How to Know if Your Car Has a GPS Tracker on It

Todd TaylorTodd Taylor
3 min read

How to Know if Your Car Has a GPS Tracker on It

Have you ever wondered, “Is someone tracking my car?” With today’s technology, GPS trackers are small, affordable, and easy to hide on a vehicle. That means anyone—from a suspicious spouse to a business rival—could secretly track your movements without your knowledge.

At Allstate Private Investigations, we specialize in GPS tracker detection services and vehicle bug sweeps in Los Angeles and throughout California. If you think someone may be watching you, here’s how to tell if your car has a GPS tracker hidden on it.


1. Signs Your Vehicle May Have a GPS Tracker

Unusual Battery Drain

Some GPS trackers plug into your car’s power supply or the OBD-II port. If your vehicle’s battery starts draining faster than normal, it could mean a device is secretly pulling power.

Suspicious Attachments Under the Car

Many trackers are magnetic and designed to stick to the undercarriage, inside wheel wells, or on the frame. If you see a small box or unfamiliar device, that’s a red flag.

Radio Frequency Interference

Advanced GPS trackers emit signals. With specialized equipment, like the ANDRE Near-Field Detection Receiver from REI (Research Electronics International), professionals can detect frequencies that the human eye or ear would never notice.

People Knowing Where You’ve Been

If someone seems to know your location too often—or “coincidentally” shows up where you are—it could be because they’re following you digitally, not physically.


2. Where to Look for Hidden GPS Trackers on a Car

  • Under the wheel wells

  • Attached to the frame or bumper with a magnet

  • Inside or near the glove box

  • Around the rear bumper or undercarriage

  • Plugged into the OBD-II diagnostic port under the dashboard

⚠️ Warning: Some trackers are extremely well-hidden. Removing or disturbing a device could damage your vehicle—or tip off whoever planted it.


3. Professional GPS Tracker Detection Services

While DIY checks can sometimes reveal obvious devices, professional bug sweeps are the only way to be certain. At Allstate PI, we use state-of-the-art counter-surveillance equipment from REI—the gold standard in the industry. This technology allows us to find:

  • GPS trackers (live and dormant)

  • Covert listening devices (“bugs”)

  • Cellular and Wi-Fi transmitters

  • Other hidden surveillance tools

With over 27 years of investigative experience, we’ve helped clients across California protect their privacy and regain peace of mind.


4. What to Do If You Suspect a GPS Tracker

  1. Don’t panic. Stay calm and avoid confronting anyone you suspect.

  2. Do not remove the device yourself. You may damage your car or compromise evidence.

  3. Schedule a professional sweep. A licensed investigator can discreetly and thoroughly check your vehicle.


Protect Your Privacy Today

If you’ve been searching for “how to find a GPS tracker on my car” or “GPS tracker detection services near me,” you’re in the right place.

📞 Contact Allstate Private Investigations today for a confidential consultation and professional bug sweep. Whether it’s your car, home, or office, we’ll make sure your privacy is protected.

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Todd Taylor
Todd Taylor