mcdream

I was wondering what would be the best place to connect the switch... If it would be possible to disconnect a part that would stop the engine from starting but the starter would still try so any (possible) thieves wouldn't easily figure out what is wrong... I don't want any aftermarket alarm systems, just a simple hidden switch. I could disconnect the fuel pumps but the engine would then probably still start for a bit...
Any ideas?

awdinut

Your A8 is equipped with an imobilizer system. Unless a theif has your key with the chip for your A8, your A8 won't go anywhere. If some one manages to start the car somehow it will only run for a few seconds. Do that 3 times and EVERYTHING in the car shuts down, only to be activated again by an Audi dealer after you present proof of ownership (if they dont know you).

jakematic

Not sure.

Take a look at this recent post in the D4 forum from a member in the Netherlands:

1Wasserwerks

That's a bit unnerving.

mishar

Before I thrust the guy I would check stolen A8 statistics for Holland.

awdinut

the fact is that in the US the brands of cars that get stolen are those brands for which there is a large parts market. A8s are sold in miniscule numbers in the relative scope of the US auto market and therefore there is no parts market.

No pro would steal an A8 and no punk who wants to take a ride has the sophisticated tools mentioned (if they exist).

mcdream

Yea, but these cars still get stolen. I'd rather have some (simple) system that isn't widely known and can at least delay the thief. Usually if it takes too long start the car they will just move on to the next poor fella...

1Wasserwerks

Not that it is really appropriate for this car but, disconnect one of the terminals of the battery if you are going to leave it for a length of time.

jakematic

Have not checked, but it would not surprise me at all in Europe that this is happening.


Quite possibly, but the OP is not in the US...
Was thinking that other post corroborated his concern.


I read on Engadget some time back that the security encryption codes for all of VAG were cracked/hacked or something.
Typically I used to consider the Audi having to be flat-bedded, or jokingly, fork-lifted to be stolen.
Thieves, like the vehicles, are getting much more sophisticated than the old screwdriver in the steering column.

Original post was re: Audi S8 Tops Most Stolen List

mishar

I agree. So, if they came to your A8 with a towing truck and computer it is for a reason. They won't be discouraged by a hidden switch. They would load it and like any other smart guy with a problem ask AudiWorld what to do. That won't trigger any flags. A8 is is full of hidden switches anyways.