In a recent video, a Toyota GR Corolla owner discovered an unauthorized device installed in his vehicle, raising concerns about privacy and vehicle performance. The owner experienced an unusual battery drain after leaving the car unused for a little over three weeks. The vehicle, equipped with an anti-gravity battery and a Bluetooth remote start, faced no issues once the battery was recharged. However, the persistent drain prompted further investigation.
Investigation and Revelation
Upon examining the car, the owner found the OBD2 port was loose, a condition noticed shortly after purchasing the vehicle. The port’s looseness was initially dismissed as a minor issue. However, a social media post from a tuning expert mentioned difficulties in tuning GR Corollas due to aftermarket GPS trackers installed by dealerships. This information led the owner to suspect a similar device in his car.
Unauthorized GPS Tracker Found
The owner disassembled parts of the car’s interior to inspect the OBD2 port closely. During the inspection, he discovered an unfamiliar device piggybacked onto the OBD2 port. This device, suspected to be an aftermarket GPS tracker, was likely responsible for the battery drain. The owner confirmed that he had declined all optional tracking services, such as LoJack, when purchasing the car.
Implications and Concerns
The discovery raised significant privacy and performance concerns. The GPS tracker, installed without the owner’s consent, not only compromised privacy but also interfered with tuning processes. The owner emphasized the potential for such devices to cause battery drains and hinder vehicle modifications.
Conclusion
This incident highlights the need for vehicle owners to be vigilant about unauthorized modifications. The owner urged others to inspect their vehicles for similar devices, especially if they notice unusual battery behavior or plan to modify their cars. The video served as a warning about potential privacy invasions and the importance of understanding the components installed in one’s vehicle.
