Is DataDot security worth considering?

PKM3 · 02-21-2011, 03:07 AM

In Australia, most new BMWs starting from around E46 (from year around 2000) were offered new, as standard, with Datadot microdot security. These are thousands of tiny dots around 1mm diameter with the VIN identifier engraved on them at microscopic size, suspended in a UV-sensitive glue that was applied to critical components (engine, suspension, back of headlights, transmission etc). The concept is to deter criminals from rebirthing cars using stolen parts, which would mean thieves would need to remove all the tiny dots, which is supposed to be time-consuming and difficult. BMW Australia does not offer it standard anymore (too expensive? Not valuable anymore?). The originally US-invented product was acquired by Australian investors, and still make it available in AUS, USA, and other parts of the world including a DIY kit for a few hundred dollars, as well as OEM to some manufacturers such as Subaru. Question is whether anyone has some real experience that attests to the value of the system??? Taking into account the alarm system and comprehensive insurance, does it still represent a valuable means to minimise risk of theft? p.s. thanks for all the good useful advice and knowledge members provide!

eisenb11 · 02-21-2011, 11:13 AM

As a deterrent, the theif doesn't know which cars have it and which don't have it so it's not worth getting.

Also, do you really want your car back after someone takes it all apart? That's assuming they don't find data dots and decide to trash it for fun?

Unless having them gets you an insurance break that completely offsets the cost, it's probably not worth paying for it on your own.

///My5UV · 02-21-2011, 04:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eisenb11

Unless having them gets you an insurance break that completely offsets the cost, it's probably not worth paying for it on your own.

+1

02-21-2011, 03:07 AM	#1
PKM3 Engineer 6 Rep 18 Posts Drives: E92 M3 2010 Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	Is DataDot security worth considering? In Australia, most new BMWs starting from around E46 (from year around 2000) were offered new, as standard, with Datadot microdot security. These are thousands of tiny dots around 1mm diameter with the VIN identifier engraved on them at microscopic size, suspended in a UV-sensitive glue that was applied to critical components (engine, suspension, back of headlights, transmission etc). The concept is to deter criminals from rebirthing cars using stolen parts, which would mean thieves would need to remove all the tiny dots, which is supposed to be time-consuming and difficult. BMW Australia does not offer it standard anymore (too expensive? Not valuable anymore?). The originally US-invented product was acquired by Australian investors, and still make it available in AUS, USA, and other parts of the world including a DIY kit for a few hundred dollars, as well as OEM to some manufacturers such as Subaru. Question is whether anyone has some real experience that attests to the value of the system??? Taking into account the alarm system and comprehensive insurance, does it still represent a valuable means to minimise risk of theft? p.s. thanks for all the good useful advice and knowledge members provide! Last edited by PKM3; 02-21-2011 at 03:09 AM.. Reason: Correction
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02-21-2011, 11:13 AM	#2
eisenb11 Major 53 Rep 1,153 Posts Drives: 2012 E92 M3 SSII Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Redondo Beach, CA, USA iTrader: (0)	As a deterrent, the theif doesn't know which cars have it and which don't have it so it's not worth getting. Also, do you really want your car back after someone takes it all apart? That's assuming they don't find data dots and decide to trash it for fun? Unless having them gets you an insurance break that completely offsets the cost, it's probably not worth paying for it on your own.
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