when turning, as the outer wheel travels farther.

Study Tips for Auto & Shop Information

Learn the 4-Stroke Engine Cycle

Intake, Compression, Power, Exhaust. Understanding this cycle helps you answer many automotive questions about engine operation.

Know Your Tools

Be able to identify common hand tools and know their purposes. Focus on wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, and measuring tools.

Study Vehicle Systems

Understand how the major vehicle systems work together: engine, cooling, electrical, braking, and transmission.