CAL Vehicle Entry Techniques 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the purpose of a 'stoning' or 'wedge-and-probe' technique in vehicle entry?
- Using multiple wedges to open a gap wide enough for a tool probe to reach the lock (Correct answer)
- Breaking the window stone by stone
- Probing the ignition with a stone-tipped pick
- Testing the door panel for hollow spots
Correct answer: Using multiple wedges to open a gap wide enough for a tool probe to reach the lock
Multiple wedges can be stacked to create a wider gap, allowing a longer or wider tool to reach interior lock controls.
Question 2: Which type of vehicle is most likely to require special entry considerations due to reinforced door frames?
- Armored or law-enforcement upfitted vehicles (Correct answer)
- Compact economy cars
- Vintage pre-1970 vehicles
- Convertibles with soft tops
Correct answer: Armored or law-enforcement upfitted vehicles
Armored and upfitted law-enforcement vehicles have reinforced frames that make standard air-wedge gaps impractical or impossible.
Question 3: What does 'reading' a vehicle mean in the context of preparing for non-destructive entry?
- Assessing the vehicle's lock type, door construction, and best entry approach before starting (Correct answer)
- Using a diagnostic scanner to read fault codes
- Decoding the key bitting from the VIN
- Checking the owner's manual for lock specifications
Correct answer: Assessing the vehicle's lock type, door construction, and best entry approach before starting
Reading the vehicle means visually inspecting door gaps, lock button positions, and linkage routes to plan the least-damaging entry method.
Question 4: A 2019 Ford F-150 has a power door lock with no visible lock button on the door panel. How should the locksmith approach entry?
- Use a long-reach tool to actuate the manual lock lever or pull the interior door handle (Correct answer)
- Drill the door lock cylinder immediately
- Use a Slim Jim to hook the lock rod
- Force the door open with a pry bar
Correct answer: Use a long-reach tool to actuate the manual lock lever or pull the interior door handle
Many modern trucks hide the lock mechanism but still have an interior lever or handle that can be pulled with a correctly shaped long-reach tool.
Question 5: Why is it important to place protective covers on door edges before inserting wedges?
- To prevent scratching or denting the paint and weather stripping during entry (Correct answer)
- To insulate against electrical shock
- To mark the entry point for documentation
- To provide grip for the wedge tool
Correct answer: To prevent scratching or denting the paint and weather stripping during entry
Rubber or plastic edge protectors guard against tool-induced paint chips and scratches that would result in property damage claims.
Question 6: Which factor most affects how wide a gap can safely be created with air wedges on a vehicle door?
- The rigidity of the door frame and risk of bending the door (Correct answer)
- The battery voltage of the vehicle
- The ambient temperature
- The color of the vehicle's paint
Correct answer: The rigidity of the door frame and risk of bending the door
Door frames can bend permanently if over-wedged, so the technician must gauge frame rigidity and stop before structural damage occurs.
Question 7: What is the recommended first step before attempting any vehicle entry technique?
- Verify ownership or authorization by checking ID and documentation (Correct answer)
- Insert the first wedge immediately to save time
- Call the vehicle manufacturer
- Check if the spare key is under the mat
Correct answer: Verify ownership or authorization by checking ID and documentation
Confirming the customer's right to access the vehicle protects the locksmith from liability and is an industry ethical requirement.
CAL Vehicle Entry Techniques 3
What is the purpose of a 'stoning' or 'wedge-and-probe' technique in vehicle entry?