Is A Hidden GPS Tracker On Your Car? Search These 10 Spots Now!
Welcome to the Fleet1st guide on where to hide a GPS tracker on a car.
If you’re here, you’re likely looking for the best hiding spots to place a GPS tracker discreetly and effectively. If you’re a business owner keeping tabs on your fleet, finding the right spot is crucial to keeping your vehicles safe and secure.
We’ve been in the GPS tracking industry for over 15 years, and one thing we know for sure: choosing the right placement can make all the difference between getting accurate data or losing signal altogether.
That’s why we put together this guide. We’ll cover the top 10 locations for hiding a GPS tracker on a vehicle, highlighting each spot’s pros and cons so you can make an informed decision. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to place a tracker to stay covert and ensure reliable performance every time.
Top 10 Spots GPS Trackers Are Hidden On Vehicles
Attached Underneath Vehicle
Attaching a car GPS tracker to the underside of a vehicle is one of the best options if you want to keep it out of sight. Why? For one, it’s not a place people typically look, so it’s less likely to be discovered. Plus, this spot allows for a clear signal to the satellite, which ensures the tracker works reliably. If you decide to place a GPS tracker underneath a vehicle, make sure it’s in a waterproof case. This will protect it from dirt, water, and road debris. Choose a spot that’s metal-free to avoid signal interference, such as the area between the bumper and rear axle.
To get started, first find a secure location under the car, like the frame or a hollow area near the bumper. Make sure there’s enough space to place the tracker and that it won’t be visible from a standing position. Once you’ve picked a spot, use a strong magnet or heavy-duty adhesive to attach it securely. After it’s in place, double-check that the tracker’s signal is functioning correctly before driving. Placing a tracker under the vehicle keeps it out of sight and less accessible, allowing you to discreetly monitor your car’s location without drawing attention. This option is ideal for fleet management or security purposes, as it combines hidden placement with reliable tracking performance. This location is especially favored for several reasons:
- Covert. Being out of plain sight, the undercarriage offers a level of discretion that other spots can’t. It makes it challenging for the average person to spot, ensuring the device remains undetected for longer periods.
- Ease of Installation. Many trackers come equipped with strong magnets, allowing for quick and tool-free installation on metal surfaces underneath the vehicle.
- Uninterrupted Signal. Despite being hidden underneath, modern GPS trackers have powerful antennas that can efficiently pick up satellite signals, ensuring accurate tracking. In fact, many magnetic GPS trackers can pick up GPS signals that reflect off the ground!
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Private investigators, suspicious spouses, or business owners monitoring fleet vehicles often choose this spot. Why? The location provides them with a balance of discretion and efficiency, without requiring invasive installations or modifications to the vehicle. Therefore, always make sure you carefully inspect the undercarriage if you have suspicions of being tracked!
Hard-Wired Behind The Dashboard
GPS units can be discreetly hard-wired into the vehicle’s 12-volt electrical system, making them completely hidden to an unsuspecting driver. But even more importantly, you can secretly track the vehicle without ever having to worry about battery life.
- Seamless Integration. When hard-wired, the tracker draws power directly from the vehicle, eliminating concerns about battery life. This ensures consistent, long-term tracking.
- Advanced Features. Some hard-wired trackers offer advanced functionalities, like the ability to disable the starter. This feature can act as a deterrent against potential theft or, in the case of certain financing arrangements, prevent the car from starting if payments are missed.
- Minimal Tampering Risk. Given its hidden nature, there’s a reduced risk of the device being tampered with or removed by someone unfamiliar with the vehicle’s intricate wiring.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Car dealerships, especially those offering in-house financing, are inclined to use this method. It provides them with an added layer of security, ensuring that the vehicle can be located or immobilized if necessary. Additionally, businesses with fleet vehicles might also opt for this more permanent tracking solution to monitor vehicle usage consistently.
Plugged Into The OBDii Port
Plugging a GPS tracker into the OBD-II port is one of the easiest and most efficient ways for you to monitor your company vehicles. The Onboard Diagnostic port, typically located under the steering wheel, powers the tracker continuously. That means you won’t have to worry about recharging batteries or dealing with wiring, making it a hassle-free setup. For a business owner like yourself, this is a convenient solution that gets you up and running quickly without needing to hire a professional installer.
Once you insert the tracker into the OBD-II port, it’s ready to start providing you with real-time updates and vehicle insights. Many OBD-II trackers offer features like live tracking and engine diagnostics, helping you get more value out of your fleet. Plus, some models even come with no monthly fees, allowing you to track your vehicles while keeping costs low.
- Easy Power Source. The OBD2 port directly provides power to the GPS tracking device. This means there’s no need for external batteries, ensuring consistent and long-term tracking without interruptions.
- Simple Installation. The plug-and-play nature of OBD2 trackers eliminates the need for complex wiring or professional installation, making it an easy and cost-effective tracking solution.
- Advanced Data Collection. OBD2 trackers not only provide location data but can also tap into the vehicle’s diagnostic system. This can give insights into driving behavior, vehicle health, and more.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Businesses like using this spot because it’s easy to install and gives a ton of useful data. You can see exactly where your vehicles are, how they’re being driven, and even check up on engine health—all without needing a pro to set it up. It’s a no-brainer for fleet management.
Parents sometimes use OBD-II trackers too, but the real benefit for you is the quick setup and reliable tracking. Just plug it in, and you’re good to go. Simple, effective, and no hassle.
Inside The Glove Compartment
The glove compartment is a great hiding spot for wireless GPS trackers because the spot is easily accessible and conceals the tracking solution from drivers. And let’s be honest, most people rarely open their glovebox, yourself included!
- Ease of Access. Installing or retrieving the GPS device from the glove compartment is straightforward, which can be especially useful for trackers that require periodic battery changes.
- Concealment. Given its enclosed nature, a GPS device placed inside remains out of direct sight. More importantly, the tracking system can pickup signals that can penetrate the fiberglass or plastic made dashboard.
- Protection. The glove compartment offers protection from environmental factors, ensuring the tracker’s longevity and consistent operation.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Private investigators and individuals suspecting infidelity or wanting to monitor a vehicle’s whereabouts without the driver’s knowledge often choose this location. The glovebox is a great spot to hide a GPS car tracker because the device is both hidden and protected from any potential outside elements such as heat, cold, dust or moisture.
Underneath A Car Seat
Positioning a GPS tracker under the car seat is a discreet method that ensures the device remains unnoticed while offering protection.
- Stealth and Discretion. Hidden beneath the car seat, the GPS tracker is not immediately visible to the driver or passengers, making it an ideal spot for covert tracking.
- Protection from Elements. While inside the car, the device remains shielded from external environmental factors like rain, dust, and direct sunlight, ensuring its longevity and consistent performance.
- Easy Accessibility. Positioning a GPS tracker under the car seat is a discreet method that ensures the device remains unnoticed while allowing it to accurately track vehicle location.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Parents monitoring their teen drivers, individuals suspecting partner infidelity, and private investigators often choose this location. Its discrete nature combined with protection and accessibility makes it a top choice for those who prioritize stealth.
Hidden In The Rear Bumper
The GPS car tracker can easily be hidden within the front or rear bumper of the vehicle, providing a discreet location for covert tracking. However, just make sure you place the GPS device on the bumper in a way so the tracking device does not fall off your vehicle!
- Covert Positioning. Nestled within a bumper, the GPS tracker remains out of sight from both the driver and external observers, establishing a high level of discretion.
- Protection from Casual Detection. The bumper’s solid structure hides the device from casual inspections and shields it from being easily detected by anyone not specifically searching for it.
- Environmental Shielding. Being inside the bumper, the tracker benefits from protection against road debris, water splashes, and other environmental factors, though it’s essential to ensure the device itself is robust and waterproof.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Law enforcement agencies, private investigators, and individuals wanting to track a vehicle’s movements without alerting the driver frequently opt for this location. Its hidden nature and protection from the elements make it a preferred choice for long-term tracking needs.
In A Speaker Cabinet
Positioning a GPS tracker inside a vehicle’s speaker offers an ingenious hiding spot, utilizing the speaker’s design while maintaining the tracker’s functionality.
- Seamless Camouflage. Inside a speaker cabinet, the GPS tracker is perfectly camouflaged, blending with the speaker’s components and wiring, making it incredibly challenging to detect unless someone knows exactly what to look for.
- Signal Reception. Despite being inside a speaker, the tracker’s ability to pick up GPS signals remains largely unaffected. The materials and design of most speaker cabinets do not significantly interfere with GPS signal reception.
- Protection Interference. Located within the speaker, the tracker is protected from direct tampering, casual inspections, and the elements, ensuring consistent performance.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Private investigators, intelligence agencies, and individuals needing high levels of discretion often choose this location. Its sophisticated hiding spot combined with unhindered signal reception makes it ideal for covert and prolonged tracking assignment.
Inside The Car’s Center Console
The center console, the compartment situated between the driver’s and passenger’s front seats, stands out as a prime location for a GPS tracker due to its accessibility and discrete nature.
- Easy Setup. Placing a tracker inside the center console is straightforward, requiring no special tools or modifications to the vehicle. Given its easy accessibility, battery-powered trackers can be quickly checked or replaced without drawing attention.
- Protection and Concealment. While it’s easily accessible, the center console also offers a degree of concealment. Most drivers and passengers won’t think to look inside unless they have a specific reason, allowing the tracker to remain hidden in plain sight.
- Minimal Signal Interference. Positioned within the interior of the car, the center console ensures the tracker remains relatively unshielded, allowing it to receive GPS signals without major obstructions.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Given its convenience, a range of users might opt for this spot, from concerned parents monitoring their teen drivers to business owners keeping tabs on their fleet. It’s also a location chosen by individuals suspecting infidelity or private investigators building a case, thanks to its blend of accessibility and discretion.
Integrated In Dash Cam
Modern dual dash cameras not only capture live video feeds but also offer real-time GPS tracking. This integration offers a comprehensive overview of a vehicle’s journey, merging visual and locational data.
- Dual Functionality. The main allure of using dash cameras with GPS capabilities is their dual functionality. By using a single device, users can record real-time video footage of their journey while simultaneously tracking the vehicle’s location.
- Evidence Compilation. For businesses or legal scenarios, having both video and GPS data can be invaluable. It provides a holistic view of events, from speed and location to visual evidence of occurrences on the road.
- Efficient for Fleet Management. GPS-enabled dash cams are particularly popular in fleet management. They assist businesses in monitoring driver behavior, optimizing routes, ensuring timely deliveries, and providing evidence in case of accidents or disputes.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Businesses managing fleets of vehicles are the primary users of GPS-integrated dash cams. They offer an efficient way to oversee multiple vehicles in real-time. Moreover, ride-sharing drivers or concerned parents may also use these devices to ensure safety, monitor driving habits, and have a record of events on the road.
Side Panel Of A Car Door
The side panels of car doors, especially the passenger side, offer a discreet location to hide GPS trackers, staying well out of a driver’s usual line of sight.
- Concealment. Since the side panel of a car door is not commonly checked or opened for maintenance, placing a tracker here ensures it remains hidden for longer periods.
- Protection From Elements. Tucked inside the door, the tracker is safeguarded from external weather conditions and potential physical damage, prolonging its lifespan.
- Minimal Signal Interference. While the tracker is protected from the elements, its positioning inside the door allows it to effectively capture and transmit GPS signals without significant interference.
Who’s Most Likely to Use This Spot?
Private investigators and individuals suspecting their partners of infidelity might opt for this location, given its discreetness. Additionally, law enforcement agencies or lenders who wish to keep tabs on a vehicle without raising suspicions might also use this spot.
Photo: Where Is The Best Place To Put A GPS Tracker On A Car – Secret Spots!
What Is The Best Hidden GPS For Tracking Cars?
- Live Location Updates Every 24/7
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- Fit The Tracker To Any Metal Surface Under A Car
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Video: Where Is The Best Place To Put A GPS Tracker On A Car?
Frequently Asked Questions
I Found A GPS Tracker On My Car, What Should I Do?
If you recently found a GPS tracker inside your car it can be an alarming experience. But before you freak out, here are 4 steps you want to follow:
- Remove The Car GPS Tracker. If you found a GPS device inside the bumper or under your car, the first thing you want to do is remove it. As long as the car tracker isn’t connected to your vehicle’s electrical system, you can safely take the device off.
- Disable The GPS Tracker. After removing the tracker, disable the device by removing the SIM card. If you need help with this, consult user manuals or contact the manufacturer for tech support. If
- Find Out Who Fit The Tracker On Your Vehicle. Check the serial number of the tracker and contact the manufacturer to see if they can provide information about who purchased the device.
- Contact Police. If you found a GPS tracker on your vehicle and have no idea who did it you need to file a police report. Police can investigate the matter and help you find out who put the tracker inside your car. If the person violated any privacy laws, police can make an arrest on your behalf.
Who Manufactured The GPS Tracker I Found On My Vehicle?
If you’re trying to figure out who made the tracker you found on your car, it’s pretty easy. Start by heading over to Amazon and searching for “car tracking devices.” Filter by top-rated options, and you’ll likely spot a match for the tracker you found. Once you’ve identified the brand, reach out to the manufacturer. They might be able to tell you more about the device and possibly even who bought it.
How Can I Block A GPS Device Hidden On My Automobile?
To block a GPS tracker hidden on your car, you can follow these steps:
- Use A GPS Jammer. This device emits radio frequencies that interfere with GPS signals, making it difficult for the tracker to receive a signal. GPS jammers sell for less than $50 on Amazon.
- Install A GPS Signal Blocker. This device is specifically designed to block GPS signals and can be installed in your vehicle to prevent tracking.
- Use A Faraday Cage. This is a conductive material that blocks radio signals and can be used to cover your vehicle to prevent GPS tracking.
- Conduct A Physical Search Of Your Vehicle. Look for any suspicious wires or devices that may be attached to your vehicle. If you find a GPS tracker on your car, simply remove it and dispose of it.
Can Used Car Dealers Put GPS Tracking Systems On The Cars They Sell?
Yes, car dealerships can install GPS tracking systems on the vehicles they sell. In some places, they need to let buyers know about the tracker and get their consent. This typically happens when you buy the car.
If you’re dealing with a “buy here, pay here” dealership, GPS trackers are even more common. Since they handle financing in-house, they often use these trackers to keep an eye on the vehicle’s location to make sure payments are on time. So, it’s worth asking about GPS tracking if you’re purchasing from one of these dealerships.