ASE A4 Steering Suspension Practice Test

16. The Electric Power Assist Steering EPAS systems controller requires input from all of the following EXCEPT:

  • A. The vehicle speed sensor.
  • B. The steering angle sensor.
  • C. The power steering pressure switch.
  • D. The torque sensor.

16.

Answer A is wrong. Steering torque, angle, engine, and vehicle speed sensor input are common to electric power steering systems.

Answer B is wrong. SAS (steering angle sensors) often require recalibration after installation.

Answer C is correct. This switch is used in hydraulic power steering systems to indicate the pressure inside the hydraulic line. The engine control module will increase the idle in high-demand situations, preventing the engine's idle from dropping too low.

Answer D is wrong. The motor is on the rack, pinion, or steering column. While test driving a vehicle with EPAS, the steering should feel progressively tighter as vehicle speed increases.

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17. A vehicle with (VES) variable assist steering feels loose and sloppy at highway speeds. Technician A says a problem with the vehicle speed sensor's signal to the controller will result in this condition. Technician B says a variable assist power steering system reduces hydraulic pressure at highway speeds. Who is correct?

  • A. Technician A
  • B. Technician B
  • C. Both A and B
  • D. Neither A or B

17.

Answer A is wrong. The (VAS) variable assist/effort steering system controller uses the VSS signal. It provides less pressure at highway speeds, resulting in a tighter feel. If the wheel feels loose or sloppy at highway speeds, suspect a VSS solenoid, circuit, or controller fault.

Answer B is wrong. An open or short in the solenoid or related circuit inhibits operation. Test an EVO solenoid for resistance with an ohmmeter and specifications.

Answer C is correct. If the steering feels sloppy at highway speeds, the variable orifice is not functioning and allowing too much hydraulic pressure.

Answer D is wrong. The orifice can become clogged, resulting in less assistance during parking maneuvers.

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18. A vehicle with a ribbed serpentine belt chirps when it first starts in the morning. Which of the following is the LEAST likely cause of this noise?

  • A. A worn serpentine belt.
  • B. Aerated power steering fluid.
  • C. A weak belt tensioner.
  • D. Moisture.

18.

Answer A is wrong. As automotive belts wear, they stretch and lose elasticity, making them vulnerable to noise and cracking.

Answer B is correct. Aerated power steering fluid results in a moaning sound from the pump whenever the steering wheel is turned. The chirp or squeal is most likely related to the accessory/serpentine belt.

Answer C is wrong. A weak belt tensioner produces a chirping or squealing sound. If a serpentine belt wears excessively on one of the edges, check pulley alignment.

Answer D is wrong. Condensation collects overnight and causes a squeal when the engine is first started. The serpentine belt or tensioner may need to be adjusted or replaced.

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19. Even at low speeds, a vehicle leans and has excessive body sway when turning. Which of the following is MOST likely causing this sway?

  • A. Worn control arm bushings.
  • B. A worn idler arm.
  • C. A binding ball joint.
  • D. Worn stabilizer bar bushings.

19.

Answer A is wrong. The worn or mis-adjusted control arm will not likely cause this condition.

Answer B is wrong. A worn idler arm is not likely to cause this condition.

Answer C is wrong. A worn ball joint is not likely to cause this condition.

Answer D is correct. The stabilizer or sway bar helps control vehicle roll or sway while cornering. Worn and broken sway bar bushings will result in excessive sway while cornering.

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20. After torquing a tapered ball joint to the spindle, the technician backs off the castle nut to install the cotter pin. Technician A says this procedure keeps the ball joint from binding. Technician B says this results in a loose fit and a clunking or popping sound. Who is correct?

  • A. Technician A
  • B. Technician B
  • C. Both A and B
  • D. Neither A or B

20.

Backing off the castle nut to install the cotter pin results in a loose fit and movement between parts.

Answer A is wrong. Ball joints allow the spindle to swivel as the vehicle turns. A clunking or popping sound occurs if there's excessive clearance between the ball and the socket.

Answer B is correct. Backing off the castle nut to install the cotter pin results in a loose fit and movement between parts.

Answer C is wrong. They provide for up and down movement as the vehicle brakes and travels over bumps in the road.

Answer D is wrong. Technician B is correct.

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