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ASE Automobile & Light Truck (A1–A8) — Practice Exam

A4 Steering: practice questions

Our ASE A1–A8 bank has 15 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.

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Question 1 · A4 Suspension & Steering

Excessive free play in the steering wheel is most often caused by what?

  1. A weak power steering pump that can't hold pressure
  2. Incorrect caster
  3. Worn tie rod ends, rack mounts or steering gear
  4. Low tire pressure
Show the answer

C. Worn tie rod ends, rack mounts or steering gear — Check all linkage joints with the wheels on the ground.

Question 2 · A4 Suspension & Steering

What does an EPS system use to assist steering?

  1. An electric motor controlled by a module using torque sensor input
  2. A pneumatic cylinder
  3. A belt-driven hydraulic pump with an electronic flow control valve
  4. Engine vacuum
Show the answer

A. An electric motor controlled by a module using torque sensor input — Low system voltage can reduce assist.

Question 3 · A4 Suspension & Steering

The steering wheel doesn't return to center after a turn. What is a possible cause?

  1. A binding steering column, gear or ball joint, or too little caster
  2. Too much positive caster on the right-hand side of the vehicle
  3. Worn shock absorbers
  4. Low brake fluid
Show the answer

A. A binding steering column, gear or ball joint, or too little caster — Caster provides most of the returning force.

Question 4 · A4 Suspension & Steering

In a parallelogram steering linkage, which part connects the pitman arm to the idler arm?

  1. The center link
  2. The steering knuckle
  3. The sway bar link
  4. The tie rod sleeve
Show the answer

A. The center link — Tie rods connect the center link to the steering knuckles.

Question 5 · A4 Suspension & Steering

A vehicle wanders on a straight road. Which steering problem could cause this?

  1. Correct toe
  2. Excessive positive caster on both front wheels
  3. Worn steering linkage or a loose steering gear
  4. New tires
Show the answer

C. Worn steering linkage or a loose steering gear — Also check alignment and tire pressures.

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