How To Find A Tracker On Your Car: Simple Steps To Follow

Not a new thing to many, GPS trackers use the Global Positioning Systems to find out where a vehicle is. There are two leading types of trackers which are:

• Active Trackers: These trackers transmit real-time data about the vehicle's location using cellular networks.
• Passive Trackers: These store location data internally, which can only be accessed later.

Understanding these types helps in knowing what to look for when searching for a tracker.

Why are they used?

GPS trackers are normally used for various purposes, such as:

• Fleet Management: Companies use them to monitor vehicle locations.
• Theft Recovery: Car owners can track their vehicles if stolen.
• Personal Tracking: Some individuals may use them for loved ones or employees.

However, unauthorized tracking can infringe on privacy, making it viral to check for hidden devices.

Signs that Your Car May Be Tracked

Take your time before starting the search. First, look for possible signs that your car might be under surveillance.

1. Unusual Sounds: Listen for any buzzing or chirping noises that could indicate a tracking device is active.
2. Loose Wires: Inspect for any unfamiliar wires under the dashboard or hood.
3. Magnetic Objects: Check for magnets attached to the underside of your car, as many trackers use magnetic mounts.
4. Battery Drain: A sudden decrease in battery life could suggest a device is drawing power.
5. Unexplained Alerts: If you receive notifications from apps like Apple Airtag or Android's Air Guard about unknown trackers nearby, investigate further.

Now you know some warning signs that someone might have placed a tracking device on your car. And if you are getting any of those warning signs. It's time to check whether your doubts are correct or not. Here you can see some step-by-step guides that will be very helpful.

Gather Your Tools

First of all, collect these things this will help you easily while going through the process.

• Flashlight: For checking dark or hard-to-reach areas (preferably with an adjustable beam).
• Mirror: A small mirror can help you inspect underneath the car.
• Gloves: For safety and to prevent getting dirt on your hands.
• RF Detector: This can detect radio frequencies emitted by active GPS trackers.
• Digital camera or smartphone: This will help you to document findings.
• Basic hand tools

How to Find a Tracker on Your Car?

After collecting all the tools, prepare yourself and follow these steps. Take this advice, stay calm, and avoid rushing during the inspection.

1. Inspect the Exterior of the Car

Start your search outside the car. Here are common locations where trackers may be hidden:

• Inspect behind both front and rear bumpers using a flashlight and mirror.
• Look under the car for any unusual objects or cleaner spots that may indicate something has been placed there.
• Although less common, check inside the wheel wells as well.
• Look around the battery and wiring, avoid disconnecting anything unless you are experienced.
• Open the trunk and inspect the spare tire compartment and any storage spaces.
• Check around license plates
• Look inside the gas tank door

2. Check the Interior of the Car

Next, move inside your car:

• This is usually located under the dashboard near the steering wheel and is a common spot for plug-in trackers.
• Check if any devices are plugged into this outlet.
• Look in glove compartments, center consoles, under-seats, and behind-seat cushions.
• Don't forget to check under floor mats and inside spare tire compartments.
• Some advanced trackers can be hidden behind panels or speakers, once keep an eye on them as well.
• Check under all seats, especially the driver's seat. Use a flashlight to see clearly.

Make sure you thoroughly inspect these areas before moving to the next steps.

3. Under-Vehicle Inspection

Be methodical when checking beneath your car:

• Park on a well-lit, level surface
• Use the creeper or mat to slide under safely
• Start from one end and work systematically
• Pay special attention to Frame Rails, Exhaust System, Fuel Tank Area, Transmission Housing

4. Engine Compartment Check

The engine bay can hide tracking devices:

• Check around the battery
• Inspect wire harness
• Look in and around the fuse box
• Examine the firewall area
• Check the air filter housing

5. Use an Electronic Bug Sweeper

If you have access to an electronic bug sweeper, use it in a quiet area away from interference. Follow these steps:

• Turn on the device and adjust its sensitivity settings.
• Move slowly around both the interior and exterior of your vehicle.
• The device will alert you if it detects any signals from a GPS tracker.

6. Use an RF Detector to Find Active Trackers

If your observable inspection doesn't reveal anything and it fails, there is an RF (Radio Frequency) detector, you can swap towards it. These devices can detect radio signals radiated by active GPS trackers. Here is how to use one:

• You need to turn off all electronic devices to prevent interference. This includes your phone, Bluetooth devices, and car radio.
• Next, carefully move the detector around both the outside and inside of the car, focusing especially on the wheel wells, undercarriage, and dashboard.
• Check the signal beeps. If the detector beeps or lights up, it may have found a signal from a hidden tracker.

7. Use Mobile Phone Apps

Several apps claim to detect tracking devices, such as;

• EMF detectors
• GPS detector apps
• Bluetooth scanners

Keep in mind, these are not 100% reliable but can be helpful.

8. Seek Professional Help

If you are unable to find a tracker using the steps above or if you feel uncertain about removing it, it's best to seek professional assistance. Auto mechanics, security specialists, or law enforcement can help:

• Auto Mechanics: They can perform a thorough inspection of your car.
• Security Specialists: Some professionals specialize in detecting and removing tracking devices.
• Law Enforcement: If you feel that your privacy has been violated or if you are in danger, report your concerns to the police.

Professionals have the tools and expertise to find even the most hidden devices.

Therefore, if your doubts turn out to be true, or if indeed there is a tracker beneath the car, it is obvious that you are anxiously so concerned about the next action to take. After all, it is regarding your safety and privacy. Below we have mentioned some steps that you can do after finding tracker on your car:

• First, assess its purpose. Determine whether it's an authorized tracker (like one installed by a fleet company) or an unauthorized device.
• Don't remove it immediately, if you suspect criminal activity or illegal tracking, removing the device could alert the person tracking you.
• Take photos of the device and note its location on your car.
• Report your findings to the police, especially if you feel threatened or unsafe.

If the GPS car tracker is unauthorized and you want to remove it without informing the police or other authorities remember these steps:

• For plug-in devices, simply unplug them from the OBD port or power outlet.
• For hardwired devices, you may need professional assistance to safely disconnect them without damaging your vehicle's wiring.

There are several steps you can take in order to avoid such situations once you are confident that your car isn't fitted with any tracking devices. Below we have listed some ways to prevent future tracking. These steps can help you keep your privacy and feel more secure.

• Choose a location that will provide the car with some form of security like a locked garage. This will lower the risk of someone getting into your car.
• You can also put in an Anti-Spy device. For instance, equipment like signal jammers can stop GPS trackers from working.
• Regularly look over your car to spot anything out of the ordinary.