Question 1

What is a car tracker?

Accepted Answer

A car tracker is a device installed in a vehicle to monitor its location and movements. It uses a combination of technologies such as GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), GPS (Global Positioning System) and RF (Radio Frequency) to track the vehicle's location in real-time and transmit this information to a monitoring centre or the owner's mobile device.

Question 2

What are the benefits of car GPS tracker?

Accepted Answer

Car trackers can be beneficial for several reasons, including enhancing the security of a vehicle and making it easier to retrieve a car if stolen, which can lead to reduced insurance premiums. They are also helpful for overseeing the driving habits of family members or friends and keeping tabs on the location and movements of fleet vehicles.

Question 3

Which car trackers are insurance approved?

Accepted Answer

Insurance-approved car trackers meet the standards established by Thatcham Research, which are tested stringently to determine their safety and effectiveness. However, the specific models approved by insurance companies may vary depending on the insurer, so it's always best to check with your insurance provider to confirm their requirements before purchasing a car tracker. The following are just some of the Thatcham-approved car trackers available: Tracker Retrieve: This category S7 GPS tracker can locate a stolen vehicle anywhere in the world. Vodafone Automotive CobraTrak: A range of GPS and GSM trackers that can pinpoint a stolen vehicle's location and provide 24/7 monitoring. They are available in both S5 and S7 category options. SmarTrack: This range of GPS trackers can be fitted to cars, vans, and other vehicles and are similarly available in S5 and S7 category options. ScorpionTrack: S5 and S7 category GPS trackers to locate a stolen vehicle and alert the owner or the police. Trafficmaster Trackstar: Available as S5 or S7 category GPS and GSM trackers that can locate a stolen vehicle and provide stolen vehicle recovery.

Question 4

What is a category S7 tracker?

Accepted Answer

Your insurance provider may refer to two categories of Thatcham Trackers: ' S5' and 'S7'. The S7 category denotes the basic-level Thatcham Tracker, while the S5 class represents the higher-level tracker.

Question 5

How do you install a car tracker device?

Accepted Answer

Installing a car tracker depends on the type of tracker you have. However, below are some general steps that can guide you through the installation process if you're looking to self-install: Choose the right location: A discreet place that's difficult to find is imperative, and remember that GPS signals transmit through surfaces like plastic, wood, glass and fibreglass, but not through metal, so place the tracker away from any electronic device in the car. Connect the wiring: Follow the manufacturer's instructions and connect the wiring as instructed. Alternatively, if you have an OBD-II GPS tracker, you can self-install these devices quickly and easily using the vehicle's OBD-II port (Onboard Built-in Diagnosis). OBD-II ports are available on cars older than 1996 and can typically be found near the steering wheel, depending on the car manufacturer. Secure the tracker: Finally, secure the tracker firmly using the provided brackets and screws.

Question 6

Where is the best place to put a tracker on a car?

Accepted Answer

The location of a car tracker is crucial to its effectiveness in monitoring the vehicle's movements and providing theft recovery services. A critical step is locating a place that is tough to identify, so the tracker is challenging to discover. Some good places to hide the tracker include behind the front or rear bumper, inside speakers, under carpeting or seats, behind the dashboard or glove compartment or under the brake light cover. And once in place, remember to test the tracker to ensure the signals aren't compromised by interference.

Question 7

Does having a car tracker reduce car insurance?

Accepted Answer

Installing a car tracker can reduce your car insurance premiums as insurance providers consider vehicles with trackers lower risk, as they are more likely to be recovered in the event of theft or loss. It means that insurers may offer a discount on your car insurance premium if you have a Thatcham-approved tracker installed. However, the discount value may vary depending on other factors, including your driving record and the vehicle's location. So, it's always best to check with your insurer to see if they offer a discount for car trackers and confirm their criteria for eligibility.

Which car trackers are insurance approved?

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