These systems operate using radio or satellite positioning to locate a car after it has been stolen, and although they can be quite expensive, they are proving ever more popular with owners of executive or valuable cars.

Generally, the technology is fitted to a car 'covertly', meaning it is hidden from view and there are no warning notices on the car to suggest that a tracking device is fitted. This makes a thief less confident about car crime and stops them trying to locate and remove the tracking system.

If the car is stolen the system is activated to send out a unique signal that the police can follow. Some systems are even capable of detecting unauthorised movement of your car and will alert the driver that their car may have been stolen.

When combined with a satellite Global Positioning System (GPS), tracking devices can pinpoint the exact whereabouts of your car and relay the information to police. Most police forces are now equipped with systems to track vehicles fitted with this technology. So if you're determined to prevent your car from being stolen, it might be worth spending those extra pounds to get this pretty sophisticated piece of security equipment