Best Place to Put Magnetic GPS Tracker on Car: A Guide
Finding the best spot to install a car tracker or car GPS trackers in your car can significantly impact their effectiveness. Whether you need a covert location to keep it hidden or a more visible spot for easy access, the key is to ensure strong signal reception. In this guide, we’ll explore the optimal places to install your tracker, both discreetly and overtly, so you can make an informed choice to enhance your vehicle’s security. From under the car to on the dashboard, we’ll cover the pros and cons of each option to help you achieve the best results.
Key Takeaways
- Types of GPS Trackers: Plug-in, hardwired, and portable options.
- Covert Placement: Under the car, inside the dashboard, in the bumper, or under the passenger seat.
- Visible Placement: On the dashboard, clipped to the sun visor, or attached to the roof.
- Considerations: Ensure strong GPS signal reception and secure installation.
Understanding GPS Trackers
What is a GPS Tracker?
A GPS tracker is a device that leverages the Global Positioning System (GPS) to monitor and report the real-time location of a vehicle, person, or object. These devices are widely used in vehicle tracking, asset management, and personal safety applications. By providing precise location data, speed, and direction, GPS trackers enable users to keep tabs on their valuable assets and loved ones with ease.
Things to Consider
The most important thing to bear in mind when installing your GPS tracker is signal strength. If it cannot receive an adequate GPS satellite and cellular signal, the device will not work.
When installing gps tracking systems, it’s crucial to ensure they receive an adequate GPS satellite and cellular signal to function properly.
Most GPS signals travel through plastic, fiberglass, foam, wood, and glass, but it’s best to allow your tracker to have a line of sight to the sky. Places like the roof, dashboard, or windscreen are obvious choices, but whether you want your tracker to be visible or not is the real decider. Let’s look at the options.
Choosing the Right GPS Tracker
Choosing the right GPS tracker for your needs is crucial to ensure effective monitoring and tracking. With various types of GPS trackers available, it’s essential to consider factors such as the type of vehicle, the purpose of tracking, and the level of accuracy required. Here are some key considerations to help you choose the right GPS tracker:
- Determine the type of vehicle: Different GPS trackers are designed for specific types of vehicles, such as cars, trucks, motorcycles, or boats. Ensure the tracker you choose is compatible with your vehicle type.
- Consider the purpose of tracking: Are you tracking a vehicle for personal or commercial use? Do you need to monitor driver behavior or track vehicle location? Understanding your primary goal will help you select the most suitable GPS tracker.
- Evaluate the level of accuracy: GPS trackers vary in their level of accuracy, with some providing real-time location updates and others offering more general location information. Choose a tracker that meets your accuracy requirements.
- Check the battery life: If you plan to use a wireless GPS tracker, consider the battery life and whether it can be easily recharged or replaced. Longer battery life means less frequent maintenance.
- Look for additional features: Some GPS trackers offer additional features such as geofencing, speed alerts, and driver behavior monitoring. These features can provide extra security and insights into vehicle usage.
- Plug-in Trackers: These plug into the OBD-II port (usually located under the dashboard).
- Hardwired Trackers: These are wired directly into the car’s electrical system.
- Portable Trackers: These are battery-powered and can be placed anywhere in the car.
By considering these factors, you can select a GPS tracker that best fits your needs and ensures reliable tracking and monitoring. It is also important to choose a tracker from a reputable GPS tracking industry to ensure quality and reliability.
Installing a GPS Tracker
Installing a tracker on a car can be a straightforward process, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper installation and functionality. Here are some general installation guidelines for different types of GPS trackers:
Hardwired GPS Tracker Installation
Hardwired GPS trackers require a direct connection to the vehicle’s electrical system. This type of installation typically requires professional assistance or advanced DIY skills. Here are the general steps for installing a hardwired GPS tracker:
- Locate the vehicle’s electrical system: Identify the ignition and constant power wires under the dashboard. These wires will provide the necessary power for the GPS tracker.
- Connect the GPS tracker: Connect the GPS tracker to the ignition and constant power wires using the provided wiring harness. Ensure all connections are secure to avoid any power interruptions.
- Secure the GPS tracker: Mount the GPS tracker in a secure location, such as under the dashboard or in the trunk. This will keep the device hidden and protected from potential tampering.
- Test the GPS tracker: Test the GPS tracker to ensure its receiving a strong GPS signal and transmitting data accurately. Verify that the device is functioning correctly before finalizing the installation.
Plug-and-Play GPS Tracker Installation
Plug-and-play GPS trackers are designed for easy installation and can be plugged directly into the vehicle’s OBD-II port. Here are the general steps for installing a plug-and-play GPS tracker:
- Locate the OBD-II port: Find the OBD-II port under the dashboard or beneath the steering wheel column. This port is typically used for vehicle diagnostics and is easily accessible.
- Plug in the GPS tracker: Insert the GPS tracker into the OBD-II port and ensure it’s securely connected. The device should fit snugly without any loose connections.
- Activate the GPS tracker: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to activate the GPS tracker and start transmitting data. This may involve setting up an account and configuring the device through a mobile app or website.
By following these installation guidelines, you can ensure your GPS tracker is properly installed and ready to provide accurate tracking and monitoring for your vehicle.
Where to Hide a Portable GPS Tracker in a Car
If you are looking for covert positions, here are a few options:
Under the Car with a magnetic case
You’ve seen it in the movies, but is positioning a tracker under the car a good idea? It depends! If you place the GPS tracker underneath the driver or passenger side, the GPS signal will bounce off the road and be detected. Under the car is the best all-around covert method of placing a tracker. It offers strong reception and is not immediately visible. For exterior mounting, you will need to purchase the magnetic case accessory. It’s important to note that some luxury vehicles may have fewer magnetic mounting options, so you will need to do your research when attempting to place your tracker.
Inside the Dashboard
Undoubtedly the most covert option, installation inside the dashboard can also be the most difficult. However, if you have access to place your GPS device inside the dash, it is unlikely to be discovered. The composition of the dashboard allows for the GPS satellite signal to pass through with relative ease while hiding the tracker from view.
In the Bumper
If you don’t have access to the inside of the vehicle, the bumper is a great way to install your tracker undetected. Many new cars have a layer of plastic or fiberglass covering the bumper. Behind this cover, you can find a gap to fit your tracking device inside. Vehicle tracking devices placed in the bumper can remain undetected while still providing accurate location data.
Please note: if your car has a metal bumper, this placement will not work as the GPS signal will not be able to get through.
Under the Passenger Seat
The passenger seat is a simple and common location for hiding a tracker because it's easy to reach and well-concealed. However, due to the number of materials surrounding it, it's possible you will receive a weaker signal.
Where to Place Vehicle Tracking Devices If Privacy Is Not a Concern
If you’re not trying to hide your tracker, installation is more straightforward, and there are many more possibilities for placement. The first thing to look for is a clear line of sight to the sky to give you the strongest GPS signal. This leaves several great options:
When placing a GPS tracking system in a visible location, ensure it has a clear line of sight to the sky for optimal signal reception.
On the Dashboard or Rear Shelf
With only a glass panel in the way, this option offers robust signal strength for GPS devices. To avoid interference, make sure it is not too close to any other location-based devices.
Clipped to the Sun Visor
This choice is less visible but very easy to find, so we don't recommend it as a covert option. However, this location offers excellent signal transmission.
Attached to the Roof
This may be a cosmetically unappealing option, but it offers tremendous signal strength. Use a magnetic tracker to secure your device to the top of your car, ensuring it’s always pointing up to the sky. It is important to remember that mounting in this location may increase the likelihood that your GPS tracker is stolen!
Making Your Choice
When selecting the placement of your GPS tracker, you have to consider both visibility and signal strength. If covertness is not your primary goal, then you have a lot more options. Whatever you decide, make sure your tracker is secure, safe, and able to detect a GPS signal.
Interested in supercharging the security of your vehicle?
In addition to tracking its location, you can also track what happens in and around your vehicle with a handy, easy-to-use car camera. Some of these devices also offer GPS tracking, giving you an all-in-one tool for vehicle security.
If you have questions about the products and services offered by BrickHouse Security, or how to install a GPS tracker in a car, we can help you! We invite you to contact our team of experts so we can help you make the best decision for your security.
Posted by Todd Morris on Apr 1st 2024