Has anybody here ever taken any ASE cert. tests?

Buy the test prep guides and study them. You'll pass the test. With just shade tree understanding and no test guide, you'll fail. They're worth every penny. I've used them for all 8 certs plug L-1 advanced engine diagnostics.

I took 6 of them after a 2 yr college course in automotive technology. Even with the 2 yrs of school I barely passed a few of them. The key is that the questions are all multiple choice. They are looking for the BEST answer. Be careful how you read them. The answer you think sounds right isn't always the answer they are looking for. Take your time, read them carefully and you might be ok. If you have a good knowledge of automotive systems and actually know HOW things work and not just how to fix them you may stand a good chance of passing. Another answer suggested buying the study guides. I would recommend that. There is a lot more to auto repair than you think even if you have been doing it for a long time. They are also fairly expensive so I might suggest taking one or two tests and see how you do. Brakes was fairly easy. Electrical is easy if you know your basics. Manual transmissions was very difficult. A/C will not be easy if you don't know all the details of how it works.Good luck.

I am too a retired mech and never had these certs. I always used training certs from companys like Ford or Cummins. There are too many unqualified people using these to obtain employment and not having hands on experience. Whoever is doing your interview will know right away if you are qualified without these certs. Good luck