Mixed Deck — All CAL Topics Flashcards

What is a 'slam lock' situation in automotive locksmithing?

Answer: When a door is closed with the keys inside and the lock automatically engages

A slam lock occurs when a vehicle door is shut and the lock automatically engages upon closing, trapping the keys inside.

A 2018 Ford F-150 uses a PATS 4 system. Which tool operation is typically required to add a new key when only one working key is available?

Answer: Using an IDS/FJDS interface or compatible J2534 device to perform a security access routine

PATS 4 requires a dealer-level or compatible scan tool with security access to the PCM to add additional keys when fewer than two programmed keys are present.

A locksmith needs to replace an ignition cylinder retaining clip or roll pin. Which tool is most appropriate for this task?

Answer: Pin punch and small hammer

Roll pins and retaining clips securing ignition cylinders are driven in or out using a correctly sized pin punch struck with a small hammer to avoid damaging surrounding components.

After replacing an ignition lock cylinder on a Chrysler vehicle with Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS), the engine cranks but will not start. What is the most likely required step?

Answer: Perform a SKIS key programming procedure using a scan tool or SKIS manager

Chrysler's SKIS transponder keys must be programmed to the vehicle's SKIM module using the appropriate scan tool or dealer-level programming tool after any ignition service.

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.

What is the primary difference between an OBD-II key programmer and a standalone key programmer?

Answer: OBD-II programmers connect via the vehicle's diagnostic port, while standalone units may work without a working key or OBD access

OBD-II programmers connect through the diagnostic port and often require at least one working key, while standalone programmers can work via direct ECU connection or other bypass methods when no working key exists.

A locksmith encounters a Toyota 4Runner that uses a 'Smart Key' system. What technology allows the vehicle to detect the key without inserting it?

Answer: Passive low-frequency (LF) field detection with UHF response

Toyota's Smart Key uses low-frequency (LF) antennas around the vehicle to wake the key fob, which responds via UHF (315/433 MHz), enabling passive entry and push-button start.

Which tool is commonly used to clone a fixed-code (non-rolling-code) transponder key without programming access to the vehicle?

Answer: Transponder cloner (e.g., CN900 or similar)

A transponder cloner reads the data from a working transponder key and writes an exact copy to a compatible blank chip, allowing duplication of fixed-code transponders without vehicle access.

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.

When a long-reach tool becomes stuck inside the door during entry, what is the correct first response?

Answer: Slowly retract the tool along the same path it entered to avoid snagging wiring or linkage

Slowly reversing along the entry path minimizes the risk of catching and pulling wiring harnesses, lock rods, or weather stripping.

A Volkswagen/Audi vehicle uses which common immobilizer communication bus to exchange data between the key and the dashboard cluster?

Answer: K-line or CAN bus via the cluster

VAG vehicles typically route immobilizer communication through the instrument cluster using K-line or CAN bus protocols.

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.

Which type of automotive key incorporates both a transponder chip and a remote entry fob into a single integrated unit, commonly called an 'ORVM' or 'combo key'?

Answer: Switchblade key (flip key)

A switchblade (flip) key houses both a transponder and remote buttons in the fob body, with the mechanical blade folding out — combining ignition key and RKE in one unit.

A locksmith needs to program a new key to a 2015 Toyota Camry with no working keys present. Which approach is most likely required?

Answer: Using a professional key programmer with OBD PIN extraction or smart EEPROM bypass

Toyota's 'all keys lost' scenario requires a professional device to extract the immobilizer PIN from the ECU via OBD or EEPROM, then program new keys into the system.

What is the purpose of a 'tension wrench' (also called a tension bar or turning tool) when picking an automotive lock?

Answer: It applies rotational pressure to the plug while pick tools manipulate the pins or wafers

A tension wrench applies light rotational pressure to the lock plug so that when each pin or wafer is manipulated to the shear line, it sets in place, ultimately allowing the plug to rotate and open the lock.

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.

When selecting a key blank for duplication, which of the following is the MOST important initial factor for a standard (non-high-security) key?

Answer: The correct keyway profile and blade length.

The most critical factor in selecting a key blank is ensuring the keyway profile (the shape of the blade and its grooves) and the overall length match the original key and the vehicle's locks. An incorrect profile will not even enter the lock cylinder, making any cutting or programming attempts futile.

What is the primary function of a vehicle ignition system?

Answer: Generate an electrical spark to start the engine

The ignition system provides the electrical spark needed to start the engine and keep it running efficiently.

Which Honda transponder system uses a 13.56 MHz frequency and is considered a high-security chip?

Answer: Honda G-chip (46E)

Honda's G-chip uses 13.56 MHz high-frequency communication and incorporates crypto authentication, making it more secure than low-frequency 125 kHz chips.

Which of the following best describes a 'passive entry' system on modern vehicles?

Answer: The vehicle unlocks automatically when the authorized fob is in proximity without pressing any button

Passive entry systems use low-frequency signals to detect an authorized fob within range and automatically unlock the door when the handle is touched, requiring no button press from the driver.