Experts caution that vehicle trackers integrated into connected car features are unlikely to help owners recover stolen vehicles. The gap between consumer expectations and the capabilities of inbuilt tracking technology remains a significant concern for motorists.
In a recent example, Ian Fogg, a smartphone analyst, experienced the theft of his Kia vehicle despite having access to its live location data through Kia’s Connect service. The car was taken from outside his home in March, and although the manufacturer could view real-time location via the app, Mr Fogg was not able to retrieve the vehicle.
Kia has stated UK regulations restrict the use of Connect’s live tracking feature for stolen vehicle recovery. The company advises customers that the service is intended for convenience rather than security, such as remotely checking vehicle status or starting the engine.
Mr Fogg’s experience highlights the practical challenges. Thieves broke into the vehicle without using keys, then disconnected his phone from the car’s entertainment system through an unsecured process intended to facilitate new ownership transfers. He observed the theft live through his home video doorbell and initially tracked the car using an Apple Airtag hidden inside it. However, the tag was soon discarded after the thieves located it due to its audible alert designed to prevent covert tracking.
Upon reporting the theft, Mr Fogg was asked to submit a data request form multiple times to obtain the car’s location, receiving updates only after a delay of 24 to 48 hours. Kia reiterated that Connect is not a certified vehicle tracker and complies strictly with data protection laws, including GDPR.
UK data regulations require organisations to respond to personal data requests within one month. However, in cases of typical vehicle theft, the police do not have automatic authority to demand location data from manufacturers without Home Office consent, which is infrequently granted.
Unlike in the UK, Kia offers a premium vehicle tracking service in the United States, but this is not available to European customers.
Industry experts from Thatcham Research recommend motorists install independent tracking devices that are certified specifically for stolen vehicle recovery. These units should include their own power supply and connect to professional monitoring centres capable of providing genuine real-time location tracking.
Thatcham Research emphasises that connected car apps are primarily designed for convenience and infotainment, rather than security. The organisation warns drivers not to rely solely on manufacturer apps for theft protection.
The number of vehicle thefts in the UK has fallen by 11 percent in 2025, with nearly 55,000 reported incidents. However, only about 13 percent of stolen vehicles are recovered, according to data from car reseller Cinch.
Mr Fogg expressed surprise at the weaker security in the automotive industry compared to smartphones. He noted that both devices use similar communication technologies, but advances in phone security have outpaced those in vehicle theft prevention.
For vehicle owners, this case underscores the importance of understanding the limitations of connected services and considering additional measures if security is a priority. Independently certified tracking devices remain the most reliable option for active theft recovery and peace of mind.
