Should I get a car tracker?

Wondering whether you should get a car tracker? Our guide explains how car trackers work, whether they’re worth it and whether having one could help reduce your car insurance.

If you’re wondering “Should I get a car tracker?”, this guide is here to help. Car trackers can offer added security and help you keep tabs on your vehicle, but whether you need one depends on your car, your circumstances and what you want from a tracker.

Here, we’ll explain how car trackers work, the benefits of having one and whether they’re worth the cost. We’ll also look at one of the most common questions drivers have: can having a car tracker reduce your car insurance?

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

What is a car tracker?

A car tracker is a small device that helps you keep track of your car’s location, speed and movement in real time. It uses GPS and mobile networks to show you where your car is and, depending on the device, can alert you to things such as unexpected movement or changes in location.

What are the benefits of a car tracker?

Here are some advantages to having a tracker installed in your car:

• Some insurers offer discounts or lower premiums for vehicles fitted with an approved tracking system.
• GPS tracking can help police locate and recover your vehicle more quickly if it’s been stolen.
• Forgot where you parked? Use the tracker to help locate your car in large car parks or busy areas.
• Some trackers monitor driving behaviours, such as speeding and harsh braking, helping you become more aware of how you drive.
• Depending on the tracker, you can view your vehicle’s location, speed and journey history through a smartphone app.

Does having a tracker reduce car insurance?

Yes, having an approved car tracker can reduce your insurance costs, although the amount you save depends on your insurer, your vehicle and the type of tracker installed.

Trackers can help lower insurance costs because they reduce the risk of theft and make stolen vehicles easier to recover. This can reduce the potential cost of a theft claim for insurers. For some high-value or high-risk vehicles, having an approved tracker may even be a requirement for getting insurance.

Some insurers may also offer a discount on your premium when an approved tracking system is fitted, so it’s worth checking with your insurer to see if you could save.

What car tracker is best for insurance?

Here are some insurance-approved trackers to consider:

• ScorpionTrack DRIVER S5 VTS Tracker
• ScorpionTrack DRIVER S7 ALS GPS Tracker
• Smartrack D-ID S5 Tracker
• Smartrack RECO S7 Tracker
• Smartrack S7 Protector Pro. Insurance Approved Car Tracker
• ScorpionTrack S5 PLUS. With Driver Immobilisation
• SmarTrack Trident S7 Tracker
• Vodafone Protect & Connect S5 VTS
• Scorpion DEFENDER S5 Tracker and Alarm
• TrackStar S5 Tracker
• ScorpionTrack Motorhome S5
• ScorpionTrack Motorhome S7
• ScorpionTrack Quantum3
• ScorpionTrack DRIVER S5 VTS Tracker & CAT 2 Immobiliser
• Scorpion DEFENDER S5 Plus Tracker and Alarm

What is a Thatcham approved tracker?

A Thatcham approved tracker is a tracking device that has passed rigorous testing and meets the high-performance and reliability standards set by Thatcham Research, the UK’s automotive security authority.

How much do insurance-approved trackers cost?

An insurance-approved tracker typically costs between £150 and £700+ upfront, depending on the device and installation. You’ll also need to budget for an ongoing subscription, which can range from around £8 to £15 per month, or £99 to £160 per year.

These subscription fees generally cover the tracker’s 24/7 monitoring and connection to a secure control centre, which can help ensure the system meets your insurer’s requirements and remains active.

Are car trackers worth it?

Yes, getting a car tracker is usually worth it if you drive an expensive car, live in a high-theft area, or your insurer requires one to lower your insurance premiums.

Car tracker FAQs

Do Motability cars have trackers?

Motability cars don’t automatically come with trackers, but the Motability organisation may install a location tracker in specific situations. For instance, when the disabled customer lives in a care home and multiple people have access to the car or when none of the named drivers live at the customer’s home address.

Motability states that location trackers are fitted to less than 5% of all scheme cars, and they will always speak to the customer before installing one.

How do I know if my car has a tracker?

If you’re unsure whether your car has a tracker, there are a few ways to check. You can use an RF (radio frequency) scanner or bug detector to look for signals from trackers that are actively transmitting data.

You can also check common hiding places, such as under the seats, inside the glovebox, behind or under the dashboard, and in exterior compartments.

If you’re still unsure, a professional vehicle tracking or automotive specialist may be able to inspect the car and identify whether a tracker is fitted.

Can car thieves detect and neutralise a tracker?

Yes, car thieves can detect and neutralise car trackers using specialised tools. Rest assured, though, that insurance-approved systems are much harder to crack.

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