With approximately 96 vehicles stolen across South Africa every day in the first quarter of 2024, many drivers are looking for ways to keep their cars safe. A GPS-tracking device could be a great solution.
Follow along as we answer the most common questions about car trackers.
What is a Car Tracker?
Vehicle tracking devices provide real-time data, allowing tracking companies to see where a specific car, motorbike or truck is at any given moment. This technology aids in stolen vehicle recovery and offers car owners peace of mind.
How Do Car Trackers Work?
Car trackers use GPS technology to determine a vehicle’s exact location. The information is then sent through a SIM card to a monitoring system or app, allowing your car to be tracked in real time.
Most trackers require a monthly fee, which covers the cost of the tracking service and data usage. You can follow your car’s movements on your smartphone or through a secure monitoring platform.
What Are the Different Types of Car Trackers?
Car trackers come in various types, each suited to different needs. Here’s a quick overview of what’s out there to help you choose.
Personal Vehicle Trackers
These are designed for individual car owners who want to monitor their personal vehicles.
Fleet Vehicle Trackers
Ideal for businesses, these trackers help fleet managers monitor multiple vehicles, optimise routes, and improve driver safety.
Real-Time Trackers
Provide live updates on the car’s location, perfect for those who need continuous monitoring, such as young drivers.
Passive Trackers
Record data to be downloaded later, useful for analysing routes and trips after the fact.
Why Should I Use a Car Tracker?
Using a car tracker offers numerous benefits, especially in South Africa, where car theft and hijacking are serious concerns. One of the primary advantages is the increased chance of recovering a stolen vehicle, as a tracking unit provides precise location information to aid in retrieval.
For businesses, car trackers play an essential role in fleet management by allowing companies to monitor routes, track fuel consumption, and ensure drivers adhere to safe driving practices. Additionally, tracking your car in real-time enhances safety by enabling quick contact with authorities if an emergency arises.
Is a Car Tracker Required for Car Insurance?
Not always. Some insurance providers may require you to pay for and install a GPS tracker to obtain car insurance, while others may offer reduced premiums for cars with trackers. Prime South Africa, for example, doesn’t require a tracking device, so you’re free to select the coverage that best suits your needs.
How Do I Choose the Right Car Tracker for My Needs?
When choosing the right car tracker, start by considering its intended purpose. Determine whether you need a tracker for personal use or for managing a fleet, as fleet trackers often offer additional features tailored to business needs.
Next, factor in the ongoing cost, as most car trackers require an initial installation cost and a monthly subscription fee for continued service. Finally, think about the specific features you need- some trackers offer basic location tracking, while others include advanced options like geo-fencing, driver behaviour analysis, and real-time alerts.
Selecting a tracker with features that align with your requirements will ensure you get the best value and functionality.
Which Car Tracker Companies Are Popular in South Africa?
If you’re considering a car tracker, here are some well-known companies to check out in South Africa.
- Tracker SA: Offers reliable tracking for both personal and fleet vehicles. Explore their offerings at Tracker SA.
- Cartrack: Known for its GPS tracking devices, including live tracking and fleet management features, it’s ideal for businesses – for more details, go to Cartrack.
- Netstar: Provides GPS tracking with app integration for real-time monitoring. See more at Netstar.
However, this is a limited list, so please do your own research to find one that best fits your needs and budget, and that your car insurer will be happy with.
How Can I Get the Most Out of My Car Tracker?
To get the most out of your car tracker, it’s essential to use its features strategically. Start by setting up alerts and notifications to notify you of events such as unauthorised movement or when the vehicle exits a designated area. This provides an added layer of security and ensures you’re promptly informed of any unusual activity.
For fleet managers, monitoring driver behaviour can optimise routes, reduce fuel costs, and encourage safer driving practices. Additionally, integrating your tracker with other security measures, like alarms and immobilisers, further enhances your vehicle’s protection, creating a comprehensive security system that maximises peace of mind.
What Should I Look for in a Car Tracker?
When evaluating car trackers, consider the following factors.
Battery Life
Some trackers are battery-operated, so ensure the battery life suits your needs, especially for long-term use.
Coverage and Compatibility
Make sure the tracker works well in your area and is compatible with your vehicle type.
Customer Support
Choose a provider with responsive customer support to assist with setup, troubleshooting, or any issues that may arise.
Can Criminals Disable My Car Tracker?
It’s technically possible for criminals to locate and disable a car tracker if they manage to find its hiding spot. However, there are many discreet places within a vehicle to install a tracker, making it challenging for thieves to locate it quickly.
In most cases, they would need to dismantle significant parts of the car to identify the exact position of the device, which acts as a strong deterrent.
If I Have a Tracker, Do I Still Need Car Insurance?
Yes, having a car tracker is a fantastic tool for vehicle recovery and security, but it doesn’t replace the need for quality car insurance.
A tracker can help you locate your car if it’s stolen, but car insurance provides broader financial protection in case of accidents, theft, natural disasters, and other unexpected events. Insurance covers repair costs, liability, and more, giving you a sense of security that a tracker alone can’t offer.
For affordable, reliable car insurance that keeps you covered in every situation, consider Prime South Africa. Request a quote and find a policy that suits your needs perfectly.
Disclaimer
The article aims to provide South African motorists with information about car trackers. However, it’s not a complete list, so always do your own independent research.
Get a quote for affordable Comprehensive car insurance with Prime South Africa for fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and top-tier service. T&Cs apply.
Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.
