Practice Test Geeks(CAL) Certified Automotive Locksmith Practice Test
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Automotive Locksmith Ignition System Repair & Replacement Flashcards

7 cards from real CAL practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Automotive Locksmith Ignition System Repair & Replacement flashcards as text

  1. When an ignition switch is worn and causes the vehicle to stall while driving, which component is most likely failing?

    Answer: The electrical ignition switch

    The electrical ignition switch maintains power to the engine's run circuit, and wear can cause intermittent power loss leading to stalls.

  2. A customer reports their transponder key starts the car only when held at a specific angle near the ignition. What is the most likely cause?

    Answer: Damaged transponder antenna ring

    A damaged or partially broken antenna ring creates dead spots that require the key to be positioned precisely to achieve proper transponder communication.

  3. Which ignition system component is responsible for converting low-voltage battery current into the high-voltage spark needed for combustion?

    Answer: Ignition coil

    The ignition coil acts as a step-up transformer, converting 12V battery voltage into the thousands of volts required to jump the spark plug gap.

  4. When replacing an ignition lock cylinder on a column-shift vehicle, why must the gear selector be in PARK before removal?

    Answer: To allow access to the release tab or pin

    Most column-shift vehicles have a park interlock that positions a release tab or pin access hole used to depress and remove the lock cylinder.

  5. A 2012 Ford F-150 requires ignition lock cylinder replacement. The new cylinder must be?

    Answer: Installed first, then keys cut and programmed

    On most Ford vehicles with PATS, the new mechanical cylinder is installed first, then keys are cut to match and transponders are programmed to the existing PCM.

  6. What does 'ignition switch staging' refer to in automotive locksmith practice?

    Answer: Testing each ignition position (ACC, ON, START) for proper function

    Staging refers to verifying that each rotational position of the ignition switch—Accessory, On/Run, and Start—delivers correct electrical outputs to the appropriate circuits.

  7. Which tool is specifically used to extract a broken ignition lock cylinder when the standard release pin method fails?

    Answer: Lock cylinder extraction kit or puller

    A dedicated lock cylinder extraction kit uses specially shaped tools to grip and pull the broken cylinder without damaging the column housing.