The use of GPS trackers has risen steadily over the past decade. Private investigators may sneak such a device into the car of someone who they want to keep tabs of their whereabouts.
Members of the general public may install one on another person’s vehicle to track them for different reasons.
If you suspect that your vehicle has an illegally installed GPS tracker, you may want to find out where it is hidden and perhaps, establish how it got there.
But, how will you find it, if it is meant to be hidden?
- Step 1: Understand what you are looking for
Legitimate GPS tracking devices aren’t concealed heavily. Those shouldn’t worry you too much because they could prove useful if an unwanted event happened.
Illegal tracking devices are heavily concealed, and will most likely be installed on the vehicle’s exterior.
While hidden GPS trackers differ in purpose and manufacturer, they will most likely be small, have a magnetic side, and may or may not have a light or antenna.
Take your flashlight with you and poke into all dark corners of your car while looking for a device that is about 2” wide, 2” thick, and 3 to 4” long.
- Step 2: Physically inspect the interior and exterior of your car
The interior
Some hidden GPS trackers are installed directly into the data port located on the area below the dashboard on the driver’s side. Look for a small box connected to the port.
Otherwise, the tracker could be a foreign-looking electronic component or wired module:
- Under the passenger seat
- Inside the vehicle glovebox
- In the center console of your car
- In the trunk
- Behind one of the seat cushions
- Hard-wired in the dashboard
Pro tips
The device may be attached to any structure using a magnet. Considering that most data ports are filled with numerous wires, you want to ensure that whatever you find is indeed a foreign component. Check the model and brand numbers of the item that you suspect to be tracking devices. Such information is easily accessible online.
The exterior
With a flashlight, you will be able to comb through all areas that a hidden GPS car tracker is likely to be installed. As such, you will want to check the following areas.
- Every wheel well on your vehicle. Use your hand to feel areas that you can’t see.
- The undercarriage
- Behind the bumper
Pro tips
Whoever installed the hidden GPS tracker needs to access it quickly when need be. It will most likely be in an easily accessible but inconspicuous area. Try your best to check areas that near the edges of your vehicle.
- Step 3: Talk to professionals
Take your car to a professional who has extensive GPS knowledge. Such experts include:
- Audio and alarm system technicians
- Electrical systems engineers who are licensed
- Step 4: Get rid of the hidden GPS tracker
Trackers normally have their own power source.
If there are no wires going to the component, get the tracker out of your vehicle.
If the component is secured to your vehicle wiring, you will want to take your time to cut it loose so as not to damage your precious car.
