Vehicle Security · Buying Guide

Car Tracker Installation Cost: What Affects the Price

A tracker has a one-off cost and a running cost. Here is what goes into each one, and the questions to ask before you pay.

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In this guide you will see:
  • One-off: device + installation + optional immobilizer or sensors.
  • Running: SIM/data + platform subscription.
  • Compare quotes on the total cost over a year or two, not the device alone.
By Qyvea LimitedPublished 2026-09-23Updated 2026-09-233 min read
On this page01. What goes into the price02. Questions to ask before you pay03. Getting an accurate quote04. FAQ
Smartphone with a map mounted in a car console
Quick answer

The cost of a car tracker has two parts. The one-off part is the tracker unit plus installation, and any immobilizer, cut-off relay or extra sensors. The running part is the SIM and data, plus the tracking platform subscription that gives you the app, alerts and history. Comparing quotes only on the device price misses the part you pay every year.

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Key takeaways

  • One-off: device + installation + optional immobilizer or sensors.
  • Running: SIM/data + platform subscription.
  • Compare quotes on the total cost over a year or two, not the device alone.
  • Ask what happens if you stop paying: does the tracker keep working, or stop reporting?

01What goes into the price

ItemOne-off or runningWhat changes the cost
Tracker unitOne-offBasic location vs extra inputs, backup battery, voice or camera support
InstallationOne-offVehicle type, how well it is hidden, extra wiring for cut-off or sensors
Immobilizer / cut-off relayOne-offWhether remote engine cut-off is included
SIM and dataRunningReporting frequency and SMS alerts
Platform subscriptionRunningApp features, number of users, reports, control-room monitoring
Fleet extrasOne-off + runningFuel sensors, driver ID tags, temperature sensors, dash cameras

02Questions to ask before you pay

  • Is the platform subscription included for a period, and what does it cost after that?
  • Who owns the tracker unit, and can it be moved to another vehicle?
  • Is there a control room, or do alerts only go to my phone?
  • What happens when the SIM runs out of data or airtime?
  • Is remote engine cut-off included, and how is it made safe?
  • Who do I call if the vehicle stops showing on the app?
ImportantIf an insurer requires a tracker, check which devices or providers they accept before buying. See car tracking for insurance.

03Getting an accurate quote

  1. 01
    Tell us the vehicleMake, model, year, and whether it's a car, van, truck or motorcycle.
  2. 02
    Tell us the goalRecovery, family monitoring, fleet reports, insurance, fuel control.
  3. 03
    Choose the extrasImmobilizer, cut-off, alarm, dash camera, fuel or driver-ID sensors.
  4. 04
    Get a written quoteWith the one-off and running costs listed separately.

Ask Qyvea for a quote through the vehicle security page or the quote form.

04Frequently asked questions

Is there a monthly fee for a car tracker?

Most trackers need a SIM with data and a tracking platform subscription, paid monthly or yearly. Ask for both costs up front.

Is a cheap tracker good enough?

It can be for basic location. Check backup battery, tamper alerts, app quality and after-sales support before choosing on price alone.

Does installation cost more for some cars?

Yes. Some vehicles take longer to hide the unit neatly or to wire an immobilizer or cut-off correctly.

Why customers choose Qyvea

Genuine brandsManufacturer warranty on what we sell, so you are not gambling on the box.
One team, start to finishThe people who advise you also install and support it.
Fast answersWhatsApp replies usually within 30 minutes, and delivery within 24 hours in Nairobi.
Easy to buyPay by M-Pesa, bank transfer or card. Free delivery in Nairobi on orders over KES 5,000.
Risk taken off you7-day returns and exchanges on products, and a workmanship warranty on installations.
Customers say soRated 4.6/5 from 57 Google reviews.

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