Truck and Transport Mechanic - Exam Information
Table of Contents
Self-Assessment
This tool can be used to reflect on your own experience and knowledge in the trade compared with what is on the exam.
Exam Breakdown
Each Red Seal exam's questions are developed to assess the activities laid out in the National Occupational Analysis. This trade's Red Seal exam has 150 questions Footnote *, which are distributed as follows:
Block A - Common Occupational Skills - 9 questions
Block B - Engine And Supporting Systems - 26 questions
Block C - Air Systems and Brakes - 21 questions
Block D - Electrical and Electronic Systems - 25 questions
Block E - Drive Train - 18 questions
Block F - Steering, Chassis/Frames, Suspension, Wheels, Hubs And Tires - 21 questions
Block G - Cab - 6 questions
Block H - Trailers - 7 questions
Block I - Climate Control - 9 questions
Block J - Hydraulic Systems - 8 questions
Types of Exam Questions
All Red Seal exam questions are written in multiple-choice format. A multiple-choice question consists of question followed by four possible responses (A, B, C, D). Every question has exactly one correct answer and three incorrect options. They are not misleading or trick questions, but the incorrect options are not always obvious.
There are three types of questions that you will see on Red Seal Exams:
- Knowledge and Recall
- Procedural and Application
- Critical Thinking
Knowledge and Recall
This type of question tests your ability to recall and understand definitions, facts and principles.
For this trade, less than 10% of questions that are this type.
Example of a Knowledge and Recall Question:
What is the recommended ratio when mixing antifreeze concentrate with water to use as an engine coolant?
- 30% water, 70% antifreeze.
- 50% water, 50% antifreeze.
- 70% water, 30% antifreeze.
- 75% water, 25% antifreeze.
Answer: B
Procedural and Application
This type of question tests your ability to apply your knowledge of procedures to a situation.
For this trade, between 50 and 60% of questions are this type.
Example of a Procedural and Application Question:
An engine is losing coolant, but there is no external leakage. What is done?
- Pressurize the oil system, then check for oil in the cooling system.
- Pressurize the fuel system, then check for signs of fuel in the coolant.
- Run engine to operating temperature, then check exhaust manifold for poor cylinder performance with a thermometer.
- Drain the oil, pressurize the cooling system, then check for coolant leaks at the drain plug.
Answer: D
Critical Thinking
This type of question tests your ability to interpret data, solve problems and arrive at valid conclusions.
For this trade, between 35 and 45% of questions are this type.
Example of a Critical Thinking Question:
An engine is running at 1 000 RPM. The alternator output reads 12 V and 0 A. What is the cause?
- Battery is defective.
- One positive diode is open.
- One negative diode is open.
- Voltage regulator is defective.
Answer: D
Try more sample questions for this trade and check out the Exam Preparation Guide. It will give you practical insights on what goes into Red Seal exams, and how you can best prepare yourself to do well.
For more information about exam preparation materials contact your provincial/territorial apprenticeship office.