The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence recently completed surveys of automotive service professionals to evaluate the tasks performed most frequently in its automobile test series A1 to A9. Results will be used to update ASE task lists and exams.

Survey Participation

More than 36,000 responses were collected, covering areas such as engine repair, transmissions, electrical/electronic systems, brakes, suspension, steering, heating and air conditioning, diesel engines, and engine performance. Respondents rated on a five-point scale how often they performed specific ASE-listed tasks.

Industry Collaboration

Matt Shepanek, ASE vice president of credential testing programs, said the survey results help maintain certification standards. “We want to thank the professionals who shared their feedback. The responses provide valuable input and help guide ASE certification and training.”

ASE also held workshops with subject matter experts from independent repair shops, dealerships, after-market suppliers and OEMs to evaluate findings and recommend updates.

Test Updates

Based on the surveys, ASE will adjust the Engine Repair (A1) and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (A2) certification tests beginning in January. Results from the other categories will be reviewed for future updates. ASE also plans additional surveys to inform revisions to the Medium-Heavy Truck T1–T8 series.