A good tracker is just half the battle when it comes to securing your vehicle. The other half is understanding how to monitor and maintain vehicle tracker performance so it serves its purpose, quietly, efficiently, and reliably. A tracker that is installed and left alone is just as susceptible as if there were no tracker at all. For effective and reliable vehicle security, performance checks should not only be recommended but also required.
At Lock and Track, we not only offer premium tracking systems, but we also offer our customers an edge by providing them with insights on how to keep those systems operating at their best.
Review Live Tracking Responsiveness
Let’s start with the basics. When you access your tracker’s app or platform, how quickly does the location data refresh? If the location data is delayed by more than a few seconds or continuously fluctuates in terms of location, this may indicate a poor GPS signal, old firmware, or a data connection issue.
Tip: Check your vehicle’s location from multiple devices (mobile and a computer). If you see a delay or inaccuracy, you have some investigating to do.
Check Battery or Power Source Condition
Users often neglect the power source, but this is one of the most important factors affecting your Vehicle Tracker’s Performance. Whether it is powered by a battery or hardwired, the power source is key.
For battery-based trackers: Keep an eye on the battery life every week, particularly when the vehicle is not used every day.
For hardwired trackers: Check the connection to the vehicle’s fuse box or power line regularly (to verify it stays connected).
Some trackers provide low battery notifications. If yours does, turn the notification on and test it.
The Notification and Alert test
Most modern trackers offer notifications for motion, speed, ignition, and geo-fence boundaries. When was the last time you tested them?
Try this short test:
- Create a geo-fence around your home.
- Then exit and return.
- Did the system alert you immediately?
If not, check your notifications settings or decide to update the firmware. The reliability of notifications is an important indicator of how well real-time Vehicle Tracker Performance represents your first line of defence against theft.
Perform Historical Route Reports
Most tracking tools allow you to review historical routes taken by your vehicle. This is not just a way to look back; it’s also a diagnostic tool.
Run a report and check for:
- A disruption in the timeline.
- An unplanned movement.
- Frequent signal loss.
Often, these trends show something is obstructing your signals or there is a software concern, requiring you to update the software or relocate the tracker in your vehicle.
Confirm Firmware and Application Updates
Just as you do with your smartphone or laptop, your tracker and the mobile application associated with it will require firmware and application updates from time to time, in order to ensure security and efficiency.
Consider a monthly reminder to:
- Review the manufacturer’s website (or your application store) for firmware and software upgrades.
- Review the changelogs, as some upgrades will include performance improvements or new features.
- Run a test after the update to ensure everything continues to function properly.
Not keeping your updates current may unnecessarily reduce the efficiency of your vehicle tracker without you realising it.
Complete a full check every 6 months
- Physical inspection of the tracker and wiring.
- Test all alerts, reports, and real-time tracking.
- Check power, GPS, and GSM strength.
- Clean the unit if required, especially for units that are exposed or under the chassis.
- Think of this as your MOT for tracker health.
Check Data Integrity, Consistency
Cross-check the data in your tracker against your actual trips. Does it show you in the correct locations at the correct times? Does the mileage agree?
An inaccurate record can mislead you in the event of theft, employee misuse, or disputes. Routine auditing guarantees the integrity of your tracker when it counts!
Before you jump to a conclusion
Buying a tracker is a good move. However, being sure that your vehicle tracker’s performance is at its best? That is the smart move to make. Routine performance checks will give you peace of mind that you can recover your vehicle quickly in emergencies and give you ample confidence against potential threats.
At Lock and Track, we don’t just provide the tools but also the knowledge to ensure you keep your vehicle secure, all the way. Whether you’re a single commuter, fleet manager, or simply trying to keep your pride and joy protected, having the ultimate protection and monitoring of performance is your best friend. To read reviews and see what others say about Lock & Track, click here.
