Tracking devices often remind people of the actions of a criminal investigator, but they're actually more commonly installed by jealous ex-girlfriends or boyfriends. They usually use large tracking devices that are very easy to see. However, you also need to be on the lookout for tiny tracking devices that can only be found if you search carefully.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Checking the Vehicle Exterior
Step 1. Take a flashlight and the vehicle's user manual
Cheap tracking devices usually take the form of a large magnetic box. Unfortunately, not all trackers are easy to find. Sometimes, this tool just looks like a dangling cable and looks messy. If you don't know the exterior of your car, take your vehicle's user manual with you to prevent you from removing important parts from the car.
Step 2. Check the underside of the car
Lie down and point the flashlight at the bottom of your car. Most trackers are connected directly to the Universal Seat System satellite so they will not function properly when placed under a car that is blocked by metal objects. Focus on the underside of the car. Look for suspicious-looking boxes, duct-taped objects, and antennae.
- If you see something strange, gently pull on the object. Most tracking devices are magnetic so they can be removed easily.
- Check the fuel tank first. The surface of the tank made of iron is very easy to use for attaching magnetic tools.
Step 3. Check the wheels of your vehicle carefully
Check under the plastic shield of each tire, especially if it appears loose or warped. The tracking device will be clearly visible – your car doesn't come with that weird box in this section.
If someone has special access to your vehicle, try removing the wheels and inspecting the rear, but this is very rare. If you're really looking for a tracking device in this area, be aware that some types of brakes have wired sensors on the back that shouldn't be tampered with
Step 4. Check the inside of the bumper
The front and rear bumpers are the last part of the car's exterior that is often used as a place to hide cheap tracking devices. Check for gaps in the area where someone might have inserted a tracking device.
Devices that are under the front bumper may be connected to the car's electrical system. Refer to the vehicle's user manual before you remove any device
Step 5. Check the roof of the car
This location is only possible in two scenarios. First, your car is an SUV or tall vehicle that can be used to hide a tracking device. Second, your car has a see-through roof so the tracking device can be hidden in the roof tow slot.
Step 6. Let the hood be the last place to be checked
The front of the car is a hot, solid vault, and is frequently inspected by motorists. This makes the location the worst place to put a tracking device. While there's nothing impossible, most jealous boyfriends or nosy neighbors won't hide a tracking device there. Look at this area for a moment, then move your search to the interior of the car.
Strange wires on the car battery could indicate the presence of a tracking device. Check your vehicle's user manual before jumping to conclusions
Part 2 of 3: Finding Tracking Devices in Vehicle Interiors
Step 1. Look at the contents of the car seat cover
Remove the seat cushions and backs if you can. Look for tracking devices behind the removable parts of the seat.
Step 2. Check the area under the car seat and carpet
Point the flashlight at the bottom of the seat. Note that some seats have a built-in heating mechanism. Compare the appearance of the two front seats of the car to find anything that looks unnatural.
Step 3. Check the area under the dashboard
You can unscrew the glove box on most car models, as well as the panel under the steering wheel. Look for dangling cables that aren't attached to or tied to other cables, then trace where they came from. Move your finger to the bottom of the panel to find the glued or tapered antenna.
Step 4. Look for the tracking device in the back area
Keep in mind that most trackers cannot receive signals from behind metal objects. Focus on the area under the rear window of the car before checking the trunk. Move the spare tire and do a thorough search.
Part 3 of 3: Taking the Next Step
Step 1. Use the services of a professional
If you can't find a tracking device, it usually doesn't exist. If you're still suspicious, ask someone to do a re-search. Use the following professional services:
- Car alarm installer selling Universal Positioning System tracking devices
- Experienced mechanics find tracking devices
- Private detective
Step 2. Check the car with an electronic device
Devices that are actively transmitting signals can be tracked with a hand detector. (Some trackers can store information so that the tool doesn't detect it.) If you're willing to pay a premium, go to a company that sells a Technical Tracking Countermeasures Tool (TSCM).
The tracking device may only emit an occasional signal or when the car is moving. So, ask a friend to drive your car somewhere remote. (cell phone signal may interfere with device performance)
Tips
- Remember to lock your vehicle at all times and store it in a safe place. This will not eliminate the risk of installing a tracking device, but it can minimize the risk.
- Most tracking devices need to be retrieved within a short period of time, either to replace the battery or move the data inside. Install a camera near the parking lot so you can find out who did it. However, more sophisticated tracking devices are capable of long life and have active data transmitters, so this is not a guarantee.
- Wear gloves so as not to leave fingerprints. If you find a tracking device, don't touch it. Call the nearest police station so they can trace the installer's fingerprint.
