Value and Safe Use of the Ignition Cutoff Feature in GPS Trackers

Introduction: Control is Power in Vehicle Security

Imagine being able to stop your car from being driven if it’s stolen or stop your fleet vehicles from being misused with a GPS tracker. This level of control is exactly what the ignition cut off in a GPS tracker gives you. Whether you’re a business owner or a car owner, ignition cut off is a game changer.

But with great power comes great responsibility. While this feature is amazing, it needs to be configured and installed correctly to be used safely and effectively. Let’s look at the value of the ignition cut off feature, the peace of mind it gives and why professional installation is so important for safety.

What Is the Ignition Cutoff and Kill Switch Feature?

The ignition cut off feature allows you to remotely disable a vehicle’s engine with a GPS tracker. This is done by interrupting the ignition system or fuel supply so the car can’t be started or driven until the cut off is turned off. A hardwired GPS tracker is often used for this feature as it connects directly to the vehicle’s electrical system so it’s reliable.

This feature is used for:

• Vehicle Theft Recovery: If your car is stolen, the ignition cut off will stop the thief from driving it any further.
• Fleet Management: Business owners can stop unauthorized use of company vehicles, comply with policies and reduce fuel costs.
• Car Rentals and Leasing Companies: Protecting assets by disabling vehicles not returned on time or due to missed payments.

Real Value of Ignition Cutoff for Vehicle Owners and Businesses

Extra Security for Car Owner

For individual car owners, the ignition cut off adds an extra layer of security. GPS tracking devices already help you locate a stolen vehicle, but the ignition cut off feature ensures the thief can’t drive your car further. This feature is critical for stolen vehicle recovery as it allows you to disable the vehicle remotely and increase the chances of recovering your asset quickly.

Control and Accountability for Fleet Management

For businesses, the ignition cut off is a powerful tool for fleet management. It allows managers to:

• Stop vehicles from being used outside designated areas or hours.
• Prevent drivers from using vehicles for personal use.
• Secure vehicles quickly if a driver reports suspicious activity.
• Receive excessive speed alerts to ensure drivers are following speed limits, promote better driving habits and reduce the risk of accidents.

Cost and Asset Protection

For rental companies and lenders, the ignition cut off ensures vehicles are returned on time and protects assets without the need for costly repossessions. This feature also saves money by reducing unauthorized mileage, wear and tear and fuel costs.

Safety Considerations: Why Professional Installation Is Crucial

The ignition cut off is powerful but if not installed correctly it can have unintended consequences—like shutting off a vehicle while it’s moving which could result in an accident.

Hardwired GPS trackers which connect directly to the vehicle’s electrical system need professional installation to ensure it’s set up correctly and safely.

Here’s why professional installation is non negotiable:

1. Correct Wiring Matters: A GPS tracker must be connected to the correct ignition wire so the system knows when the vehicle is running or off.
2. Preventing Accidental Engine Shutdown: Installers can configure the system to only cut off the engine when the car is parked or stationary.
3. System Reliability: An incorrectly installed tracker can fail when you need it most. A pro will test the system to ensure everything works.
4. Modern Vehicles Require Expertise: Today’s cars have complex electrical systems. A trained technician knows how to install the tracker without interfering with other components.

The Safe Use of the Ignition Cutoff Feature

To use the ignition cut off feature:

• Always Check Vehicle Status: Use GPS tracker software that shows the vehicle is stationary before cutting off.
• Test the System: Test the feature in a safe environment.
• Inform Drivers: If using for fleet management, inform your team about the cut off system and its purpose.
• Use the kill switch: Use the kill switch to cut off the vehicle remotely in case of theft or unauthorized use, add an extra layer of security.

Ready to Get Started?

At BrickHouse Security we have a range of GPS trackers with the ignition cut off feature for individual and business use. Our devices are easy to use, reliable and packed with safety features to ensure it works correctly.

We also have hardwired options and portable GPS trackers that can be moved between vehicles or assets as needed.

But to get the most out of this feature professional installation is key. Whether you’re securing one car or a whole fleet, we can help.

How to using ignition cutoff feature using GPS tracking device

How to use the ignition cut off:

1. Install the GPS Tracker: Install the tracker professionally and the ignition cut off wiring is connected to the vehicle’s electrical system. Incorrect installation can damage the vehicle or tracker.
2. Enable in Software: Log into your GPS tracker software (like BrickHouse Security’s Track View) and make sure the ignition cut off is enabled and ready to use.
3. Test the Connection: Most platforms let you test the feature before using it in real life. This ensures everything works as expected.

How to Activate the Ignition Cutoff (remotely disable)

Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Log into Your Tracking Platform: Use your desktop or mobile app to access the GPS tracker linked to the vehicle.
2. Find the Vehicle: Locate the vehicle you want to cut off using the live map.
3. Send the Cutoff Command: In the platform find the “Ignition Cutoff” or “Engine Disable” (terminology may vary). Confirm the command to disable the engine.
4. Wait for Confirmation: Once the command is processed the vehicle will no longer start or will stop (if it’s stationary or moving). Most systems will confirm when the command is completed.

⚠️ Important Note: Never cut off the ignition while the vehicle is in high speed. This could cause accidents or injuries. Use responsibly.

How to Re-enable Vehicle

Re-enabling the vehicle is just as easy:

1. Log in Again: Access your tracking platform.
2. Find the Vehicle: Find the same vehicle on the map or in the list.
3. Send the Re-enable Command: Click the option to restart the ignition system. Once confirmed the vehicle can start again.

Get Control of Your Vehicle Security

Ready to feel the peace of mind the ignition cut off gives you? With our GPS trackers you can control your vehicle remotely and disable the engine from anywhere if it’s stolen or being used unauthorized. Browse our GPS trackers with ignition cut off or contact us to talk to an expert about which one is right for you.

? Next Up: Check out our Step-by-Step Installation Guide to learn more about ignition cut off installation.

FAQs

How does the ignition cut off help with theft?

The ignition cut off prevents stolen vehicles from being driven further by disabling the engine remotely. With a real time GPS tracker you can track the vehicle’s location, then activate the kill switch to cut it off safely, so you can recover the stolen vehicle faster.

Can I cut off the ignition remotely?

Yes, the ignition cut off can be done remotely using a GPS tracker or mobile app. This feature allows you to disable the vehicle’s engine from anywhere with a wireless command as long as the tracker is connected to a cell enabled network and has a valid subscription plan.

Is the ignition cut off available in hardwired and portable GPS trackers?

The ignition cut off is available in hardwired GPS trackers because they connect directly to the vehicle’s electrical system so it’s more reliable. Portable GPS trackers don’t have this feature because they are designed to be flexible and don’t integrate with the vehicle’s wiring.

What type of vehicles can have ignition cut off?

The ignition cut off is compatible with most vehicles including cars, trucks and electric vehicles as long as they have a hardwired GPS tracker connected to the vehicle’s electrical system. Fleet managers use this feature to secure and monitor their vehicle fleets.

Does the ignition cut off work with other GPS tracking features?

Yes, the ignition cut off works with:

• Geo-fencing: Cut off the engine if the vehicle goes out of a designated area.
• Excessive speed alerts: Monitor and respond to speeding.
• Real time tracking: Track the vehicle’s location data in real time.