CAA Automotive Systems and Parts 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags that have deployed in a collision must generally be:
- Repacked and reused
- Removed with no replacement
- Recharged with compressed gas
- Replaced along with related components such as sensors or the clock spring as required (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Replaced along with related components such as sensors or the clock spring as required
Deployed airbags are single-use and must be replaced, often with associated modules or sensors per manufacturer procedures.
Question 2: An illuminated SRS warning light during an appraisal inspection most likely indicates:
- Low tire pressure
- A fault in the airbag or restraint system (Correct answer)
- An overdue oil change
- A failed brake light bulb
Correct answer: A fault in the airbag or restraint system
The SRS light signals the restraint system has detected a fault, which may disable airbags and reduce value.
Question 3: Which body-on-frame component is commonly inspected for kinks or welds to identify prior major collision damage on trucks and full-size SUVs?
- Frame rails (Correct answer)
- Rocker molding
- Door handles
- Grille
Correct answer: Frame rails
Kinks, wrinkles, or non-factory welds on frame rails indicate prior structural damage and repair.
Question 4: What is the function of a vehicle's thermostat in the cooling system?
- Pump coolant through the engine
- Cool the transmission fluid
- Regulate coolant flow to keep the engine at operating temperature (Correct answer)
- Pressurize the radiator
Correct answer: Regulate coolant flow to keep the engine at operating temperature
The thermostat stays closed until the engine warms, then opens to let coolant flow to the radiator.
Question 5: What does a turbocharger use to drive its compressor?
- A belt connected to the crankshaft
- An electric motor only
- The alternator
- Exhaust gas flow (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Exhaust gas flow
A turbocharger's turbine is spun by exhaust gases, which drives the compressor that forces more air into the engine.
Question 6: An appraiser measures paint thickness well above factory readings on one door. What does this most likely indicate?
- Original factory paint
- The panel has been refinished, possibly after damage repair (Correct answer)
- Clear coat failure from sun exposure
- Galvanized steel construction
Correct answer: The panel has been refinished, possibly after damage repair
Elevated paint-meter readings suggest added paint or body filler, indicating the panel was repaired or refinished.
Question 7: Which charging system component converts mechanical energy into electrical energy while the engine runs?
- Starter motor
- Battery
- Alternator (Correct answer)
- Voltage regulator
Correct answer: Alternator
The belt-driven alternator generates AC power, which is rectified to DC to charge the battery and run electrical loads.
CAA Automotive Systems and Parts 5
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags that have deployed in a collision must generally be: