Experience with car GSM trackers (no opex model)

[akbarmunir]

I have seen a recent ad from one Able Technologies Tracker on Pak Wheels. This is a GSM tracker, offers a lot of features (ignition alert, geo fence alert, low battery alert, door open alert, etc), and without any opex cost other than the cost of SIM and the data packge. So effectively there is a one time cost of installation, and then you can monitor the car through your own phone.

Just wanted to check if anybody has experience of this or similar other device in their cars? I am planning on getting this installed in Toyota Corolla GLI 2009 model (Manual), and would love to hear from anybody who has experience of getting such a tracker installed.

[mehran]

I would suggest to get your car comprehensively insured rather than go for a tracker. Trackers can be disabled by car thieves and your precious car stolen. With insurance you have peace of mind that in case of theft or damage some amount would be recovered. Such features in trackers are just gimmicks to lure people into buying them.

[akbarmunir]

Thanks mehran. The actual intent is to monitor the car that mostly is with driver. Preventing stealing is not the primary objective.

[waqar747]

Did you find a solution for this purpose? I'm also looking to monitor my driver using a similar device. Preferably something that can be plugged in to the OBD port and give my location plus a few driving details like speed etc.
Don't want to mess with any wiring, was even thinking of putting a phone in the car for this purpose but don't know what app would provide the data for me.
Anyone has an ideas?

[akbarmunir]

Yes I did. Have been using Vjoycar car tracker for over 2 years now and fully satisfied. It gives real-time tracking, history tracking (with route map) and speed indication (through GPS) too. The tracker has a mobile app for all these functions. I am using the one with 5,000 mAh battery. With deep sleep function, that allows the tracker to wake up and start sending data when it senses movement, and with average car usage, it gives me approximately 1 week battery life (slightly more). The tracker is completely wireless and I attach it through magnetic side under the seat. I would highly recommend this to anybody who wants basic tracking function but does not want to fiddle with wires.

Got this from Ali Express. Since it is has a mobile SIM, so paid about 500 PTA activation tax on that too.

[waqar747]

Thank you. Will look it up. It would have been better if I had found something locally. AliExpress experience for me has not been that great.
You got a data SIM for it?

[akbarmunir]

Ali Express' experience is always a roller coaster ride. Now-a-days its decent and items are arriving in about 3 weeks, at least for me.

I am using a Zong prepaid SIM with a 150MB monthly 4G package and a SMS package that allows 500 SMS / day. Total cost of both packages is less than PKR 150 / month. 150MB of data is more than sufficient for this tracker needs. SMS package is required since it sends a lot of SMS and all configuration is through SMS commands. Data SIMs are very expensive in terms of the packages these offer, so did not use that.

[waqar747]

Thanks for the details brother. I tried to look up the brand on AliExpress but no success. Can you plz share the pics of your device or a link so that I have an idea. Thanks.

[akbarmunir]

Here you go sir:

https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32593752795.html?spm=a2g0o.store_pc_home.hotSpots_12622508.1

[waqar747]

Thank you sir. Will go thru these product details and then select.
I see some OBD2 versions as well. Advantages / Disadvantages?

[akbarmunir]

I have not used OBD2 versions. I have two, both with battery. I think the big advantage of OBD2 is that you may not have to charge that ever. I chose battery version over OBD2 because it gives me flexibility to use that in other items too - e.g. luggage, bags, etc if required, where OBD2 is unavailable. Though still have not felt the need to do so but having that flexibility gives peace of mind