DIY tracker install?

[zedmtrappe]

Hi, the insurance on my Sterrato states the requirement of a tracking device ( no make or model specified ) if I bring it into the UK.

Car currently does not have one so was considering the DIY approach ( can't be that hard surely ? !)

Anyone got any experience / recommendations ?

Many TIA

[BuyaDuster]

Buy a cheap mobile phone with a pay as you go sim card.
Register it with a device tracking website.
Hide it in the car attached to 12v and there you go.

[Trev450]

Another alternative, which in fact is what I've done, is to switch to another insurance company that doesn't require a tracker

[davek_964]

I think I'd be wary of DIY tracker install, if tracker is a requirement of the insurance.

I'm sure it's not rocket science, but if the car was stolen, "approved installer" and all that.

[zedmtrappe]

davek_964 said:

I think I'd be wary of DIY tracker install, if tracker is a requirement of the insurance.

I'm sure it's not rocket science, but if the car was stolen, "approved installer" and all that.

That's a fair point but in this case the 'small print' is pretty clear and unambiguous :

shall not pay any claim for THEFT or damage as a result of THEFT or attempted THEFT when
YOUR CAR is used outside of the Channel Islands unless YOUR CAR is fitted with an electronic tracker
device which has been installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and activated at all
times when YOUR CAR is left unattended.

( CAPS as per their doc)

So on that basis I think should be OK ?

[rev-erend]

I'm using a monimoto tracker on my motorbike.

It has its own battery and is similar in size to a pack of cigarettes, so is easily hidden.

Price is reasonable £110 plus £30 / year subscription.

[ex-devonpaul]

You can get a Thatcham approved S7 tracker installed for under 200 quid. That's probably less than your ferry to the UK. They'll even meet you off the ferry to install it or come to your first overnight stop.

Doesn't seem that big a deal on a quarter million pound car, so is there a reason why you don't want one fitted?

[BuyaDuster]

None of my cars require a tracker for the insurance, but if one was ever pinched I would know where it was for £25, by seeing where the phone is.

Best to turn the ringer down before installation..