Explore Our Selection of GPS Tracker for Car

Understanding GPS Tracker for Car

A GPS tracker is a device that utilizes the Global Positioning System (GPS) to determine and record its precise location accurately and provide GPS navigation. It works by receiving signals from satellites orbiting the Earth and triangulating the device’s relative position.

GPS trackers come in various forms, including compact design units that can be attached to vehicles, assets, or individuals or integrated systems that are used in conjunction with other electronic devices, like smartphones.

The location data collected can then be accessed through an app or website. Vehicles, pets, and assets can be tracked in real time using GPS technology. Vehicle trackers are specifically designed for monitoring cars and other vehicles, offering features such as real-time alerts and geofencing. GPS trackers are widely used for vehicle & car tracking, fleet management, personal safety, asset tracking, outdoor recreation, pet monitoring, and more.

Key features of GPS trackers include: 

• Real-time tracking
• Geofencing
• Historical route playback
• SOS button
• Versatile mounting options
• Long battery life
• Compatibility with integrated systems
• User-friendly apps (iOS/Android)
• Data plan options: Monthly fee or annual subscription

There are many benefits to using car GPS trackers for various personal and business applications. Some of these may be:

Personal Safety for Families:

• Teen Safety and Monitor: Parents can monitor their teen drivers' locations in reliable real time tracking and receive alerts if they wander beyond predetermined boundaries, called geofences.
• Elderly Safety and Monitor: GPS trackers can help families keep track of elderly drivers, especially if they struggle with health issues like dementia which can affect their safety and well-being. 

GPS tracking for Businesses: 

• Fleet Tracking: Fleet managers can use GPS tracking to track fleet, optimize routing, monitor driver behaviour, improve fuel efficiency, and more, leading to cost savings and increased productivity. 
• Asset Tracking: Companies can keeping tabs to monitor the locations of fleet vehicles, assets and valuable equipment in the field and on the move. 
• Employee Safety: Workers in the field, especially those who operate solo, can be monitored by dispatch for quick deployment of assistance in cases of emergency. 

Choosing the Best GPS Tracker for Car

When choosing the best GPS tracker for your vehicle, there are so many styles on the market that it can become challenging to weigh your options. One of the biggest differentiators is whether or not there are monthly fees. Some brands charge fees, but the hardware is often more affordable, whereas trackers that do not include subscription fees usually have a higher up-front cost at purchase. Different manufacturers offer GPS trackers with unique features such as tamper alerts, Bluetooth connectivity, and innovative technologies, and their reputation can influence consumer trust.

Subscription Services

Why choose a device that includes a monthly fee or annual subscription service? Often, these devices have better functionality because the user is paying data plan for the service, network upkeep, real time alert and ongoing customer support. Many advanced features and services, such as TrackerCare, are included within subscriptions, which also provide ongoing access to software updates and support.

Applications for GPS Tracking 

Choosing the right GPS tracker depends on your specific needs. You may select different trackers depending on whether you are using them to monitor teen drivers, or elderly drivers or protect and maintain a fleet of delivery vehicles. 

Technical Considerations

When choosing the right tracker for your needs, consider the technical specifications that are indispensable for your application instead of those that would be unnecessary. 

For example, if you are using a tracker to monitor elderly relative, you would want to purchase a device that offers an SOS button that can be pressed in the event of a fall.

However, that same feature would not be needed for pet tracking as your pet would not be able to push a button to alert you of a need. Instead, if you have an elderly pet, for example, that is prone to wander, you may want a tracker that monitors their vitals and sends you updates about emergencies.

Other technical key features you might want to assess are: 

• App integration
• Notifications: Email alerts and text messages
• 4G LTE cellular networks
• Wi fi and bluetooth
• Obd Port
• Worldwide coverage
• App for Iphone and Andriod

Other Benefits of GPS tracking device

GPS tracking devices for cars are becoming more popular and valuable. They give you peace of mind, and as technology advances, users can enjoy newer and better benefits.

Here is an overview of the benefits of using GPS for cars:

• Vehicle Security: Car tracking devices offer owners real time GPS location data. This is exceptionally valuable in the event of a car theft, as it can enable authorities locate and recover the missing vehicle quickly.
• Fleet Management: Business owners who wish to monitor their employees and business assets consider a car tracker device an game changer tool. The data insights provided can also help managers monitor driver behaviour for better team management. 
• Asset Tracking: GPS trackers can also be used beyond vehicles to monitor the location and movement of valuable assets and minimise loss and theft. 
• Insurance Benefits: Some insurance companies offer discounts and rebates for drivers who install GPS tracking tools in their vehicles, assuring them of safe driving habits.  
• Maintenance Monitoring: Vehicle tracking devices provide deep insights into vehicle needs, such as maintenance schedules or upcoming maintenance requirements due to driver behaviour. This tool is great for fleet managers who want to prioritise maintenance scheduling to reduce unexpected downtime. 
• Emergency Response: In case of accidents or emergencies, GPS tracking can be crucial in quickly locating the vehicle and dispatching emergency services to the location of the incident, potentially saving lives. 

Advanced Features of GPS Trackers

GPS trackers come in a variety of form factors to ensure that you get the right tool for the job.

You may need to select a hidden and discreet tracker to ensure that it isn’t tampered with in the event of a theft, purchasing one of the more compact powerful trackers on the market like BrickHouse Security’s Spark Nano 7. For tracking that takes you out into the wild, you may want to select a waterproof device or magnetic mount to ensure that your tracker stays put, even in inclement weather.

Additional features of GPS trackers that can benefit you include functions like geofences, real-time alerts and better battery life. These features allow you to monitor the tracker's whereabouts and movements without requiring you to sit in front of your computer or phone, watching in reliable real time location tracking. You can also program the mobile phone app to notify you when certain events take place. 

Installation and Maintenance

While installing a GPS tracker will be slightly different based on the vehicle and the tracker, these are the primary steps to follow:

• Select the location of the GPS tracker; This should be near enough to the power source, if necessary, hidden from view if discretion is your goal, and positioned so that the device does not need to operate through multiple materials to obtain a signal.
• Prepare the area by ensuring you have a mounting location where the device fits and can run the necessary wiring.
• Complete the installation by attaching the mount and hardwiring the device according to the manufacturer’s instructions, if applicable.
• Test the device to ensure you get a good signal and that location reporting is functional and accurate.
• Secure any remaining loose ends, such as wires, once you have verified that the device is functioning in its new home.

Not comfortable installing the device yourself? You can also hire a professional to do the installation for you. We recommend contacting a local mechanic or checking with the manufacturer of your device for recommended installers. Reputable manufacturers often provide detailed installation guides and customer support to help ensure proper setup and operation of their GPS tracking devices.

Once your device is installed properly, maintenance may include periodic diagnostics to ensure that it is functioning optimally, checking for loose wires or poor connections, and making sure that the device’s mount is secure.

Maximizing Benefits 

Are you wondering how to maximize your benefits with GPS tracking?

Equipping your car with GPS tracker can help reduce insurance costs by providing real-time data on vehicle location, enabling insurers to assess risk more accurately. GPS tracker also facilitates theft prevention and recovery of stolen car by allowing owners and authorities to track stolen vehicles, increasing the likelihood of swift recovery and reducing loss for insurers. 

Choosing the best vehicle tracker is crucial; To maximize its benefits, consider your vehicle’s specific needs and which features will provide the most benefits. Take the time to carefully evaluate your options, and if you have questions or would like guidance, our team is always available to help with your investment decisions. 

Did You Know

Understanding how vehicle tracking works is an important first step for GPS tracking users. If you have questions about how GPS trackers work, where they should be placed, what the legalities are of using them, etc., our GPS tracker learning center is your best source of information as we have curated our learning articles around actual questions we’ve been asked by our customers.

It’s important to us that our customers are educated in order to get the most out of every purchase made. Below we’ve provided several articles specifically about vehicle tracking that should answer your most pressing questions about placement, legal ramifications, geofencing, and more:

• How to Place a GPS Tracker in a Car
• When is it Legal to Use a GPS Tracker on a Car?
• How to Find Hidden GPS Trackers on Vehicles
• GPS Tracking Laws Explained
• Where to Place a GPS Tracker
• The Benefits of GPS Geofencing
• GPS Trackers and Teen Driving Safety

If you are still in need of more information, rest assured that at BrickHouse Security, we believe that knowledge is power, and we are here to help. Our customer support team is available during business hours to answer your questions and provide walk-through support if you need help troubleshooting a problem, customizing your user platform, etc.

You can also visit our help center to search for your specific device or issue and learn more about managing your own devices and platform.

Whatever your needs, we’re committed to providing confidential education and support to our customers to ensure that you’re able to get the most out of your GPS purchase. At BrickHouse Security, we are firm believers that knowledge is power, and we make every effort to provide our customers with the knowledge and skills they need to get the job done. We are always available to provide support and guidance when it comes to using and troubleshooting your GPS tracker.

FAQs

What are the main types of GPS trackers for vehicles?

Vehicle trackers come in various forms, including portable, hardwired, and OBD options, each designed for specific vehicle monitoring needs. GPS trackers for cars generally fall into three categories:

• Portable GPS Trackers: Rechargeable, compact, and easy to move between vehicles.

• Hardwired GPS Trackers: Connected directly to the car’s power source for a continuous charge and discreet placement.

• OBD GPS Trackers: Plugged into the vehicle’s OBD port ii, they are easy to install and can provide vehicle diagnostics in addition to tracking.

Is it legal to use a GPS tracker on a car?

The legality of using GPS trackers depends on your location and the purpose of use. In most places, you can track vehicles you own or have explicit permission to monitor. Only vehicles you own or have permission to monitor should be tracked, and tracking someone else’s vehicle without consent may be illegal.

Can I move my GPS tracker to another vehicle?

Yes, portable GPS trackers and OBD trackers can easily be moved between vehicles. For hardwired devices, you may need a professional installer to assist with reinstallation.

How can I ensure my GPS tracker lasts on a single charge?

For portable trackers, battery life depends on usage settings:

• Set Update Intervals: Adjust how often the tracker updates its location (e.g., every 30 seconds or every 5 minutes).
• Use Power-Saving Modes: Many devices have options to conserve battery when not in motion.
• Recharge Regularly: Keep your device charged for uninterrupted service.

Do GPS trackers work internationally?

Some GPS trackers offer worldwide coverage, but this depends on the device and its network capabilities. Be sure to check if the tracker supports 4G LTE or international cellular networks when traveling abroad.

What happens if my GPS tracker loses its signal?

Most GPS trackers store location data temporarily when a signal is lost. Once the signal is restored, the device updates the tracking platform with the missing information. 

Do GPS trackers require a monthly subscription?

Yes, most car GPS trackers require a subscription for cellular data, which allows the device to transmit real-time location information. Subscription costs vary based on update frequency, coverage area (domestic or international), and features like driver behavior monitoring or historical reporting.

Can I view tracking data from my smartphone?

Absolutely. With BrickHouse Security GPS devices, you can track and manage devices using our free mobile app for iOS and Android. You’ll see real-time updates, history logs, and receive alerts, right from your phone, anytime, anywhere.

Can I install a GPS tracker myself?

Yes! Portable and OBD trackers are designed for easy, DIY installation. Hardwired trackers may require professional installation, especially if you want a hidden setup or are connecting to advanced vehicle systems.

Will the GPS tracker drain my car battery?

Hardwired GPS trackers use minimal power and typically won’t drain your car battery under normal use. That said, if a vehicle sits unused for extended periods, it’s a good idea to check the battery periodically.

Can GPS trackers detect speeding or unsafe driving?

Yes. Many GPS trackers offer driver behavior monitoring. You can receive alerts for speeding, harsh braking, rapid acceleration, or unauthorized driving—ideal for parents, fleet managers, or business owners managing vehicles.