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Tracking devices are your best bet for a quick recovery in the event your vehicle is stolen. In this article we will go over different options to help you choose what’s right for you. For maximum efficacy, consider using multiple devices of different types, in case your device is discovered or malfunctions.
Bluetooth Trackers (AirTag & Tile)
Tracking devices that use Bluetooth technology are the most cost-effective tracking solution, as they typically cost around $30 and do not usually require paid service plans. However, they come with some serious limitations.
AirTag
View Waterproof Adhesive Mount on Amazon
Apple AirTags use Bluetooth technology to help locate lost items by leveraging the Find My network, which anonymously connects to nearby Apple devices to relay the AirTag’s location. If placed discreetly in a vehicle, an AirTag can help track its location in case of theft, although it’s not a dedicated anti-theft device and may alert nearby iPhone users to its presence for privacy reasons. Removing it’s speaker, can help prevent thieves from finding your AirTag quickly, but it’s far from the ideal solution here.
Pros
- No Subscription Costs
- Costs around $30
- Replaceable Battery
- Uses large network of Apple users to locate device
- Small and easy to hide
- Can occasionally outperform traditional GPS when vehicle is in a building
Cons
- Anti-stalking features may alert thieves that an AirTag is present
- If speaker is not removed, AirTag can be located by a thief easily
- May not work well in remote areas due to its’ reliance on nearby Apple devices
- Generally less precise than traditional GPS technology
- No location History
- No real-time locate function, it will only get a fresh locate when someone with another Apple device comes nearby
- Only can be used with Apple iOS devices
Tile
Tile trackers use Bluetooth to connect with the Tile app on your phone and rely on a crowd-sourced network of Tile users to help locate lost items. If hidden in a vehicle, a Tile can potentially assist in tracking it if stolen, but its effectiveness depends on proximity to other Tile-enabled devices and it lacks the extensive network coverage of Apple’s Find My system.
Pros
- Small and easy to hide inside a vehicle.
- Crowd-sourced network: Can leverage other Tile users’ devices to help locate your vehicle.
- No subscription costs (for basic use): Works out of the box without requiring ongoing fees (though premium features are optional).
- Works with both Android and iOS devices.
- Anti-Theft mode: Tile does enable users to undergo a verification process to activate an anti theft mode that disables features that would notify a thief that they’re being tracked.
Cons
- Limited range: Bluetooth-only connection restricts direct tracking to around 200–400 feet.
- Network coverage is smaller: Far fewer Tile users than Apple devices, making crowd-sourced location updates less reliable.
- No GPS: Lacks real-time GPS tracking, so updates are infrequent unless near other Tile users.
- Easily discoverable or disabled if you have not activated it’s anti-theft mode.
- No anti-theft alerts: Doesn’t notify you if your vehicle is moving without your knowledge unless paired with premium services (and even then, it’s limited).
Wireless GPS Devices
Wireless GPS trackers are standalone devices that use satellite signals to provide real-time location data, often accessed through a mobile app or web platform. Unlike Bluetooth trackers, they don’t rely on nearby users and can transmit a vehicle’s location from virtually anywhere with cellular coverage. These trackers are ideal for stolen vehicle recovery, offering constant tracking, movement alerts, and geofencing features, though they typically require a monthly subscription for data services. If using one of these devices, find a really good hiding spot. Try removing interior panels, cupholders, consoles, etc. to place the device inside and secure it well so it doesn’t move around. Avoid hiding it anywhere near the dash area, or directly under the seat, as these are the places a thief is most likely to look for a tracker. Also do not place it somewhere that is mostly surrounded by metal (like your trunk) as this will negatively affect GPS performance.
PassTime InTouch VP
PassTime has been making Asset Tracking GPS devices for businesses for decades and are now offering products for consumers. It is smaller than a deck of cards, giving you countless options for hiding spots and can last for up to 5 years depending on usage. These devices have great reliability and accuracy.
Pros
- Relatively small and can be hidden anywhere not surrounded with too much metal
- Long battery life
- Accurate Locates
- Easy to install yourself
- Multiple mounting options available
- Harder for thieves to find (if you hide it well)
- Geo-fence notifications available
- Will not alert thieves of its’ presence like an AirTag
- Location history
Cons
- No real-time tracking in battery-saving modes
- Can take up to 12 hours to put into recovery mode
- Will require eventual replacement due to battery life (cannot be recharged)
Monimoto
While the Monimoto tracker is designed for motorcycles, it can also be used effectively in cars as a discreet, battery-powered tracker. It arms automatically when you leave with the paired bluetooth key tag, and will alert you with a phone call if it moves while the paired fob is not nearby (usually about 50ft away or less, can be up to 100ft). They currently offer the Monimoto 7 and 9, the 9 is a more compact version with a higher waterproof rating, but does have a shorter battery life (it is rechargeable).
Pros
- Relatively small and can be hidden anywhere not surrounded with too much metal
- Up to 12 mo. battery life (9) or 24 mo. (7)
- Accurate Locates
- Easy to install yourself
- Alerts you of potential thefts (movement without fob present) with a phone call
- Harder for thieves to find (if you hide it well)
- Geo-fence notifications available
- Will not alert thieves of its’ presence like an AirTag
- Event history shows past locations
- Locates every 5 min. while in theft mode
Cons
- If vehicle is stolen with fob, can go hours or days without tracking being activated (this depends on the regular update interval setting)
- Real time tracking is not possible (intervals of 1-2 minutes are possible if alarm mode has been activated)
- Battery can be consumed in 2-14 days if constantly in alarm mode
Spot Trace GPS
The SPOT Trace is a compact, motion-activated satellite tracker designed for theft protection: its vibration sensor sends immediate text/email alerts when your vehicle moves, then begins location updates at configurable intervals (as often as every 2.5 minutes) so you can follow a breadcrumb trail of GPS positions on SPOT Mapping. Because it uses satellite messaging (not just cellular) you can track assets in remote areas where cell service is poor, and it also sends low-battery and power-off notifications.
Pros
- Very compact and easy to hide
- Can notify you of movement
- Changeable tracking intervals
- Uses Common AAA Batteries
Cons
- Battery life can be short, depending on usage, locate interval settings, and environmental conditions
Wired GPS devices
Wired GPS trackers are installed directly into a vehicle’s electrical system. They can provide continuous, real-time tracking without the need for recharging or battery-saving features and can include advanced features like driving behavior monitoring, engine diagnostics, and tamper alerts. Wired GPS trackers are generally better at tracking than wireless devices, with better real-time tracking capabilities. However, professional installation is usually required, and they are typically easier for a thief to locate, as there are less places to hide a wired device, and the first place anyone looking for a tracker is going to look is under the dash. For this reason, do not buy a tracker that just plugs into the OBD port, as it is very obvious, and can just be unplugged, you’d be way better off with even an AirTag. Consider a combo of a wired and wireless device in your car to get the best of both worlds and reduce the chances of thieves thwarting your tracking capabilities.
Viper SmartStart for Viper Alarm Systems
If you purchase a Viper Alarm System, the SmartStart is a great add-on you can buy as well. It is integrated with your alarm system and can not only be used for real-time tracking of your vehicle, but also allows you to arm/disarm your alarm, receive notifications if your alarm is set off, and receive movement and geofence notifications all from your phone, no matter how far away you are! Notifications can be set up as both push notifications from the app and text messages. To receive warranty support, it must be installed and purchased from an authorized Viper dealer, but you can purchase on Amazon if one is not available in your area, or you have the ability to install yourself. Subscription costs around $120 a year.
Pros
- Real-time tracking from app
- Control alarm from app from anywhere
- Can send notifications to your phone for:
- Alarm going off
- Vehicle movement
- Vehicle exiting geo-fence
- Low vehicle battery
- User-set speed limit exceeded
- Will not alert thieves of its’ presence like an AirTag
- Accurate locates
- Can be used as stand alone GPS without alarm system
Cons
- Professional install is required
- Easier for a thief to locate and disable than a wireless device
- No location history with standard subscription (costs extra)
DroneMobile X1 MAX for Compustar Alarms
If you purchase a Compustar Alarm System, the DroneMobile X1 MAX is an excellent add-on to consider. This advanced module integrates seamlessly with your Compustar system, giving you full smartphone control over your vehicle’s security and convenience features. Through the DroneMobile app, you can remotely arm or disarm your alarm, start your engine, and receive instant alerts if your vehicle is moved, towed, or if the alarm is triggered. It also offers GPS tracking, trip history, and customizable geofencing to keep tabs on your car’s location in real time—no matter how far away you are. Notifications can be received via the app, email, or text. To ensure full warranty coverage, the X1 MAX should be purchased and installed by an authorized Compustar dealer, though self-install options are available through online retailers. The subscription for connected services typically costs about $60–$120 per year, depending on the chosen plan.
Pros
- Real-time tracking from app
- Included with Compustar 2-way alarm systems
- Control alarm from app from anywhere
- Can send notifications to your phone for:
- Alarm going off
- Vehicle movement
- Vehicle exiting geo-fence
- Low vehicle battery
- User-set speed limit exceeded
- Will not alert thieves of its’ presence like an AirTag
- Accurate locates
- Can be used without alarm system as a stand-alone tracking device
Cons
- Professional install is required
- Easier for a thief to locate and disable than a wireless device
JDI Ghost Lock
The Ghost Lock from Jordan Distributors is a tracker that—when paired with its phone, tablet, or computer app (subscription required)—can remotely disable most vehicles that use an electronic fuel pump, letting you halt a thief even if other security measures fail. It also includes a backup battery that can continue to provide location tracking for up to six hours if the vehicle’s main battery is disconnected. A universal model is available for install on most vehicles and plug & play versions are available for many Honda and Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram models.
Pros
- Real-time tracking from app
- Can send notifications to your phone for :
- Low vehicle battery
- Vehicle movement
- Vehicle exiting geo-fence
- User-set speed limit exceeded
- Exiting geofence
- Ignition being turned on/off
- Will not alert thieves of its’ presence like an AirTag
- Accurate locates
- Allows you to remotely disable vehicle
- 6-hour backup battery
Cons
- Professional install is recommended
- Potentially easier for a thief to locate and disable than a wireless device
PassTime InTouch
PassTime also makes a wired device for consumers called the InTouch. The wired InTouch provides better real-time tracking without worrying about device battery-life, and offers geo-fence and speed notifications, as well as notifications if your vehicle’s battery is getting low. As with all wired devices, it is going to require professional installation.
Pros
- Real-time tracking from app
- Accurate locates
- Will not alert thieves of its’ presence like an AirTag
- Location history
Cons
- Professional install is required
- Easier for a thief to locate and disable than a wireless device
Some Things to Consider
Why does location history matter?– Location history is an important feature in the event of a theft because it allows you to see where the vehicle has been, making recovery easier for police, and allows for you to still have a clue where they have been in the event that the thieves find and remove your tracking device.
Should I have more than one device in my car?– If you want the best chances of recovery, then absolutely yes, but use different types. Using a combination of a wired and wireless tracker in your car allows you to get the best of both worlds, reduce the risk of thieves finding all devices and serve as a backup if one device is not working properly.
Do the anti-stalker features on AirTags make using it in my vehicle a bad idea?– Maybe. It really can go either way. On one hand, being notified of the presence of an AirTag could make a thief nervous enough to ditch your car. However it could also cause a thief to go looking for trackers when they might have otherwise not done so. They are the cheapest option and certainly better than nothing, especially with the speaker removed. Actual GPS devices are a better choice.
No, tracking devices are not going to prevent a theft– The purpose of them is to help recover your vehicle should all else fail. Preventative measures should be a priority, but it’s always good to have a backup plan.
Do car thieves really search for tracking devices?– Many do, but not all. When dealing with a higher dollar vehicle, you are more likely to get more experienced thieves which will most likely look for GPS devices. They will almost certainly disable any factory installed communications equipment to prevent you from using services like OnStar to find your vehicle. How deep they search for other devices really depends on the thief, the most common area to check is under the dash, where a typical wired device would be. This is a good argument for having a wired/wireless combo, if they think they found your GPS, they may stop looking not knowing you have a backup hidden deep inside your vehicle. Wireless devices that are not constantly emitting a signal are also harder for thieves to find using detection equipment.
Tools for Interior Disassembly (So You Can Hide Your Tracker Better)
Panel removal tools– these little plastic pry bars will help you remove plastic interior pieces without scratching them. In many cars there are good hiding spots behind plastic panels that can be popped off. View on Amazon
Full Kits– these kits include panel removal tools and so much more to enable you to disassemble your car’s interior to the fullest to find the best hiding spots. View on Amazon
