The Best GPS Tracker For Vehicles

Buying Guide

Whether you own a fleet of vehicles or just one or two and want to keep track of them at all times, having a GPS tracker is a good idea. GPS trackers for vehicles transmit location information to a user’s cell phone via an app, so you always know exactly where your car is at all times.

When choosing a GPS tracker for vehicles, consider what type of tracking and data collection you require. There are two main options: real-time and delayed time. Real-time GPS trackers provide location information as it happens by continuously collecting data and transmitting it via satellite. Typically, these GPS trackers run on a subscription basis. Delayed time trackers, as the name suggests, track data but not constantly, and the data is available when you request it. Often, these trackers are not subscription based.

Where does the GPS unit actually go in the vehicle? There are a couple of different options. Portable placement trackers are small units that go in the vehicle. You can place them in a cup holder or glove compartment, for example, as they are small and discreet. These can also be used on bikes or motorbikes as they are highly portable. Plug-in trackers are powered by the car and are inserted into the OBD-II port.

Keep in mind that because they use the car’s power to work, they turn off when the car is off. Hardwired GPS trackers are a permanent solution as they are connected to the internal circuit of the car. Once you install it, you don’t need to fiddle with it again.

• Many GPS trackers for vehicles run on a monthly subscription basis. The cost of the subscription can vary based on the features you have, the amount or type of data collected as well as the length of the plan. Keep in mind that there are also fees for activation and cancellation in many cases.
• How exact is a GPS signal from a vehicle tracker? Typically, the device triangulates its location using satellite signals, similar to your cell phone. As a result, sometimes there can be interference with the satellite signal, which can affect the accuracy of the location. The GPS signal can also bounce off of surfaces such as buildings, especially if the car is in a crowded area.
• Keep in mind that if the car is in a rural area with poor cell service, it’s likely the GPS tracker won’t work either. Since it uses satellite to transmit its location, it might not function properly if there are not any cell towers around in close proximity.
• If you’re planning on traveling outside of the United States with your vehicle, keep in mind that not all GPS trackers will work outside the country. It’s best to check the manufacturer details to see whether the tracker will work in Canada, Mexico or elsewhere.
• Can you mount the GPS tracker to the outside of the vehicle? It’s possible, especially if the unit is fully waterproof. However, it’s possible that it may fall off in transit. The best place for the tracker is inside the vehicle.