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 official CAT-ASVAB, Auto Information (AI) is 10 scored questions with a 7-minute limit and Shop Information (SI) is 10 scored questions with a 6-minute limit. FreeASVAB combines those two official subtests into this one practice category. 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
What type of screwdriver is needed for a screw with a six-pointed star pattern?
  • Phillips
  • Flathead
  • Torx
  • Allen
Torx screws have a six-pointed star pattern and require a Torx driver.
Sample Question 2
What is the purpose of a car's mass airflow sensor?
  • Measure cabin temperature
  • Measure air entering the engine for fuel mixture calculation
  • Measure tire pressure
  • Measure oil level
The MAF sensor measures incoming air so the ECU can calculate proper fuel injection.
Sample Question 3
What is the purpose of engine oil?
  • To cool the radiator
  • To lubricate moving parts and reduce friction
  • To power the fuel injectors
  • To clean the air filter
Engine oil lubricates moving parts to reduce friction and wear, and also helps cool and clean the engine.

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.