The name Land Rover is synonymous with the British rural scene. Originally appreciated as an agricultural vehicle, the all-round ability of these legendary rugged vehicles was quickly appreciated by people who wanted serious off-road ability for leisure activities as well as work. Today, as part of the Jaguar Land Rover company, the brand has expanded its range to include some of the most luxurious and practical vehicles available today. Most buyers focus on the prestige vehicles under the Range Rover label, but it should be remembered that the Defender range (and its ‘Series’ predecessors) were designed to be practical workhorses.
The Best Car Trackers For Land Rover
These days of course, the Defender name is attached to a very high-end model that offers unrivalled off-road ability coupled with the very latest in automotive technology. It comes as no surprise then that this model is as attractive to car thieves as other Land- or Range Rover models. It’s also the reason why owners seek out the options for the best car trackers for Land Rover models of any age.
What Should I look For In A Vehicle Tracker?
This is why research is needed. Not all vehicle tracking devices are compatible or suitable for all vehicles. That’s why the careful owner will source the right car tracker from a trusted supplier. For example, Land Rover recommends the Trackstar brand. The highly recommended Trackstar S5 Advance is part of the range and offers a comprehensive mix of security measures designed to specifically thwart the illegal taking of cars. It’s one of the best Land Rover trackers. So, there are a variety of measures to consider:
GPS/GSM
These two acronyms stand for Global Positioning System and Global System for Mobile (communication). One uses satellite tracking the other mobile communication to track stolen vehicles. A car tracking device that offers both these technologies combined can access this information through the car tracker provider, often via a mobile phone tracking app or onboard system which in turn means truly global coverage and hopefully, swift recovery of a stolen Land Rover. It doesn’t even matter if the unit is not in range of mobile telephone service as good GPS car trackers can record and store relevant data, like location, vehicle movements and even speed until a mobile service is reconnected.
Thatcham Approved
For many drivers, Thatcham Research will be a slightly familiar name. It’s an organisation founded and funded by the insurance industry to research, examine and recommend vehicle security measures like the best car trackers for Land Rover. Different GPS tracking devices can be found in different categories (CAT 5, CAT S5, CAT S6 and CAT S7 for example) but if a specific unit comes with approval by Thatcham then buyers can confidently assume it does what is claimed.
Can I Fit One Myself?
Conceivably, as some basic trackers that plug into the 12v socket or OBD port are simple to use but it requires skilled and very knowledgeable fitting for higher-end insurance approved units which is why it is better to buy from a supplier offering free fitment by Thatcham accredited tracker installers who will even come to your home. The units are small and discreet and technicians know how to locate a device in hard-to-find places in your car.
What If I want To Change My Car?
That’s not a problem. Choosing the right model means that the unit can be removed and re-fitted in a newly purchased vehicle. This would be a cost but is certainly a less expensive option. Also, in the same ballpark, it’s worth ensuring that the car tracker of choice can be upgraded. The technology surrounding vehicle tracking devices moves at a fast pace, so a unit that can be upgraded over time is a bonus.
Car Thieves Abroad
The stealing of cars is big business. Vehicles like the Land Rover Defender are sought after by criminals who want the luxury without the cost. It’s well known that some motors are stolen to order and once taken, would be moved into a container on the way to another country very swiftly. A car tracking device that offers at least European coverage, or better still global coverage, is a worthwhile investment. Some units will even locate a stolen vehicle inside a metal container.
My Budget Can’t Run To Expensive Trackers
That’s a fair comment. But the real question that should be asked of oneself is “can I afford not to have a GPS car tracker?” Replacing a stolen car takes a vast amount of time and money, emotional and financial costs which should also be taken into consideration. Owners of mainstream motors who have to budget accordingly to run a car can rest easy in the knowledge that vehicle tracking devices come in at prices to suit most pockets. Just because a car is older and is not worth so much, doesn’t mean it doesn’t have value to a car thief. Better to be safe than sorry.
What About Insurance?
The good news here is that car insurance companies like to see car trackers fitted. That’s why they choose to fund research. Remember that providers are not philanthropists, they are in business to make money. Drivers however can help themselves by fitting a GPS tracker and benefit from lower premiums. Some tracking devices are endorsed by the police too.
And Finally
With Range Rover adding electrification into their products it’s best to ensure that any vehicle tracker being considered will work with an EV or hybrid. This shouldn’t really be a problem and don’t worry, a good unit won’t drain the battery pack!
Hopefully, this article has helped to answer some of the questions buyers will ask when considering the best Land Rover trackers. And remember, car thieves are not interested in a person’s needs. For example, a car may be needed for regular hospital appointments or is essential for work. Criminals don’t care about that. They just want your motor.
Using relatively straightforward technology they can steal a car from a private driveway day or night. Don’t be an easy target, get a car tracking device. When thwarted by this technology the thieves will swiftly move on, so it’s well worth thinking about.
