GPS-based vs Vehicle Odometer FAQ
- 1 GPS Mileage Explained…
- 1.1 Why doesn't the mileage in Smartrak match my vehicle's odometer?
- 1.2 Terminology
- 1.3 How does Smartrak calculate mileage?
- 1.4 What can cause differences between GPS mileage and vehicle mileage?
- 1.5 Is the Smartrak mileage wrong if it doesn't match the dashboard?
- 1.6 Which mileage should I use?
- 1.7 Do I need to update the odometer in Smartrak?
- 1.8 How often should odometer readings be synchronised?
- 1.9 What is the best practice for fleet managers?
- 1.10 Key Takeaway
GPS Mileage Explained…
Why doesn't the mileage in Smartrak match my vehicle's odometer?
Smartrak calculates distance travelled using GPS data, while your vehicle's odometer measures distance using the vehicle's own sensors and calibration settings. Because they use different measurement methods, some variation between the two readings is normal.
Terminology
Vehicle odometer - this is the odometer reading from the vehicle dashboard
GPS-based odometer - this is the calculated reading based on GPS records
How does Smartrak calculate mileage?
The GPS device records the vehicle's position as it travels and calculates the distance between those positions. These distances are added together to create a GPS-based odometer reading.
What can cause differences between GPS mileage and vehicle mileage?
Common causes include:
Vehicle manufacturer calibration tolerances
Tyre wear and tread depth
Tyre pressure changes
Wheel or tyre size changes
GPS signal quality
Satellite availability
Communication interruptions
Device replacement, power loss, or other maintenance events
These factors can affect either the vehicle odometer, the GPS calculation, or both.
Is the Smartrak mileage wrong if it doesn't match the dashboard?
Not necessarily. A difference between the two readings does not automatically indicate a fault. GPS-derived mileage and vehicle odometers measure distance differently, so some variation is expected across all telematics platforms.
Which mileage should I use?
Drivers should rely on the vehicle's dashboard odometer for operational and compliance purposes unless directed otherwise by their organisation.
Smartrak mileage is best used for:
Servicing reminders
RUC notifications
Maintenance planning
Fleet management reporting
Do I need to update the odometer in Smartrak?
Yes. To keep GPS mileage aligned with the vehicle's actual odometer, we recommend regularly synchronising the vehicle's odometer reading in Smartrak.
How often should odometer readings be synchronised?
As a best practice, odometer readings should be updated every 3 to 6 months, or whenever the vehicle is serviced. This helps ensure servicing and maintenance notifications remain accurate
What is the best practice for fleet managers?
To maintain accurate maintenance schedules and compliance alerts:
Regularly check vehicle odometer readings
Update odometer values in Smartrak during servicing
Investigate significant or unexpected discrepancies
Re-synchronise odometer readings every 3 to 6 months
Regular synchronisation helps keep Smartrak's GPS-based odometer aligned with the vehicle's actual odometer and improves the accuracy of distance-based notifications.
Recalibration can be done in Fleet Servicing or in Admin, the articles explaining how are linked below.
How to update Hubo/Odometer and Hour Clock readings
How to update A Vehicle Odometer (and Hubo) in Admin
Key Takeaway
GPS-based odometer and vehicle odometer measure distance differently. Small variances are normal. Regular odometer synchronisation ensures mileage-based alerts, servicing schedules, and compliance reporting remain accurate.