Module, Vehicle Tracking (VTM): Description
Vehicles manufactured for certain export markets where it is required equipment have a Vehicle Tracking Module (VTM) (also known as a Vehicle Theft Module/VTM). The VTM is an electronic module responsible for monitoring vehicle position and controlling a vehicle immobilization feature through Radio Frequency (RF) communication with a Service Provider (SP). The VTM informs the Service Provider about vehicle position and speed, and the SP sends requests to the VTM to maintain the immobilization status of the vehicle, either Unblocked or Blocked .
The VTM (1) is located beneath the instrument panel and above the steering column. The VTM is secured to a mounting bracket that is mounted to both the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) unit housing and the instrument panel support structure. The VTM has an integral connector receptacle that is connected to the vehicle electrical system through a single dedicated take out and connector of the instrument panel wire harness.
The VTM is made up of several components:
- Backup battery access cover (1)
- VTM housing and circuitry (2)
- VTM mounting bracket (3)
- VTM to mounting bracket retainers (4)
- VTM backup battery (5)
- Service Provider Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card (6)
- Global Positioning System (GPS) antenna
The VTM cannot be adjusted or repaired. If any component of the VTM is ineffective or damaged, the entire VTM module must be replaced with a new unit. The VTM software is flash programmable.