How To Detect A GPS Vehicle Tracker: Top To Toe Information (2025)

There are times when we feel like someone is monitoring our movements or might have attached a tracker to our regular traveling vehicle.

However, it is not a significant issue these days, as location detectors are readily available on the market and can be installed effortlessly by anyone.

To answer the question of how to detect a GPS vehicle tracker, we have created this comprehensive guide, sharing some of the most effective tips and tricks to help you address this concern.

How to detect a GPS vehicle tracker?

Below is a comprehensive list of ideas that individuals can use to detect vehicle trackers on their own. So, let’s dive in and read about them one by one.

1. Check the wheels

One way to detect a tracker in your vehicle is to start by checking the wheel well. To do this, park your vehicle under a bright light and check under the metal guard area, which covers the partial top of the wheel.

Check the car wheels for detecting any vehicle tracker
Image credits: Freepik

Moreover, do not forget to thoroughly check the hubcaps as well if you have installed them. You can also remove the wheel for more in-depth detection; however, it is not necessary.

2. Look at the bumper

The rear and front bumpers of your vehicle are easy targets for attaching trackers. To check here, you need to pop your head underneath, use a mirror to check all around, and move your hand to check the rim.

Moreover, in some cases, the vehicle tracker is connected to the electrical system; therefore, be sure to check the wiring as well.

3. Inspect every storage compartment

Another possible place where someone can hide a tracker in your vehicle is in any compartment that is too small or too large.

check storage compartments for detecting gps compartments
Image credits: LovePik

For this, you need to check each pouch, holder, glove box, and so on. Make sure not to forget the pockets present on the back of each seat or any hanging storage units with capacity.

4. Look underneath the mats and seats

check car seats and mattresses to detect gps vehicle tracker
Image Credits: KGAN

Another place where a tracker can be hidden in your vehicle is underneath the seats or the mats. For checking here, turn on the light and move your hand over the areas of concern to detect anything unusual. For floor mats specifically, ensure that you remove them and then inspect the bottom.

5. Use Apple AirTag

If you are an Apple user and receive frequent notification alerts from an anonymous Apple AirTag while driving, consider it a major sign that someone has hidden a tracker in your vehicle.

To resolve this, open the “My Phone App,” click on the alert, and then select the “Continue” option, followed by “Play Sound.”

Apple AirTag

Now, the tag or tracker will continue to beep until you find it. If you are not an iPhone user, you can install the Tracker Detect application on your Android device and click on the scan button to detect AirTags in your vehicle.

6. Use a bug Detector

One other way to detect a GPS vehicle tracker is to use a bug detector. These are essentially handheld devices that scan for radio frequencies within a specific area. You can easily purchase one from any spy shop, online portal, local surveillance store, or other retail outlet.

Moreover, to use it, you need to run your car and move the bug detector inside it to catch any trackers.

7. Check the Undercarriage

The undercarriage is the easiest target for hiding any detector in the vehicle. To check this section, put the vehicle on a jack stand, lie on your back, and slide under it.

check undercarriage- how to detect a gps vehicle tracker
Image credits: iStock

Once done, turn on the flashlight and check for suspicious boxes, antennas, wires, taped objects, and other potential hazards. Moreover, many trackers are magnetic, so make sure to check the gas tank.

FAQs:

1. What are the different types of trackers for a car?

The most common types of vehicle trackers available in the market are hard-wired (professionally installed), plug-and-play (self-installed), and mobile applications.

2. How to detect a GPS vehicle tracker?

Checking the exterior, inspecting the interior, and using bug detectors or Apple AirTags are a few ways to detect a GPS vehicle tracker effortlessly.

3. Which is the most likely place to hide a vehicle tracker?

The undercarriage and bumper are the two most likely places where someone can hide a vehicle tracker without your knowledge or consent.

Also, Read this:

Conclusion

Above, we shared a brief guide answering “how to detect a GPS vehicle tracker,” which included various tips and tricks that might have helped you find any hidden tracker in your automobile effortlessly and quickly.

If you have any further questions or would like to add anything, please don’t hesitate to let us know through the comment box below.

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