GPS trackers provide a vital service, and with technology being so advanced, people on the market for a new car may be wondering “do all cars have GPS tracking?”
At Car Specialist Customs, we are proud to offer a wide variety of options when it comes to making your car a unique expression of who you are, alongside security options that can protect your vehicle. We are excited to share with you the option of our vehicle trackers.
The UK automotive aftermarket industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.
What is a GPS tracker?
GPS stands for Global Positioning System, as the name states, is a system that helps you understand your position on the globe (localised to wherever you are upon using it).
A GPS tracker is a small device, varying in shape and size depending on the brand and model you choose. These devices emit a signal which can allow you to view your vehicle’s location, through your phone or computer (this again varies with the brand and model you select.)
There are two types of trackers, monitored, in which location is shared live. And unmonitored, where location is stored on the device and viewable when the device is in the hands of its user.
Trackers can be installed within the vehicle so it is undetectable, whereas others may not need installing, its subjective to the brand and model you select.
The difference between a tracker and a normal GPS
A tracker uses the same technology and system as a GPS, but for the sole purpose of recording the journey made by the vehicle whilst the tracker was on. A normal GPS is used to orient yourself to an area or to help you navigate to somewhere you haven’t been before. Some vehicles and GPS systems have both features built-in.
How does a GPS tracker function?
A GPS tracker works by sending signals that can be interpreted by GPS tracking software through the medium of an application. Trackers are powered by the vehicle’s battery, although most also have an internal battery that can still allow the vehicle to be tracked.
The reason most GPS trackers operate from the vehicle’s electrical system and not exclusively via its own battery, is that you may waste battery life if the car is off, but the tracker is on, using its own battery.
Car journeys may be very long, which may result in the tracker dying if it runs out of battery. Using the car’s battery allows it to stay on as long as the vehicle is on.
Do all cars have GPS Tracking?
No, all cars do not have GPS tracking built in, though as advancement in technology has progressed, most modern vehicles have GPS capabilities, giving the driver the ability to navigate with their car’s GPS as opposed to using a phone as a medium. Though a tracking feature may be exclusive to specific vehicles.
Why don’t all cars have GPS tracking?
Tracking features may be available for some vehicles, but the reason it is not standard for all vehicles with GPS capabilities is due to safety reasons. If your vehicle is robbed, and it has GPS tracking features, thieves can easily ascertain your home or places you frequent, which could result in you being a target again.
Can I get GPS tracking for my vehicle?
Yes!, as long as it has an electrical system, you can obtain a vehicle tracker for your vehicle. At Car Specialist Customs we supply vehicle trackers ranging from £250-£1500,
for those who want the bare minimum functions, and for those who want all the extra options possible.
Who’s car can I legally put a tracker on?
There is no ruling against installing a tracking device to reassure the security of your car.
Complications may occur if you are renting or leasing a car, although you would be allowed a tracker that does not require any dismantling of the car to install. Be sure to speak to the provider prior to making any arrangements in regard to installing a tracker.
When it comes to vehicles that are not yours, if you have not been given permission to do so, you are not allowed to put a GPS tracker on a vehicle that is not yours. You can be subject to criminal charges if you are proven to be doing this to someone.
What to do if someone tracks your vehicle without permission
This is a serious offence, so make sure you have proof of this beforehand. The best proof of having your vehicle tracked can come in the form of finding the tracker in your vehicle. Alternatively, having evidence of someone applying the tracker to your car can also be considered proof.
If you are renting or leasing a vehicle, and the provider hasn’t stated the vehicles are tracked either during conversation or within the paperwork, you are within your rights to launch a formal complaint.
Though it is understandable as to why rented/leased vehicles would require trackers, if this is done without the driver’s knowledge, it can be seen as spying/ breaching data protection.
There are devices available that can help you detect whether or not your car has a tracker on it. There are manual methods of finding out, here are some helpful tips.
Signs of a tracker in your vehicle:
- A small box or rectangle (usually with wires coming from it)
- Any abnormalities in or outside your car
- Wiring that you can physically see
Where to find a tracker in your vehicle:
- In the wheel-well of your car
- Around your front and back bumpers
- Any crevice or space outside car that is not subject to heat or direct weather.
- In and around the dashboard, including the glove compartment
- Underneath, behind and on the sides of seats
- In your boot and in the spare tire storage.
Purchase a GPS tracker today
Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Personalisation:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We always will go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we aim to have provided what you need to know before considering purchasing a vehicle tracker.
We hope to have answered the question ‘Do all cars have GPS tracking?’ whilst providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in security systems for your vehicle.
Want to get in touch? You can find us here:
WORKSHOP:
Unit 30
Caldershaw Centre
Ings Ln
Rochdale
OL12 7LQ
OPENING TIMES:
Monday – Wednesday – 10 AM – 7 PM
Thursday – Closed
Friday – Sunday – 11 AM – 7 PM
TELEPHONE:
07523 971347 (Mon – Fri: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm)
EMAIL:
info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk