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ASE Undercar Specialist Designation

Objective: To identify and recognize those technicians who can demonstrate knowledge of the skills necessary to diagnose and repair automobile brakes, suspension and steering, and exhaust systems.

Scope of Program: The ASE Undercar Specialist designation recognizes technicians who have demonstrated knowledge of the skills in Suspension and Steering (A4) and Brakes (A5) from the Automobile/Light Truck Test Series, and Exhaust Systems (X1) from the Specialty Test Series. Although it is not a stand-alone certification, Exhaust Systems (X1) has been combined as a technical complement to test technicians’ knowledge of exhaust system inspection and repair, fabrication, installation, emissions systems diagnosis and repair, and exhaust system repair regulations. This designation is intended for those professionals who service and repair these undercar systems.

Test Development: The questions that appear on these tests are written and approved by a cross-section of industry experts that includes working automobile technicians, vocational educators, aftermarket parts and equipment manufacturers, and representatives from automobile manufacturers both foreign and domestic. This procedure ensures that the tests are fair for all technicians without bias towards any specific automobile manufacturer.

Format: The scored portion of each of the tests consists of 40-50 multiple-choice questions that address various content areas. Each test may contain up to ten additional questions that are included for statistical research purposes only. Answers to these questions do not affect test scores, but since they are not separately identified in the test, all questions should be answered.

Prerequisite: Those registering for the Exhaust Systems (X1) test must be currently certified in the Automobile Suspension and Steering (A4) and Brakes (A5) test categories. Technicians may NOT register for the X1 test if either the A4 and/or A5 certification has expired, even if they plan to take the A4 and/or A5 recertification test.

Certification Requirements: To earn the Undercar Specialist designation, technicians must be currently certified in the Automobile Technician Test series areas of Suspension and Steering (A4) and Brakes (A5), and pass the Exhaust Systems (X1) test.

Recognition: Those who earn certification will be issued wallet and wall credentials, plus an appropriate sleeve insignia. They will also receive ASE’s Blue Seal Tech News newsletter.

Recertification: To remain certified and keep the undercar specialist designation, technicians must be retested every five years. This requirement ensures ASE-certified technicians are staying current with changes in the industry. Those registering for the X1 recertification test must be currently certified in A4 and A5.

Fees: There is a $36 non-refundable registration fee per person and a $27 fee for each test when taken in paper/pencil format.

Registration: The Undercar Specialist test is available in Paper/Pencil test format only.  The tests are offered every May and November at over 700 test centers nationwide.  Click here for more information on registering for tests.

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