Vehicle tracking technology is more common than ever. While most car trackers are used for helpful reasons like theft prevention or fleet management, some people worry their vehicle might be tracked without their knowledge. It’s important to know the signs, understand where a tracker might be placed, and learn how to detect a GPS tracker in car systems–especially if you’re concerned about your privacy or personal safety.
So if you’ve ever wondered if your car is being tracked, then this guide will walk you through what to look for and how to spot a hidden device.
Why Would Someone Track Your Vehicle?
Vehicle trackers are used for many legitimate reasons. Car owners install them for theft recovery, parents use them to monitor young drivers, and companies rely on them for managing their fleets. Some insurance providers also recommend or require trackers for cover discounts.
However, tracking without consent can be invasive and it’s important to know how to find a hidden car tracker, especially if you think someone may have placed one on your vehicle without your permission.
The Signs That Your Car Might Be Tracked
There are several warning signs that may suggest a tracker is hidden in your vehicle. Your battery may drain more quickly than usual, or your phone may connect to strange Bluetooth or Wi-Fi signals while you’re near your car. You might also notice someone seems to know your location more often than you’d expect.
Strange sounds, like clicking or buzzing when the car is off, or sudden dips in fuel economy, could also point to a tracker drawing power or interfering with your systems.
Where to Look for Hidden Trackers
Exterior Locations
Most unauthorised trackers are placed outside the car because they’re easier to install and retrieve. Popular spots include underneath the vehicle, around the wheel arches, behind bumpers, or inside the engine bay. Many devices are magnetic, so check any flat metal surfaces using a torch and inspection mirror if needed.
Also look near the tow bar or exhaust system, although these areas are less common due to heat exposure.
Interior Locations
Inside the vehicle, start by checking under seats, inside the glove box, and in compartments that aren’t often opened. Look behind trim panels, beneath the dashboard, and even inside the boot. Some trackers are plugged into the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port, which is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
If you’ve recently had work done on your vehicle, it’s worth double-checking these areas, especially if you didn’t recognise the company or technician.
Tools to Detect a Tracker
To detect a hidden tracker, you can use an RF (radio frequency) scanner or bug detector. These tools can pick up signals from active GPS units, especially those that transmit data in real-time. For the most accurate scan, park in a quiet area, turn off your car and remove any personal electronics that may interfere.
Some trackers only activate when the vehicle is moving, so you might need to drive slowly around a quiet area while scanning. If the device is not actively transmitting, a visual search may still be your best bet.
What to Do if You Find One
If you locate a tracker and you didn’t install it yourself or don’t know who did it, consider taking a photo and seeking advice from a professional. While it’s tempting to just remove it, certain devices may be connected to your car’s electrical system and removing them improperly could cause damage.
You can contact a trusted security specialist like MotorGuard. We offer expert help in identifying, installing, or removing trackers in accordance with proper safety standards.
How MotorGuard Can Help
Based in Birmingham, MotorGuard has been a trusted name in vehicle security and audio for over 20 years. Our experienced technicians are trained to fit and inspect a wide range of products, including trackers from top brands like Smartrack and ESA Trak. So if you think your vehicle might be carrying a tracker you didn’t install, our experts at MotorGuard can help locate and safely remove it.
All of our work is carried out to meet strict insurance and industry standards, with every fitted product covered by a minimum 12-month warranty for parts and labour. Whether you’re a private vehicle owner or part of a fleet, MotorGuard’s team can assist with custom solutions that give you peace of mind.