How to Find a GPS Tracker in Your Car

Why Someone Might Place a GPS Tracker on Your Car

Legal vs. Illegal Tracking

Before deciding how and where to look for the presence of a GPS tracker, you need to understand the reasons why one could be installed on your vehicle in the first place and if it's legal. In many areas where GPS trackers are legal, one can install the GPS tracking device just on the vehicle they own or are authorized to use (such as parents who track teens' drivers or companies tracking corporate vehicles).

However, if someone puts the tracker of your car without your consent, this is a serious infringement of privacy and may be a crime. The stalkers, spouses, jealous ex-partners, stalkers, or criminals can utilize hidden trackers to spy on you, and that's why being on guard is vital.

Common Reasons for Hidden GPS Devices

• Spouses or partners who are suspicious
• Overbearing employers
• Sexual harassment or harassment
• Preparation for vehicle theft
• Private investigations

Signs That Your Car Might Be Tracked

Unusual Battery Drain

If your car's battery is draining more quickly than normal, it could be due to the hardwired GPS device. These devices draw small amounts of energy from the battery all day long, which adds to a large extent over time.

Unknown Wires or Devices

Have you noticed strange wires under your dashboard? Perhaps a tiny black box in the back of your car? The devices that weren't present before? They could be trackers or power sources for them.

Sudden Changes in Vehicle Behavior

If your car starts appearing odd, like triggering engine lights without explanation or having odd reactions to diagnostics--it could be that someone altered your electronic system to install an electronic tracker.

Types of GPS Trackers Used in Vehicles

OBD-II Port Trackers

They're plug-and-play trackers that connect directly to the car's onboard diagnostic port, which is usually found under the wheel. They are easy to set up and frequently used by insurance companies as well as fleet managers. Certain individuals employ them to monitor their surroundings.

Hardwired GPS Trackers

They're more difficult to spot since they're incorporated into the vehicle's electrical system. They're typically hidden in the dashboard, beneath seats, or in the engine compartment. They don't depend on batteries from outside, which means they're able to run for a long time.

Magnetic or Battery-Powered Trackers

They are among the most frequently employed trackers used for surveillance in covert mode. They are tiny, easily concealed and are often positioned beneath the vehicle with magnets. Some can last for several months or even years on one charge.

Tools You Can Use to Detect a GPS Tracker

GPS Bug Detectors

They are handheld devices that search for frequencies and signals that are generated through GPS trackers. If a tracker has been actively transmitting data, bug detection can assist in locating its location.

RF (Radio Frequency) Scanners

The RF detectors are used to detect radio frequencies that are generated by trackers that use satellite or cellular signals. They're especially useful when the tracker transmits information in real time.

Flashlights and Inspection Mirrors

Utilize a low-tech flashlight to look into dark crevices and the telescoping mirror to see beneath your car or in difficult-to-see places.

Step-by-Step Process to Search for a GPS Tracker

Search the Exterior of the Car

Begin by examining:

• Under the bumpers
• The wheel's wells are located inside.
• In the background of the plate
• It is attached to the undercarriage

Check out any tiny magnetic devices or oddly shaped boxes.

Check the Interior and Dashboard Area

• Take a look under and behind the dashboard
• Make sure you check under the seats
• Take a look at the floor and carpet mats for any lumps or hard spots.

Inspect the Under-Carriage and Wheel Wells

Use a flashlight or mirror to determine:

• Suspension components
• Inside mud flaps
• In front of the fuel tank or the exhaust system.

Look Inside the Glove Box, Trunk, and Seats

Don't forget:

• Examine the compartment for spare tyres.
• All interior panels are open.
• Check the speaker boxes as well as the light housings.

Where to Focus Your Search for Hidden Trackers

Behind the Bumper

Small magnetic trackers are usually stuck behind bumpers or within the hollow cavity of the bumper. They are the places that most people do not check regularly.

Under the Vehicle

Use a flashlight and a mirror to examine all flat surfaces beneath the car. Magnetic trackers usually attach to the frame of the car and driveshaft tunnels, as well as axles.

In or Around the OBD-II Port

Find the OBD-II port (usually located under the dashboard) and determine if a device is connected to it. If you're not sure, check the manual for your car or consult an expert.

Inside Unusual Compartments or Panels

Sneaky trackers can be put in:

• Air air vents
• Headrests
• Inside door panels
• Even in the cup holders (disguised as chargers or accessories)

What a GPS Tracker Looks Like

Visual Clues and Common Designs

The majority of GPS trackers:

• Black or dark grey plastic boxes
• roughly one-third of the dimensions of a deck of cards
• Could contain LED lights, an antenna or SIM slot slots for cards.
• Sometimes, it is disguised as USB batteries or chargers.

Covert Tracker Examples

• airbag devices : The devices are coin-sized and difficult to recognize
• Dashcam trackers embedded in the front and rear camera
• Trackers with plug-ins look like ordinary automobile gadgets or chargers

What to Do If You Find a GPS Tracker

Legal Action and Privacy Laws

Before you do anything, make sure you take a photo or video of your device. In many places, it's unlawful for someone to follow you without your consent. In the event you believe that there is a play, you should contact local law enforcement officials for guidance regarding how to handle the incident.

Removing the Tracker Safely

If your device is not hardwired, you can take it off it by taking it off or disconnecting it. Do not cut wires or work with electronic devices unless you're a professional. Doing this could cause damage to your vehicle.

Contacting Authorities or a Mechanic

If in doubt, consult your mechanic. They will be able to help you remove the devices that are hardwired. If you suspect that you are being tracked by someone illegally, you should report it to the police and give them any evidence you have gathered.

How to Protect Your Vehicle From Future Tracking

Anti-GPS Tracker Tools and Devices

Place your money in:

• Signal jammers that block GPS (Note that it is illegal in some areas. Use with caution.)
• Bug detectors
• blocking GPS devices for cars parked

Garage Storage and Regular Inspections

Make sure your car is in an enclosed garage or gated space. If it is, you can. Check regularly underneath and around your vehicle in the event of unusual events or interactions.

Install a GPS Jammer or Faraday Cage

A Faraday bag or cage blocks GPS signals. Covering the tracker (or your entire car in advanced configurations) in such material prevents it from transmitting data.

Final Thoughts

The sight of a GPS tracking device in your car could be stressful. However, knowing what to look out for as well as where you should look places control back in your control. From checking the undercarriage to checking the dashboard, a thorough examination with the right tools will assist you in identifying unauthorized tracking and help you regain your privacy. If you're concerned about security and control or simply keeping yourself informed, regular inspections of your vehicle are a sensible and proactive way to go.

FAQs

Can I legally install a GPS tracking device on the car I drive?

Only when they own the vehicle or have legal authorization. If not, it's illegal surveillance in various areas.

How tiny is a GPS tracking device?

Some are smaller than the size of a button or coin. Mini trackers are made to be placed discreetly.

Trackers will be detected in a diagnostic test for mechanics.

It's not usually. Unless it's interfering with vehicle functions or connected to an OBD II port, it won't be visible during a scan for diagnostics.

Do GPS trackers operate using batteries?

Hardwired trackers are able to get power from the vehicle's battery and work without the need for a separate battery.

Can I legally get rid of the GPS tracking device from my vehicle?

Yes, if it's on your vehicle and you don't agree to the place of the tracker there, you are in the right to take it off.