Gino 1 Seibi › 30-day study plan
A 30-day study plan for the SSW (i) maintenance exam
This is a 30-day framework that follows the official scope (engine and chassis) and the features the app really has. Adjust it to your time and background; the plan does not guarantee a result.
Last updated: 2026-10-10
At a glance
- 4weeks, one focus each
- 30-60minutes a day as a baseline
- 3free papers to start
- 1-3-7day review of missed items
Principles
- Both parts must pass: theory 65% (20 of 30) and practical 60%. The plan makes time for both.
- Try to recall before you look at the answer. Redo missed items after 1, 3 and 7 days.
- Read a few gauge faces every day, even in weeks focused on other topics.
Week 1 (days 1 to 7): get started and study the engine
- Day 1: read the exam format and take Exam 01 untimed to see your starting point.
- Days 2 to 6: study the engine: four-stroke cycle, cooling, lubrication, fuel and ignition. Redo missed engine items each day.
- Day 7: read how to answer ○× items and review the week's missed items.
Week 2 (days 8 to 14): chassis and brakes
- Days 8 to 12: study chassis and brakes: clutch, transmission, differential, brakes, steering, suspension, tyres.
- Day 13: take Exam 02 and compare each part with Exam 01.
- Day 14: review missed items and learn the vocabulary from them.
Week 3 (days 15 to 21): electrics, tools, materials
- Days 15 to 17: battery, alternator, starter, lamps.
- Days 18 to 19: reading measuring tools, using the circuit tester and torque wrench.
- Day 20: materials and lubricants: engine oil, brake fluid, coolant.
- Day 21: take Exam 03 and review missed items.
Week 4 (days 22 to 30): timed papers
- One timed paper a day, with translation off once you are comfortable. With VIP you can continue with papers 4 to 20; on the free version, redo papers 1 to 3 after reviewing missed items.
- After each paper, find the part closest to the pass mark and review exactly that.
- Days 29 to 30: light review of missed items and vocabulary; check your booking and ID using the registration guide.
VIP
VIP unlocks papers 4 to 20 and the detailed explanations for missed items. VIP is bought inside the iOS app with Apple payment, and Apple shows the price. The App Store version is coming soon. You can try the free exams on the web now.
See also the study tips.
Sources checked: the JASPA specified skills test page (2024 test summary), the MLIT implementation rules and acceptance handbook (MLIT page) and the Prometric booking page. Rules can change, so check the latest version at these sources.
FAQ
How long should I study each day?
The plan assumes about 30 to 60 minutes a day. Steady daily study beats one long session.
When should I start timed papers?
From week 4, after engine, chassis and measuring tools. A paper in the app runs 80 minutes for 39 items.
Can I study with the free version only?
You can start with 3 free papers with furigana and translation, plus the guides. Papers 4 to 20 are part of VIP.
What if I have never worked in a garage?
Spend more time on weeks 1 to 3 and look closely at the part drawings in each item; the plan can stretch to 6 to 8 weeks.
Take a mock exam and see right away which items you missed and why.
Try it free now3 free papers with furigana. Opens in your browser, no sign-up.
More topics
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- Chassis and brake topicsClutch, differential, disc and drum brakes, steering, tyres
- Reading measuring toolsCaliper, micrometer, dial gauge, feeler gauge, tester
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