The actuator and the method for operating the actuator comprise a drive unit and a drive mechanism with mechanical components that can be moved against each other as well as an electronic control unit. One of at least two components that can be moved against each other during operation acts as a switching transducer and initiates a switching operation in the event of relative movement in respect of a switching element, for example a Reed switch, caused by the action of an external force. This switching operation is used in the course of the control method to switch the control unit from a first operating mode to a further operating mode.