Keep your motorhome secure with Meta Trak tracking systems

Tracking systems, when launched in the 90s, were hugely expensive and only really made sense for large expensive motorhomes and cars. It soon became an essential requirement for some high value motorhomes.

Now, many insurance companies offer significant premium discounts if you have one of the approved systems fitted, and that will make a big difference over the coming months as insurance premiums are set to rise. And, new technology means that you can now have a tracking system fitted for far less than you might imagine.

The Meta Trak system is the latest generation of tracking systems. to hit the market, with some of the market’s lowest subscription rates. Brought to you by manufacturer, Meta System, this company was established over 40 years ago and is one of the largest producers of vehicle safety, security and info systems in the world.

Plus, with people nowadays accustomed to using clever technology on their smart phone, holidaymakers can share the live tracking app with their family and friends – allowing them to follow your travels in real time.

The system

There are three different products: LITE, Shield and S5-VTS* depending on budget and whether you are looking for a peace of mind system, or an insurance accredited solution. All work through a website portal and mobile phone app that is incredibly easy to use, or choose standard SMS alerts if you don't have a smartphone. Coverage includes Europe and Russia at no additional cost.

The LITE is a self-monitored, peace of mind solution that costs around £299. This includes a three-year subscription package, installation and VAT although prices may vary across the network of UK installers.

This product offers on demand tracking and instant alerts of there is a change in your vehicle's status - such as an unauthorised attempt to access it. You can also access the vehicle's battery status, particularly important if the motorhome is stored away from home. You can manually switch between modes, selecting garage mode, when the battery may be disconnected, or transport mode where the vehicle is moving but the ignition isn’t on – automatically switching off the relevant alerts at that point. You can also create a point of interest alert, sending a notification when the vehicle comes within a 100m of that point. The system also stores journey history for 30 days, allowing you to review your travels and save memorable trips.

With the Shield system, the app has a little more functionality with live tracking. This is great for holidaymakers who want to share the live app with family and friends, allowing them to follow your travels in real time. You get the ability to upgrade, adding options such as a connected alarm, wireless starter motor immobilisation control or driver recognition ID tags. The product costs in the region of £299 (with one year subscription) or £379 (with a three-year subs). 

Each journey also registers a score with marks for accelerating, braking, cornering, speed and mileage, not as important in motorhomes we're sure, but it could create interesting discussions if both occupants drive the vehicle.

The S5-VTS is a Thatcham accredited, insurance approved solution. The national security inspectorate approved secure operating centre (SOC) monitors your vehicle 24/7 and Driver Recognition ID tags are included as standard. If the motorhome moves away without the driver recognition ID tags present, in the case of key cloning for example, you will be instantly alerted. The secure operating centre will also receive an instant alert and, on your confirmation, will liaise directly with the police to help recover your vehicle.

Installation

The process of fitting is minimal hassle and it's tucked away somewhere not even the customer knows about – no servicing is required so why would you need to know? The device will be active immediately after installation.

The approved installer sits down with you and sets up your account, registering a security question and an answer of your choice. This point you will get an activation message by text and by email, with passwords and instructions and information on the app, which is available for iOS, Android and Windows.

The device itself uses the very latest technology and is small and highly sensitive. It's waterproof and tamperproof and comes with a five-year warranty. Plus, if you change your motorhome the device can be transferred to your new vehicle.

Indicative prices (including VAT, installation and subscription)

What next

Visit metatrak.co.uk to find our more information and to arrange installation of a tracking device, or ask your local dealer for a Meta Trak system.

*Thatcham Category S5-VTS was introduced in October 2016 and replaces Categories 5 and 6 from 31 October 2017.