A GPS tracker for your vehicle is a helpful gadget for tracking your vehicle's whereabouts, speed, and history of routes. Here's a summary of what you should know:
Types of Car GPS Trackers
1. OBD-II Trackers – Connect to your vehicle's OBD-II port (typically under the dashboard). Simple to install, but conspicuous.
o Best suited for: Fleet tracking, real-time monitoring.
2. Hardwired GPS Trackers – Wired directly into the vehicle's electrical system (concealed installation).
o Best used for: Theft recovery, long-term tracking.
3. Battery-Powered Trackers – Mobile, can be located anywhere (magnetic or concealed).
o Best used for: Temporary tracking, clandestine surveillance.
4. 4G LTE Trackers – Utilize cellular networks for real-time tracking (SIM card & subscription required).
o Best used for: High-precision tracking, live updates.
Key Features to Search For
1. Real-Time Location Tracking – Tracks the car's present position on a map.
2. Route History – Saves prior trips for inspection.
3. Geofencing – Triggers alerts if the car enters or leaves a set location.
4. Speed Tracking – Monitors speed and alerts for overspeeding.
5. Anti-Theft Alarm – Alerts for unauthorized driving or ignition.
6. Diagnostics (OBD-II Models) – Some of these trackers can retrieve engine information (fuel level, fault codes).
Top GPS Trackers for Automobiles (2024)
1. Vyncs 4G LTE – No battery required, plugs into OBD-II, live tracking.
2. Bouncie – Easy to use, geofencing, speed notifications.
3. Tracki GPS Tracker – Compact, portable, global coverage.
4. Spytec STI GL300 – Long life battery, real-time tracking.
5. Amcrest AM-GL300 – Budget-friendly, geofencing, 2-week battery.
Lighted Scuff Plate
A lighted scuff plate or footplate or sill plate is a vehicle accessory that protects the door sills of a vehicle, usually with embedded LED lights. It is intended to avoid foot traffic scratches and scuffs when going in and out of the car as well as provide an aesthetic touch, particularly during nighttime driving.
An Illuminated Scuff Plate is an aesthetic and practical automotive accessory usually fitted onto the door sill or threshold of a vehicle. Here are the things you need to know:
Features:
1. LED Lighting – Usually backlit with LEDs, giving a chic glow when the door is opened.
2. Custom Branding – Can have the vehicle's logo, model name, or custom design printed on it.
3. Long-lasting Material – Typically constructed using stainless steel, aluminum, or ABS plastic with a brushed or polished look.
4. Protective Feature – Prevents shoes from scratching/scuffing when entering/leaving the vehicle.
5. Wiring Choices – Wired to interior lights (turns on with opening of door) or attached to a separate switch.
Advantages:
• Gives the vehicle a more appealing look, particularly at night.
• Gives a premium, high-end feel.
• Saves the door sill from wear and tear.
• Is available for personalization.