Car Trackers

Insurance providers now insist that your car is fitted with a monitored stolen vehicle tracker, or VTS (Vehicle Tracking System). Tracker Teams advanced trackers provide 24/7 365 security and peace of mind that your vehicle is protected from theft.

UK’s leading car trackers

In today’s world, car theft remains a concern for many drivers. Whether it’s a cherished classic car or your everyday reliable runabout, the thought of having your vehicle stolen is a stressful one.

Thankfully, car trackers offer a powerful solution, providing real-time location tracking and a valuable tool for recovery in the event of theft.

Here, the Tracker Team experts delve into the world of car trackers, exploring their features, benefits, and how they can bring you peace of mind.

Streamlining car tracker installation

At Tracker Team, we understand the importance of protecting your vehicle.

We offer a hassle-free car tracker installation service, ensuring your tracker is fitted professionally and discreetly by our team of qualified engineers.

We work with leading car tracker brands, allowing you to choose the right system for your needs. With nationwide coverage, we can install your tracker at your home, workplace, or a location convenient for you.

What is a car tracker and how does it work?

A car tracker is a sophisticated electronic device discreetly hidden within your vehicle.

The majority of car trackers utilise GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to pinpoint your car’s location and transmit it to a secure monitoring centre.

This allows you, or the monitoring centre in the event of theft, to track your vehicle’s whereabouts in real time.

Also, some trackers utilise GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) technology, enabling them to send location data via a mobile phone network.

What are the benefits of installing a car tracker?

The advantages of installing a car tracker are numerous, offering both security and peace of mind. Here’s a closer look at some key benefits:

• Software and real-time tracking: Many trackers come with dedicated software, accessible via a user-friendly mobile phone app or web interface. This allows you to view your car’s location live on a map, anytime, anywhere. You can also set up alerts for unauthorised movement, engine ignition, or if your vehicle goes outside of a predefined zone – this is known as ‘geo-fencing’
• Journey history: Trackers often store historical data, enabling you to review past journeys and track mileage. This is particularly useful for business use or managing teenage drivers
• European travelling: If you regularly travel to Europe with your car, choose a tracker with pan-European coverage. This ensures uninterrupted tracking and recovery assistance across borders
• 24/7 security centre monitoring: Many car tracker subscriptions include 24/7 monitoring from a dedicated security centre. In the event of theft, the security team can track your car’s location, liaise with the police and assist in its recovery. This can significantly increase the chances of getting your vehicle back quickly and undamaged.

Why should I install a car tracker?

Here are a few compelling reasons to consider installing a car tracker:

• High recovery figures: Statistics show that vehicles fitted with car trackers are significantly more likely to be recovered by police in the event of theft. With real-time location data, the police can quickly track down your stolen car, leading to a higher recovery rate
• Immobilisation (on certain trackers): Some advanced car trackers offer an immobilisation feature. Upon receiving a theft alert, the monitoring centre can remotely disable your vehicle’s engine, preventing the thief from driving it away. This can significantly deter theft and give you valuable time for police to intervene
• Driver ID (optional): Some tracker systems allow you to integrate a Driver ID system. This can be helpful for identifying authorised drivers in a business setting or for parents monitoring teenage drivers.

A closer look at the most popular car tracker brands

While the Ghost Immobiliser is an impressive piece of car security equipment, there are other – also excellent – car trackers to consider. They include:

Tracker

Tracker is one of the leading providers of car tracking solutions in the UK. They offer a range of products designed to protect your vehicle and give you peace of mind.

• Tracker Retrieve: This is a popular product that allows you to track your vehicle’s location in real-time. It also includes features like geofencing, which can alert you if your vehicle leaves a predefined area, and remote immobilisation. It’s a good option for those who need a simple and affordable solution.

Vodafone

Vodafone is another well-known provider of car-tracking solutions. They offer a variety of products, including:

• Protect & Connect: This product is available in several versions and as an S7 Thatcham-approved car tracker. It provides real-time tracking, geofencing and remote immobilisation. It also includes a driver behaviour report that can help you identify potential safety issues.

Smartrack

Smartrack is a provider of vehicle tracking and security solutions. Their Thatcham-approved products include the Protector Pro Global and Trident:

• Smartrack Reco: The subscription for the Reco start at a reasonable rate, especially for one that offers S7 security (which is the best!), GPS location finding and battery back-up. Other models add geofencing, movement alert and remote immobilisation.

ScorpionTrack

A sound choice for cars and vans, the range includes trackers for real-time tracking, geofencing and speed alerts.

• Driver: A bestselling choice at Tracker Team as it offers a value-for-money offering. It’s the lowest-priced insurance and Thatcham-approved tracker. There’s 24-7 monitoring around the year in an impressive budget-priced package.

Meta Trak

A good range of trackers offering deadlock and immobilisation functions as well as web and app access.

• Meta Trak S5: Thatcham-approved and recognised by all car insurance providers.

Tracker Team also offers a range of trackers for other vehicles such as vans, trucks, caravans and motorhomes.

That includes the Datatool Stealth S5 Motorbike Tracker with real-time tracking, geofencing, tilt and motion sensors, and stolen vehicle recovery assistance.

Whatever your vehicle tracking needs, call us to find out how we can help.

Key considerations for choosing a car tracker

Before investing in a car tracker, there are some key issues to consider first, including:

• Vehicle type: Always check compatibility beforehand to ensure the tracker will work with your vehicle
• Features: Determine the specific features you need, such as real-time tracking, geofencing and stolen vehicle recovery
• Battery life: Check the battery life to ensure it meets your usage requirements
• Cost: Compare the initial cost and ongoing subscription fees of different trackers – these can vary

• Real-time tracking: This allows you to always monitor your vehicle’s location
• Geofencing: This feature can alert you if your vehicle leaves a predefined area
• Remote immobilisation: This allows you – or, rather, the control centre – to disable your vehicle’s engine remotely if it has been stolen
• Driver behaviour reports: These can help you identify potential safety issues and coach drivers on safer habits
• Insurance discounts: Some car trackers can qualify for insurance discounts
• Installation: Consider the ease of installation and whether you’ll need professional help. Call the experts at Tracker Team to organise an expert fitter to carry out the work.

Ultimately, the best car tracker for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. It’s worth researching each brand and comparing their features to find the one that best suits your requirements.

How does car tracker installation work?

The installation process for a car tracker is typically straightforward and convenient.

Once you’ve chosen your car tracker and subscription plan, you’ll need to schedule an installation appointment with a qualified engineer from your chosen supplier.

The engineer will visit your location, discreetly install the tracker within your vehicle and ensure it is fully operational.

They’ll also provide you with a comprehensive demonstration of how to use the tracking software or app.

How much does a tracker cost?

Car tracker costs vary depending on the chosen model, features and subscription plan.

Prices typically range from around £200 to £599 (inc VAT), with monthly subscription fees starting from around £10 – most services offer a cheaper annual price.

Some providers also offer special deals that bundle the tracker unit with a discounted subscription for the first year.

Check out the Tracker Team product page to find the best trackers around.

Are car trackers transferrable between vehicles?

In most cases, car trackers are not directly transferable between vehicles.

The installation process often involves specific wiring and connections tailored to your car’s make and model.

If you plan to sell your vehicle and transfer the tracker, it’s best to consult with your tracker provider to discuss the options.

They may be able to assist with the transfer or offer a solution, such as removing the tracker and installing it in your new vehicle.

What car tracker is best for insurance?

Many insurance companies offer discounts for vehicles equipped with Thatcham-approved car trackers.

Thatcham is an independent motor research organisation in the UK that sets standards for vehicle security systems.

By installing a Thatcham-approved tracker, you may be eligible for a significant reduction in your car insurance premiums.

It’s always advisable to check with your insurer to determine the specific requirements and potential discounts available.

Also, some insurers may only offer cover for your vehicle – especially if it’s a vintage or expensive model – if you have a tracker fitted.

What’s the difference between an S5 and an S7 tracker?

The S5 and S7 are common car tracker categories, which is the Thatcham approval standard. While the exact specifications may vary between providers, here’s a general overview:

• S5: Typically represents a basic tracker with core features like real-time tracking, journey history, and theft alerts
• S7: This usually denotes a more advanced tracker with additional features such as immobilisation, driver ID and enhanced security capabilities.

You’ll need to consult with your chosen provider to understand the exact differences and choose the tracker that best aligns with your requirements.

S5 and S7 trackers: A comparison

S5 Trackers

• Basic level: S5 trackers typically represent a more basic level of car tracking
• Core features: They often include features like real-time tracking, journey history and theft alerts
• Cost-effective: S5 trackers are generally more affordable compared to S7 trackers
• Suitable for basic needs: If your primary concern is basic tracking and theft recovery, an S5 tracker might be sufficient.

S7 Trackers

• Advanced level: S7 trackers are considered more advanced and typically offer a wider range of features
• Enhanced security: They often include features like immobilisation, driver ID and enhanced security capabilities
• Higher cost: S7 trackers tend to be more expensive due to their advanced features
• Suitable for high-value vehicles: If you have a high-value vehicle or require more comprehensive security, an S7 tracker might be a better choice.

Key points to consider:

• Thatcham approval: Both S5 and S7 trackers can be Thatcham approved, which often qualifies for insurance discounts
• Individual features: While the general categories provide a framework, the specific features within each S5 or S7 tracker can vary between providers
• Budget and needs: Your budget and specific requirements will influence whether an S5 or S7 tracker is more suitable for you.

Additional factors:

• Provider: The specific provider offering the tracker can also impact the features and benefits available
• Subscription costs: Consider the ongoing subscription fees associated with the tracker, as these can vary between providers and tracker types
• Installation: The installation process and any additional costs involved should also be considered.

We should also highlight the issue of data privacy.

It may not be at the forefront of your mind when researching car trackers, but you’ll need to be mindful of data privacy concerns.

That means ensuring your tracker provider has robust security measures in place to protect your personal information and vehicle location data.

Who are Thatcham?

We’ve mentioned Thatcham Research a few times now and if you don’t know, Thatcham is a UK-based independent motor research organisation.

It plays a crucial role in setting standards for vehicle security systems, including car trackers.

Thatcham-approved trackers are considered to meet stringent security requirements, often leading to insurance discounts.

They also tend to have advanced security features such as immobilisation, which can make it more difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle. They are also more effective in helping the police find and return your stolen car.

The Thatcham rating provides peace of mind knowing that your car tracker has been independently verified to meet high security standards.

Overall, the Tracker Team experts believe that a Thatcham rating is a reliable indicator of a car tracker’s quality, security and potential insurance benefits, making it a valuable consideration for anyone looking to protect their vehicle.

Will I get an insurance certificate for a car tracker?

Yes, you should receive an insurance certificate for your car tracker upon installation.

This certificate confirms that the tracker has been professionally fitted and meets the necessary security standards.

It’s essential to keep this certificate as proof of installation, especially if you need to claim on your insurance in the event of theft.

Trust Tracker Team for your car tracker needs

Car trackers have become an invaluable tool for protecting vehicles and providing peace of mind.

By understanding the features, benefits and factors to consider, you can make an informed decision and choose the right tracker for you.

With the potential for increased security, reduced insurance premiums, and the ability to recover your vehicle in the event of theft, investing in a car tracker is a wise choice for many drivers.

Use an experienced firm of car tracker experts to install a tracker and sign up for a subscription that meets your current and future needs – that means getting in touch with us.

The Tracker Team is more than happy to help with any queries, and we can arrange for an expert installer to visit you and fit your car tracker for peace of mind at a time and place to suit you.