Michigan SOS mechanic test

Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Drive Axles

Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Drive Axles (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.

Topic guide · questions soon

What's on the test

Official topic	Weight
Transmission / transaxle diagnosis Fluid and transmission diagnosis Hard shifting complaints Transmission vs. Transaxle comparison Transaxle / transmission gear recognition Synchronizer problems and operation	13%
Clutch diagnosis and repair Clutch disc operation Noise and chatter diagnosis Shifting problem diagnosis Hydraulic systems	19%
Component remove and replace Transmission remove and replace Extension housing seal remove and replace Synchronizer replacement Electronic manuals	10%
Final drive Ring gear run-out Noise diagnosis Differential diagnosis Ring and pinion gear sets Ring and pinion backlash Pinion bearing preload Final drive ratio Pinion seal remove and replace Limited slip diagnosis Differential bearing preload Lubricant types	30%
Axle shaft / CV repair CV boot installation Drive axle diagnosis CV joint operation	9%
4WD / AWD systems Transfer case operation 4WD actuators AWD operation	9%
Miscellaneous Bearing types Gear type identification Direct drive and gear reduction theory Driveshaft angle	10%

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.

Practice questions coming soon

The Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Drive Axles practice bank is being written to the official outline below. The All-Mechanic pass will include it when it launches.

Banks available now: Engine Repair · Front End, Suspension & Steering · Brakes & Braking Systems · Electrical Systems · Engine Tune-Up & Performance

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

Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Drive Axles test FAQ

How many questions are on the Michigan Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Drive Axles 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.

What topics are on the Manual Transmission, Front & Rear Drive Axles test?

The SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview lists: Transmission / transaxle diagnosis (13%), Clutch diagnosis and repair (19%), Component remove and replace (10%), Final drive (30%), Axle shaft / CV repair (9%), 4WD / AWD systems (9%), Miscellaneous (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