7 Best Car GPS Trackers: Buying Guide 2024
If you're reading this, you probably have some worries. Maybe your teenager just got their license, and you're nervous about their safety on the road. Or perhaps you run a business with a fleet of vehicles and need to keep a close eye on operations. You might even be dealing with a situation where trust is a bit shaky. We get it. In those moments, having a reliable car GPS tracker isn't just a gadget—it's peace of mind. It’s knowing exactly where things stand without the stress of guessing.
We've been in the GPS tracking industry for over 15 years, so we've seen it all. We've tested every kind of tracker under the sun, from the clunky ones that are more hassle than help, to the slick, seamless devices that make life easier. We’ve cut through the noise and narrowed it down to the top 7 car GPS trackers for 2024. Here’s how we ranked them:
- Pinpoint Accuracy: So you know exactly where your car is, every second.
- Cost and Value: From initial prices to those sneaky subscription fees—what's worth your money?
- User-Friendly Apps: No one has time for a clunky interface. We’ve found the ones that just work.
- Easy Installation: Because who wants to spend hours setting up a tracker?
- Unique Features: Alerts, geofencing, historical data—we cover what sets each tracker apart.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—the pros, the cons, and the inside scoop from real-world testing. By the end, you’ll be ready to make a decision that’s smart, confident, and right for you.
Best Car GPS Tracker - TLDR:
- #1 SpaceHawk
- #2 SpyTec GL300
- #3 Amcrest
- #4 Vyncs
- #5 Bouncie
- #6 Tracki
- #7 MOTOsafety
#1 Best Overall Car GPS Tracker - SpaceHawk
Meet SpaceHawk GPS, the standout star in the constellation of vehicle trackers. Surpassing competitors like Bounice GPS and SpyTec GPS, our security experts have crowned it the best magnetic GPS tracker on the market. Why? The answer lies in its remarkable power, compact size, and unwavering resilience.
The SpaceHawk is an all-weather warrior, thanks to its waterproof exterior. As a hidden tracker, it discreetly nestles inside or outside your vehicle, offering stealthy surveillance at your fingertips. Unlike other trackers, its true prowess lies in covert vehicle tracking.
From your teen's driving habits to your employees' behavior, the SpaceHawk delivers real-time tracking via an intuitive mobile app. Couple that with round-the-clock technical support - an advantage that leaves rivals like SpyTec STI or Livewire Volt in the dust.
Video Is Real Customer Experience of SpaceHawk Car GPS Tracker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iUXYmiBSGIY&t=1s
Key Features:
- Discreet magnetic mount for hidden tracking
- 24/7 free technical support
- Easy to conceal on any vehicle
- Legal and user-friendly
Imagine receiving instant speed alerts or geo-fence notifications straight to your phone. Pretty cool right? Alongside its powerful magnetic mount, user-friendly companion app, and waterproof design, the SpaceHawk empowers you to be your own private detective.
Special Features:
- Waterproof exterior for all-weather use
- Real-time updates on 4G Network
- Ultra-fast refresh rates
- Geo-fence, speeding, & low battery alerts
SpaceHawk, however, is not without its flaws. It does require a monthly subscription, priced at $19.95, offering more bang for your buck compared to the Brickhouse Security’s Spark Nano 7 or MotoSfety GPS. The good news? The subscription is month-to-month, so you're never tied down.
Specs:
- Compact Size (2.2 x 2.2 x 0.9 inches)
- Battery Life: 2-3 Weeks
- Accessories: Wall Charger + USB Cable Included
Lastly, boasting a 4G tracking system, the SpaceHawk ensures optimal coverage for your peace of mind. All this for under $100, this car GPS tracker is not just a gadget, but a smart investment towards informed decision-making.
#2 Best Mini GPS Tracker - SpyTec GL300
Introducing the SpyTec GL300, a power-packed titan in a tiny frame. This compact yet mighty GPS tracker has amassed almost 4,000 stellar reviews on Amazon, proving that size isn't everything. If straightforward, no-fuss tracking is what you're after, the SpyTec STI GL300 should be at the top of your list.
Weighing in at just 8 ounces and stretching to around 3 inches, the GL300 is one of the world's most petite GPS trackers. But it's no lightweight in performance. With a hefty battery life of about 14 days, it's clear that this device punches well above its weight class. In fact, the device is so small it is a great way to track your husband without him knowing!
Key Features:
- Live GPS tracking updates
- Google Maps compatible
- Compact and lightweight
The GL300 stands out for its simplicity and efficiency. Using the familiar Google Maps interface for live tracking data, it ensures you feel right at home. Plus, with updates as fast as every 5 seconds, you'll experience smooth, uninterrupted tracking. Be aware though, faster real-time tracking may come with a higher subscription fee.
Specs:
- Brand: Spy Tec
- Model: GPS-GL200
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
Priced at a reasonable $49 on Amazon, the SpyTec GL300 offers exceptional value for its feature set. If you're searching for a reliable, no-nonsense tracker without the need for magnetic mounts or fleet management features, the GL300 is a top pick. It's a smart and affordable way to bolster your vehicle's security. Don't underestimate this tiny titan—it's worth every penny.
Watch a full review on this GPS car tracker on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rX2WnuZVw20
#3 Best For Pets, Cars, Kids - Amcrest AM-GL300
Meet the Amcrest AM-GL300 V3 Mini GPS Tracker, a marvel of miniaturization that's shaking up the GPS tracking world. Despite its petite frame, this 2G technology-based tracker serves as a steadfast sentinel, ready to be secreted in your vehicle's glove box or under a seat for discreet real-time tracking.
This mini GPS tracker does more than just monitor location - it allows you to store tracking data for up to a year, free of charge, using Microsoft Azure Secure Cloud. Simply imagine retracing your vehicle's past movements, speed, and more through its historical timeline feature.
Key Features:
- Affordable $19.95 monthly data plans, contract-free
- 10-14 day battery life with auto-sleep mode
- 365 days of historical data storage
There's a catch though; this device operates on 2G networks, which may affect performance. Yet, even with this constraint, the Amcrest AM-GL300 V3 remains a competitive choice for real-time tracking, priced at an average of $45 per unit plus a $19.99 monthly subscription.
Specs:
- Weight: 0.11 lbs
- 2G-based hidden tracker
- Dimensions: 39.9mm(L) × 26.7mm(W) × 77.9mm(H)
For parents seeking an affordable and dependable solution to keep track of their vehicle's history, the Amcrest AM-GL300 V3 Mini GPS Tracker is an investment that delivers value, peace of mind, and a historical lens for your vehicle's travels.
See a detailed product review of this car GPS tracker on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCnx02-Q9f0&t=1s
#4 Best OBD2 Tracker On Amazon - Vyncs Premium
Are you searching for a reliable car tracker without the worry of battery life? Check out the Vyncs OBD2 GPS Tracker. This standout plugs directly into any vehicle's OBDII port, making battery life a non-issue - it simply draws power from the car itself.
Why choose Vyncs? This device sets itself apart with real-time GPS tracking and zero monthly fees. With its use of 3G mobile networks, it's ideal for small businesses or even vigilant parents. Keep in mind though, like any mobile device, weak cellular coverage may affect signal strength.
For the price of around $78 and an additional $10 annual activation fee, you'll get updates every three minutes. Need faster refresh rates? Opt for the $129 annual subscription for faster data updates. All in all, the Vyncs OBD2 GPS Tracker is an affordable, reliable tracking solution that doesn't skimp on accuracy.
Special Features:
- Uses 3G Mobile Data Technology
- No Monthly Subscription
- Plugs Directly Into the OBD2 Port
Key Specifications:
- Size: 65 x 44 x 24 mm
- Provides Optional Roadside Assistance Upgrade
- Weighs a light 4 oz.
With this tracker, you don't just add security to your vehicle, you also upgrade your home security system, as this device can integrate with your smart home setup. Its operating system compatibility makes it a fantastic choice for modern, tech-savvy households.
Watch a detailed review of this GPS tracking device on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PsYI24gY9E
#5 Best For Fault Codes - Bouncie OBD2 Car GPS Tracker
Are you looking for other OBD2 trackers outside the Vyncs plug-and-play GPS? Look no further than Bouncie GPS. It's not just a tracker, but a complete vehicle management system with a phenomenal companion mobile app, rated 4.9 stars on the Apple Store and 4 stars on Google Play.
But why pick Bouncie over cheaper options? The answer lies in its highly-rated real-time tracking system. Supported by AT&T and T-Mobile coverage, Bouncie ensures you stay connected with your vehicle, unless you're in a weak coverage area. Yet, its Amazon rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars testifies to its excellent performance.
Furthermore, this tool is perfect for parents, offering geofencing and speed alert features. You can keep tabs on your teen drivers and ensure their safety on the road.
Key Features:
- High-rated mobile app for iOS and Android
- Real-time tracking system
- Geofencing and speed alert features
Specifications:
- Dimensions: H 1.875 in. (4.76 cm), W 1.75 in. (4.44 cm) D 1.0 in. (2.5 cm)
- Lightweight at just 1.13 oz (32.1 g)
- Affordable $8.00 monthly subscription fee
Choose Bouncie GPS for its unique blend of comprehensive tracking, advanced features, and high customer satisfaction. It's a small investment in your personal safety and peace of mind.
See who GPS Tracking Review voted as the best OBD2 tracker on this YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbI4Py7TbDw
#6 Best Car GPS Tracker Under $20 - Tracki Mini
Key Features
Looking for an affordable real time GPS tracker that delivers? And by deliver, we mean secretly track a car without them knowing? Let's introduce you to the Tracki Mini. The Tracki is a 4G LTE GPS tracker that's appreciated by customers, boasting over 45,000 verified reviews on Amazon.
So, what sets the Tracki GPS tracker apart from competitors like the Trak4 GPS tracker or Brickhouse Security Spark Nano? The answer is in its unbeatable price. With a sales price of just $18.88, the Tracki Mini is the most budget-friendly option on our list.
Granted, this low-cost GPS tracker comes with a few shortcomings like the lack of waterproof housing, no magnet mount, and a relatively short-lasting battery life. But rest easy, as you can purchase an additional waterproof case with a twin magnet mount from Amazon, although this increases the cost slightly.
If affordability is your main concern and you need to track vehicles, assets, or personal items, the Tracki Mini is definitely worth a closer look.
Key Features:
- 4G LTE GPS tracking
- Affordable price tag
- Significant customer approval with high Amazon ratings
Tracki GPS Tracker Specifications:
- Size: 1.75 inches x 1.5 inches x 0.55 inches
- Monthly Fee: $19.95
- Battery Life: Up to 5 days
- Comes with a lifetime warranty in case of loss or damage
Take the leap with Tracki Mini, your wallet-friendly, reliable GPS tracker, ideal for keeping track of your important assets.
Watch a video review of this car GPS tracker by Is It Worth It on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gQhZSTBVV4
#7 Best For Teen Drivers - MOTOsafety GPS
As a parent, you understand the crucial importance of safe driving, especially for your teenage driver. That's where MOTOsafety GPS steps in, rising above the rest. This advanced vehicle GPS tracker was crafted with advice from driving instructors and law enforcement, prioritizing your teen's safety. Your peace of mind starts with MOTOsafety.
Unlike budget options, the MOTOsafety GPS offers a suite of features that empower you to monitor and guide your teen's driving habits. With MOTOsafety GPS tracker, you're not just tracking location, you're fostering safer driving.
Key Features
- Monitors harsh braking, rapid acceleration, and speeding for enhanced safety.
- Monthly cost is a reasonable $25, with zero activation or cancellation fees.
- Developed with a family focus, prioritizing teen safety with a law enforcement touch.
Real-time monitoring via an online parent portal or handy smartphone app.
A 100% risk-free purchase, supported by a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.
This advanced GPS tracker and its dedicated Android and iOS apps offer an invaluable layer of safety for your family. Each drive becomes a chance to educate, empower and ensure your teen's safety.
Specifications
- Power Modes: Real-time location tracking
- Vehicle Compatibility: Universal
- Realtime Location: Yes
- Subscription Plan: $25 monthly, no activation or cancellation fees
- Battery Life: Depends on the car battery
- Additional Features: Harsh braking monitoring, Rapid acceleration detection, Speeding monitoring
- Guarantee: 30-day satisfaction guarantee
With MOTOsafety GPS, you're not just buying a tracker, you're investing in your teen's safety and your own peace of mind.
Related Article: Where To Find A GPS Tracker On Your Car!
What Is A GPS Car Tracker?
A GPS car tracker is a small device that uses satellite technology to keep tabs on your vehicle’s location in real time. It’s like having an extra set of eyes on your car 24/7, sending you updates on its location, speed, and route history straight to your phone. Installing one is straightforward—just plug it into the OBD-II port under your dashboard or attach it magnetically for a hidden setup. Once connected, you can use a companion app to customize alerts for things like geofencing, which notifies you if the car leaves a set area, or speed alerts to keep teen drivers in check.
The benefits go beyond just knowing where your car is; GPS trackers can also provide diagnostics on your vehicle’s health, like fuel levels or battery status. This makes them useful for parents wanting peace of mind, businesses managing fleets, or anyone who needs extra security for their vehicle. Whether you’re keeping an eye on a new driver or looking to recover a stolen car, these trackers offer a practical way to stay informed and in control.
Key Features To Consider BEFORE Buying A GPS Vehicle Tracker
Choosing the right GPS tracker for your car isn't always straightforward—there are a ton of options out there, and not all of them are worth your time or money. After years of hands-on testing and sorting through countless models, we’ve zeroed in on a few key features that really make a difference. It's not just about knowing where your car is at any given moment; it's about how well the tracker works, how easy it is to use, and how much it really costs in the long run. Here’s a quick rundown of what to keep in mind:
- Pinpoint Accuracy: So you always know exactly where your car is, down to the street corner.
- Cost and Value: From upfront costs to those sneaky monthly fees, it’s important to know what you’re paying for.
- User-Friendly Apps: Because you shouldn’t need a manual to figure out where your car is or how to set an alert.
- Easy Installation: A tracker should be simple to set up, whether it’s plugging it in or sticking it under the seat.
- Unique Features: Look for extras like geofencing, speed alerts, or vehicle health checks that suit your specific needs.
These are the features that can turn a basic vehicle GPS tracker into a game-changer. We’ll break them down so you can see what’s really important and pick the right one with confidence.
Pinpoint Accuracy: Always Know Where Your Car Is
When you’re shopping for a GPS tracker, pinpoint accuracy is a must. You want a device that gives you your car's exact location, down to the street corner. This matters whether you're monitoring a teenager's driving, managing a fleet, or worried about theft. A GPS device with high accuracy ensures you aren’t just getting vague updates but real-time, precise info on where your car is at any moment. That way, you're never left guessing and always in control.
Cost and Value: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck
GPS trackers can come with all sorts of price tags—some are cheap up front, but those sneaky monthly subscription fees can add up. It’s important to look at the full cost: from the initial purchase price to the ongoing fees for real-time tracking. Make sure what you’re paying matches up with the features you need. The goal is to find something that fits your budget without skimping on the essential stuff, so you feel good about your investment.
User-Friendly Apps: No One Has Time for Complicated Tech
A GPS tracker is only as good as its app. If the app is clunky or hard to navigate, you won’t want to use it—and that defeats the whole purpose. A user-friendly app should make it simple to see your car's location, set up alerts, and get the info you need without any hassle. Look for trackers that offer intuitive, clean apps that just work, so you spend more time getting the benefits and less time figuring out how to use them.
Easy Installation: Set Up and Go
Nobody wants to spend hours reading a manual and fumbling with tools just to get their GPS vehicle tracker up and running. Easy installation means you can plug in, mount, or hide the device in minutes and get on with your day. Look for trackers that offer a straightforward setup—whether they plug into your car’s OBD-II port or attach with a magnet. This way, you won’t need to be a tech wizard to get started.
Unique Features
Not all GPS trackers are created equal, and the unique features can be game-changers. Things like geofencing, which alerts you if your car leaves a set area, or historical data, which lets you see where your car has been, add real value. These features help you tailor the tracker to your specific needs, whether that's monitoring a new driver or protecting against theft. The more relevant features a tracker offers, the better it fits into your life.
A Detailed Glimpse Into Our Testing Methodology
Ensuring a fair trial for each tracker, we position them in the same test vehicle and track their performance over a 24-hour period. Our rating system is straightforward - a score out of 5 stars, based on the tracker's performance, reliability, and ease-of-use.
Your Trust is Earned, Not Given
And why trust us? We're not just talk - each year, we thoroughly test hundreds of automotive and security products. We get our hands dirty, unboxing every component, exploring its features, and putting them through the paces in real-world scenarios.
Our commitment extends to hundreds of product and service reviews, providing car enthusiasts with comprehensive guides on a variety of topics - from automotive tools to pet products..
FAQs
Do GPS trackers for cars require monthly fees?
Yes, most car GPS trackers come with a monthly fee. Why? Because they use cellular data to send updates from the tracker to your phone or computer. These fees can vary depending on the brand and the amount of detail you want from your tracker. For example, companies like SpyTec and Motosafety offer different plans to fit what you're looking for—whether it's frequent updates or basic tracking. So, when choosing a GPS tracker, consider what kind of information you need and how often, and pick a plan that works best for you.
Can GPS trackers monitor a vehicle's health?
Absolutely! Some real time GPS trackers do more than just tell you where your car is—they can also check up on your vehicle’s health. Plug one into your car’s OBD port, and you can get updates on fuel levels, battery life, and even warnings about potential mechanical issues. For example, the Vyncs GPS Tracker offers these features, making it a solid choice for keeping tabs on your car’s condition.
Are geofence alerts a standard feature in car GPS trackers?
Yes, geofence alerts are a standard feature in most GPS trackers for vehicles. This feature sends you realtime location alerts when your vehicle enters or exits a predefined area. This is incredibly useful for monitoring the safety of younger drivers or keeping tabs on your vehicle's whereabouts for security systems purposes.
Is live audio monitoring a feature in GPS trackers?
No, live audio monitoring is not a standard feature in most GPS vehicle trackers. Due to privacy laws and concerns, very few GPS devices offer this feature. It's crucial to respect personal safety and privacy when considering a GPS tracker's features. However, for parents who want to monitor their children's driving, features like speed alerts, geofence alerts, and historical route data are usually more relevant and legal.
Do all GPS trackers need a SIM card?
Yes, most real time GPS trackers require a SIM card. The SIM card allows the GPS device to transmit location tracking data over cellular networks, ensuring you get updates wherever there's mobile coverage. However, the need for a SIM card often implies a subscription cost to cover data usage.
Are GPS tracking devices easy to install?
Yes, most GPS trackers for cars are easy to install. Some models use magnetic attachments for easy placement on metal surfaces. Others can plug directly into your car's OBDII port, requiring no special tools or complicated setups. Products like the SpyTec GPS GL300 are known for their straightforward installation process.
How long does the battery last on a GPS car tracker?
Battery life varies greatly depending on the model of the tracker. Some devices, like the Tracki GPS Tracker, boast a rechargeable battery that can last several weeks on standby. Others may need to be charged more frequently, especially if they offer features like real time location updates or geofence alerts. Always check the product's specs to understand how often you'll need to charge it.
Can a GPS Car Tracker Prevent Vehicle Theft?
A GPS car tracker can really make a difference when it comes to stopping car thefts and getting stolen vehicles back. Just look at what happened recently in East Nashville, as reported by WKRN Nashville. On May 13, 2024, GPS tracking helped Metro Nashville Police (MNPD) recover a stolen car and catch the suspects involved.
Reporter Alicia Patton shared how an MNPD helicopter used GPS from the victim’s cell phone to track the stolen vehicle as it entered East Nashville. Four people jumped out of the car on Dew Street. Two were caught right away, but the other two, including 19-year-old Charles McKinney, took off toward South 5th Street. After a quick chase, McKinney was nabbed, and he, along with another suspect, 19-year-old Cy Griggs, ended up charged with vehicle theft.
This story shows how powerful GPS tracking can be—not just for car owners wanting to keep an eye on their vehicles, but also for police needing to act fast to catch thieves and recover stolen cars.
Is it Legal to Install a GPS Car Tracker?
Absolutely, you can install a GPS tracker in your own car without any legal trouble—it's your vehicle, after all. But things get a bit trickier if you're thinking about using a GPS tracker on someone else's car, like if you suspect a spouse is cheating. Laws on this vary depending on where you live, and you don’t want to cross any legal lines. So, it's a good idea to chat with a legal expert first to make sure you're in the clear.
Author: Ryan
