What is vehicle tracking?

Whether you are a car owner with a prestigious car, a vintage classic or simply have a vehicle you are proud of, you may be worried about someone stealing it. If so, you need to consider installing a car tracker.

Along with helping you find your car if it is stolen, the installation will help prevent it from being taken in the first place.

There are other tracking or telematic devices that firms use for monitoring employees and insurance companies also install them to monitor young drivers.

Here, we take a look at the popular uses of a vehicle tracker and why they are increasingly important for car owners.

What is vehicle tracking?

A tracker is a small, discreet device installed in your car which will provide real-time information about your vehicle’s location.

It will use GPS (Global Positioning System) technology to pinpoint your car’s location and transmit the data to the tracking firm you have bought the tracker from – and usually have a subscription with.

This data can be accessed using a smartphone app or by visiting the tracking firm’s platform.

Why consider vehicle tracking?

While not as feature-rich as business-oriented telematics systems, vehicle trackers offer several valuable benefits for private car owners:

• Enhanced security: The biggest advantage is undoubtedly theft deterrence and recovery. A hidden tracker makes your car a less appealing target for thieves, knowing its location can be easily traced. If the worst happens, tracking will improve the chances of recovering your stolen vehicle.
• Trip tracking: Trackers can record your journeys, allowing you to analyse past trips and plan future routes more efficiently.
• Breakdown assistance: Some trackers offer integration with breakdown assistance services so it will automatically send your location and vehicle information to the service provider.
• Parking location: It’s happened to all of us – struggling to find your car in a big, busy car park. Use the app and the tracker will tell you.
• Peace of mind for parents: If you have a young driver in the family, a vehicle tracker can monitor their driving habits, ensuring they stay within designated areas (known as ‘geo-fencing’) and stick to speed limits. They are a popular choice for young drivers wanting cheaper car insurance – the tracker is euphemistically called a ‘black box’.

Is a vehicle tracker right for you?

The decision to install a vehicle tracker ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the following before making a choice:

• Security: If you live in a high-crime area or frequently park your car in unsecured locations, the enhanced security might be a strong motivator. Or if your car is expensive or a classic, a tracker makes for a sound investment (and you might find that your insurer insists on it).
• Peace of mind: If you simply value knowing your car’s whereabouts or want quicker breakdown assistance, a tracker can provide peace of mind.

Choosing the right car tracker for you

If you decide that a car tracker is for you, then it’s time to research different tracker options available in the UK. Consider factors like:

• Features: Decide which features are most important to you, such as real-time tracking, historical trip data, geofencing or integration with breakdown services.
• Insurance category: You will need to decide if you’re best placed to choose an S5 tracker or an S7 tracker.
• Cost: Compare installation and subscription fees offered by different providers.
• Ease of use: Look for a system with a user-friendly app and clear instructions.
• Battery life: Choose a tracker with a long battery life or one that can be wired into your car’s electrical system.
• Reputation: Opt for a reputable provider with good customer reviews.

Signing up for vehicle tracking?

Vehicle tracking systems offer a range of potential benefits for private car owners in the UK. From enhanced security and peace of mind for a relatively small cost.

Research is key and some good tracking providers offer reasonable monthly fees for a good service.