The top 10 things to look for in a tracking system
It is a known fact that in South Africa cars get stolen in a blink of an eye and installing a vehicle tracking device on your car can be one of the safest precautions you can have.
Owning a car comes with a lot of responsibilities and apart from the obvious, one of the key issues when owning a car is the security measures you take to ensure its safety.
1. Is the tracking company partnered with the SAPS?
If the company is partnered with the South African Police Service, the police themselves will be involved in the tracking process should your vehicle ever be stolen. The company will enlist the help of the SAPS network of over 1 400 vehicles and 50 aircraft, often leading to swifter arrests and faster recovery of the vehicle in question.
2. Is the tracking device accepted by car insurers?
If the device is accepted by insurance companies, chances are that you may be able to reduce the cost of your monthly car insurance premiums as a result.
3. Does the company have a reputable ‘track’ record?
What percentage of stolen vehicles has the company managed to recover over the years? This percentage will be a good indication of whether the particular tracking device is an effective one or not.
4. Does the company offer you a variety of package options?
Obviously, the more variety that there is, the easier it will be to choose a tracking device that best suits your needs and your budget.
5. What tracking options do you have?
If you opt for a slightly more advanced package, are you given the option to track your vehicle yourself using your smartphone, tablet or computer? This is a great benefit to have, especially if you are prone to forgetting where you parked your car!
6. What extras does the tracking company offer you?
Think vehicle monitoring, roadside assistance, zone management etc. While you may have to pay a little bit extra each month in order to make use of these add ons, some of them are incredibly convenient to have.
7. Does the system come with an ‘Assist’ button?
This will make it possible for you to unnoticeably alert your tracking system provider if you’re in the process of being hijacked. It’ll also save you a phone call if you need roadside assistance.
8. Is the tracking device maintenance-free?
The best tracking devices either come with a warranty or are 100% maintenance-free. It is also wise to ensure that the device comes equipped with its own independent backup battery.
9. How accurate is the tracking device?
Ultimately, the more accurate the device, the easier it will be to trace and recover your vehicle. The best tracking systems are able to track your vehicle within five metres of its exact location.
10. Are you getting value for money?
To determine this, you’ll have to shop around, which is always a good idea. Make sure that you aren’t paying for something that another reliable provider will give you for free.
The joy of having a tracking device installed in your car is that it provides you with some peace of mind and might also result in you paying cheaper car insurance premiums.
Most insurance companies also offer tracking benefits when you insure business trucks or vans .
