How to Properly Install a GPS Tracker with Ignition Cutoff for Safe and Reliable 

Introduction: The Key to Safe Operation

The ignition cutoff feature in a GPS tracker offers incredible control, but its effectiveness depends on how it’s installed. Proper installation ensures your vehicle’s ignition system is connected to the tracker correctly, allowing it to detect when the engine is running and safely activate the cutoff only when the car is stationary.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through what goes into a proper ignition cutoff installation and why professional expertise is often the best choice.

1. The Basics of Ignition Cutoff Installation

 What Does the Ignition Cutoff Feature Do?

Before diving into the details, let’s review the purpose: the ignition cutoff feature interrupts the vehicle’s ignition or fuel system to stop the engine from running. This involves connecting the GPS tracker to:

• The ignition wire: To detect when the car is running.
• A relay: To enable or disable the engine safely.

2. Tools and Expertise Required

 

Proper installation requires specialized tools and knowledge of vehicle wiring. Here’s what a professional technician typically uses:

• Livewire Dash or Livewire Pro
• Livewire Relay (or suitable relay)
• Multimeter or Circuit Tester: To identify the correct ignition wire.
• Vehicle Wiring Diagrams: Specific to the make and model of the vehicle.
• Splice Connectors and Relays: To create a reliable and reversible connection.
• (optional but strongly recommended) Vehicle fuses

3. Understand the Risks before Installation

General Warnings and Guidance:

• Legal Restrictions: The use of the ignition cutoff feature may be subject to local laws and regulations. You should check and comply with any applicable laws regarding disabling vehicle functions.
• Insurance Implications: Check with your insurance provider to understand how installing and using an ignition cutoff feature might affect their insurance coverage. Some insurers may have specific requirements or restrictions.
• Emergency Situations: Using the ignition cutoff feature could be problematic in emergency situations where the vehicle needs to be moved quickly (e.g., fire, flood, medical emergency). You must consider these scenarios and have contingency plans.
• Data Privacy: Standard BrickHouse Security data privacy policy applies.
• System Maintenance: Installed GPS trackers and ignition cutoff system require periodic maintenance and checks. This includes ensuring the device is functioning correctly, the wiring is secure, and the software is up to date.
• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures, moisture, or physical damage can affect the performance of the GPS tracker and ignition cutoff system. Proper precautions should be taken to protect the device.
• Compatibility: Not all systems work with all vehicles, especially those with advanced electronic systems. BrickHouse Security ABSOLUTELY STRONGLY RECOMMENDS contacting a CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL installation provider AND YOUR VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR DEALERSHIP prior to installation.
• Battery Drain: Wired GPS trackers draw power from the vehicle's battery. If the vehicle is not driven regularly, the tracker could drain the battery. It is strongly advised to consider battery maintenance prior to installing a wired GPS tracker and/or the ignition cutoff feature.
• Customer Support: For any questions, contact BrickHouse Security support: 1 (800) 654-7966

Installation Specific Warnings and Guidance:

• Disconnect Battery: It is strongly advised to disconnect the vehicle's battery before starting any wiring work to prevent electrical shocks and damage to the vehicle's electrical system.
• Wire Identification: It is critical to correctly identify the ignition and starter wires. Using the wrong wires can lead to system malfunctions, damage and/or serious injury.
• Secure Connections: It is essential that the wire connections are made secure and reliable. Loose or poorly made connections can cause intermittent failures and pose safety risks.
• Professional Tools: Using professional-grade tools for installation, such as wire strippers, crimpers, and multimeters is highly advised. Using improper tools can lead to damage or unsafe connections.
• Documentation: Take photos and make notes during the installation process. This can be helpful for troubleshooting or future maintenance.
• Avoid Shortcuts: DO NOT TAKE SHORTCUTS during installation. Rushing or skipping steps can compromise the safety and reliability of the system as well as risk serious injury.
• Fuse Protection: It is strongly recommended to add a fuse to the wiring to protect the system from overcurrent. This can prevent damage in case of a short circuit. Again, it is strongly advised to contact a CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL installation provider for installation.

4. Step-by-Step Installation Process

DANGER WARNING: Improper identification and connection of the ignition and starter wires pose an IMMINENT RISK of SEVERE INJURY or DEATH during installation and/or vehicle operation. DO NOT ATTEMPT this installation without PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE. BrickHouse Security STRONGLY RECOMMENDS utilizing a CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL installation provider to perform the ignition cutoff feature installation. Failure to do so could lead to catastrophic consequences.

CRITICAL WARRANTY NOTICE: Installing this ignition cutoff feature MAY VOID YOUR VEHICLE'S WARRANTY. Before proceeding, CAREFULLY REVIEW YOUR VEHICLE'S WARRANTY DOCUMENTATION, INCLUDING THE OWNER'S MANUAL AND LEASE AGREEMENT (IF APPLICABLE). YOU MUST CONSULT WITH YOUR VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR DEALERSHIP TO DETERMINE IF INSTALLATION WILL AFFECT YOUR WARRANTY. BrickHouse Security ABSOLUTELY STRONGLY RECOMMENDS contacting a CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL installation provider AND YOUR VEHICLE MANUFACTURER OR DEALERSHIP prior to installation. Failure to do so may result in the loss of your vehicle's warranty coverage.

 

Refer to the wiring diagram below when following these instructions.

Step 1: Locate a Ground Point

• Use your vehicle’s wiring diagram to identify a ground point or bolt. These are often found:

• Under the dashboard on the driver’s side
• Near the kick panel or fuse box
• On the metal parts of the chassis behind the panels

• Test with a multimeter to ensure the ground point shows continuity with the battery’s negative terminal (with 0 Ohm resistance).

Step 2: Locate the Vehicle Power Wire

• Use your vehicle’s wiring diagram to identify the power wire. Alternatively, use a multimeter to find the wire that always delivers power (+8 to +32V).
• CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING:Under NO CIRCUMSTANCES should you connect the vehicle's power wire to the battery's negative terminal or to the vehicle's chassis. Doing so will create a DIRECT SHORT CIRCUIT, potentially causing sparks, fire, damage to your vehicle's electrical system, and/or SERIOUS INJURY. Always connect the vehicle power wire to the designated positive power source as indicated in your vehicle's wiring diagram or as determined by a certified professional using a multimeter.

Step 3: Locate the Vehicle Ignition Wire

• The ignition wire signals that your vehicle is running and is powered for the duration that your vehicle is running. It is usually located under the steering column.
• To locate the ignition wire, refer to your vehicle’s wiring diagram or to identify the ignition wire. Alternatively, Use a multimeter to find the wire that delivers power (12V) only when the engine is running. This is the vehicle ignition wire and the key to ensuring the tracker knows the vehicle status.

Step 4: Locate the Vehicle Starter Wire

• Unlike the ignition wire, the starter wire is only powered briefly when the engine is being cranked to start. The starter wire is usually a thick-gauge wire (to carry high current) and typically located under the steering column.
• Use your vehicle’s wiring diagram to identify the starter wire. Alternatively, use a multimeter to find the wire that delivers power (12V) only when the engine is being cranked to start and stops power once the engine has been started.

Step 5: Disconnect Battery Terminals

• Before proceeding with any relay installation, ensure the vehicle is completely turned off and the ignition is in the 'off' position. For your safety and to prevent potential damage to the vehicle's electrical system, disconnect both the positive (+) and negative (-) battery terminals. 
• Wait at least 5 minutes after disconnecting the battery to allow any residual electrical charge to dissipate before beginning work.

Step 6: Connect the Relay to the Vehicle

• To integrate the ignition cutoff relay into the vehicle's starter circuit, the starter wire must be interrupted. Then, make the following connections:
• Connect relay pin 87a to the section of the cut starter wire leading to the starter motor.
• Connect relay pin 30 to the section of the cut starter wire leading back to the ignition switch.
• Connect relay pin 86 to the vehicle's constant power source (+8 to +32V), as previously identified.

Step 7: Connect the GPS Tracker

• Use a T-tap or splice connector to safely tap into the ignition wire without cutting it entirely. 
• Connect the Ignition Input Wire on the GPS Tracker to the ignition wire.
• On the Livewire Dash, the Ignition Input Wire is the WHITE wire at PIN #4. 
• On the Livewire Pro, the Ignition Input Wire is the WHITE wire at PIN #3.

• Connect Output 2 on the GPS Tracker to pin 85 of the relay.

• On the Livewire Dash, the Output 2 wire is the GREEN wire at PIN #6.
• On the Livewire Pro, the Output 2 wire is the GRAY wire at PIN #8.

• Connect the Power Wire on the GPS Tracker to the vehicle power wire.

• On the Livewire Dash, the Power Wire is the RED wire at PIN #3.
• On the Livewire Pro, the Power Wire is the RED wire at PIN #11.

• Connect the Ground Wire on the GPS Tracker to the Vehicle Chassis or Battery Negative.

• On the Livewire Dash, the Power Wire is the BLACK wire at PIN #7.
• On the Livewire Pro, the Power Wire is the BLACK wire at PIN #6.

Step 6: Final Verification and System Testing

• Conduct a thorough inspection of all wiring connections. Ensure they are secure, free of any exposed wiring, and properly insulated to prevent short circuits.
• Neatly organize all wiring and use zip ties or appropriate fasteners to secure them in place. This prevents movement, chafing, and potential damage.
• Carefully reconnect the vehicle's battery terminals, ensuring they are tightened securely.
• Perform a comprehensive test of the ignition cutoff system using the following procedure:

• Start the vehicle normally.
• Using the GPS tracking platform, issue the Ignition Cutoff command and wait for 30 seconds to allow the command to propagate.
• The vehicle should continue to operate normally until the ignition is switched to the "OFF" position.
• Attempt to restart the vehicle. The ignition should be disabled, preventing the vehicle from starting.
• In the platform, issue the Ignition Restore command and wait for 30 seconds.
• Attempt to start the vehicle again. The vehicle should now start normally, indicating the ignition system has been restored.
• Verify that the GPS tracking platform accurately reflects the ignition status (ON/OFF) throughout the testing process.

5. Why Professional Installation Is the Best Option

• Avoid Costly Mistakes: Professionals ensure the tracker won’t interfere with other vehicle systems.
• Modern Vehicles Are Complex: Trained technicians know how to navigate advanced wiring systems.
• Safety First: Proper installation ensures the cutoff feature doesn’t accidentally disable the engine while the vehicle is moving.

Conclusion: Get It Done Right the First Time

Installing an ignition cutoff system is a detailed process that requires precision. While DIY installation might seem tempting, the risks of improper wiring or accidental engine shutdown are too high. A professional installer ensures your system works flawlessly and safely.

Ready to take the next step? Explore BrickHouse Security’s range of GPS trackers with ignition cutoff features or reach out to our team for expert installation support.

Related Reading: Learn about the Value and Safe Use of the Ignition Cutoff Feature

By focusing on the benefits, safety considerations, and installation details, these blog posts will resonate with readers while adhering to SEO best practices for 2025, including clear structure, actionable advice, and internal linking to enhance user experience and website authority.