Michigan SOS mechanic test

Motorcycle Repair

Motorcycle Repair 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 topicWeight
Fuel systems
  • Lean / rich mixture identification
  • Causes of a lean mixture
  • Causes of a rich mixture
  • Exhaust color diagnosis
  • Backfire diagnosis
  • Carburetor components and operation
  • Fuel Injection components and operation
  • Spark plug fouling / diagnosis
  • Fuel pressure
  • Oxygen sensor operation
21%
Measuring and tools
  • Using Plastigage
  • Using a dial indicator
  • Using a Volt-Ohm meter
  • Using a bore gauge
  • Using a feeler gauge
  • Using a micrometer
  • Shaft run out
  • Understanding decimal equivalents up to 1/1000”
  • Piston ring end-gap
  • Understanding metric system measurements
  • Compression / leak down testing
11%
Ignition and electrical
  • Types of position sensors and their function
  • Function of a relay / solenoid
  • Function of a stator / rotor
  • Function of a regulator / rectifier
  • Ignition coil diagnosis
  • Splicing electrical connections
  • Continuity testing
  • Voltage drop
  • Parasitic draw
  • Diagnosing turn signal circuits
  • Alternator output problems
20%
Drivetrain
  • Clutch operation and diagnosis
  • Transmission shifting problems
  • Drive chain diagnosis / repair / maintenance
  • Drive belt diagnosis / maintenance
  • Shaft drive diagnosis / maintenance
9%
Brakes
  • Hydraulic brake system operation / maintenance
  • Brake pad wear diagnosis
  • Brake rotor diagnosis / repair
  • ABS system
  • Brake system bleeding
9%
Suspension and Chassis
  • Hydraulic fork diagnosis / repair
  • Wheel bearing diagnosis / repair
  • Tire replacement
  • Stem / neck bearing diagnosis / repair
10%
Engine Repair / Performance
  • Understanding the 4-stroke / cycle engine
  • Camshaft operation
  • Valve lash diagnosis / adjustment
  • Low oil pressure diagnosis / repair
  • Worn valve guide diagnosis
  • Cylinder bore diagnosis / measurement
  • Cylinder deglazing
  • Proper cylinder finish
  • Head bolt torque sequence
  • Piston ring identification
  • Bearing / race installation
  • Piston slap
  • Oil pressure relief valve operation
20%

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 Motorcycle Repair 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

Source: michigan.gov/sos mechanic testing

Motorcycle Repair test FAQ

How many questions are on the Michigan Motorcycle 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.

What topics are on the Motorcycle Repair test?

The SOS Mechanic Testing Categories Overview lists: Fuel systems (21%), Measuring and tools (11%), Ignition and electrical (20%), Drivetrain (9%), Brakes (9%), Suspension and Chassis (10%), Engine Repair / Performance (20%).

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