Looking for a car tracker? Learn what insurers require for theft cover and which tracking companies operate in South Africa.
In South Africa, car tracking isn’t just about convenience; for many drivers, it’s a requirement for their insurer to cover them for theft and hijacking.
If you’re getting a tracker for insurance, the main thing to check is that it includes a vehicle recovery service. That means not just tracking your car’s location, but having a team that can actively help recover it if it’s stolen. In some higher-risk cases, insurers may ask for a bit more than this, so it’s worth checking what your car insurance policy requires.
First: what your tracker needs to include
Before choosing a provider, make sure the device:
- Includes a vehicle recovery service
- Is professionally installed
- Has an active subscription
- Is in working order
If it’s missing recovery, it won’t meet Naked’s requirements (as well as many other insurers).
Now: where you can get one
Some insurers require you to use a specific tracking company, so it’s worth checking your policy first.
Here are some of the most popular tracking companies in South Africa:
Cartrack
Vehicle recovery service: Yes
Offers professionally installed tracking devices with 24/7 monitoring and a national recovery network. Subscription-based with mobile app access.
Netstar
Vehicle recovery service: Yes
Provides professionally fitted tracking devices with nationwide monitoring and recovery services. Subscription-based packages with app-based tracking.
Tracker
Vehicle recovery service: Yes
Offers tracking devices backed by a dedicated recovery network and 24/7 monitoring. Professionally installed and subscription-based.
Matrix / Beame
Vehicle recovery service: Yes
Provides professionally installed tracking solutions with monitoring and recovery services. Subscription-based plans.
How long do you have to install your tracker?
It’s always best to double-check your insurer’s specific requirements.
Here’s how it works at Naked:
If we’ve asked you to add a tracker, you have 14 days from your cover start date to install and activate it.
We keep things simple. If a tracker is required, it’s just one professionally installed device with an active vehicle recovery service. We don’t require multiple devices or separate early-warning systems.
And don’t stress, your theft and hijacking cover remains active during those 14 days.
After that, the tracker must be installed and active for theft or hijacking claims to be paid. So, booking an installation sooner rather than later is always a good idea.
Once that’s done, here’s what you need to do:
- Make sure your subscription is active.
- Confirm your tracker details in the Naked app.
- Save your tracking company’s contact details (ideally as an emergency contact).
If your vehicle is ever stolen or hijacked, report it to your tracking company immediately so they can begin recovery.
You already have a tracker in your car. Now what?
If you already have one installed, check that:
- It includes vehicle recovery
- Your subscription is active
- It’s professionally fitted
If you’re unsure, hop into chat in the app or email help@naked.insure and we’ll guide you.