Door Locks
This component physically moves the lock mechanism when power is applied.
What is an actuator?
This device detects unauthorized entry and triggers the alarm system.
What is a sensor?
This modern key system allows a driver to start a vehicle without inserting a key.
A: What is push-button start?
Q: This component produces sound from electrical signals.
A: What is a speaker?
Q: This is the flow of electrons through a circuit.
A: What is current?
A common symptom of a failing door lock actuator is this (locks cycle slowly or not at all).
What is weak or intermittent operation?
A common sensor that detects door opening is this type.
What is a door jamb switch?
If a transponder key is not recognized, the engine will do this.
A: What is crank but not start (or not start at all)?
Q: This unit controls audio functions like volume and tuning.
A: What is the head unit?
Q: This tool is used to measure voltage, resistance, and current.
A: What is a multimeter?
This type of circuit problem would prevent all door locks from working if the fuse is blown.
What is an open circuit?
This happens when an alarm activates without a real threat.
What is a false alarm?
This type of key contains a chip that communicates with the vehicle.
A: What is a transponder key?
Q: A blown speaker often produces this type of sound.
A: What is distorted or no sound?
Q: This condition occurs when electricity takes an unintended path with little resistance.
A: What is a short circuit?
This module often controls power door locks and receives signals from switches or key fobs.
What is the Body Control Module (BCM)?
This type of sensor detects motion inside the vehicle cabin.
What is a motion sensor or ultrasonic sensor?
This system prevents theft by disabling the engine if the wrong key is used.
What is an immobilizer system?
Q: This component boosts the audio signal to drive speakers.
A: What is an amplifier?
Q: This condition results when a circuit path is broken.
A: What is an open circuit?
When voltage is present but the actuator does not move, this condition is likely present.
What is high resistance or a failed actuator?
A short to ground in the alarm trigger circuit would cause this condition.
What is constant or random alarm activation?
A weak key fob battery typically causes this issue.
What is reduced range or no remote operation?
Q: A poor ground connection in a stereo system often causes this noise.
A: What is static or humming?
Q: This issue can cause components to work but not at full power due to resistance in the circuit.
A: What is high resistance?