Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker Review

First Impressions of Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker

The Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker promises a simple, plug-and-play solution for vehicle tracking without the hassle of wiring or battery concerns. Brickhouse Security aims to provide peace of mind, and the ease of use is immediately appealing. The low price point also piqued my interest, making it seem like an accessible option for anyone needing basic vehicle tracking.

My interest in this tracker stemmed from a need to monitor the location of a work vehicle driven by multiple employees. I wanted something discreet, easy to install, and reliable enough to provide location updates without constant maintenance. The TrackPort’s OBD-II port connectivity seemed ideal for this purpose, eliminating the need for professional installation or battery replacements.

Upon unboxing, the TrackPort is surprisingly compact and lightweight, made of ABS plastic. It feels sturdy enough for its intended purpose, although it doesn’t exude a premium feel. Compared to hardwired GPS trackers I’ve used, it’s significantly less bulky and complicated. It’s also more appealing than battery-powered trackers that require frequent recharging or replacement.

I considered the Garmin Fleet 790 and the Optimus 2.0 GPS Tracker, but the Brickhouse Security TrackPort’s price and ease of installation won me over. The Garmin is a more comprehensive fleet management solution with a higher price point, and the Optimus 2.0 relies on battery power, which I wanted to avoid.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic about the Brickhouse Security TrackPort. Its simplicity and low cost raised some concerns about long-term reliability and accuracy. However, I was eager to test it in a real-world scenario and see if it could deliver on its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the TrackPort in a 2015 Ford F-150 used for deliveries in a rural area. I chose this vehicle because it frequently travels through areas with spotty cell service, providing a good test of the tracker’s connectivity. Installation was incredibly easy. Simply plugging it into the OBD-II port under the dash took seconds.

During the first week, the tracker provided consistent location updates. It accurately showed the vehicle’s routes and stops, even in areas with limited cellular coverage. The tracking platform, accessible via the Brickhouse Security app, was intuitive and easy to navigate.

The only initial issue was a slight delay in location updates. The advertised 60-second intervals occasionally stretched to a few minutes, but this didn’t significantly impact the overall tracking accuracy. This was during a heat wave and the interior of the vehicle was consistently above 90 degrees fahrenheit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of continuous use, the TrackPort has proven to be surprisingly reliable. It has consistently provided accurate location data, even in challenging conditions. The ABS plastic casing has held up well to the rigors of daily use, with no visible signs of wear or damage.

Maintenance is virtually non-existent. Since it draws power from the vehicle’s OBD-II port, there are no batteries to replace or recharge. The tracker simply works, providing a hassle-free tracking solution.

Compared to previous experiences with battery-powered trackers, the TrackPort is a significant improvement. I no longer have to worry about battery life or frequent replacements. While hardwired trackers offer more advanced features, the TrackPort’s simplicity and ease of use make it a compelling option for basic vehicle tracking needs.

Breaking Down the Features of Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker

Specifications

The Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker features a simple design with a focus on ease of use. The device measures 1.8 inches in width, 1.1 inches in height, and 2.4 inches in length, weighing only 34 grams. Its compact size allows it to be discreetly plugged into the vehicle’s OBD-II port without obstructing the driver’s legroom.

The tracker is constructed from ABS Plastic offering reasonable durability for its intended environment. It operates within a temperature range of -30 to 70 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for use in various climates. It’s powered by a Lithium-Ion battery, however, it leverages the vehicles OBD-II port for constant charging, eliminating the need for external power.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the device’s ease of use and reliability. The compact size and light weight ensure it doesn’t interfere with the vehicle’s operation. The wide operating temperature range makes it suitable for use in most environments.

Performance & Functionality

The TrackPort performs its primary function of vehicle tracking effectively. It provides location updates approximately every 60 seconds, giving a near real-time view of the vehicle’s whereabouts. It is powered by the BrickHouse Security Tracking Platform, offering a user-friendly interface for monitoring vehicle location, speed, and routes.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The plug-and-play installation makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of technical expertise. The tracking platform is intuitive and easy to navigate. A potential weakness is the lack of advanced features found in more expensive trackers, such as geofencing or detailed vehicle diagnostics.

The TrackPort largely meets expectations for a basic vehicle tracker. It provides reliable location data and requires minimal maintenance. While it lacks some advanced features, its affordability and ease of use make it a worthwhile option for many users.

Design & Ergonomics

The TrackPort’s design is simple and functional. The ABS plastic casing is lightweight and durable enough for its intended purpose. Its compact size ensures it doesn’t interfere with the driver’s legroom or other vehicle components.

The tracker is exceptionally user-friendly. There is no complicated setup or configuration required. Simply plug it into the OBD-II port, and it starts tracking immediately. The tracking platform is also intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those with limited technical experience.

Durability & Maintenance

The TrackPort appears to be reasonably durable. The ABS plastic casing has held up well to daily use, showing no signs of wear or damage after several months. Its internal components are protected by the casing, minimizing the risk of damage from impacts or vibrations.

Maintenance is minimal. Since it’s powered by the vehicle’s OBD-II port, there are no batteries to replace or recharge. The casing can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth. It remains to be seen how long the TrackPort will last, but its simple design and durable construction suggest it should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker is a standalone device, and no included accessories are mentioned. Given its simple functionality, there aren’t many customization options available for this device.

It is designed to work seamlessly with the Brickhouse Security tracking platform, accessible via a web browser or mobile app. Therefore, users should ensure compatibility with this platform before purchasing. Aftermarket OBD-II splitters could allow simultaneous use with other OBD-II devices.

Pros and Cons of Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker

Who Should Buy Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker?

The Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker is perfect for individuals or small business owners who need a basic and affordable vehicle tracking solution. It’s well-suited for parents wanting to monitor teen drivers, employers tracking company vehicles, or anyone seeking simple peace of mind regarding vehicle location. Casual fleet managers might also find this a viable option.

This product might not be ideal for users who require advanced tracking features or detailed vehicle diagnostics. Those seeking features like geofencing, real-time alerts, or comprehensive vehicle health reports should consider more sophisticated (and expensive) trackers. Professional security services with specific monitoring needs may also find its features too basic.

A must-have modification might be a low-profile OBD-II extension cable to prevent accidental dislodging and further conceal the device.

Conclusion on Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker

The Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker offers a compelling combination of simplicity, affordability, and reliability. It delivers on its promise of easy plug-and-play installation and consistent vehicle tracking. Its limitations lie in its lack of advanced features, but for basic tracking needs, it’s an excellent option.

The price is absolutely justified for the functionality it provides. It’s a fraction of the cost of more advanced trackers, making it accessible to a wide range of users. If someone needs a simple, no-fuss way to monitor their vehicle’s location, this is an excellent choice.

I would personally recommend the Brickhouse Security TrackPort OBD Vehicle GPS Tracker to anyone seeking a basic and affordable vehicle tracking solution. It’s a reliable and easy-to-use device that provides peace of mind without breaking the bank. Try the TrackPort today and experience the benefits of simple and reliable vehicle tracking!