Did you know nearly a fifth of UK drivers have had their cars stolen, and a further third have had their cars broken into?

Unfortunately, car break-ins and thefts are more common than you’d expect. However, there are ways to keep an eye on your vehicle, even when you’re not driving—introducing car trackers.

Below, we’re exploring car trackers, how they work, and how to put one on your car to keep it extra secure. 

What is a car tracker?

A car tracker uses GPS technology and cellular networks to track your vehicle’s location. They can also give real-time information about your car’s speed, distance, and direction.

Sometimes, car trackers are also called vehicle tracking systems. 

Why use a car tracker?

Many of us depend heavily on our cars, and life would undoubtedly be far more stressful without one.

Car theft can cause financial and emotional burdens. There’s a lot of paperwork to deal with from insurance claims to hire car expenses. Not only that, but you may even face the loss of your no-claims bonus. 

A car tracker helps you find your car quickly—and even deters thieves if they notice it. 

Alternatively, you can place a sticker (often included with the tracker) on your car to warn thieves that you have the technology.

How do trackers work?

Car trackers work the same way as your navigation system—they use GPS tracking.

GPS works by communicating with a set of satellites to send a signal from your car. This signal shows the car’s location based on the distance from the satellites, giving you your live location and speed. 

What does a car tracker look like?

Most car trackers are small rectangle boxes around four inches long and two inches wide.

These are either installed in the car within the wiring or placed in more visible locations, such as the glovebox, windscreen, or centre console.

Car trackers are usually black to blend in with the average car interior. However, if you want a more obvious box, you can find models in grey or white.

How to put tracker on car

How you install the car tracker depends on the type you buy.

Higher-end devices need to be wired into the car’s system. The company often sends out an engineer or mechanic to install the tracker for these.

More affordable trackers can be self-installed, usually through a magnet or sticker strip. 

Both offer good coverage but come at different price points and with different lifespans and add-on advantages.

Benefits of using a car tracker

Now you know how car trackers work and what they look like, it’s time to analyse the benefits. Here’s what you can expect:

• Theft deterrence — Thieves are less likely to target your car if they see a car tracker.
• Quick vehicle recovery — In the unfortunate event of a theft, you have real-time tracking to help you find your car faster.
• Lower insurance premiums — Some insurers offer discounts for cars with trackers as it makes them safer.
• Monitoring driving habits —Trackers give you real-time driving analysis, which you can use to track your driving style or to check a first-time driver’s progress. 
• Peace of mind — Knowing your car’s location offers a great deal of reassurance, especially when parking in unfamiliar places.

Are car trackers worth it?

Now for the big question: Are car trackers worth it?

The general opinion is that car trackers are worth the money. Investing in one helps you protect your car and avoid potential thefts. This will also lower your car insurance premium, saving you money in the long run. 

So, it’s a wise addition to consider, especially if you’ve spent a lot of money on your current vehicle. 

FAQs

How much are car trackers?

Car trackers vary in price, with some around £30 and others at £200 or more.

Some even use monthly subscription price models, allowing you to split the costs over longer timeframes. 

Do mobility cars have trackers?

Most mobility cars are fitted with location trackers, often if several drivers have access to the vehicle or if none live at the customer’s address. The tracking information is only examined if the Motability scheme believes the car is being misused—and they’ll always talk to the customer before doing so.

Will the car tracker lose signal?

Advanced car trackers can detect GPS signals underground, ensuring your vehicle remains visible to police even if hidden in containers or transported across Europe.

Can I track my car on my phone?

Yes. Most car trackers connect to smartphone apps which show you where your car is and its recent journeys.

What is the range of a car tracker?

Most car trackers work over any range and don’t have any limitations. The car location information is also usually accurate to within three metres. 

Can I use an AirTag as a car tracker?

AirTags are cheaper than some car trackers, but it’s not recommended that they be used as car trackers. They don’t support live tracking for objects that are in motion, so you won‘t have live updates on your vehicle’s journey. 

Final thoughts

Car trackers are an excellent modern solution to car theft—and they’re a powerful tool for peace of mind. Whether you travel frequently or live in an area with a high rate of break-ins, a tracker can help you deter theft and monitor your car’s position.

Learn more about looking after your car on the Bumper blog now.

How Bumper can help

Theft isn’t the only expensive problem car owners face. Last-minute repairs can also put a dent in your budget. 

With Bumper, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.