Locksmith Automotive Locksmithing 5

Question 1

What is the difference between 'remote programming' and 'transponder programming' in automotive locksmithing?

Accepted Answer

Remote programming links the fob's RF transmitter to the BCM for locks/trunk; transponder programming links the chip to the immobilizer for engine start

Answer

These are two distinct processes: remote (fob) programming teaches the BCM to recognize RF signals for door locks, while transponder programming teaches the ECU/immobilizer to recognize the chip for engine authorization.

Question 2

A locksmith is working on a vehicle with a Vats (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) ignition system, common on older GM vehicles. What is unique about VATS keys?

Accepted Answer

They have a resistor pellet embedded in the blade that must match the vehicle's resistance value to start

Answer

GM's VATS (also called PASSKey) system uses a resistor pellet in the key blade; the ignition reads the resistance value and only allows starting if it matches the vehicle's stored value.

Question 3

When should an automotive locksmith use a 'bypass module' instead of programming a new key?

Accepted Answer

As a temporary solution when proper programming tools are unavailable, or for remote starts on immobilizer-equipped vehicles

Answer

Bypass modules store a programmed key's transponder signal and rebroadcast it, commonly used for remote start installations or as a temporary workaround when full programming tools are unavailable.

Question 4

What is 'key bitting depth' in automotive key terminology?

Accepted Answer

The measured height of each individual cut on the key blade that determines which wafers or tumblers it moves

Answer

Bitting depth refers to the specific depth of each individual cut on a key blade, measured in increments that correspond to the tumbler heights inside the lock.

Question 5

What is the significance of 'maximum adjacent cut specification' (MACS) in automotive key cutting?

Accepted Answer

It defines the maximum allowable depth difference between any two adjacent cuts to prevent key or lock damage

Answer

MACS is a manufacturer specification limiting how much adjacent cuts can differ in depth to prevent the key from damaging the lock's wafers or getting stuck.

Locksmith Practice Test

Locksmith Practice Test

Locksmith Automotive Locksmithing 5