How to Tell If There's a Tracker on Your Car?
2 Answers
You can use a GPS signal detector to locate tracking devices. Here are detailed descriptions of different types of GPS trackers: 1. Wired Type: Most GPS trackers on the market are wired and require connection to the car's power supply. To find a wired GPS tracker installed by someone else, carefully trace along the car's power cables. 2. OBD Port Type: Many OBD devices now offer not only vehicle fault diagnosis and anomaly detection but also features like positioning and driving records. These devices plug directly into the OBD port, so check the OBD port during your search. The OBD port is typically located below the steering wheel on the left (most common), below the steering wheel on the right, near the ignition under the dashboard, or inside the center console. 3. Magnetic Non-installation Type: Non-installation GPS trackers are powered by built-in batteries, allowing them to be placed anywhere in the vehicle or magnetically attached to hidden spots like the underside of the car.
I've personally experienced having a hidden tracker placed on my car, so I often manually check suspicious spots on my vehicle. First, I look around the exterior for any strange antennas or protrusions, especially behind the bumper, inside the wheel arches, or on the roof rack – these are common hiding spots. Then, I focus on the interior: under the seats, along the edges of the floor mats, in the corners of the trunk, and near the OBD diagnostic port. Trackers are usually small, about the size of a black box. I also use a smartphone app to test for signal interference, such as downloading free anti-tracking apps to scan for wireless frequencies. If I notice anything unusual, I prefer to ask a knowledgeable friend for help or visit a professional auto shop to avoid damaging any cables. Remember, regularly cleaning your car and checking small crevices can prevent issues, as thieves or companies might tamper with your vehicle during maintenance. This practice has saved me a lot of time.