Car GPS Tracker Guide: Best Options for UK Drivers

Car Owl

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Summary

• GPS trackers help recover stolen cars: Real-time location tracking aids police recovery.
• Insurance benefits: Some insurers offer discounts for tracked vehicles.
• Prices range from £100 to £500+: Plus monthly subscription fees.

Car theft is on the rise in the UK. A GPS tracker can help you find your car if it's stolen – and might even deter thieves. Here's what you need to know.

What Is a Car GPS Tracker?

A GPS tracker is a device fitted to your car that uses satellite technology to pinpoint its location. You can monitor your car's position using a smartphone app or website.

If your car is stolen, you can see exactly where it is and share this information with the police.

Types of GPS Trackers

Thatcham-Approved Trackers

Thatcham Research tests and certifies vehicle security devices. Their categories are:

Self-Monitored vs Professionally Monitored

• Self-monitored: You track the car yourself via an app
• Professionally monitored: A control centre monitors 24/7 and contacts police

Key Features to Look For

• Real-time tracking: Live location updates
• Geofencing: Alerts when car leaves a set area
• Movement alerts: Notification if car moves unexpectedly
• Tamper alerts: Warning if someone tries to disable the tracker
• Battery backup: Continues working if main power is cut
• Journey history: Record of all trips
• Speed alerts: Notification if car exceeds set speed

Installation Options

Professional Installation

For Thatcham-approved trackers, professional installation is usually required:

• Covert fitting (hidden location)
• Hardwired to vehicle power
• Takes 1-2 hours
• Often included in purchase price

Self-Install

Basic trackers can be self-installed:

• Plug into OBD port
• Magnetic attachment under vehicle
• Battery-powered portable units

Self-install trackers are easier to find and remove by thieves.

Costs Breakdown

Upfront Costs

• Basic tracker: £50-£150
• Mid-range tracker: £150-£300
• Thatcham S7: £250-£500
• Thatcham S5: £400-£700

Subscription Fees

• Self-monitored: £0-£10/month
• Professionally monitored: £10-£25/month

Insurance Benefits

Some insurers require trackers for high-value cars:

• Requirement: Many won't insure luxury cars without a tracker
• Discounts: 5-15% off premiums with approved trackers
• Category requirement: Insurers often specify S5 or S7

Check with your insurer which category they require.

Popular GPS Tracker Brands

• Tracker: Thatcham-approved, widely recognised
• SmarTrack: Popular for prestige vehicles
• Meta Trak: Good range of options
• Vodafone Automotive: Comprehensive monitoring
• Rewire Security: Budget-friendly options

Legal Considerations

• Your own car: Completely legal to track
• Company cars: Must inform employees
• Someone else's car: Illegal without consent
• Data protection: Location data must be handled properly

Other Uses for GPS Trackers

Beyond theft recovery, trackers are useful for:

• Fleet management: Track business vehicles
• Teen drivers: Monitor new driver behaviour
• Classic cars: Track rarely-used vehicles
• Caravans and motorhomes: Protect valuable vehicles

Choosing the Right Tracker

For High-Value Cars

Choose a Thatcham S5 with professional monitoring. Your insurer may require it.

For Everyday Cars

A Thatcham S7 or good quality self-monitored tracker offers good protection at lower cost.

For Budget Protection

A basic self-install tracker is better than nothing, but easier for thieves to defeat.

A GPS tracker is just one part of vehicle security. See our guide on preventing keyless car theft for more ways to protect your car.

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