Problem with fuse 22 removal
Discussion
I've seen a number of threads recommending fuse 22 removal for better exhaust note at lower revs, but no mention of the problem I've just experienced.
I removed fuse 22 from my '06 VV8 ten days ago and took it out for a spin to enjoy the sound. With the windows down and the increased exhaust noise I didn't hear my mobile ringing - I later returned home to discover that Tracker had called a number of times as the vehicle had triggered an unauthourised movement alert, i.e. the car was being moved without the ignition being switched on (such as being loaded onto a trailer).
I didn't make the connection, so when the warning calls followed each of my next three journeys, Tracker sent a technician to investigate. He immediately diagnosed the problem as the removal of fuse 22. Apparently this is the dedicated circuit that Tracker always use, as it goes live on ignition. When the fuse is removed, the Tracker unit doesn't pick up the fact that the engine has been started, but does report the movement of the vehicle.
Unfortunately the only fix is to replace fuse 22 again. The technician advised that Tracker would not allow him to run the unit off any other circuit.
I can't imagine that I'm the first preson to experienced this issue, but worth bearing in mind before removing the fuse if you have a Tracker unit fitted. BTW, Halfords no longer stock a fuse removing tool, but a pair of sharp-nosed pliers did the trick, no problem.
I removed fuse 22 from my '06 VV8 ten days ago and took it out for a spin to enjoy the sound. With the windows down and the increased exhaust noise I didn't hear my mobile ringing - I later returned home to discover that Tracker had called a number of times as the vehicle had triggered an unauthourised movement alert, i.e. the car was being moved without the ignition being switched on (such as being loaded onto a trailer).
I didn't make the connection, so when the warning calls followed each of my next three journeys, Tracker sent a technician to investigate. He immediately diagnosed the problem as the removal of fuse 22. Apparently this is the dedicated circuit that Tracker always use, as it goes live on ignition. When the fuse is removed, the Tracker unit doesn't pick up the fact that the engine has been started, but does report the movement of the vehicle.
Unfortunately the only fix is to replace fuse 22 again. The technician advised that Tracker would not allow him to run the unit off any other circuit.
I can't imagine that I'm the first preson to experienced this issue, but worth bearing in mind before removing the fuse if you have a Tracker unit fitted. BTW, Halfords no longer stock a fuse removing tool, but a pair of sharp-nosed pliers did the trick, no problem.
It is definitely wired up via fuse 22 in the boot box. The technician even showed me the tracker unit (I know, it's supposed to be a secret as to where its hidden, but it's my car) and demonstrated with a circuit tester attached with and without the fuse. There's no doubt it's running off 22 in the boot.
I took him at his word that Tracker use that as their dedicated circuit, but it appears not from the replies.
I took him at his word that Tracker use that as their dedicated circuit, but it appears not from the replies.
Bouldermobile said:
Normally fuse 22 in the boot fuse box is managed via a relay and a feed from the ignition and so doesn't seem a logical supply to use for the Tracker. Perhaps the tracker was replaced at some point?
You could always try and trace the wiring back from the vaccum pump, etc., or alternatively disconnect the vacuum pipes from the by pass valves on the exhaust and forget about the wiring route.
I believe that the motion sensor is dependent on receiving a signal from circuit 22 that the ignition is on. When the fuse is removed, driving the car triggers the motion sensor, but as it cannot detect that the ignition is on, it alerts Tracker of a potential unauthorised movement.You could always try and trace the wiring back from the vaccum pump, etc., or alternatively disconnect the vacuum pipes from the by pass valves on the exhaust and forget about the wiring route.
The rest of the Tracker functions, including GPS, still worked with 22 removed (I've checked my movements on the map dashboard), so it must be getting a feed from a non-ignition dependent circuit as well.
Is it a straightforward job to disconnect the vacuum pipes from the by-pass valves?
Jon1967x said:
When you say tracker, which company? I wonder if it was after market?
And I'd cancel the subscription if you can, save the cash as the tracker subs were nearly the same as the insurance quote on my 2013 car.
It is a "Tracker"; the company name. As you guessed, it's an after market installation, commissioned by the previous owner. Having had a Tracker unit on other cars, and been impressed with the service and features of their dashboard and report systems, I was happy to renew the subscription on a three year package for £399.And I'd cancel the subscription if you can, save the cash as the tracker subs were nearly the same as the insurance quote on my 2013 car.
Most insurers (although I appreciate not all) tend to insist on proof of at least a basic tracker unit before they'll provide cover. As it keeps my fully comp, two driver premium to a little over £200 a year with Direct Line, I'm happy to keep the service in place.
I'll follow one of the other suggestions. many thanks for all the input.
BravoV8V said:
Some, not most.
Okay, most of those I got quotes from, which was around a dozen. I didn't have time to check out the whole insurance market.Some would cover with or without a tracker, but the discount for having a unit fitted worked out cheaper, even after taking into account the additional cost of the tracker, than not having one.
Lower overall costs + additional peace of mind. It works for me.
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