Quick Facts About GPS Trackers in Cars
- Car GPS trackers are electronic devices that monitor and record yourvehicle’s exact location.
- GPS technology is standard in some modern vehicles, providing features like theft prevention and rapid emergency assistance.
- Portable trackers should be securely placed in concealed locations, while hardwired trackers may require professional installation.
Some drivers consider adding a GPS tracker to their car to ease concerns about theft or satisfy a need to know a vehicle’s location. Are these devices helpful? Do trackers provide value to car owners? Keep reading for answers to help you decide if the added security of a GPS tracking device is a good option for your situation.
- What Are Car GPS Trackers?
- How Do Car GPS Trackers Work?
- Benefits of a Car GPS Tracker
- Where To Buy a Car GPS Tracker
- Car Insurance GPS Tracker
- Do You Need a Car GPS Tracker?
What Are Car GPS Trackers?
Car GPS trackers are electronic devices designed to monitor and record your vehicle’s location at any given time. GPS stands for global positioning system, and trackers can be an excellent tool for parental oversight, company fleet surveillance, or an added layer of personal security.
When you add a tracker to your car, you can pinpoint its location if the unit is turned on and active. Most trackers link to your smartphone or computer application after device installation. The technology comes standard on some modern vehicles. Tesla, for example, equips their models with GPS tracking and remote access to help with theft recovery and assist in an emergency.
How Do Car GPS Trackers Work?
GPS trackers communicate with networks of satellites that transmit radio signals. These signals help pinpoint the exact location of the device. With a tracker installed in your car and an app on your phone, you can see the vehicle’s location in real-time.
Benefits of a Car GPS Tracker
- Security: Arguably, the top benefit of adding a GPS tracker to your car is the added layer of security. If thieves steal the vehicle, it will be much easier to locate.
- Lower insurance premiums: Some insurance companies offer policy discounts for vehicles with tracking devices.
- Monitoring capabilities: Parents with teenagers will find GPS trackers useful for monitoring the whereabouts of their young drivers. Devices can also record vehicle speed.
- Quicker emergency response: If you’re ever in an accident or stranded with car trouble in an unfamiliar part of town, a GPS tracker can help first responders locate you more quickly.
Where To Buy Car GPS Trackers
Trackers with a range of capabilities and features are available as aftermarket car accessories. You can buy plug-and-play varieties and hardwired units from various establishments:
- Automotive stores
- Electronics retailers
- Specialty surveillance shops
- Online retailers
What To Consider When Buying a Tracker
When shopping for an aftermarket GPS tracker that meets your needs, evaluate the device’s features and confirm compatibility with your vehicle and mobile device. You should also read product reviews and user feedback to understand what other drivers like and dislike about specific units.
- Installation: Plan your budget to account for professional installation or look for self-install varieties instead.
- Accuracy: The GPS tracker is only as reliable as its level of precision. The location data should be accurate with a stable satellite connection.
- Subscription costs: Some require a monthly fee to use the tracking services.
- Battery life: Hardwired trackers use the car’s battery for power. Standalone units contain a small battery, so look for a battery compartment that’s easily accessible when it’s time for a replacement.
- Warranty: A product warranty and the availability of customer support bring peace of mind in case issues arise.
How Much Do GPS Trackers Cost?
Entry-level GPS trackers are available for purchase for as little as $20. Higher-end versions with a range of features and functions can cost hundreds of dollars – or more when you add hardwire installation expenses. The overall cost varies widely since some devices may require an ongoing subscription to access certain features.
How To Use a Car Tracker
In most jurisdictions, installing a GPS tracking device on someone’s car without the owner’s knowledge is illegal.
For a portable GPS tracker, place it in a concealed location, like under the dashboard or inside the glove compartment. Make sure it’s securely attached. Some units use a strong magnet for secure placement. Others plug into the car’s OBD-II port. Hardwired trackers with professional installation might be behind the dashboard.
Follow the product directions to activate and initialize the device. Connect your smartphone and sync the tracker using the brand’s mobile app.
Car Insurance GPS Tracker
Car insurance companies may offer discounts if you already have a GPS tracker installed. Some provide their own tracking devices to monitor your driving habits and offer personalized premiums. Also known as a telematics device, car insurance GPS trackers collect data on your average mileage, driving speed, acceleration and braking patterns, and more.
Policyholders who are good drivers can save money through these kinds of usage-based programs. Those with poor driving habits could potentially see rate increases.
MORE: 7 Biggest Car Insurance Discounts for 2024
Do You Need a Car GPS Tracker?
Whether you need a GPS tracker for your car depends on your priorities and circumstances. If your teen is new to driving, it may be worth adding a tracker for safety and knowing their whereabouts and driving habits. Business owners can use them to monitor the locations of the company vehicles. For those with fleets and individuals concerned with vehicle theft recovery, adding a tracker is a smart precautionary measure.
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