Where is the GPS tracker located on your car?

If someone were to use GPS trackers on your vehicle, that delicate info can be used to shake your life into shambles.

But what exactly are GPS trackers supposed to do? Aren’t they supposed to help us get our way around places we’re not familiar with? How can these devices compromise someone’s safety and security?

Find out everything you need to know about GPS, GPS trackers and what it can do if used in a bad way. Continue reading this article from Philkotse.com to know more. 

GPS Trackers

The GPS trackers you find in the market these days usually fall into one of these two basic categories – passive and active.

To better understand this, know that active trackers utilize GPS to determine a particular location. It then takes that info and transfers it via a cellular connection. Passive trackers, on the other hand, tracks location records and stores them for later use.

GPS device determines a particular location

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The dangers of GPS tracker misuse

Judging by that definition, if someone were to install an active-type GPS tracker on your car, it can get really bad for you. The perpetrator will be able to see your real-time location on a cell phone, tablet or computer.

Depending on the devices used in the act, the user may also be able to see the previous places you’ve been to. They may also be able to view other info like how fast you’re going as well as other info that should be exclusive to you only.

While with a passive GPS tracker installed in your car, the perpetrator won’t have access to your real-time location. However, they can still view the recorded info once they get a hold of the device.

However, they can still view the recorded info once they get a hold of the device

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Upon retrieval, they will most likely be able to get info on your previous whereabouts. This can also include other info mentioned earlier.

There are GPS hidden trackers that are specifically designed to get power from the vehicle’s electrical system. There are also other trackers that come with batteries.

These are way harder to detect especially if you never expected anyone to put a tracker in your car. But with the help of a professional, you will most likely get this sorted out.

If someone were to install an active-type GPS tracker on your car, it can get really bad for you

How can you locate hidden GPS trackers in your car?

If you suddenly have the feeling that someone has rigged your car with a GPS tracker, you will need a few basic tools. This will include a mechanic’s mirror, a flashlight, and a creeper mat.

If you don’t have a creeper mat, anything that will let you slide under your vehicle will do. If you think you may be dealing with a savvy perpetrator, you may need more high-tech detection hardware. Some examples are bug detectors and electronic sweepers.

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There are GPS hidden trackers that are specifically designed to get power from the vehicle’s electrical system

But for the basic inspection, here are the steps you need to consider taking:

1. Do exterior protection

Take your flashlight along with the mechanic’s mirror and check the outer area of your vehicle. You first need to perform a plain visual inspection.

Look under the vehicle as well as the wheel wells. Most trackers are placed in locations that are very easy to reach so it’s easy for the perpetrator to remove.

Look under the vehicle as well as the wheel well

Check the front and rear wheel’s wells. If you see a loose plastic wheel well liner, you may want to take a look if there’s a tracker inside.

You may need to use a telescoping mirror for better visibility. Another tip is to use your hands and reach in places that your eyes can’t see but your fingers can reach.

But if the perpetrator is tricky or you’ve already driven the car with it, the tracker may be dirty. You may have a hard time seeing it so keep your eyes peeled. You can also use your creeper mat to do a more thorough inspection under the car. Use your flashlight.

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Look under the vehicle as well as the wheel wells

2. Do an interior inspection

Use your flashlight and turn on the dome light to check your car’s data port. A lot of the GPS trackers can be terribly small in size. This makes them very easy to overlook.

Don’t forget to look under the seats and near the dash. Other possible spots are the glove compartment, center console, and sun visors. Also, check the trunk and the small crevices inside.

3. Use a bug detector to sweep your vehicle

Bug detectors are fairly easy to find. These are handheld gadgets that can detect electromagnetic signals like those present in cell phones and radios. In fact, you can find them in the same shops where GPS trackers can be bought.

But what exactly are GPS trackers supposed to do?

If you have a bug sweeper, you can slowly walk around your vehicle and sweep it around. Depending on the device, it will vibrate, light up or make a sound to alert you about an activity tracker on your vehicle.

There are activity trackers that only transmit data while the vehicle is in motion. The downside of bug detectors is that most of them can’t detect passive-type trackers.

If you’re keen as to finding this tracking bug, have someone operate the vehicle for you while you sweep the vehicle or vice versa.

>>> FYI: What else you need to know about GPS devices for your car

There are activity trackers that only transmit data while the vehicle is in motion

4. Seek professional intervention when necessary

If you think someone placed a hidden GPS tracker in your car and you can’t find it, get a professional to help. This may cost you but it’s definitely worth it rather than revealing your location and driving habits to the perpetrator.

There are technicians who specialize in in-car audio, automotive electronics, and car alarms. They can help you safely tear through your vehicle’s components safely to look for the GPS bug.