How to Get the L1 ASE Study Guide and Practice Test
Being a mechanic requires hard work and the ability to master many different skills. But the work does not end just because you graduated from an automotive technical school. The best automotive technician positions usually go to those who have earned an ASE certification in at least one area. Becoming a master technician is a great way to increase your income and make your resume shine.
Testing and certification of master technicians are conducted by NIASE (National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence). They offer over 40 different certifications in various general and specialist areas of expertise. L1 is the exam to become an advanced engine performance technician who is a technician capable of diagnosing complex handling and emissions problems in cars, SUVs and light trucks. In order to obtain an L1 certification, you must first pass the A8 Automotive Engine Performance Test.
Topics covered in the L1 exam include:
- General power transmission
- Computerized powertrain control (including OBD II)
- Ignition systems
- Fuel and air supply systems
- Emission control systems
- I/M test failures
There are many resources available online to help you prepare, including L1 study guides and practice tests.
Site ACE
NIASE provides study guides free of charge covering the material for each test they offer. These guides are available from the PDF download links on the Test Prep & Training page. To prepare thoroughly, you will also need to download the Composite Vehicle Type 4 Reference Booklet, which is a study guide to be used before and during the test. This booklet contains information about the compound transmission control system that is mentioned in the exam questions.
You can also access the L1 practice test on the ASE website, along with practice versions of any other exam, for $14.95 each (for the first one or two), and then a little less if you want to access more. Practice tests are conducted online and work on a voucher system - you buy a voucher that unlocks a code, and then you use that code on any test you want to take. There is only one version of each practice test.
The practice version is half the length of the actual test, and after that you will receive a progress report that will tell you which questions you answered incorrectly and which ones you answered correctly.
Third Party Sites
There are websites and aftermarket programs offering ASE study guides and practice tests, which you will quickly find out when you start looking for L1 study guides. NIASE recommends using a combination of methods for preparation; however, they do not review or endorse any specific after-sales service program. For informational purposes, they maintain a list of companies on the ASE website. Review your options carefully to make sure you are getting a reputable program with accurate study information.
Passing the test
Once you have prepared as thoroughly as possible, you can schedule a day to take the actual exam. The NIASE website provides information on how to find test sites and schedule a test day at a time that is convenient for you. Year-round dates available, including weekends. All ASE testing is now computer-based, as the institute has stopped written testing since 2012.
The L1 Advanced Engine Performance Specialist exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions in addition to 10 or more questions that are used for statistical purposes only. These optional unrated questions are not marked as such, so you won't know which ones are rated and which aren't. You will need to answer each one to the best of your ability.
NIASE recommends that you do not schedule any other tests for the day you take L1 due to the complexity of the topic. Earning an L1 certification will help you advance your career in the automotive industry and will also give you the satisfaction of knowing your skill level is up to the mark.
If you are already a certified mechanic and would like to work with AvtoTachki, please apply online for the opportunity to become a mobile mechanic.
