6 reasons why people think their car tracker is working when it isn’t!
If you want to protect your car, then vehicle tracking systems are one of the most effective security measures you can buy. Alongside peace of mind, they also have the added benefit of potentially lowering your motor insurance premium, as well as drastically increasing the likelihood of your car being recovered if it was stolen.
A tracker is a small device which is attached to a vehicle and transmits data about its location and speed to a GPS satellite. The satellite then sends on this information to the tracking company, a computer or app. This information relays at regular intervals, which can be set anywhere between every five seconds to every five minutes.
Trackers can be retro-fitted professionally to most vehicles, but many cars, such as those offered by Jaguar Land Rover, now come with them factory-fitted as standard. This is the InControl Remote Secure system.
Upon delivery, it is important for you to complete all the necessary steps to ensure your tracking device is registered to you and that your correct contact details are provided. If the subscription has been paid, this will ensure the system is activated and will operate in the event of a theft.
IMPORTANT: If your tracker is not working at the time of a theft, Chubb may not be able to pay your claim.
The list below identifies some of the most common tracker-associated pitfalls and how to avoid them.
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Does your vehicle already have a tracking device?
You may need to ask your dealer whether there is one fitted and if so, is it a GPS system or an ADR system? Sometimes Chubb will require a specific type of system. If the required system is not already fitted and subscribed to, ask a certified professional installer to fit one.
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A subscription fee must be paid for the tracking service.
If your subscription lapses, the tracker will stop working as it will no longer be able to communicate with the tracking company in the event of a theft and this could invalidate your insurance. Always make sure your subscription is active. You can do this by choosing an automatic renewal..
A subscription up to 3 years is sometimes included in the purchase price. However, it is your responsibility to check that this has been done and that the subscription is renewed at the end of the initial period.
Warning: The dealership may not send you a reminder. -
Check you have the correct tracker fitted?
If your vehicle does not have a factory fitted tracker or it is not the required type, a system can be fitted by a professional.
A GPS system provides basic functionality. It will not alert you if the car is stolen and the car movements will only be tracked once you notice the theft and report it to the police. This could result in a delay.
An ADR system will alert you by text immediately in the event of any unauthorised movement of the vehicle so that you will know it has been stolen and take action. -
Do you need an Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR) system?
This provides an additional layer of security or if your insurers require it (check with your broker).
ADR takes tracking technology one step further by identifying an approved driver. It requires a driver identification tag to be present before the car can be used, if the car is driven without the tag in the car, the tracker will alert. With newer models, the driver identification card is built into the vehicle key.
Warning: Do not leave your card in the vehicle when unattended or the system will not alert a theft. -
Jaguar Land Rover InControl Secure:
JLR now offer a factory tracker from new. The required specification must be chosen at the point of order.
a) When ordering the vehicle, check you select the required tracker option and whether the subscription is included. Choose from InControl Remote Secure (GPS only) or InControl Remote Secure Pro (GPS and ADR).
b) At the pre-delivery inspection, the dealership should connect you and the vehicle to the JLR portal and InControl system. You must then ensure you complete the next steps or the system will not be operational;
- Watch out for an email explaining what steps you must complete.
- Click on the link within the email, download an app and set a security password
- Check all your personal and contact details are correct.
You should then receive confirmation from JLR that the process is completed and the system is active and operational. If you are ever in doubt that the system is live and working, check back with JLR.
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Use a “Faraday” pouch:
Put your keys in this pouch to provide an extra level of security. It’s simple and cheap and has been found to assist. A pouch that blocks RF (Radio signals) will reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen by what is known as “Relay Attack”. Any vehicle with keyless entry is vulnerable.
Points to remember: You must:
- Ensure when ordering a tracking device it has the required capability, either GPS only or ADR
- Ensure your subscription is paid and active at all times. Set reminders for renewal
- Ensure if you have separate ADR tags, they are never left in the car when unattended.
- Ensure you have completed the final stages of the set up and activation
- Ensure you receive confirmation from the manufacturer that every stage has been completed so you know the tracking function is in full working order.
If in doubt ask and double check! If your tracker is not working at the time of a theft, we may not be able to pay your claim.
For more information on Chubb in the UK click here.
All content in this material is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute personal advice or a recommendation to any individual or business of any product or service. Please refer to the policy documentation issued for full terms and conditions of coverage.
