To check for a tracker on your car, you need to conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's interior and exterior, paying special attention to common hiding spots, and consider using an electronic sweeper for a more technical approach. The most effective method combines a visual and tactile search with electronic detection.
Common Places to Check for a GPS Tracker
Start with a visual inspection. Trackers are often small, magnetic boxes, about the size of a deck of cards or smaller. Look for anything that seems out of place or doesn't belong.
- Exterior: Check underneath the vehicle. Use a flashlight to examine the undercarriage, wheel wells, and inside the bumpers. Magnetic trackers are frequently attached to metal frames.
- Interior: Look under the seats, inside the glove compartment, the center console, and the trunk, including the spare tire well. Check under the dashboards, especially near the OBD-II port (usually under the steering wheel), which is a common power source for plug-and-play trackers.
- Engine Bay: Pop the hood and inspect areas around the battery and along the firewall.
For a more advanced check, you can use a bug detector or electronic sweeper. These devices scan for radio frequencies (RF) emitted by active trackers. They can be purchased online but require patience to use effectively, as they might also pick up signals from other electronic devices.
If you find a device, it's best not to remove it yourself. Document its location with photos and contact local law enforcement. They can advise on the legal next steps, as the placement of a tracker may have legal implications depending on your location and who installed it.
| Common Tracker Types & Locations | Key Characteristics | Detection Method |
|---|
| Hardwired GPS Tracker | Permanently wired into the car's electrical system; very hidden. | Professional inspection of wiring, often requires a mechanic. |
| OBD-II Port Tracker | Plugs directly into the car's diagnostic port under the dash. | Simple visual check of the OBD-II port. |
| Magnetic (Battery-Powered) Tracker | Self-contained, battery-powered, often placed under the car. | Physical inspection of vehicle underside and wheel wells. |
| Active Tracking Device | Transmits data in real-time using cellular networks. | Detectable with a quality RF bug detector. |
| Passive Tracking Device | Stores location data to be retrieved later; does not transmit. | Virtually undetectable electronically; only found by physical search. |
