A lesser-known reality is that installing a GPS tracker on a vehicle is not limited to tech experts portrayed in movies. Thanks to their online access, these small 4 to 6-inch gadgets are commonly used to monitor spouses, minors, or pets. Nevertheless, it sounds scary when such devices operate without your consent.
If you suspect unauthorized tracking, dive into this article and learn how to find a tracking device on your car.
In This Article:
How To Know If Your Car Is Tracked
Despite the compact dimensions of GPS trackers, you can still detect their presence when keeping your guard up. If you have suspicions, look out for the following signs:
- Rapid battery depletion:
It can be a red flag when your battery drains unusually. If investigating further, you might find a GPS tracker on your car.
- Unusual fuel consumption:
Rapid battery drain leads to a sudden plummet in gas mileage, which is also a concern. A GPS tracker might be the culprit behind this.
- Strange wiring under the hood:
Discovering unfamiliar components in the undercarriage can hint at the presence of GPS trackers. It is crucial to conduct further examinations to figure out the problems.
- Random knocking sounds while idling:
Mysterious clicking noises while the car is idling are sure to capture the attention of car owners. There is a good chance that a GPS tracker is messing things up.
3 Ways To Find A GPS Tracking Device On Your Vehicle
Visually Inspect Your Vehicle
On the exterior
GPS tracking devices are often hidden in hard-to-reach spots, most commonly outside the vehicle. Have a flashlight to illuminate dim areas, and keep your eye on front and rear wheel wells. Utilize a mirror or your hands to ensure you can reach inaccessible places.
Direct your attention to the plastic guard encircling the upper portion of the wheels if it appears loose. Peel off the liner and check the beneath. Additionally, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the hubcaps, as unusual objects will likely be concealed inside.
Then, slide under the car, lie on your back, and shine a flashlight along the perimeter. Look into the shadowy crevices or search the traces of adhesive tape. Another great hiding location is inside or under the bumper. Bend down and run your finger along the hollow inner rim. If you own an SUV or truck, standing upright and reaching onto the roof is advisable.
Although less common, spend your time scrutinizing the engine compartment. Open the hood and compare the current internal setup with the original arrangement in the manufacturer’s image. Never remove components, but gently probe to access the space behind them. Your vehicle is still secure if you cannot find any strange items.
On the interior
Someone you trust can get inside to install a tracking system without your notice. The most common place to inspect first is the OBD-II port under the dashboard since some devices require power for operation. By the way, look closer at the center console and sun visors.
If nothing looks suspicious, continue working on every pocket, bag, and compartment in your car. Then, check beneath the front and passenger seats. If possible, unlock the seat cushions and headrests and lift the floor mats.
Furthermore, empty the trunk and pay attention to the small crevices under the rear windows. If you have spare tires, take them out and examine the wheel wells.
As a last resort, dispatch the brake light cover. Not many people know this component provides a considerable space to accommodate a tracker as long as it does not obscure the light. Leave your mind in peace when your thorough search yields no suspicious discoveries.
Use Bug Detectors
If visual inspection does not work, take a step further with bug locators, also known as electronic sweepers. These devices come in two variants available at surveillance supply stores or online sites: monitored and unmonitored GPS trackers.
Monitored trackers are powered by a battery or wired connection. They continuously monitor the vehicle in motion and transmit data in real time. Meanwhile, unmonitored trackers stop recording at set intervals. Users must download the location history later and map the route themselves.
Once you have the tracker detector in hand, switch it on and move it slowly around your car. Depending on the sensitivity level of the gadget, you may need to approach suspected hiding spots from a close distance.
Following that, the locator will scan for cellular networks or radio frequency transmissions. When it detects a hidden tracker, it alerts you through beep sounds, vibrations, or flashes. Under certain scenarios, conducting the examination while the engine is on might be necessary. If you do not find any unusual signs, consider repeating the process while idling for a more thorough inspection.
Seek Professional Help
Once handheld detectors fail to uncover any bugs, chances are there is no GPS device on your vehicle. Nevertheless, if you are still in doubt, it is advisable to turn to professional services for a comprehensive check-up. These experts possess the necessary expertise and equipment to detect even the most elusive sweepers.
Contact a mechanic, electrical/remote/alarm systems professionals, or private investigators. Research on the Internet or seek recommendations from acquaintances to identify a reliable specialist for this task.
What To Do When You Find A Hidden Tracking Device
Remove The Vehicle Tracker
In the case of a battery-powered tracker, deactivating it is as simple as switching it off. Find the power button, typically on the front or top of the device, and press it. Once all the lights are off, the tracker is inactive. If the power button is not visible, remove the battery.
Disabling hardwired trackers demands a high level of expertise and precision. We strongly recommend that car owners leave this task for a professional mechanic. Doing it at home poses risks, as you’ll work with the ignition, battery, and dashboard. Simply put, the goal is to find the correct wire that connects the potential trackers to the car and sever it without damaging the system.
If you cannot take immediate action, prevent tracking activities first. A straightforward approach is to wrap the device in aluminum foil. The conductive metal surfaces block incoming mobile signals and disrupt the outgoing GPS signals. Alternatively, invest in a GPS jammer for optimal results. However, be aware of local regulations, as purchasing this device may be illegal in some states.
Find Out Who Install (If You’re Curious)
If you discover a real-time tracking device, you can investigate who stays behind the game. Each model is assigned a serial number for activation, offering a trail to its owner. After removing the sweeper, inspect its exterior for a lengthy sequence of digits or, better yet, its brand. If you cannot find the manufacturer, visit Amazon and look for options that resemble that device.
Once getting the necessary information, contact the manufacturer. Provide them with the serial number and request the following actions: (1) deactivation of the GPS capabilities and (2) disclosure of the delivery address of the purchaser.
Take Technological Countermeasures
Despite your best efforts, individuals with bad intentions may persist in installing a new sweeper without your attention. Hence, it is necessary to counter such motives with anti-GPS devices that disable anonymous attempts. Also, by utilizing radio signals, these gadgets hinder the proper function of the tracking devices, enhancing your privacy and safety.
Conclusion
While detecting a real-time GPS tracker on your car might be a daunting task, it is possible with diligent observation and systematic approaches. Most importantly, take immediate action once suspicions arise. If all your efforts fail, reach out to professional specialists. In an era where evil masterminds can exploit technological advancements, prioritize your privacy and stay proactive to safeguard yourself.
