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Debunking the top five myths and misconceptions of vehicle tracking

ARTICLE BY

  • Tracker South Africa

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2018 FIA partner, Tracker is one of the leading car tracking companies in South Africa, dedicated to offering safety and security to its customers using precise tracking technology. Below, Tracker shares myths and misconceptions of vehicle tracking

Over the years, tracking services have become an essential safety tool for motorists. The level of convenience and control that it gives users has proven useful for all sorts of purposes, such as allowing you to personally track and monitor your vehicle while giving you the peace of mind that your vehicle and the people in it are safely where they are meant to be. However, if you’ve ever considered subscribing to a vehicle tracking service, chances are you’ve either thought of or heard of some common objections.

There are plenty of vehicle tracking myths that many drivers believe to be the truth. Understanding the common myths and misconceptions about vehicle tracking services will ensure that you make an educated and well considered decision. Here are five of the most common misconceptions about vehicle tracking services.

  1. Vehicle tracking is unnecessary – I can keep track of my car using cell phones

    While cell phones are useful communication tools, they have proven to be ineffective as a tracking device as they can be turned off, damaged or misplaced at any time. They’re unlikely to stay with the vehicle at all times, for example, the driver might exit the vehicle and take the cell phone with them. They also can’t provide useful information such as real-time vehicle location, engine status and other usage based metrics such as mileage or speeding/braking patterns.

  2. Tracking devices and services are all the same

    False. There are different types of tracking devices and value-added services available to the market. The reality is that users of tracking devices don’t realise the full impact that real-time information can have when using the system on a regular basis. With Tracker for example, not only do you receive a tracking device but other essential services. For example, Tracker Recover gives you the ability to personally track and monitor your vehicle, and in the event of it being stolen or hi-jacked Tracker will initiate its recovery service. With Tracker Care, in addition to the aforementioned services you receive roadside and medical emergency assistance at the push of a button. You are also able to share your journey with a friend or loved one ensuring that they know where you are and that you are safe. Decide what services you need and make sure you clarify that these are available from your chosen provider.

  3. I can’t afford a tracking service

    Cost is always an understandable concern. However, you can speak to your provider and identify what you are looking for in a service, to find a subscription which fits your budget. It is also suggested that you check in with your insurer to see if they offer a discount for being linked to a tracking service.

  4. Tracking devices are complicated and difficult to use

    Motorists need to remember that vehicle tracking is a service rather than a product. There are services which just offer stolen vehicle recovery, and then there are services that offer a range of features and benefits which can be accessed via an app or website. It’s neither difficult nor complicated to use either of these options. Just make sure that the provider you choose has explained to you how it works, how it can be useful to you and that you are getting the correct level of service and support that you need.

  5. Vehicle tracking doesn’t really work

    “In the last 21 years, we have recovered over 85 000 vehicles in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS). Vehicle tracking services have made a massive impact on the reduction of vehicle crime in South Africa and this was reflected in the crime statistics that were recently released. In 2007/2008 there were approximately 94 000 reported cases of vehicle theft and this has reduced to just over 70 000 cases in 2016/2017. That is a 25% decrease over the last 10 years and an indication of the significant impact the vehicle tracking industry has made by supporting the SAPS in the fight against vehicle crime,” says Ron Knott-Craig, Executive: Operational Services at Tracker South Africa.

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