Michigan SOS mechanic test

Engine Repair

Engine Repair (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.

Practice tests live

Practice Engine Repair

Free 15-question sampleCovers every topic, with instant answers and explanations. No sign-up.Free · start now Full 55-question mock examOfficial topic mix, 60-minute practice timer, optional kiosk-style quick pass, and a topic breakdown. Pass required Unlocked

Topic drills (pass required)

Engine fundamentals 12%General engine diagnosis 28%Engine block diagnosis and repair 22%Cylinder head and valve train diagnosis and repair 28%Lubrication and cooling 10%

Get the Engine Repair pass Get 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 topic	Weight	In our mock
Engine fundamentals Micrometer reading Bolt head markings Engine R and R procedures Engine break in	12%	7
General engine diagnosis Oil consumption Cylinder leakage test Compression test Exhaust recognition Engine sludge / contamination Vacuum testing Crankcase pressure / blow-by Spark plug diagnosis Engine noise Power balance testing	28%	15
Engine block diagnosis and repair Engine measurements and clearances Piston installation Cleaning and assembling procedures Piston design Piston ring diagnosis Cam bearing installation	22%	12
Cylinder head and valve train diagnosis and repair Valve deposits Valve train measurements and clearances Mechanical timing Variable lift valves Variable cam timing Variable displacement Valve guide wear Valve spring diagnosis Noise diagnosis Camshaft diagnosis	28%	15
Lubrication and cooling Cooling system diagnosis Oil pressure diagnosis Fluid identification	10%	6

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

Taken on a touch-screen kiosk at any Secretary of State office. Schedule through SOS e-Services.
$18 per test (effective July 1, 2026).
“Quick pass”: the test ends once you reach the minimum passing score.
No reference materials or electronic devices are allowed.
If you don't pass, your result letter breaks down your performance by subcategory.

Source: michigan.gov/sos mechanic testing

Engine Repair test FAQ

How many questions are on the Michigan Engine Repair 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 Engine Repair test?

The SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview lists: Engine fundamentals (12%), General engine diagnosis (28%), Engine block diagnosis and repair (22%), Cylinder head and valve train diagnosis and repair (28%), Lubrication and cooling (10%).

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.

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