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. On a vehicle with a PassLock system, the ignition lock cylinder is replaced but the engine cranks without starting. What is the next required step?

    Answer: Perform a PassLock relearn procedure

    PassLock uses a resistance sensor in the lock cylinder; a new cylinder requires a relearn (typically a 10-minute learn cycle) so the BCM accepts the new sensor's value.

  2. A locksmith is asked to rekey an ignition to match door locks on a vehicle where the ignition uses a sidebar-style lock. What additional step is required compared to a standard pin tumbler?

    Answer: Sidebar wafers must also be reconfigured to match the new bitting

    Sidebar locks have a secondary set of sidebar wafers that must be reconfigured alongside the main pins/discs to allow the sidebar to retract and the cylinder to turn.

  3. Which of the following best describes 'ignition cylinder indexing'?

    Answer: Aligning the cylinder's cam or drive tab to match the ignition switch drive

    Indexing ensures the cylinder's output cam or tang is correctly oriented so it properly engages and operates the ignition switch during installation.

  4. A customer's vehicle shows a 'No Start' condition with no crank. The key turns freely with no resistance. What ignition component has likely failed?

    Answer: Ignition electrical switch not engaging START circuit

    If the key turns freely without the expected resistance of moving a working electrical switch, the switch mechanism has failed and is not completing the starter circuit.

  5. When drilling out a damaged ignition lock cylinder, at what component must the locksmith stop drilling to avoid further damage?

    Answer: The ignition electrical switch assembly

    Drilling must be stopped at the back of the lock housing to avoid destroying the ignition electrical switch assembly, which would require additional replacement.

  6. Which statement about GM's VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) ignition keys is correct?

    Answer: VATS keys use a resistor pellet embedded in the key blade

    VATS (also called PASSKey) uses a resistor pellet in the key blade; the BCM reads the resistance value and allows starting only if it matches the stored value.

  7. A locksmith is replacing an ignition lock cylinder and must retain the original key. This technique is called?

    Answer: Originating to existing key

    Originating (or keying) a new cylinder to the existing key means rekeying the replacement so it works with the customer's current key without cutting a new one.