2013 NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment A. Steering System Diagnosis & Repair B. Suspension System Diagnosis & Repair C. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis & Adjustment D. Wheel & Tire Diagnosis & Repair Typical Rubric for NATEF Competencies 1 = Demonstrated Exposure and has observed the competency 2 = Applies the competency but only mastered a few essential attributes 3 = Capable of the competency but needs further practice 4 = Performs the competency satisfactorily [Proficient] 5 = Mastered the competency [Exemplary]

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires A. General Suspension and Steering System Diagnosis Research applicable vehicle and service information, vehicle service history, service precautions, and technical service bulletins. A4.A.1 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires A. General Suspension and Steering System Diagnosis Identify and interpret suspension and steering system concerns; determine necessary action. A4.A.2 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires A. General Suspension and Steering System Diagnosis Complete work order to include customer information, vehicle identifying information, verify customer concern, related service history, cause, & correction. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires A. General Suspension and Steering System Diagnosis Locate and interpret vehicle and major component identification numbers (VIN, vehicle certification labels, & calibration decals). “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Disable and enable supplemental restraint system (SRS). A4.B.1 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove and replace steering wheel; center/time supplemental restraint system (SRS) coil (clock spring). A4.B.2 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Diagnose steering column noises, looseness, and binding concerns (including tilt mechanisms); determine necessary action. A4.B.3 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Diagnose power steering gear (non-rack and pinion) binding, uneven turning effort, looseness, hard steering, and noise concerns; determine necessary action. A4.B.4 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Diagnose power steering gear (rack and pinion) binding, uneven turning effort, looseness, hard steering, and noise concerns; determine necessary action. A4.B.5 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect steering shaft universal-joint(s), flexible coupling(s), collapsible column, lock cylinder mechanism, and steering wheel; perform necessary action. A4.B.6 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Adjust manual or power non-rack & pinion worm bearing preload & sector lash. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove and replace rack and pinion steering gear; inspect mounting bushings and brackets. A4.B.7 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect rack and pinion steering gear inner tie rod ends (sockets) and bellows boots; replace as needed. A4.B.8 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Determine proper power steering fluid type; inspect fluid level and condition. A4.B.9 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Flush, fill, and bleed power steering system. A4.B.10 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect for power steering fluid leakage; determine necessary action. A4.B.11 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove, inspect, replace, and adjust power steering pump drive belt. A4.B.12 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove and reinstall power steering pump. A4.B.13 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove and reinstall press fit power steering pump pulley; check pulley and belt alignment. A4.B.14 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect and replace power steering hoses and fittings. A4.B.15 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Replace power steering pump filter(s). “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect and replace pitman arm, relay (center link/intermediate) rod, idler arm and mountings, and steering linkage damper. A4.B.16 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, replace, and adjust tie rod ends (sockets), tie rod sleeves, and clamps. A4.B.17 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Test and diagnose components of electronically-controlled steering systems using a scan tool; determine necessary action. A4.B.18 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Identify hybrid vehicle power steering system electrical circuits and safety precautions. A4.B.19 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires B. Steering Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect electric power assist steering. A4.B.19 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Diagnose short and long arm suspension system noises, body sway, and uneven ride height concerns; determine necessary action. A4.C.1 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Diagnose strut suspension system noises, body sway, and uneven ride height concerns; determine necessary action. A4.C.2 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install upper and lower control arms, bushings, shafts, and rebound bumpers. A4.C.3 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install strut rods and bushings. A4.C.4 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install upper and/or lower ball joints (with or without wear indicators). A4.C.5 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install steering knuckle assemblies. A4.C.6 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install short and long arm suspension system coil springs and spring insulators. A4.C.7 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install torsion bars and mounts. A4.C.8 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install stabilizer bar (sway bar) bushings, brackets, and links. A4.C.9 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install strut cartridge or assembly, strut coil spring, insulators (silencers), and upper strut bearing mount. A4.C.10 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Lubricate suspension and steering system pivot points. (Grease Job) “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove, inspect, and install coil springs and spring insulators. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect, remove and install track bar, strut rods/radius arms, and related mounts and bushings. A4.C.11 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect rear suspension system leaf spring(s), bushings, center pins/bolts, and mounts. A4.C.12 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Inspect electric power-assisted steering. (suspension?) “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Diagnose, inspect, adjust, repair or replace components of electronically controlled suspension systems using a scan tool; determine necessary action. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires C. Suspension Systems Diagnosis and Repair Remove, inspect, and install strut cartridge or assembly, strut coil spring and insulators (silencers). “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires D. Related Suspension and Steering Service Inspect, remove, and replace shock absorbers; inspect mounts and bushings. A4.D.1 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires D. Related Suspension and Steering Service Remove, inspect, and service or replace front and rear wheel bearings. A4.D.2 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires D. Related Suspension and Steering Service Describe the function of the power steering pressure switch. A4.D.3 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Diagnose vehicle wander, drift, pull, hard steering, bump steer, memory steer, torque steer, and steering return concerns; determine necessary action. A4.E.1 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Perform pre-alignment inspection and measure vehicle ride height; perform necessary action. A4.E.2 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Measure vehicle riding height; determine necessary action. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Prepare vehicle for wheel alignment on alignment machine; perform four-wheel alignment by checking and adjusting front and rear wheel caster, camber; and toe as required; center steering wheel. A4.E.3 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check and adjust front and rear wheel camber; perform necessary action. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check and adjust caster; perform necessary action. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check and adjust front wheel toe and center steering wheel. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check toe-out-on-turns (turning radius); determine necessary action. A4.E.4 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check SAI (steering axis inclination ) & included angle; determine necessary action. A4.E.5 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check and adjust rear wheel camber & toe. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check rear wheel thrust angle; determine necessary action. A4.E.6 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check for front wheel setback; determine necessary action. A4.E.7 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Check front and/or rear cradle (subframe) alignment; determine necessary action. A4.E.8 P-3

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires E. Wheel Alignment Diagnosis, Adjustment, and Repair Reset steering angle sensor. A4.E.9 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Inspect tire condition; identify tire wear patterns; check for correct tire size and application (load and speed ratings) and adjust air pressure; determine necessary action. A4.F.1 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Diagnose tire wear patterns; determine necessary action. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Diagnose wheel/tire vibration, shimmy, and noise; determine necessary action. A4.F.2 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Rotate tires according to manufacturer’s recommendations. A4.F.3 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Inspect tires; check and adjust air pressure. “Oldie”

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Measure wheel, tire, axle flange, and hub runout; determine necessary action. A4.F.4 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Diagnose tire pull problems; determine necessary action. A4.F.5 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Dismount, inspect, and remount tire on wheel; balance wheel and tire assembly (static and dynamic). A4.F.6 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Dismount, inspect, and remount tire on wheel equipped with tire pressure monitoring system sensor. A4.F.7 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Inspect tire and wheel assembly for air loss; perform necessary action. A4.E.8 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Repair tire using internal patch. A4.E.9 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Identify and test tire pressure monitoring system (indirect and direct) for operation; calibrate system; verify operation of instrument panel lamps. A4.E.10 P-2

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Demonstrate knowledge of steps required to remove and replace sensors in a tire pressure monitoring system. A4.E.11 P-1

NATEF Task Area A-4 Suspension, Steering, Alignment, and Tires F. Wheel and Tire Diagnosis & Repair Reinstall wheel; torque lug nuts using correct specification & sequence. “Oldie”