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
Which type of screw is designed to be used with a nut?
  • Wood screw
  • Sheet metal screw
  • Machine screw
  • Lag screw
Machine screws have uniform threads designed to work with nuts or threaded holes.
Sample Question 2
What does the 'timing belt' in an engine synchronize?
  • Alternator and water pump
  • Crankshaft and camshaft
  • Fuel pump and injectors
  • Starter and battery
The timing belt synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft to ensure proper valve timing.
Sample Question 3
What is the purpose of the PCV valve?
  • Control fuel injection
  • Recirculate crankcase gases
  • Regulate oil pressure
  • Control turbo boost
The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve recirculates blow-by gases to be burned.

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.