Black box that cuts ignition

KILL switches are small, black GPS boxes installed behind a car’s dashboard.

The ignition is rewired through the box so, if a customer fails to pay, it can break the circuit and prevent the car starting.

When a payment is made customers are sent a code to enter by remote control. The box will beep if payments are due, with a ‘siren’ giving a 24-hour warning the car will be immobilised.

The Car Finance Company says it provides emergency codes so cars can be moved to a ‘secure location’, and vehicles cannot be stopped while moving.