How To Remove Lojack From My Car

Discovering a Lo Jack device in your car can feel a bit like finding an unexpected guest. Maybe you bought a used vehicle and weren't informed about it, or perhaps you just don't need its tracking capabilities anymore. Whatever the reason, understanding how to safely and effectively remove a Lo Jack from your car is essential. This guide will walk you through the process, offering practical advice and crucial considerations every step of the way.

Understanding Lo Jack and Its Purpose

Lo Jack is a stolen vehicle recovery system that uses radio frequency technology to help law enforcement locate and recover stolen cars. Unlike GPS-based systems, Lo Jack relies on a network of transceivers and a unique radio frequency signal. This signal can be detected even if the vehicle is hidden in a garage or shipping container, making it a valuable tool for combating auto theft. It is typically installed covertly in the car, making it very difficult for thieves to tamper with.

Key Features of Lo Jack:

1. Radio Frequency Technology: Uses RF signals instead of GPS, making it harder to disable.
2. Law Enforcement Integration: Works directly with police to track and recover stolen vehicles.
3. Covert Installation: Hidden in various locations within the vehicle to prevent tampering.

Why Remove Lo Jack From Your Car?

There are several reasons why someone might want to remove a Lo Jack device from their car. Here are some common motivations:

1. Privacy Concerns: Some owners are uncomfortable with the idea of their vehicle being constantly tracked, even if they are not doing anything wrong.
2. Subscription Costs: Lo Jack services often come with recurring subscription fees. If you no longer want to pay these fees, removing the device might seem like a logical step.
3. Selling the Vehicle: When selling a car, some owners prefer to remove the Lo Jack to avoid transferring the subscription or dealing with potential privacy issues for the new owner.
4. Device Malfunction: In rare cases, a malfunctioning Lo Jack device can cause electrical issues or drain the car's battery, prompting removal.

How to Find the Lo Jack Device in Your Car

Locating the Lo Jack device is the first and perhaps most challenging step in the removal process. Since Lo Jack is designed to be hidden, finding it can require patience and a bit of detective work. It is usually installed by certified technicians, meaning they have expert knowledge on how to best hide the module.

Common Lo Jack Locations:

1. Under the Dashboard: This is a frequent hiding spot, often behind the glove compartment or near the steering column.
2. Under the Seats: Check under both the front and rear seats. The device may be attached to the seat frame or hidden within the seat cushions.
3. Inside the Center Console: The center console offers a discreet location for hiding the Lo Jack unit.
4. In the Trunk: Look behind the trunk lining, in the spare tire compartment, or near the taillights.
5. Under the Hood: While less common due to environmental factors, the Lo Jack could be hidden in a protected area under the hood, away from direct heat and moisture.

Tools You Might Need:

1. Flashlight: Essential for peering into dark and hard-to-reach areas.
2. Screwdrivers: Both Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers may be necessary to remove panels and access hidden compartments.
3. Pliers: Useful for disconnecting wires and removing any securing clips or fasteners.
4. Trim Removal Tools: These plastic tools help to remove interior trim panels without causing damage.

Step-by-Step Guide to Locating the Device:

1. Start with the Obvious: Begin by checking the most common locations. Use your flashlight to thoroughly inspect under the dashboard, seats, and in the center console.
2. Remove Panels Carefully: If you suspect the device is hidden behind a panel, use trim removal tools to gently pry it away. Avoid using excessive force, which could damage the panel or its clips.
3. Follow the Wires: Once you spot a wire that doesn't seem to belong, trace it back to its source. This can often lead you directly to the Lo Jack device.
4. Consult a Professional: If you're unable to locate the device after a thorough search, consider consulting a professional mechanic or auto electronics specialist. They have experience in locating hidden devices and can help you find the Lo Jack without causing damage to your vehicle.

How To Remove the Lo Jack From My Car: A Detailed Guide

Once you've located the Lo Jack device, the next step is to safely remove it. This process requires careful attention to detail and a basic understanding of automotive electrical systems. Improper removal can damage your car's electrical system or even pose a safety risk.

Safety Precautions:

1. Disconnect the Battery: Before starting any electrical work on your car, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent accidental shorts or electrical shocks.
2. Wear Gloves: Wearing gloves will protect your hands from dirt, grease, and potential sharp edges.
3. Work in a Well-Lit Area: Good lighting is essential for seeing what you're doing and avoiding mistakes.

Steps for Removing the Lo Jack Device:

1. Identify the Wiring: Carefully examine the wiring connected to the Lo Jack device. Typically, there will be a power wire (usually red), a ground wire (usually black), and potentially other wires connected to the car's electrical system.
2. Cut the Wires: Using wire cutters, carefully cut the wires connected to the Lo Jack device. Leave enough length on the car's side of the wires so that you can easily reconnect them if necessary.
3. Cap the Wires: Use electrical tape or wire connectors to cap the exposed ends of the wires on the car's side. This will prevent them from shorting out or causing electrical problems.
4. Remove the Device: Once the wires are disconnected, remove the Lo Jack device from its mounting location. This may involve unscrewing it from a bracket or detaching it from an adhesive pad.
5. Inspect for Damage: After removing the device, inspect the surrounding area for any signs of damage. Check for frayed wires, loose connections, or damaged panels.
6. Reconnect the Battery: Once you've completed the removal and inspected for damage, reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
7. Test Your Car: Start your car and test all of its electrical systems to ensure that everything is working properly. Check the lights, radio, windows, and other electrical components to make sure they are functioning as expected.

Potential Problems and Troubleshooting

Removing a Lo Jack device isn't always straightforward. You might encounter some common issues during the process. Knowing how to troubleshoot these problems can save you time and frustration.

1. Car Won't Start After Removal: After removing the Lo Jack, if your car won't start, it's likely that the device was integrated with the car's ignition system. The Lo Jack acts as a relay and if you remove it, the circuit is now incomplete.

   Solution: Inspect the wiring you disconnected from the Lo Jack. Look for any wires that might have been connected to the ignition system. Reconnect these wires, using wire connectors or soldering, to restore the circuit. Consult a mechanic if unsure.

2. Electrical Systems Malfunctioning: If you notice that some of your car's electrical systems aren't working properly after removing the Lo Jack, it could be due to a loose connection or a short circuit.

   Solution: Double-check all of the wiring connections you made during the removal process. Make sure that all wires are securely connected and that there are no exposed wires that could be causing a short circuit.

3. Difficulty Locating the Device: As mentioned earlier, the Lo Jack device can be difficult to find. If you're having trouble locating it, don't give up.

   Solution: Try using a wire tracer to follow the wires from the car's battery to the device. Consult with a mechanic or auto electronics specialist.

Alternatives to Removing Lo Jack

Before you commit to removing the Lo Jack system entirely, consider whether alternative solutions might better meet your needs. Complete removal can be a hassle, and some alternatives could provide a more convenient or cost-effective outcome.

1. Disabling the Lo Jack System: The device can sometimes be disabled through the Lo Jack service provider, halting tracking without physically removing the hardware.
1. Suspending the Service: Lo Jack sometimes permits service suspension, freezing your account and payments temporarily.
1. Transferring the Service: If you're selling the vehicle, consider transferring the Lo Jack service to the new owner, who might value it for added security.

Final Thoughts and Important Considerations

Removing a Lo Jack device from your car is a task that requires careful planning and execution. While it's possible to do it yourself, it's important to assess your skills and comfort level before attempting the removal. If you're not confident in your ability to safely disconnect the device and troubleshoot any potential problems, it's best to consult a professional.

Remember, electrical work on cars can be complex and potentially dangerous. Always disconnect the battery before starting any work, and take the time to understand the wiring before cutting any wires. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely and effectively remove a Lo Jack device from your car.