Removal guide: 3-wire and Y-Cable installed vehicle trackers

This guide explains how to remove vehicle trackers such as CalAmp, Xirgo and GenX devices.

Time required: 15 minutes or less

Before you begin

Read this entire guide before starting to remove a vehicle tracker to ensure a smooth process.

Gather your tools

Depending on the vehicle type, you may need the following tools:

• Work light
• Dash panel removal tools
• Flat antenna pry tool
• Driver bits and socket set
• Diagonal wire cutters (no scissors)
• Electrical tape - Super 33 grade or better

Procedure

Caution: The vehicle ignition must be OFF before removing the vehicle tracker.

Step 1: Locate and access the vehicle tracker

Note: Most telematics units use an internal antenna; however, some use an external antenna that is commonly found on the windshield or occasionally behind the A-pillar.

1. Locate the device by inspecting the following areas (in this order):
   
   • (a) Behind the driver’s side knee panel
   • (b) Behind the instrument cluster
   • (c) Behind the center console
   • (d) Behind the glove box
2. Once you have located the device, remove all zip ties or other fasteners holding the harnesses in place.

Step 2: Unplug all connections to the device.

1. Unplug the diagnostics harness from the device.
   This harness that connects the device to the OBD-II port or OEM Data Link Connector (DLC).
2. Unplug the power harness, if present, from the device.
   This harness is typically connected to the vehicle using a 3-wire connection.
   Note: You can leave the harness connected to the vehicle and it will not draw power from the vehicle.
3. Unplug the external antenna leads for GPS and cellular signal if present.
   Note: Vehicle trackers such as the CalAmp 4225, 4233, or 4235 models are typically outfitted with antenna leads for GPS and cell signal.

Step 3: Secure the power harness.

Leave any hardwired connection (wire to wire) in place in the vehicle, and secure it using zip ties or electrical tape to adjacent brackets or wiring bundles.
Note: Pay particular attention to ensure hardwired harnesses connected to the vehicle's ignition wiring have enough free travel to allow for full range of motion when making telescopic steering wheel adjustments.

Step 4: Remove the Y-cable or ECMD cable (if present)

1. If the old device was connected using a Y-cable or ECMD cable, this must be moved too.
2. Replace the original OBD-II port or OEM Data Link Connector (DLC) into its original location.

Step 5: Remove the external antenna (if required)

If there is an external antenna, remove it by using light even pressure to slowly pry it away from the glass or A-pillar area.
Note: Turning the vehicle front defrost to high helps loosen antennas that are mounted to the windshield with two-sided tape.

Caution: Take care to prevent cracking the windshield when removing the antenna from the glass or when removing the plastic A-pillar trim cover.

Note: Trim clips can be difficult to line up to reseat panels and are brittle.

Step 6: Replace removed items

1. Replace the OEM Data Link Connector (DLC).
2. Replace any trim pieces that you removed during the procedure.

Step 7: Record and update the vehicle information

1. Record the vehicle ID and the device serial number.
   The serial number is on the back of the device.
2. Remove the device from your fleet portal in one of the following ways:
   • Use your fleet administration portal to systematically remove the device yourself
   • Contact Support to have the device removed.

Step 8: Return equipment

If requested to return equipment, contact Support to arrange returns.