Tracking devices

[e21Mark]

I've been looking at having a tracking device fitted to an old E30 BMW but am wondering just how hard any unit would be to find, in a relatively small vehicle, as there is no interior other than race seats and dash. I have a Clifford G4 alarm fitted but I want to maximise the chances of my car being found, should the unthinkable happen and it gets stolen.

I'm also unsure which would be the best tracker to opt for? The car is a weekend / track day car and is kept in secure storage, for the most part. It may occasionally sit on the driveway or supermarket car park though, hence the need for some decent security.

Any advice / experience would be much appreciated.

[TwigtheWonderkid]

Be prepared for a barrage of abuse from the PH tin foil hatted loonies telling you that they will use it against your will to monitor your driving, check where you've been, and arrest you for kerb crawling when all you were doing is slowing down to look for a cashpoint.

[mrmr96]

You could always fit two? Crims will stop looking when they've ripped the first one out.

Or get a pro installer to put it in such that the car won't run without it present? If that's possible?

[e21Mark]

I don't mind them knowing where I've been really, as I usually take the Mrs car whenever I go dogging.

I'd planned on having a professional install anyway, as I'd always assumed this wasn't a DIY option, but am wondering how easy the unit would be to spot? Realistically, beneath the dash seems the most sensible and secure location?

[StefanVXR8]

I've just bought a GPS/GSM tracker on the bay of fleas for about £30. It comes with a GPS and GSM antenna, has tracking via a website and the usual remote dial in options etc. Thought for the money it was worth a look and I'm pretty sure it's going to be relatively easy to hide away.

Looks like they have options to disable certain circuits on the car, plus the ability to dial in and listen to the conversation in the car etc.

Anyone else had experience of these types?

Stef

[mrmr96]

Not sure whether installers will discuss location with you, the point of a tracker is that it's hidden. If they told all the owners then the secret wouldn't stay very secret.

Rest assured that they have a database of all vehicles and several suitable locations are available for each model. Pick a decent installer and I'm sure he'll do a good job.