Best Car Trackers in South Africa (2025 Reviews)
By MoneyToday Team • Nov 10, 2024 • 6 min read
With vehicle theft rates on the rise in 2025, a reliable car tracker is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. Many insurers now even mandate dual tracking units for high-risk vehicles like the Toyota Hilux or VW Polo.
But with options like Cartrack, Tracker, Matrix, Netstar, and Beame, how do you choose? We compare the top providers based on recovery rates, app usability, and monthly costs.
Top 5 Providers at a Glance
1. Cartrack
Known for their independently audited 90%+ recovery rate. They are so confident that they offer a cash-back recovery warranty (up to R150,000) if they fail to recover your vehicle.
- Audited Recovery Rate
- Logbook App included
- Recovery Warranty
- Panic Button (App)
2. Tracker
A household name with arguably the largest tracking network in SA. Their "Care" and "Protect" packages offer excellent medical and roadside assistance integration.
- Huge Network Coverage
- Roadside Assist
- Zone Alerts
3. Beame (by Matrix)
Best for affordability and ease. It is a small, wireless device that can be hidden anywhere. It runs on a long-life battery (3+ years) so it doesn't touch your car's wiring.
- Wireless (No wiring)
- Lowest Monthly Cost
- Easy Installation
4. Matrix
Best for safety-conscious drivers. Their premium units focus on personal safety features like "Crash Alert" and panic buttons, not just vehicle recovery.
5. Netstar
Known for pioneering the industry. They offer solid "Nano" units which are small and hard to find. Their "Jamming Detect" technology is highly rated.
Quick Comparison
| Provider | Est. Price (pm) | Logbook App | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cartrack | R150 - R200 | Yes (Excellent) | Up to R150k |
| Tracker | R100 - R250 | Yes | - |
| Beame | R99 - R120 | No (Basic) | - |
| Matrix | R180 - R300 | Yes | - |
| Netstar | R140 - R190 | Yes | - |
*Prices are estimates for basic to mid-tier packages and may change.
Why the App Matters
Modern tracking isn't just about theft. It's about daily utility. The best providers (like Cartrack and Tracker) offer apps that act as a digital logbook for SARS.
- SARS Logbook: Auto-track business vs private trips.
- Car Finder: Find your car in a busy mall parking lot.
- Service Reminders: Alerts based on odometer reading.
Buying Guide: Wireless vs. Wired
Wireless (e.g., Beame)
Self-powered units that don't connect to your car battery.
Cons: Cannot immobilize car, no real-time live tracking on map (usually updates every hour or so).
Wired (e.g., Cartrack)
Connected to vehicle power.
Cons: Installation takes longer, slightly higher monthly fee.