I am about to get my second S and since my first one was stolen from rather blatantly, I want to install some sort of tracking device that not only can tell me the location of the car, but also notify me if the car moves. I have seen some listed in eBay that require a Sim card and that you can communicate to it and receive information from it via text messages. Nobody can tell me how much data time is required so that I can shop for a service plan that will serve its function while not breaking the bank. Has anyone gone this route, and what opinions do you have. I'd rather not go with lojack, because it will still require activation after the initial reporting of the vehicles theft.

Thanks

 

well if its only using SMS to text you its GPS location then you don't need any data plan just unlimited text messages

 

I have heard but not entirely sure that many of these devices have limitations and cannot pin point EXACTLY where the car is instead it only points to an area. I could be wrong with the hearsay.

My advice if you wish to safe guard (if you haven't thought of this already) is to invest in the usual seat locks, remote alarm with pager and removable steering wheel. I actually have a steering wheel and hub somewhere in my closet. PM me if interested and if you got an ap1.

 

I have not checked the accuracy that these devices deliver, but I like the option that it can notify you when the car is on the move. I am going to check out the seat locks, and the removable steering wheel option I had not thought of, but how will it work with an OEM AP2 steering wheel?

Thanks
Rick

 

Removable steering wheels are pretty much all the same. Just make sure you know how to install it properly mainly because you don't want to set off your airbag lol. Just make sure you disconnect the battery before installing and get a nice legit one that comes with the SRS light bypass. I have one that sadly does not connect to my ap2 which is why I am selling it. The SRS connections differ from ap1 to ap2 .. well at least from MY00 that I had the wheel on and MY08 which I currently drive. If you search around in the for sale forums and reviews you can find a good kit. I have some JDM hub that I can't remember the make and a Personal leather steering wheel. You can also look at quick release hubs.

I say spend money on the basics first then go over the the GPS as added protection.

 

I think I should have the tracking because I had temporarily lost my parking space in my condo, and my car was stolen the second night I parked it outside, Although I will not leave it there again, I want to make my next S as hard to steal as possible. Although the removable hub seems like a good idea, I think my car was towed rather than driven off.

Thanks

 

I'm moving to Miami in a week and am getting an alarm. Viper has something called Smartstart which is compatible with their alarm systems that has GPS tracking and fencing. You can also control the alarm and get notifications on your cell phone from anywhere in the world.

Only bad thing is that it isn't cheap (I bought mine for ~200 on Amazon, then it's $90/year).