Failure to comply sounds a bit like Nazi germany about what Motability want to inflict on a paying customer? While it is physically possible to block or tamper with a Drive Smart black box device, doing so is highly discouraged and likely to result in severe penalties, including the termination of your lease agreement. Reddit +2
Here is what you need to know about blocking or tampering with these devices, particularly in the context of the Motability Drive Smart scheme:
Consequences of Blocking: If the telematics device does not receive a signal for 14 continuous days, Motability reserves the right to remove you from the insurance, which means you can no longer drive the vehicle and your lease agreement may be terminated.
Tampering is Fraudulent: Any attempt to manipulate the Drive Score—such as covering the box, disconnecting it, or blocking its signal—is considered a breach of the agreement and could be viewed as fraudulent.
Mandatory Requirements: For those under 30 or new customers, installing the device within 10 days of receipt and keeping it active is mandatory.
No Signal Penalty: If the device cannot communicate with the Drive Smart app, the system flags this as a failure to comply.
What the Box Tracks: The device monitors speed, braking, acceleration, and cornering, which are used to generate a weekly score. It does not interfere with the car’s electronics. Reddit +7
If you are experiencing issues with the app or device, it is recommended to contact the scheme directly rather than attempting to block it, as consistent “red” scores or device failures will lead to being removed from the scheme.