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Study tips for the SSW (i) automobile maintenance exam

The test does not reward tricks; it checks a mechanic's basics: what a part does, how to inspect it and how to measure it. Here is a way to study that follows the official scope and the item format.

Last updated: 2026-10-10

1. Know the pass marks

Theory needs 65% (20 of 30) and practical needs 60%, and both must pass. Aim higher in practice, around 80% in each part, so you have a safety margin on the day.

2. Study the official scope

The scope is engine and chassis. Break it into small groups:

Engine: the four-stroke cycle, combustion chamber, piston rings, valves, cooling, lubrication, fuel and ignition; how petrol and diesel engines differ.
Chassis: clutch, transmission, drive shafts, differential, brakes, steering, suspension, wheels and tyres.
Electrical: battery, alternator, starter, lamps.
Tools and measuring instruments: vernier caliper, micrometer, dial gauge, feeler gauge, circuit tester, torque wrench.
Materials and lubricants: engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, fuel.

Details are in engine topics and chassis and brake topics.

3. Learn functions, not sentences

A false item often gives one part the job of another. For example, closing the coolant path while the engine is cold so it warms up quickly is the thermostat's job (サーモスタット), not the radiator cap's. If you know what each part does, these items are easy.

4. Read measuring tools every day

The practical part has many items that ask for the value shown on a caliper, micrometer or gauge. It is a skill that improves with practice: read a few gauge faces every day until you are fast and accurate. See how to read each tool.

5. Work order

Practical items often ask what to watch when removing or fitting a part: tighten bolts in a crosswise order from the centre outwards, tighten to the specified torque with a torque wrench, replace used gaskets, and keep oil or coolant out of bolt holes. While studying, ask yourself why each step is done.

6. Review missed items on a 1-3-7 rhythm

Redo today's missed items after 1 day, 3 days and 7 days. The app collects missed items so you can follow this rhythm. Add reading true/false items and vocabulary so the Japanese does not cost you points.

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

What should I study first?

Take one mock paper to find your weak spots. Then study the engine and chassis (the official scope) and practise reading measuring tools for the practical part.

Are there official study materials?

JASPA publishes sample papers for the (i) test. The MLIT handbook also suggests the past mechanic test papers on the JASPA site for review.

How long does it take?

It depends on your background. If you already work in a shop, about a month of steady practice is reasonable; see the 30-day plan.

How do I avoid losing points to misreading?

Read every word, mark the verb and any degree words, and watch for opposite pairs such as 取り付け / 取り外し.

Take a mock exam and see right away which items you missed and why.

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3 free papers with furigana. Opens in your browser, no sign-up.