Chapter 38 Security and Navigation Systems

Proximity Sensor

Device (usually sonar or sound sensor) around the perimeter of a vehicle that measures the distance from the auto body to anything around the vehicle.

Keyless Entry System

Device that allows a driver to unlock a vehicle's doors without using a key. The two basic types are remote and keypad-type keyless entry system.

Smart Key System

Feature of some late-model vehicles allowing a driver to lock or unlock doors, open the trunk, or start the vehicle based on the proximity of the key fob to the vehicle.

Video Camera Display

In-car monitor showing the view from a small camera installed in the rear body or bumper of the vehicle. The camera captures what is behind the vehicle when the vehicle is in reverse.

Infrared Sensor

Sensor that sends out an invisible light beam from the front of a vehicle. In a collision avoidance system, when the beam hits an object and returns to the sensor, the computer interprets the information.

Radar Sensor

Sensor that transmits electromagnetic energy waves from the front of a vehicle. In a collision avoidance system, when the waves hit an object and return to the sensor, the computer interprets the information.

Driver Information Center (DIC)

Small, dash-mounted keyboard display inside the passenger compartment. It gives the driver information on vehicle and outside conditions based on data provided from vehicle sensors.

Security System

System of motion sensors and switches that communicate with signals to an electronic control module. If the vehicle is tampered with, theft deterring features are activated.

Collision Avoidance System

System that measures the distance between the front of a vehicle and any object in its path and automatically controls the braking and engine speed control system to prevent an accident.

Automatic Parking System

System that uses computer control with proximity sensors and/or vehicle cameras to back up, steer, and brake a car into a parallel parking space.

Navigation System

System using the United States' satellite global positioning system to display the geographic location of a vehicle. Advanced systems can give other useful information: traffic information, roadwork, parking lot openings, miles to destination, turnoffs, etc.

Transponder Key

Theft deterrent ignition key containing an electronic chip. Each time the key is turned in the ignition, it generates a coded signal that must be recognized by the transponder module in order for the vehicle to start.

Resistance Key

Theft deterrent ignition key with a small electrical resistor mounted on the side. The metal teeth and resistance of the key must match the value programmed into the control module for the vehicle to start normally.

Adaptive Cruise Control System

Type of cruise control system that can alter vehicle speed automatically when approaching another vehicle too quickly from behind.

Dropping Resistor Signal

Used to provide input signals to the body or instrumentation electronic control module as varying DC voltage and current signals.

Global Navigation satellite System (GNSS)/Global Positioning System (GPS)

Uses a series of Earth-orbiting satellites to communicate through a vehicle's antenna the location and time information anywhere near the Earth's surface.

Vehicle Tracking System

A vehicle security system, commonly monitored by a hired company, that uses a hidden miniature transmitter and receiver and the global positioning satellite system to track the location of a vehicle if lost or stolen.

Night Vision System

An automotive security feature that uses and infrared camera and monitor system to help the driver's view in fog, snow, rain and other vision-impairing atmospheric conditions.

DUI Ignition Interlock

Breathalyzer and/or recognition device installed in the vehicle of a repeat drunk driving offender that disables the vehicle's ignition if the driver is intoxicated.