Automotive Locksmith Security & Anti-Theft Technologies Flashcards
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What is the primary function of a vehicle's immobilizer system?
Answer: Prevent unauthorized engine start without a valid transponder signal
An immobilizer prevents the engine from starting unless the ECU receives a valid transponder code from the key.
Which cryptographic algorithm is commonly used in HITAG2 transponders found in many European vehicles?
Answer: Proprietary 48-bit cipher
HITAG2 uses a proprietary 48-bit cipher that has been shown to be vulnerable to certain cryptanalytic attacks.
A customer's car with a Megamos Crypto transponder will not start after a key was cloned. What is the most likely cause?
Answer: The crypto challenge-response was not captured correctly
Megamos Crypto transponders require a valid challenge-response exchange; an incomplete capture during cloning results in authentication failure.
What does 'dealer-level programming' refer to in automotive locksmith practice?
Answer: Using OBD-II or proprietary software to write new key data directly to the vehicle's ECU
Dealer-level programming uses OBD-II or proprietary interfaces to add or replace key data in the vehicle ECU, matching what a factory dealer can do.
Which of the following best describes a 'rolling code' (hopping code) in remote keyless entry systems?
Answer: A pseudo-random code that changes with each button press and is synchronized with the receiver
Rolling codes use a synchronized pseudo-random sequence so each transmission is unique, preventing replay attacks.
When programming a new key to a vehicle using the EEPROM method, what is the locksmith typically doing?
Answer: Reading and writing data directly from the vehicle's memory chip after removal or in-circuit
EEPROM programming involves directly reading/writing the vehicle's non-volatile memory chip to extract or modify immobilizer key data.
What risk does a 'relay attack' pose to passive keyless entry (PKE) vehicles?
Answer: It amplifies the key fob signal so the car thinks the key is nearby, allowing unauthorized entry and start
A relay attack uses two devices to extend the PKE signal range, tricking the car into believing the legitimate key is present when it is not.