CAL Ignition System Servicing 2

Question 1

When a customer's vehicle has a stuck ignition cylinder that won't turn even with the correct key, what is the FIRST step a locksmith should take?

Accepted Answer

Check if the steering wheel is locked and apply light pressure to relieve it

Answer

A locked steering column creates binding pressure on the ignition cylinder, and relieving that pressure by slightly turning the wheel allows the key to rotate freely.

Question 2

Which tool is specifically designed to remove a broken key fragment from an ignition cylinder without damaging the tumblers?

Accepted Answer

Key extractor

Answer

Key extractors have hooked or barbed tips designed to grip and remove broken key fragments from lock cylinders without harming internal components.

Question 3

A transponder key is programmed but the vehicle still won't start. The immobilizer light stays on. What is the MOST likely cause?

Accepted Answer

The transponder chip is not seated properly in the key head

Answer

If the transponder chip is loose or improperly seated, the antenna ring cannot reliably read the chip's signal, causing the immobilizer to remain active.

Question 4

What does the term 'ignition cylinder' refer to in automotive locksmith terminology?

Accepted Answer

The mechanical tumbler-based lock that accepts the key and connects to the switch

Answer

The ignition cylinder is the mechanical lock housing containing wafer or pin tumblers that align when the correct key is inserted, allowing the cylinder to rotate.

Question 5

When rekeying an ignition cylinder, a locksmith must ensure all wafers or pins are set to match which specification?

Accepted Answer

The new key's cuts or depths

Answer

Rekeying requires replacing the wafers or pins with those that correspond precisely to the new key's bitting depths so the cylinder turns only with that key.

(CAL) Certified Automotive Locksmith Practice Test

(CAL) Certified Automotive Locksmith Practice Test

CAL Ignition System Servicing 2