Todd Morris Jan 1st 2025

Privacy & Safety Guide

How To Find a GPS Tracker On Your Car and Remove It: A Step-by-Step Guide

Think someone may be tracking your car without your knowledge? You're not alone, and you're not powerless. In a world where location tracking is easier and cheaper than ever, knowing how to find and remove a hidden GPS tracker from your vehicle is more than just smart - it's essential. Whether you're concerned about personal privacy or corporate security, this guide will walk you through the key steps to locate and remove a GPS tracking device from your car.

Key Takeaways

GPS trackers can be active (real-time) or passive (data loggers).
Devices may be hidden inside or outside your vehicle.
Common hiding spots include: bumpers, undercarriage, OBD-II port, dashboard, and 12V socket.
Tools like GPS tracker detectors or RF scanners can make detection easier.
Knowing how to find a hidden GPS in your vehicle is crucial for protecting your privacy.
Seek professional help if you're unsure or want a thorough inspection.

The Rise of GPS Tracking: Why This Matters

According to Global Market Insights, the global GPS tracking device market surpassed $3.7 billion in 2024, and it's growing fast - expected to hit $13.7 billion by 2033. While GPS is invaluable for fleet management, logistics, and security, it also raises serious privacy concerns when misused. GPS tracking is commonly used for car tracking in business vehicles to improve operational efficiency, and for personal safety by providing real-time location data to help protect individuals and loved ones.

At BrickHouse Security, we've seen an uptick in customers wanting to detect unauthorized trackers, and we've got the tools and know-how to help.

First, Understand the Types of GPS Trackers

There are two major types of vehicle trackers. GPS tracking devices, including car GPS trackers and car trackers, are commonly used to track vehicles for purposes such as monitoring, theft prevention, and personal safety.

1. Active (Real-Time) GPS Trackers

Use GPS and cellular networks to transmit your live location; these active trackers provide real-time location data and enable real-time tracking.
Often used by fleet managers, law enforcement, or stalkers.
Can be tracked remotely via a mobile app or web dashboard.
Active trackers emit signals, which can be detected with specialized tools.

2. Passive GPS Trackers

Log location data but don't transmit in real-time. Passive GPS trackers are also known as GPS data loggers.
Must be physically retrieved to access tracking history.
Often used when tracking discreetly without drawing attention.

How To Physically Search Your Car for a GPS Tracker

1. Inspect the Exterior

Start your inspection outside the car with a flashlight and mirror. Look for suspicious attachments or magnets in these common spots:

Bumpers (especially rear bumpers): Trackers are often tucked behind plastic panels. Magnetic trackers with a magnetic mount are commonly used here to attach securely to metal surfaces.
Undercarriage: Look for small, weatherproof boxes. Magnetic trackers with a magnetic mount are often hidden on the metal frame or crossmembers. Dirtier areas that seem "too clean" may hide a device.
Wheel Wells: Not common, but possible if placed hastily. Magnetic trackers may be attached to metal surfaces here.
Behind License Plates: Lightweight trackers with magnets or zip ties can be hidden here.
Engine Compartment: Carefully inspect the engine compartment, especially near the battery, fuse box, and wiring harnesses, as hardwired trackers may be concealed under the hood.

Use a mechanic's mirror on a telescoping rod to inspect hard-to-reach places.

Learn more: How to Find a GPS Tracker by Inspecting the Exterior of the Vehicle

2. Inspect the Interior

Move inside the vehicle to check the cabin, wiring, and storage spaces:

OBD-II Port (under the dashboard) - A favourite spot for plug-in GPS trackers. The OBD port is usually located beneath the steering wheel, making it a common and discreet location for OBD trackers.
12V Cigarette Lighter Port - Check for unfamiliar charging accessories.
Under Seats and Mats - Look for small battery-powered GPS trackers or portable trackers. Battery powered GPS tracker devices are often hidden here and may use a rechargeable battery.
Glove Compartment, Center Console, or Trunk - Especially if you share your vehicle. The glove compartment is a common hiding spot for portable trackers and battery-powered GPS trackers, some of which use a rechargeable battery for power. Also check under the steering wheel near the OBD port for hidden devices.

Learn more about how to find a GPS tracker by inspecting the Interior

Use a GPS Bug Detector or RF Scanner

If your physical inspection turns up nothing, GPS tracker detectors and GPS detectors are designed for detecting GPS trackers and hidden GPS trackers. These tools can detect radio frequencies emitted by active tracking devices and spy devices. Detecting GPS trackers often involves scanning for radio frequencies and signals from other electronic devices.

These detectors scan for:

RF (radio frequency) signals
Cellular communication
Bluetooth or Wi-Fi transmissions

They can help you find a GPS device, GPS tracking devices, and other tracking devices that may be hidden in your vehicle.

Make sure you're in a quiet electronic environment to avoid false positives. We recommend detectors like the Scout Hidden GPS Detector, available on BrickHouseSecurity.com.

Pro Tip: A bug detector can pick up signals even if the tracker is professionally hidden inside electronics or trim.

Learn More: Bug Detectors and Sweepers: A Buyer's Guide

How To Safely Remove a GPS Tracker

If you find a tracker:

Do NOT immediately cut wires or disable the device, especially if you're unsure of its type.
Take photos of the device and its location.
If you're certain it was placed without your consent, report it to local authorities.
For professionally installed or hardwired devices, contact a certified technician.
Some trackers may be a battery powered GPS tracker or use a rechargeable battery. Handle these devices with care to avoid damage or data loss.
After removal, store the device safely to preserve evidence and prevent tampering.

Important: In some jurisdictions, removing a GPS tracker from a leased or fleet vehicle may be illegal. Know your rights.

When to Call a Professional

If you're not confident about digging into the vehicle's wiring or if you're just not finding anything, it's time to bring in an expert. Hardwired GPS trackers are often connected directly to your car's electrical system, and improper removal can cause electrical issues or damage. At BrickHouse Security, we work with licensed technicians nationwide who specialize in GPS sweeps and counter-surveillance, and can safely inspect your car's electrical system for hidden devices.

Let our experts do the heavy lifting so you can get peace of mind.

Legal & Privacy Considerations

Removing a GPS tracker from your own personal vehicle is typically legal. However, it is important to distinguish between a legitimate tracker - one installed with your consent and proper documentation - and unauthorized or hidden devices. Tracking your own car is generally legal, but it is illegal to track someone else's car without their consent, as this can violate privacy laws and result in legal penalties. Laws regarding who can track vehicles and under what circumstances vary by jurisdiction, so always check local regulations.

If the car is leased, owned by your employer, or part of a fleet, the tracker may be a legitimate tracker installed for authorized purposes.
If you suspect illegal surveillance, contact law enforcement before tampering with the device.

Always document what you find and when. A simple smartphone photo can make a big difference if legal action is needed.

FAQs: How To Find a GPS Tracker on Your Car

Can GPS trackers be disguised?

Yes. Some are disguised as:

USB chargers
Dash cams
Bluetooth speakers
OBD-II tools

Additionally, some GPS trackers are disguised as spy devices to avoid detection.

Do all GPS trackers need cell service to work?

No. Passive trackers don't need cell service; they log data locally for later retrieval.

Is it legal to remove a GPS tracker from my car?

If you own the car, it is generally legal to remove a GPS tracker. However, if the vehicle is leased, rented, or someone else's car, you should check the terms and obtain consent before removing or interfering with any tracking device.

It is legal to track your own car, but tracking someone else's car without their permission is illegal and can result in legal penalties. Only authorized individuals or owners are allowed to track vehicles, so always ensure you comply with relevant laws and privacy regulations.

What does a GPS tracker look like?

Trackers come in various shapes but are usually:

Small devices (1" to 4") designed for discreet placement
Box-shaped
May have antennas, LED lights, or a magnetic mount for secure attachment

Many GPS trackers are portable trackers, allowing easy movement between vehicles, and some are magnetic trackers that use strong magnets to attach to metal surfaces like bumpers or undercarriages. These small devices are built for convenience, flexibility, and concealment.

Can police or private investigators use GPS on my car?

Only with a warrant or legal justification. Law enforcement may use active trackers capable of real-time tracking and providing real-time location data, but only with proper legal authorization. Unauthorized tracking is illegal in most U.S. states.

What tools help find hidden trackers?

GPS Detector: GPS tracker detectors and GPS detectors are essential tools for detecting GPS trackers. They work by scanning for radio frequencies emitted by active tracking devices, helping you detect radio frequencies emitted by hidden trackers in your vehicle.
RF Scanner: An RF scanner is used to detect radio frequencies that may indicate the presence of an active GPS tracker or spy device. This is a key method for detecting GPS trackers that are actively transmitting signals.
Mechanic mirror
Flashlight
Basic trim removal tools

Not sure where to start?

Our experts are standing by to help you detect and remove unauthorized trackers - safely and legally.

Visit BrickHouseSecurity.com

Posted by Todd Morris on Jan 1st 2025

Todd Morris

Todd Morris is the Founder and CEO of BrickHouse Security, a leader in GPS tracking and security solutions since 2005. Featured on the Inc 5000 list, Todd has steered the company from its inception, applying expertise developed at Apple, Adobe, and MapQuest to deliver innovative, reliable solutions for both businesses and consumers. Recognized as an authority in the GPS tracking industry, Todd regularly contributes insights to major news programs. His practical approach includes using his sons as beta testers for products, from stroller tours to monitoring teenage driving, ensuring BrickHouse’s offerings are user-friendly and effective. This hands-on testing reflects Todd’s commitment to real-world application and safety.