Simpler solution for disabling the DCM telematics - Silencing Antennas

I'd just like to add if you have factory remote start, if you remove power to the DCM you disable your remote start.

 

If you opt out of DCM data collection via the formal process (denying Connected Services Master Data Consent), Toyota disables your key fob remote start, too. Talk about strong-arming you into allowing them to collect your data. Definitively lame.



Edit: corrected to state that fob remote start is disabled, not fob remote unlock.

 

Fob remote entry works still. Fob remote start (lock, lock, hold lock) does not.
I opted out of DMC and Connected services 18 months ago. Fob still works to lock and unlock and remote starter worked until now. I used it last time in September, and it worked. Not working tonight.

 

I’m sure this is permitted under the TOS but still, kinda messed up that Toyota is changing the rules. Clearly we don’t own our trucks, even if fully paid, if Toyota can disable features as it sees fit.

 

Correct! Typo on my part, thanks for the catch. I still think it's pretty lame, in that the fob remote unlock feature is just as much a "connected service" as the fob remote start--i.e. it doesn't require connectivity at all.

 

I opted out, but have a 12VoltSoloutions Remote Start (cellular option also). Works like a charm. I had it on my 18 and wanted same for my 22. They now offer one that allows get in and go, instead of the shutoff when you open/unlock door.

I first got it not for remote start, but so I can lock/unlock (or check) from a long distance. I hated knowing I didn’t lock and having to walk back. Or having to go unlock/lock to transfer something to a friend/coworker. They can call, I’ll unlock and say it’s in the back seat and then relock when done.

 

Great question! I should have added that context.

Seems to me that it is easier and cheaper to get extended range for the onboard WiFi (yes I'd have to it it on my ATT Acct) and use WiFi calling from the truck than it would be to put a WeBoost on the rig. I'd like to use their antenna or a comparable / better external antenna to improve the cell reception of that radio in the floor board that runs the WiFi.

 

I won't address the ease or cost issues - those are somewhat flexible with people's opinions.

Let me paraphrase and see if I understand what you desire:
Your wish is to increase the truck's ability (the DCM, aka "that radio in the floor board") to receive a cellular signal and in turn make a better Wi-Fi signal (from the DCM) to use your existing cellular phone to make cellular-service free calling using the (DCM and AT&T/Toyota supplied) Wi-Fi while inside or very near the truck. That's a full sentence; I could not figure out how to make it clearer. I hope I understand.

Standard WeBoost operation using their External antenna, Transceiver, Internal antenna, associated cables and power supplies:
The WeBoost external antenna collects the weak or strong cellular signals and transfers the signal to the WeBoost Transceiver for amplification (if needed) and then that amplified signal is transferred to the WeBoost matchbox size internal antenna for your cellphone to receive a cellular signal, this is normal use.

The shark fin antenna on the roof does basically the same thing as the WeBoost external antenna with some minor degree of reception increase or decrease. This difference is unknown without getting the specs of the antennas (and cables) from both WeBoost and Toyota; I suspect Toyota would be the hardest spec to procure. So just using the WeBoost antenna alone would not result in much of a benefit, if any.

However, this could be tried somewhat easily as the cable ends are very similar in size and type, although not exact matches. An adapter would be necessary. Results would be subjective as the Toyota DCM has no power level output indicators. Well, perhaps Techstream has a signal strength measurement capability? I have Techstream , but no SIM so I will have to look later.

It is the WeBoost transceiver that is the real work horse of the system, not the antenna. This is what amplifies the cellular signal. It may be possible to route the output of the WeBoost transceiver directly to the DCM Primary cellular antenna input eliminating the matchbox internal antenna. This would have to be power level matched, so the DCM is not over driven by the strong signal of the WeBoost transceiver. Possible, but would require a bit more investigative knowledge than I'm up for.

I believe all manufactures of cellular boosters would operate the same.

Hope this allows you to understand what you desire.

 

Best explanation I've heard yet. Thank you.

 

Looked at Techstream yesterday for a signal level indicator for cell reception- none.

 

Hi All, Such great info and support here. Love my 23 Taco but Toyota are just being dicks about this keyfob / remote start thing. Just went through the process of reactivating and paying for the remote start so I can then disable the cell antenna / DCM while its active. What I wanted to throw out there for all curious, was just told that all I needed to do was reactivate via the app and my truck would automatically update from the "Sky People". So it sounds like for those that through disabling via the SOS phone, it does not truly disable all cell connections.

 

A difficult thread and topic to put your first post.

Certainly, agree with Toyota being dicks.

The associated threads detailing Toyota's recent remote un-programming of the FOB Remote Start feature say the "Trial" sign up is free. You paid?

Both removing the antennas or terminating the DCM antenna output as the first post in this thread details do not work completely; only removing power or as a few have done removing the SIM on the DCM disables the DCM communications to Toyota. Removing the power has drawback detailed in this thread.

My SIM is removed, and my FOB Remote Start still works. Toyota has thus far had no effect upon me.

 

Good post.

It great that this thread is still alive and kicking.

I just got word from SWMBO that I need to get the SIM pulled in my 21 Tundra.( Same Technology).

The wife told me we have enough shit watching our every move and word. Toyota doesn't need to as well.

 

I had not heard of SWMBO before this... had to look it up.

 

I know what side my bread is buttered...

She gives me everything I want. I'm not gonna upset the apple cart...

 

It appears, if you have your remote start activated and the dcm cannot check in with the mothership {removed sim} it stays active. I read somewhere, I'll need to find the source if I can, that DCM algorithm will deactivate remote start if it can't check in after X ( two weeks? ) amount of time. Seems your 2021 doesn't need a check-in and 2022? 2023? has that logic coded into the DCM. Fun... I wish I had know your Tacoma still had it's remote start activated. I was "cancelled" from my "free" 12 month trial when Toyota updated the app and their terms to require " Location and Precise Location " to be enabled. I would have removed the SIM, then let them cancel my trial subscription to test if remote start still worked.

We were still supposed to be able to use the app, limited capabilities, if we didn't accept the new terms. When I didn't they cancelled the trial. Part of me wonders if there is enough outrage, probably not since most that are not here don't care, for some to file class action for cheating them out of their "free - that was paid for by the purchaser" trial? Again, Probably not.

Anyway I'm glad it worked out for you. I haven't removed my sim since they disabled cellular when the terminated my trial. But I still don't trust them and will remove it eventually. I wonder if the NVRAM can be removed without impact to DCM and leave the MIC and Speaker working.

 

Your theory that the MYs 2022-23 have the "update or deactivate" remote start by the FOB disabled could apply to any MY, mine included. It may be that even the older trucks like mine were updated remotely to have the same effect if what you think you have read elsewhere is true. The fact that my SIM has been removed for some time would be the savior.

When you or Toyota "terminated" your trial by whatever means, I do not believe they "disabled cellular" at all. What I find more likely is they removed the telephone number associated with your DCM from their automatic polling for updates and driving info. As well as the ability for the truck (or the use of the SOS button) to call for help during an accident. If cellular were to be disabled within the DCM Toyota could not reach it to reactivate the service/DCM if so desired by the owner at a later date. I do not believe Toyota would make a dealer visit necessary to have the DCM reactivated - that would discourage people from doing so. Who wants to go to the dealer?

The speaker remains working if the speaker connector is just plugged into the DCM; no power necessary. The speaker signals simply go through an unenergized relay within the DCM. The DCM energizes the relay to route the speaker connections to the DCM audio circuits.

The Microphone is powered by the DCM, so I believe if power is not disturbed too badly (as in removing the NVRAM) in the DCM that would work to, if the DCM is powered up; i.e. fuse installed, main connector plugged in, etc..

 

Good day Gentlemen,

The holy grail has arrived. Autoharness is now producing a bypass harness to disconnect the DCM while keeping the microphone and speakers working.
You can find it here.
https://www.autoharnesshouse.com/store/AHH-DCM77
I already ordered and received the harness.
Pictures attached.
Now I just need some time to install it.

 

Slick! Come with any installation instructions?

 

Basically, you just unplug two cables from the DCM.
Then you plug these harnesses into the cables that would have been plugged into the DCM.

Take off the trim to the radio.
The DCM is on the right side of the radio.