Although GPS tracking of a vehicle may seem more appropriate for spying films than for a family car, there are valid reasons why you should think about buying one.
From ensuring the safety of young drivers and family vehicles to optimizing business operations, these compact and affordable devices have gained widespread popularity.
For families, a GPS tracker offers the peace of mind of knowing the whereabouts of their teen drivers, enabling quick responses in emergencies or everyday situations like running out of gas.
Business owners can efficiently manage their vehicle fleet and employees by monitoring their locations. Moreover, these trackers can play a crucial role in recovering stolen vehicles. With easy installation and a range of options, GPS trackers have become more accessible, thanks to reduced costs and expanded features.
They typically plug into a vehicle’s OBD-II diagnostic port, run on batteries, or connect to the car’s electrical system. While they offer immense utility, it’s important to note that they require a monthly subscription due to their reliance on data networks.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored a variety of GPS trackers to help you find the one that best suits your needs, whether you’re a first-time user or looking to upgrade your existing device.
Top Locations for Installing a Hidden GPS Tracker
When considering the placement of a hidden GPS tracker, it’s crucial to find a location that ensures discretion, security for the tracker, and no potential harm to the vehicle or the tracker itself.
Here are ten strategic places to hide a GPS tracker:
- Within the Dashboard: Hiding the tracker inside the dashboard provides excellent cover and security.
- Under the Vehicle: If your GPS tracker is magnetic and weatherproof, it can be attached to any metallic surface underneath the vehicle.
- Inside One of the Seats: While this option may require some sewing to integrate the tracker, it’s a covert location.
- Inside the Front or Rear Bumper: Placing the tracker within the bumper ensures it remains hidden and weather-protected.
- Under the Carpet: The tracker can be tucked under the vehicle’s carpet for stealth and protection.
- Under the Brake Light Cover: This spot offers both concealment and protection from the elements.
- Inside One of the Speakers: Discreetly place the tracker inside a speaker for hidden tracking.
- Behind the Glove Box: Concealing the tracker behind the glove box is another concealed location.
- Under One of the Seats: Similar to inside the seats, placing the tracker under a seat offers secrecy.
- Inside One of the Door Panels: Concealing the tracker inside a door panel is an effective hidden location.
When choosing a location, ensure that the tracker’s signal isn’t obstructed and that it doesn’t interfere with the vehicle’s functionality. The effectiveness of the concealment also depends on the type and size of the GPS tracker used.
5 Best Hidden GPS Trackers For Car
1. Tracki GPS Tracker
The Tracki GPS tracker stands out as an exceptional budget-friendly choice, priced at less than $20. Despite its affordability, it offers compatibility with major cellular data networks, both in the U.S. and abroad. This compact tracker is incredibly small and lightweight, measuring just 1.8 inches by 1.5 inches and weighing a mere 1.26 ounces.
It’s waterproof and damage-resistant, with an internal battery that provides up to five days of real-time tracking or a month with less frequent updates. An optional 3,500 mAh battery extender is available, which can extend the recharge period further.
Pros:
- Incredibly affordable for basic GPS tracking
- Features an SOS button for emergencies
- Compact and lightweight with an integrated magnet for easy mounting
- Conserves battery life without extender
- Doesn’t offer vehicle health or erratic driver behavior monitoring
2. Bouncie
The Bouncie GPS Car Tracker is a versatile and user-friendly choice, plugging into your car’s OBD port and eliminating battery concerns. It offers a wide range of features, including speed alerts, geofencing, and crash detection.
In addition, the Bouncie can offer useful data including fuel efficiency, fuel level, and maintenance requirements. In the event of a breakdown, it even provides roadside help. Monthly subscription prices begin at $9.
Pros:
- No battery required
- Easy installation
- Only works when the vehicle’s ignition is on
- Numerous monitoring feature options
- Slightly higher price compared to others
3. Spytec GPS Mini GPS Tracker
The Spytec GL300 is a top choice for those looking for an upgrade. While it comes with a slightly higher price tag, it offers additional features. Like the Tracki, it has the ability to save past trip information and provide alerts for unusual driving patterns and geofence violations.
With the “Basic” subscription plan, the tracker updates its data every 60 seconds and boasts a battery life of up to 20 days. For an additional $10 per month, you can increase the update frequency to every 30 seconds. However, please note that the magnetic case for mounting comes at an extra cost of $40.
Pros:
- One-touch connectivity for SOS emergencies
- increased battery life with intervals of one minute for updates
- A magnetic case costs extra.
- Notifications of alerts are limited.
- Increased membership price
- Personalised geofencing
4. Brickhouse Livewire Volt
The Brickhouse Livewire is an ideal choice for commercial use and is hardwired to your vehicle’s electrical system, eliminating battery concerns. It offers features such as geofencing, safety alerts for excessive speed, maintenance alerts, and customizable notifications.
Pros:
- Eliminates the need for batteries
- Monitors driver behaviour
- Waterproof, featuring a magnetic case for simple installation.
- Few mounting choices (requires close contact to a power source)
5. LandAirSea 54 GPS Tracker
The LandAirSea 54 is an affordable tracker with a focus on extended battery life. It features a durable and waterproof case with an internal magnet for easy installation. The device integrates with Google Maps, provides geofencing options, and offers adjustable refresh rates.
The tiered subscription service starts at $20 per month, or as low as $9.95 when prepaying for a two-year plan. However, with the basic subscription, the refresh rate is limited to once every 3 minutes. If you require updates as frequent as every 3 seconds, you’ll need a pricier monthly plan.
Pros:
- Integration with Google Maps
- Internal magnet for easy installation
- Extended battery life of up to three weeks
- Basic subscription offers longer update intervals
- Limited geofencing capabilities
- Cheaper subscription requires a 2-year commitment
A Guide to Purchasing Hidden GPS Trackers
When purchasing a hidden GPS tracker, several crucial factors should be taken into account to ensure you make the right choice:
1. Real-Time Tracking: Opt for a hidden GPS tracker that offers real-time tracking as this feature is essential for accurate monitoring and timely updates on your vehicle’s location.
2. Length and Weight: Ensure that the tracker’s dimensions align with the specifications provided by the manufacturer of your vehicle. Additionally, if discreetness is a priority, choose a tracker that is compact and easy to conceal.
3. Monitoring Capabilities: Investigate the monitoring capabilities of the tracker. Seek out compatible mobile applications that can be easily installed on your smartphone, providing live tracking and real-time data on the device’s location.
4. Battery: Consider the battery life and runtime of the GPS tracker. A longer battery life is advantageous as it ensures continuous and uninterrupted tracking support.
5. Pricing: Evaluate the pricing options available for GPS trackers. You can choose between devices with a one-time purchase price or those that come with a monthly subscription fee. The pricing structure of the product is an important factor to weigh in your decision-making process.
By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed choice when selecting a hidden GPS tracker, ensuring it meets your specific needs and expectations.
