Have you ever wondered if someone is secretly keeping an eye on your movements? GPS trackers can be easily hidden on cars to track where you go, raising serious privacy concerns.

Whether you're worried about unauthorised tracking or just want peace of mind, knowing how to find a GPS tracker on your car is an important skill to protect your privacy and what to do if you find any GPS tracking devices.

Key Takeaways

• GPS trackers can be active (real-time) or passive (data loggers), each serving different purposes.
• Thoroughly inspect your car’s exterior, interior, and common hiding spots for trackers.
• Use detection tools like bug sweepers or apps to locate hidden devices.
• Seek professional help for finding and safely removing hard-wired trackers.
• Legal permissions and regional laws determine when tracking a car is acceptable.

Types of GPS Trackers

GPS trackers are devices that help you know the location of vehicles, assets or persons. There are two main types of GPS trackers: Active Trackers and Passive Trackers. Let’s learn about them:

Active Trackers (Real-Time GPS Trackers)

Send location data in real time. They use cellular networks, like mobile phones, to send updates to your smartphone, computer, or tracking app. This allows you to see the live location as it happens. Active trackers are useful for tracking delivery vehicles, cars, pets, or even kids. 

For example, a parent can use an active GPS tracker to check their child’s location at any time.

Passive Trackers (GPS Data Loggers)

Store location information on the device for later use. They don’t send real-time updates because they don’t rely on cellular networks. To access the data, you need to connect the tracker to a computer and download the recorded information. These trackers are useful for checking travel history, such as where a vehicle went during the day. 

For example, a company can use a passive tracker to review the routes taken by its delivery vans.

How to Find a Hidden GPS Tracker on Your Car?

If you suspect someone has placed a GPS tracker on your car, follow these detailed steps to locate and remove it. With a little effort and the right tools, you can ensure your privacy is protected.

Step 1: Inspect the Exterior of Your Car

Trackers are often hidden on the outside of a vehicle in places where they’re hard to spot. Here’s how to thoroughly check:

• Get Your Car’s Manual and a Flashlight: Look at your car’s owner’s manual and grab a flashlight. Some cheap trackers are easy to spot, but others might be hidden better. The manual will help you avoid messing up any important parts of your car. Firstly start with side mirrors.
• Undercarriage: Use a flashlight to examine the underside of your car. Pay attention to areas near the frame, as trackers can be magnetically attached. A handheld mirror or a phone camera can help you see tight spots.
• Wheel Wells: Look inside all four wheel wells for small, unusual devices. Gently feel around for anything out of place.
• Bumpers and Exhaust Pipe: Check both the front and rear bumpers for hidden trackers. The exhaust pipe area is also a common spot, so inspect it carefully.
• Roof and Hood: Although it’s less likely, check the roof and hood of your car. Sometimes trackers are hidden in these places, especially if your vehicle is tall or has a sunroof. Also, check for any disarranged wires around the battery.

Step 2: Check the Interior of Your Car

Hidden trackers can also be placed inside your car. Focus on these areas:

• Under Seats: Feel beneath and between seats for small devices or unfamiliar objects.
• Dashboard and Glove Compartment: Open the glove compartment and visually inspect the dashboard area. Sometimes trackers are disguised as regular items.
• Data Ports: Check the OBD-II port (usually near the steering wheel). Some trackers plug into this port to draw power.
• Trunk: Look in the trunk, especially near the spare tyre or side compartments.

Step 3: Use Detection Tools

If you still can’t find the tracker, use specialised tools to detect hidden devices:

• Bug Sweepers: These devices detect radio frequencies (RF) that trackers emit when transmitting data. Move the bug sweeper slowly around your car, both inside and out.
• GPS Detector Apps: Some apps on your smartphone can help detect Bluetooth or Wi-Fi-enabled trackers. While convenient, they may not detect all types of trackers.

Important: Keep in mind that some trackers don’t emit signals unless the car is moving, making them harder to detect with tools.

Step 4: Seek Professional Help

If you’re unable to find the tracker or suspect a hard-wired device, consult a professional:

• What They Do: Professionals use advanced tools to locate even the most discreet trackers. They can also safely remove devices without damaging your car.
• When to Call: Seek help if you notice suspicious wires or a device that seems permanently fixed to your car.

What to Do If You Find a GPS Tracker

Finding a GPS tracker on your vehicle or belongings can feel worrying. Here’s a simple guide to help you handle the situation safely and legally.

Battery-Powered Tracker: How to Remove It Safely

Battery-powered GPS trackers are often small and easy to spot. They might be attached with magnets or hidden in bags. Follow these steps to remove them:

• Locate the Tracker: Check under your car, inside wheel wells, or in bags. Use a flashlight for better visibility.
• Wear Gloves: Protect yourself while handling unknown devices.
• Detach the Tracker: Carefully remove the magnetic or adhesive attachment holding the tracker.
• Turn It Off (If Possible): Many trackers have a power switch or button. Turn it off if you can find it.
• Contact Authorities (Optional): If you suspect illegal activity, take the tracker to the police instead of discarding it.

Hard-Wired Tracker: Leave It to Professionals

Hard-wired GPS trackers are connected to your car’s electrical system. Removing these devices on your own can damage the car or cause electrical issues.

• Avoid Tampering: Do not try to pull out wires or cut connections.
• Visit a Mechanic or Expert: Take your car to a professional who can safely remove the device without harming the vehicle.
• Report to Authorities: If you didn’t authorize the tracker, let the police know before removal.

Legal Considerations: Can You Remove a Tracker?

Before removing a GPS tracker, think about the legal side:

Who Put It There?

• If it’s your tracker (like one from your insurance), you’re free to remove it.
• If it was placed by someone without your permission, you have the right to remove it.

When to Involve Authorities:

• If you believe the tracker is part of stalking or illegal surveillance, report it to the police immediately.
• Do not destroy or tamper with the device if it might be evidence in a case.

Is Tracking a Car Legal?

Car tracking can be legal or illegal depending on where you live and how you use the tracker. Different countries and states have their laws about this. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

When is Car Tracking Legal?

• If You Own the Car: It’s legal to track your own car for safety or to locate it if it gets stolen. Many people use GPS trackers for personal or business purposes.
• With Permission: You can legally track a car if the owner or driver gives you permission. For instance, companies often track delivery vans with the driver’s consent.
• For Law Enforcement: Police or government agencies can use trackers, but they typically need a warrant to do so legally.

When is Car Tracking Illegal?

• Without Consent: Tracking someone else’s car without their permission is generally illegal. For example, secretly tracking a partner’s car without their knowledge can result in serious legal consequences.
• Stalking or Harassment: Using a tracker to follow someone or invade their privacy is considered stalking or harassment and is illegal.
• Tampering with Someone’s Car: Installing a GPS tracker on a car you don’t own or have permission to track is a crime in many jurisdictions.

Conclusion

Protecting your privacy is essential in today's world where technology can be misused. Knowing how to find and handle a GPS tracker on your car empowers you to safeguard your personal space and take appropriate action if your privacy is compromised. Stay vigilant, use the right tools, and consult professionals if needed to ensure your safety and security.

FAQs

Bug sweepers can detect radio frequencies emitted by trackers, while GPS detector apps can locate Bluetooth or Wi-Fi-enabled devices.

Contact a professional or mechanic to safely remove the tracker without causing damage to your car.

Yes, removing a hard-wired tracker improperly can harm the car’s wiring or electrical system, so expert help is recommended.

For battery-powered trackers, it’s safe to turn them off or disconnect their power after removal.

Regular inspections, secure parking, and using detection tools can help identify and prevent unauthorized trackers.

Police often place GPS trackers in hidden spots like under the car, inside the bumper, or wheel wells. These locations keep the trackers out of sight and secure during movement.

Yes, passive GPS trackers work without cellular service. They record location data, which can be accessed later when connected to a computer. Real-time tracking, however, usually needs cellular or satellite connectivity.

Yes, trackers can look like everyday items such as key fobs, phone chargers, or air fresheners, blending in with the car's interior.

Legitimate trackers are installed with permission and come with documentation. Spy devices are hidden without consent. To find them, inspect your vehicle, use a bug detector, or get professional help.