Michigan SOS mechanic test

Brakes & Braking Systems

Brakes & Braking Systems (Automobile & Light Truck) is one of the 20 Secretary of State mechanic certification tests. Here's what the test covers, according to the state's published outline, along with practice built to match it.

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Practice Brakes & Braking Systems

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Topic drills (pass required)

System diagnosis and repair 26%Hydraulics diagnosis and repair 23%Electronic brake system diagnosis and repair 26%Drum brake diagnosis and repair 12%Disc brake diagnosis and repair 12%
Get the Brakes & Braking Systems passGet the All-Mechanic pass

Review status: These are original questions written to the official SOS topic outline. An independent review by a Michigan-certified mechanic is in progress. Spot an error? Use “Report this question” on any item.

What's on the test

Official topicWeightIn our mock
System diagnosis and repair
  • Hydraulic valves
  • Brake pedal pulsation
  • Brake performance
  • Wheel bearings
  • Power assist systems
  • Fundamental procedures
  • Noise diagnosis
26%14
Hydraulics diagnosis and repair
  • Fluid diagnosis
  • Line repair
  • Hydraulic repair
  • Brake pedal feel
  • Brake bleeding
  • Leak diagnosis
23%13
Electronic brake system diagnosis and repair
  • ABS pump / motor operation
  • Safety precautions
  • Speed sensors
  • Braking electrical diagnosis
  • Stability control systems
26%14
Drum brake diagnosis and repair
  • Measuring and refinishing
  • Drum / shoe types
  • Brake adjustment
  • Leak diagnosis
  • Parking brake
  • Brake hardware
12%7
Disc brake diagnosis and repair
  • Measuring and refinishing
  • Caliper replacement
  • Parking brake
  • Brake hardware
12%7

Weights are shown exactly as published by the SOS (they total 99%).

Source: SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview (PDF). Test format: most SOS mechanic tests have 55 questions, and a few have 65–100 (SOS FAQ). Passing scores vary by test; your result letter shows the passing score and your score.

Test-day facts

Source: michigan.gov/sos mechanic testing

Brakes & Braking Systems test FAQ

How many questions are on the Michigan Brakes & Braking Systems test?

The Secretary of State says most mechanic tests have 55 questions and a few have 65 to 100. The test is “quick pass,” so it ends as soon as you reach the minimum passing score. Our mock exam uses 55 questions in the official topic mix.

What topics are on the Brakes & Braking Systems test?

The SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview lists: System diagnosis and repair (26%), Hydraulics diagnosis and repair (23%), Electronic brake system diagnosis and repair (26%), Drum brake diagnosis and repair (12%), Disc brake diagnosis and repair (12%).

How much does the test cost, and where do I take it?

Each mechanic test costs $18 (effective July 1, 2026). Tests are taken on a touch-screen kiosk at any Secretary of State office; pre-register and schedule through SOS Online Services. Approved automotive schools can also test their students.

Do I have to recertify in Brakes & Braking Systems?

Yes. The SOS requires automobile and light truck mechanics certified in Engine Tune-Up/Performance, Electrical Systems, or Brakes and Braking Systems to recertify every five years by passing the latest state test, showing current ASE certification, or completing a state-approved training program. The Brakes & Braking Systems schedule lists a most recent recertification year of 2025, then 2030, 2035, and 2040.

Are these the real test questions?

No. MI Trade Prep questions are original practice items written to the official topic outline. They are not actual exam questions, and MI Trade Prep is not affiliated with the Michigan Department of State.

Sources: SOS mechanic testing · SOS mechanics page · SOS mechanic FAQ · Our recertification guide