CAL - Certified Automotive Locksmith Ignition System Servicing Questions and Answers

Question 1

A customer's key turns freely in the ignition of an older Ford vehicle but does not engage the starter or power any accessories.
The key feels 'loose' with no distinct detents.
What is the most likely component that has failed?

Accepted Answer

Ignition actuator pin

Answer

Transponder chip

Answer

Ignition lock cylinder

Answer

Body Control Module (BCM)

Question 2

When servicing an ignition lock cylinder that needs to be removed from the steering column, what is typically required to depress the retaining pin or wafer for removal?

Accepted Answer

The key must be turned to the 'ACC' or 'ON' position.

Answer

The ignition must be in the 'LOCK' position.

Answer

The steering wheel must be removed first.

Answer

The battery must be disconnected for at least 10 minutes.

Question 3

A locksmith is rekeying an ignition cylinder to match a customer's existing door key. After inserting the new wafers and the key, several wafers do not sit flush with the cylinder body. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Verify the wafer numbers and their positions according to the key cuts.

Answer

Force the cylinder into the housing, as it will wear in over time.

Answer

File down the protruding wafers until they are perfectly flush.

Answer

Lubricate the cylinder heavily to allow the wafers to retract.

Question 4

A GM vehicle with a VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) cranks but will not start, and the security light is on solid. The locksmith has verified the key's resistor pellet is correct. What is the most likely electrical point of failure?

Accepted Answer

Broken wires leading from the ignition lock cylinder.

Answer

A faulty fuel injector relay.

Answer

A drained vehicle battery.

Answer

The key's transponder chip has failed.

Question 5

What is the primary purpose of a 'sidebar' in a high-security ignition lock cylinder?

Accepted Answer

To act as a secondary locking mechanism that requires correct tumbler alignment before it will retract.

Answer

To complete an electrical circuit for the transponder antenna.

Answer

To physically block the wrong key blank from being fully inserted.

Answer

To provide a channel for lubrication to reach the internal components.

Question 6

When replacing a faulty ignition switch that is electrically separate from the lock cylinder, which of the following is a critical step to ensure proper vehicle operation after installation?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring the new switch is mechanically aligned with the actuator from the lock cylinder.

Answer

Programming the new switch to the vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM).

Answer

Cutting a new key to match the electrical profile of the new switch.

Answer

Waiting for a 10-minute security relearn period before reconnecting the battery.

A customer's key turns freely in the ignition of an older Ford vehicle but does not engage the starter or power any accessories.The key feels 'loose' with no distinct detents.What is the most likely component that has failed?

A customer's key turns freely in the ignition of an older Ford vehicle but does not engage the starter or power any accessories.
The key feels 'loose' with no distinct detents.
What is the most likely component that has failed?