Vodafone Trackers
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VODAFONE TRACKERS
Vodafone Automotive, formerly known as Cobratrak, might not be a brand you associate with vehicle security systems, but don’t let that dissuade you. In the UK, Vodafone Automotive are leading the way when it comes to in-car telematics.
And a whole range of connected devices to provide stolen vehicle tracking, car alarms and many more products and services, including to the fleet management market. If that wasn’t enough, all of their car tracking solutions are accredited to Thatcham’s highest criteria and are recognised and approved by the insurance industry, so you know you’re in safe hands.
By utilising the latest GPS and GSM technologies, Vodafone Automotive increases vehicle recovery rates with increased accuracy and unparalleled service levels. Building on their market-leading position in the global telecoms market and by, using a SIM card in their systems, a vehicles position, movement and speed can be pinpointed to within 10 metres in seconds.
Not only that, their control centre operates in 180 countries, 36 of them in Europe, including Russia and South Africa, so no matter where your car finds itself, there’s no hiding place.
With recommendations by some of the world’s leading car manufacturers including Audi, Porsche, Lamborghini, Nissan, Alfa Romeo, Bentley and Renault, you can be sure that whichever product you buy, you’re going to be getting a product that not only meets expectations, but beats them by a mile.
When it comes to choosing a Vodafone Automotive product with us, their Protect and Connect systems come in both a S7 and S5 VTS variations; S5 being the one that meets Thatcham’s highest standards.
You’ll be pleased to know that both systems are insurance approved and Thatcham accredited, and will give you access their 24/7 control centre with European coverage, a battery back-up and instant alerts for motion detection and low battery. These come via their dedicated smartphone app or through access on the web. Either way, rest assured you’re connected.
There’s also Tamper Alerts that are triggered when the battery is either disconnected or discharges, or if the system wiring is cut.
The main difference between the two is obviously the S5 accreditation. Because of this, you know the S5 model is going to bring you the wondrous Driver ID tags. This means that the vehicle will only start when, and only when, the tags are in close proximity. They can be easily secured in your wallet or purse and offer the extra level of protection you get with devices of this sophistication.
The S5 also comes with Automatic Driver Recognition; alerting Vodafone Automotive immediately if your vehicle is stolen, even if the thief has your keys!
If you’re interested in car security, then don’t discount these two amazing products from Vodafone Automotive. Both the S7 and S5 VTS are two of the best products we sell in their respective class.
They both offer you everything you need in a car tracker at a price point that is sure to give you the peace of mind and the confidence that your car, bike, van or motorhome is secured as it needs to be.
If you’re interested in either of these products, give our team a ring and we can answer any questions you might have. When you’re ready, our team of fully trained and accredited engineers can come to you and fit it anywhere in the UK. Let’s get you connected!
FAQs
When can you fit my tracker?
We will contact you within 24 hours of receiving your order (Mon-Fri) to arrange a fitting appointment and we aim to have your tracker installed within 2-5 working days. This may be longer during busy periods or if you live in a hard to reach location.
Please note: we cannot confirm a fitting date until we receive your confirmed order. We always try our best to accommodate your requirements. In the unlikely event we are unable to carry out your install within a reasonable timeframe, you’re welcome to a full refund.
What’s the difference between an S5 and S7 tracker?
S5 is the highest Thatcham category and features ADR (Automatic Driver Recognition). The authorised driver is required to carry a tag, card or smartphone (with an encrypted app installed) to identify the driver. S7 trackers are the lower category of the two and don’t have this feature. An S5 tracker will alert you in more theft scenarios than an S7 tracker would.
Driver recognition aside, S5 and S7 systems otherwise have the same basic features, such as 24/7 control room monitoring, internal backup battery and protection against the vehicle being towed or lifted away. All of our S5 and S7 trackers (with exception of the Tracker Monitor and Tracker Retrieve) also come with a dedicated smartphone app, which allows you to see the vehicle’s location among many other useful features.
What is an S5+ Tracker?
Unlike categories S5 and S7, S5+ is NOT a Thatcham category. It’s a name used in the trade for a S5 tracker which also has the addition of remote immobilisation. Remote immobilisation allows the staff at the 24/7 control centre to immobilise the vehicle in a theft situation. Immobilisation is not part of the Thatcham criteria so it’s unlikely to be an insurance requirement, but it’s a useful tool in the fight against vehicle theft.
Some of our S5+ trackers allow the customer to remotely immobilise the vehicle from a smartphone app. Other S5+ systems include “no tag, no start” technology, preventing the vehicle from being driven if the ADR (automatic driver recognition) tag is not within the proximity of the vehicle.
Who are Thatcham?
Thatcham are the only “not for profit” insurer funded research centre in the UK and have been at the forefront of vehicle security since the 90s. Thatcham created the S5 and S7 certification for vehicle tracking systems, which verifies the functionality, design and performance of the products. Thatcham are NOT a brand of tracker, they are more like a governing body.
Which tracker should I choose?
Please see our helpful "Tracker Selector" tool to help you choose. If you’re still unsure, feel free to call us, drop us an email or use the chat feature on our homepage.
Do I need to pay a subscription fee?
All of our trackers require you to pay a subscription fee. Depending on which tracker you choose, your subscription fee is either collected by us at checkout, or paid directly to the tracking manufacturer after installation. The tracker will not operate without a subscription (think of it like buying a mobile phone without a contract).
Your subscription fee covers things like the 24/7/365 staffed control-room monitoring (if your product is insurance approved), data charges to allow the tracker to communicate on the GSM network, ongoing technical support and the administration of your tracking account.
Will I get an insurance certificate?
If you’ve purchased an insurance-approved product, yes. Once your installation has been completed and your subscription fee has been paid, you will be issued with a certificate of installation which you can give to your insurer. Depending on your product, the certificate can either be accessed straight away via your online portal or it will be emailed to you by the tracking manufacturer within 48 hours.
Can you install the tracker at my address?
Yes, we come to you. We provide a fully mobile service and will visit your home or work address at a time convenient to you.
Can you install the tracker at the dealership before I collect the vehicle?
Yes, we regularly visit car and motorhome dealerships throughout the UK to install our tracking products. All you need to do is get the dealership’s permission and let them know when to expect us.
How long does the installation take?
The installation process usually takes 1-2 hours.
Does your free installation service cover the whole of the UK?
Our free installation service covers 99% of the UK mainland. However, we may not be able to cover some remote locations (such as parts of the Scottish highlands). Installation lead times may vary depending on your location too. If you live in a remote/rural location, feel free to contact us before placing your order.
Will fitting a tracker void my warranty?
To date, we have had zero instances of a customer’s warranty being affected after one of our installations. We use only Thatcham approved installation procedures and connection methods. However, due to the complex variations in manufacturer’s warranties, it is your responsibility to check that having a specific product installed to your vehicle does not affect your vehicle’s warranty agreement.
What does tracker fitting involve?
The tracker will be covertly installed in a hidden location within the vehicle. Our Thatcham approved engineer will decide on the most suitable location within your particular vehicle. The tracker will usually be connected to the vehicle electrical system using industry standard connection methods and all wiring will be concealed. The tracker will then be fully tested and activated by the engineer.
Will the tracker drain my battery?
The current drain on our trackers when the vehicle is parked is minimal (milliamps). This level of current drain is negligible and will not affect the vehicle’s electronics or your ability to start the engine.
What happens if my vehicle is stolen?
Depending on your tracker model and the theft method used, you may receive a phone call or alert from the trained staff at the 24/7 control centre within a few seconds of your car being stolen. In some other scenarios you would report the vehicle stolen using the number provided to you in your welcome pack. Once the vehicle is confirmed to be stolen, expert staff liaise with police to recover the vehicle.
Could the thieves not just rip the tracker out?
Our trackers are covertly installed by our expert engineers and have around a 96% recovery rate (according to one of our brand partners). It’s not impossible for a thief to find a tracker, but it’s quite rare.
Do I need immobilisation with my tracker? How does it work?
Since 2019, immobilisation is no longer part of the Thatcham criteria when it comes to trackers. So it’s likely that you don’t need a tracking system with immobilisation to meet your insurance requirements. However if you want extra peace of mind, you may wish to consider immobilisation.
With our S5 trackers with immobilisation (sometimes referred to as S5+ trackers), the vehicle can be immobilised remotely by the staff at the 24/7/365 control centre in the event of a theft. Some of our systems also allow the customer to remotely immobilise the vehicle from a smartphone app. Other systems include “no tag, no start” technology, preventing the vehicle from being started if the ADR (automatic driver recognition) tag is not within the proximity of the vehicle.
We don’t install immobilisation to hybrid or electric vehicles.
Will my tracker work abroad?
All of our S5 and S7 trackers provide European coverage as standard and often global coverage. If you need more information on exactly which countries your chosen tracker operates in, we recommend contacting the tracker manufacturer directly for confirmation.
Do your trackers work on electric and hybrid vehicles?
Our full range of S5 and S7 tracking systems are compatible with with electric and hybrid vehicles, with the exception of our trackers which feature the immobilisation feature (S5+). We don’t install immobilisation to hybrid or electric vehicles.
Can I transfer my tracker when I buy a new vehicle?
All of our trackers, with exception of the “Tracker” brand, can be transferred between vehicles. This is a chargeable service and you can contact us for a quote.
UK-wide Installation
- Free, convenient installation service at your home, office or even the dealership.
- Fast and efficient – we aim to have your installation completed within 2-5 working days.
- Our UK-wide team of expert engineers are Thatcham accredited and fully insured so you can be sure your vehicle is in safe hands.
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Any Questions?
If you have any questions about any of our products or services, do not hesitate to get in touch.