First Impressions of Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker
The Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker promises a simple, hardwired GPS tracking solution for vehicles without the hassle of professional installation. The low price point of $9.99 certainly piqued my interest, given that most GPS trackers come with a hefty upfront cost. I was eager to see if this tracker could deliver on its promises of reliable, covert tracking, especially for monitoring fleet vehicles on relocation assignments.
I’ve been using GPS trackers for over a decade, both personally and professionally, to safeguard equipment and monitor vehicle usage. One recurring problem is battery life in wireless trackers; constantly recharging becomes a chore, especially in remote locations. The Livewire Volt’s hardwired design, drawing power from the vehicle’s battery, seemed like an ideal solution to eliminate this problem.
Unboxing the Livewire Volt, I was immediately struck by its compact size and the robust ABS/PC plastic construction. It felt solid in hand, although lighter than expected at just 4.59 oz. This was a pleasant surprise, suggesting it would be easy to conceal within a vehicle’s wiring harness or under the dashboard.
Compared to the previously used hardwired tracker, a more expensive Garmin Fleet 790, the Livewire Volt appears much simpler, lacking advanced features like driver behavior monitoring or integrated dashcam capabilities. A direct competitor would be a basic TKSTAR TK905 hardwired unit, however the Livewire Volt stood out to me due to the fact that Brickhouse is a well-known manufacturer. I specifically chose the Livewire Volt over these due to its advertised ease of installation and the claim of continuous tracking, even when the vehicle is off.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The small size and simple wiring promised ease of use, but I was also wary of the extremely low price. I was excited to test its tracking accuracy and reliability in real-world scenarios, but a little concerned that it might come with hidden costs or limitations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing involved installing the Livewire Volt in a pickup truck used for hauling equipment to construction sites. Installation was indeed straightforward, requiring only a connection to the vehicle’s battery terminals. I mounted the tracker under the hood, near the battery, ensuring it was discreetly hidden.
The first few hours were promising. The tracker reported its location accurately via the BrickHouse “Locate GPS” app, with updates occurring at the standard interval. However, I encountered the dreaded surprise: a mandatory monthly subscription fee to access the tracking data. This wasn’t clearly advertised on the product page and immediately soured my experience.
The most disappointing discovery was that the tracker did not continuously track when the vehicle was off, despite the claim in the product description. This was a critical feature for my needs, as I wanted to be alerted if the vehicle was towed or moved without authorization. This false advertising was a significant blow.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Livewire Volt’s shortcomings became even more apparent. While it continued to report location data when the vehicle was running, the accuracy was inconsistent, sometimes placing the vehicle several blocks away from its actual location. The waterproof rating held up to a few car washes, but I did not submerge it in water to test its IP67 rating fully.
Durability-wise, the ABS/PC plastic casing showed no signs of cracking or damage, even after being exposed to the engine’s heat. Cleaning was simple, only requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth.
Compared to the Garmin Fleet 790, which provides detailed driver behavior analysis and real-time tracking updates, the Livewire Volt felt like a toy. It ultimately disappointed in terms of accuracy, reliability, and its misleading product description about continuous tracking.
Breaking Down the Features of Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Brickhouse Security.
- Material: ABS/PC plastic provides a decent level of protection for the internal components.
- Digital Display Type: While listed as a digital display type, the Livewire Volt doesn’t actually have a display; the location is viewed through the app.
- Dimensions: 2.66 in (Width) x 0.58 in (Height) x 5.3 in (Length) make it easy to conceal.
- Weight: 4.59 oz, quite lightweight.
- Battery Type: NiMH, Lithium; the 200mAh battery is primarily for tamper detection.
- Water Resistance: IP67 rating, meaning it should withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter.
- Operating Temperature: -30 to 70 Celsius is a wide range, suitable for most environments.
These specifications are generally adequate for a basic GPS tracker. However, the reliance on cellular connectivity and the monthly subscription fee are significant drawbacks.
Performance & Functionality
The Livewire Volt’s core function – tracking a vehicle’s location – is only partially fulfilled. It reports location data when the vehicle is running, but the accuracy can be unreliable. The lack of continuous tracking when the vehicle is off is a major deficiency, and the mandatory subscription fee makes it much less appealing.
The main strengths are its easy installation and compact size. Its weaknesses are its inaccurate tracking, the unexpected monthly fee, and the misleading product description. I expected a more reliable product, especially from Brickhouse Security, given their reputation in the security industry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Livewire Volt has a simple, utilitarian design. Its compact size makes it easy to hide within a vehicle. There isn’t much to say about ergonomics, as it’s designed to be installed and forgotten.
The build quality is acceptable for the price, although the plastic casing feels somewhat flimsy. The device is user-friendly in terms of installation, but the app interface is basic and lacks advanced features.
Durability & Maintenance
The ABS/PC plastic casing seems durable enough to withstand typical automotive conditions. The IP67 waterproof rating provides some peace of mind in wet environments. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
I estimate the Livewire Volt should last for several years, assuming the cellular network it relies on remains active. However, the mandatory subscription fee effectively turns it into a rental, negating the perceived long-term value.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Livewire Volt comes with no accessories beyond the basic wiring needed for installation. There are no customization options available. It is not compatible with third-party accessories or software.
The lack of customization options is a limitation, especially for users who want to integrate the tracker with other fleet management systems. The absence of included accessories, such as mounting hardware, is disappointing.
Pros and Cons of Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker
Pros
- Easy installation with only two-wire connection.
- Compact size allows for discreet placement.
- IP67 waterproof rating offers protection against the elements.
- Simple design.
Cons
- Mandatory monthly subscription fee, significantly increasing the cost.
- Inaccurate tracking data.
- Does not track when the vehicle is off, despite claims in the product description.
- Very basic App functionality.
Who Should Buy Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker?
The Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker might be suitable for someone looking for a very basic and inexpensive tracking solution for a vehicle that is used regularly, and only if they are aware of and willing to pay the ongoing monthly subscription fee. It could be useful for keeping tabs on teenage drivers (with their knowledge and consent) or monitoring company vehicles during work hours.
Someone needing reliable tracking, especially when the vehicle is off, or wanting to avoid monthly fees, should skip this product. Those seeking advanced features like geofencing, detailed reporting, or integration with other systems should also look elsewhere.
A must-have “accessory” is a clear understanding of the subscription costs and service limitations before purchasing. You may also want to purchase wire taps to make the wiring process even easier.
Conclusion on Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker
The Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker initially promised a simple and affordable tracking solution, but ultimately fell short of expectations. The inaccurate tracking, misleading product description about continuous tracking, and, most importantly, the hidden monthly subscription fee, significantly detract from its value.
The low upfront price of $9.99 is deceiving, as the ongoing subscription costs quickly outweigh any initial savings. Given its limitations and the availability of more reliable and transparent tracking options, I cannot recommend the Brickhouse Security Livewire Volt Vehicle GPS Tracker.
Unless you absolutely need the simplest possible hardwired installation and are comfortable with paying the monthly fee for basic, somewhat inaccurate tracking, there are better alternatives available. Consider exploring other GPS trackers with clearer pricing and more reliable performance before committing to the Livewire Volt.