Where Do Dealerships Put GPS Trackers?

You can install a GPS tracking device nearly anywhere on a car or fleet vehicle- in the front or rear bumper, wheel wells, under floor mats or seats, or in the glove compartment. However, for fleet tracking purposes, GPS trackers are almost always installed on the dashboard through an on board diagnostics (OBD) port.

Reasons Behind Dealership GPS Tracker Installation

In today’s fast-paced world, automotive dealerships are constantly looking for ways to enhance their services and streamline their operations. One innovative solution that has gained significant traction in recent years is the installation of GPS trackers in vehicles. These advanced tracking devices offer a myriad of benefits to dealerships, both in terms of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. we will explore the various reasons behind dealership GPS tracker installation and delve into the advantages they bring to the table.

Vehicle Security and Theft Prevention:

One of the primary reasons why dealerships opt for GPS tracker installation is to enhance vehicle security and prevent theft. Automobile theft is a significant concern, and dealerships often have to bear the financial burden of stolen vehicles. By equipping their vehicles with GPS trackers, dealerships can track and locate stolen cars with precision. The trackers provide real-time updates on the vehicle’s location, enabling law enforcement authorities to recover the stolen assets quickly. This not only safeguards dealership inventory but also reassures customers that their vehicles are protected.

Moreover, GPS trackers act as a deterrent to potential thieves. The knowledge that a vehicle is equipped with a tracking device discourages criminals from targeting it, reducing the likelihood of theft. This added layer of security instills confidence in both the dealership and its customers.

Efficient Fleet Management

For dealerships with a large fleet of vehicles, effective management is essential. GPS trackers provide valuable insights into the location and status of each vehicle, enabling dealership managers to optimize their operations. By monitoring vehicle movements and routes, managers can identify inefficiencies, such as excessive fuel consumption or unnecessary detours. This data empowers dealerships to make informed decisions and implement strategies to improve overall fleet efficiency.

Additionally, GPS trackers help in scheduling vehicle maintenance and servicing. The trackers can record mileage and engine hours, providing timely reminders for routine maintenance tasks. By staying ahead of maintenance needs, dealerships can ensure their vehicles are always in optimal condition, minimizing unexpected breakdowns and reducing maintenance costs in the long run.

Streamlined Test Drives and Vehicle Demonstrations:

Test drives and vehicle demonstrations are integral to the sales process in the automotive industry. GPS trackers play a crucial role in streamlining these activities. By tracking the location of test vehicles, dealership staff can easily locate and retrieve the vehicles for interested customers. This eliminates unnecessary delays and enhances the overall customer experience.

Furthermore, GPS trackers enable dealerships to monitor test drives more effectively. They can ensure that vehicles are driven within designated areas and timeframes, preventing misuse or unauthorized use. The ability to track vehicle movements during test drives provides valuable data that can be used for training purposes, improving sales techniques, and optimizing customer interactions.

Improved Customer Service and Satisfaction:

Customer satisfaction is paramount in the highly competitive automotive market. Dealerships that prioritize customer service gain a significant edge over their competitors. GPS trackers contribute to enhanced customer service by providing accurate and timely information regarding vehicle deliveries.

By tracking the location of a vehicle in transit, dealerships can provide customers with precise delivery estimates. Customers appreciate transparency and being kept informed about the progress of their purchase. GPS trackers allow dealerships to manage customer expectations effectively and offer a superior buying experience.

Moreover, in the event of a breakdown or roadside assistance request, GPS trackers enable dealerships to quickly locate the stranded vehicle and dispatch assistance. This swift response not only minimizes customer inconvenience but also strengthens the dealership’s reputation for reliable after-sales service.

9 Common GPS tracker hiding places

With trackers getting smaller every year and the ability for some of the devices to be mounted anywhere, including a vehicle with just a magnet, it’s more imperative than ever that you know how to inspect your cars and trucks for the devices. We sell devices that are as small as a car key and while we don’t sell these for the purpose of spying, an unethical spyware dealer might, but where should you look?

Diagnostic Port : A good place to start is the diagnostic port inside your car. It’s usually located to the lower left of the steering wheel. Simply unplug the tracking device from the port. It won’t cause any damage to your car to disconnect the device.

The Underside of Your Vehicle:Look for any suspicious boxes with or without antennas that attach to your car with a magnet or tape. The fuel tank is a common spot for a person to hide a GPS device.

Wheel Wells and Bumpers: Inside the wheel wells and under the front and rear bumpers are also common hiding places for devices. Use your hands to extend your reach. Keep in mind that devices can be attached by adhesives or with magnets.If the device is wired to your car be careful and check your manual before cutting any wires, or have your mechanic remove the device.

Roof: If your vehicle is tall or you have a sunroof, it’s possible for a stalker to hide a device in plain sight right on top of your car or inside the sunroof retraction slot.

Inside and Under Seats, Floor Mats, and Carpet: If you suspect a criminal has gotten into your car or if your ex has keys, then they might have hidden a tracker inside your vehicle under the seats, floor mats, or the interior carpet. They might have even hidden one inside the upholstery of your seats!

Under the Dashboard: You might not see a device under the dashboard, but it’s a good idea to look for any suspicious wires there. You’re going to have to remove some pieces of the underside of your dash, so if you’re unsure, have your mechanic look here and remove any devices they find. While you are looking under your dashboard, don’t forget to check your glove box, under the seats, and under the floor mats. If your antique car includes an ashtray, look there, too.

Your Hatchback and/or Trunk: Since most GPS trackers have to connect to satellites to work, they usually aren’t going to be in your trunk, but they might be in the rear part of a hatchback, and it never hurts to check the trunk.

Under the Hood: Common hiding places for tracking devices under your hood include behind the radiator, next or between batteries, in air ducts, or even in the air filter.

Plugged into Your Car’s Data Collector: Modern cars have data collectors, usually located between the driver’s legs on the underside of the steering wheel. If there’s something plugged into the dash at the midpoint of the driver’s seat, that’s a reason for immediate concern.

How GPS trackers work?

The Global Positioning System or GPS is a satellite-based radio navigation system operated by the US Space Force. It is one of several global navigation systems that provide time and location information to receivers anywhere on earth that there are unobstructed lines of sight to four or more satellites. Buildings, mountains, and tall trees can block the signals.

Your GPS receiver does not have to send any information back to the satellites. The US government makes the service available to everyone for free. GPS operates independently of any cell phone or Internet reception. Coupling a tracking device to cell service is only necessary if someone wants to monitor data from the receiver in real-time.

Who uses GPS trackers?

GPS trackers are inexpensive to buy and inexpensive to operate, and they have many legitimate uses. Taxi companies want to pair available cabs to customers waiting for a ride. Trucking companies want to be able to keep tabs on trucks and their payloads on the road. Parents want to be able to keep track of their teenage drivers, and adult children of elders don’t want their parents to get lost on the road.

Some other applications of trackers are not so clearly legitimate. Private investigators sometimes surreptitiously install trackers into vehicles of spouses suspected of infidelity. Hijackers and freight thieves may place trackers in trucks carrying valuable cargo. Stalkers may seek to track the movements of their victims with GPS. Now let’s consider the difference between the two kinds of GPS tracking devices, active and passive.

Active GPS tracking devices

Active GPS tracking devices report location in real-time. They are compatible with smartphones and laptop computers. The limitation of most active tracking devices is that they need to be hard-wired into the vehicles they track to have a constant power supply.

Passive GPS tracking devices

A passive tracking device keeps a lot of the places your vehicle has been. It doesn’t need cell service, and it uses a lot less power than an active tracking device. Passive data can be output as points on a grid. But the user must retrieve the device and connect it to a computer to find out where you have been.

Challenges and Limitations of Dealership GPS Trackers

While dealership GPS trackers offer numerous benefits and are widely adopted in the automotive industry, it is important to acknowledge that they also come with certain challenges and limitations. Understanding these limitations can help dealerships make informed decisions and mitigate potential drawbacks. we will explore some of the challenges and limitations associated with dealership GPS trackers, shedding light on the factors that should be taken into consideration.

Signal Interference and Coverage Issues:

One of the primary challenges faced by GPS trackers is signal interference and coverage limitations. GPS trackers rely on satellite signals to determine their location accurately. However, in certain environments with tall buildings, dense forests, or underground parking lots, the signal may be weakened or completely blocked. This can result in inaccurate location data or a complete loss of tracking capabilities. Dealerships operating in areas with poor signal coverage may experience difficulties in effectively tracking their vehicles, compromising the overall effectiveness of the GPS tracking system.

To overcome this challenge, dealerships can explore alternative tracking technologies, such as cellular or radio frequency-based trackers, which may provide better coverage in specific environments. It is essential to carefully evaluate the signal strength and coverage of different tracking options to choose the most suitable solution for the dealership’s specific needs.

Maintenance and Upkeep:

While GPS trackers offer valuable functionalities, they require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure their proper functioning. Dealerships need to allocate resources to monitor and maintain the trackers, including replacing batteries, updating firmware and software, and troubleshooting any technical issues. Failure to adequately maintain the GPS trackers can lead to inaccurate data and unreliable tracking results.

Furthermore, GPS trackers are typically installed in hidden locations within the vehicle, making them susceptible to damage during routine maintenance or repairs. Care must be taken by dealership staff to ensure that the trackers remain intact and functional during service appointments.

Privacy Concerns and Data Security:

The use of GPS trackers raises valid privacy concerns, as they involve collecting and storing location data. Customers may be apprehensive about their personal information being tracked and potentially misused. It is crucial for dealerships to address these privacy concerns by implementing robust data protection measures, obtaining consent from customers, and ensuring compliance with applicable privacy laws and regulations.

Dealerships should establish clear policies and procedures regarding the collection, storage, and use of GPS tracking data. Transparency in explaining the purpose and benefits of tracking can help alleviate customer concerns and build trust. Additionally, dealerships should invest in secure systems and encryption protocols to safeguard the collected data from unauthorized access or breaches.

Cost Considerations:

Implementing a GPS tracking system in a dealership involves initial setup costs, including the purchase of tracking devices and installation expenses. Additionally, ongoing costs such as data subscription plans, software licensing fees, and maintenance expenditures need to be factored in. These costs can vary depending on the scale of the dealership’s operations and the chosen tracking solution.

It is essential for dealerships to carefully evaluate the return on investment (ROI) of GPS trackers and weigh the benefits against the associated costs. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can help determine whether the implementation of GPS trackers is financially viable and aligns with the dealership’s objectives.

FAQs

Where Do Dealerships Put GPS Trackers?

You can install a GPS tracking device nearly anywhere on a car or fleet vehicle- in the front or rear bumper, wheel wells, under floor mats or seats, or in the glove compartment. However, for fleet tracking purposes, GPS trackers are almost always installed on the dashboard through an on board diagnostics (OBD) port.

Reasons Behind Dealership GPS Tracker Installation

In today’s fast-paced world, automotive dealerships are constantly looking for ways to enhance their services and streamline their operations. One innovative solution that has gained significant traction in recent years is the installation of GPS trackers in vehicles. These advanced tracking devices offer a myriad of benefits to dealerships, both in terms of operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. we will explore the various reasons behind dealership GPS tracker installation and delve into the advantages they bring to the table.

Vehicle Security and Theft Prevention:

One of the primary reasons why dealerships opt for GPS tracker installation is to enhance vehicle security and prevent theft. Automobile theft is a significant concern, and dealerships often have to bear the financial burden of stolen vehicles. By equipping their vehicles with GPS trackers, dealerships can track and locate stolen cars with precision. The trackers provide real-time updates on the vehicle’s location, enabling law enforcement authorities to recover the stolen assets quickly. This not only safeguards dealership inventory but also reassures customers that their vehicles are protected.

Moreover, GPS trackers act as a deterrent to potential thieves. The knowledge that a vehicle is equipped with a tracking device discourages criminals from targeting it, reducing the likelihood of theft. This added layer of security instills confidence in both the dealership and its customers.

Efficient Fleet Management

For dealerships with a large fleet of vehicles, effective management is essential. GPS trackers provide valuable insights into the location and status of each vehicle, enabling dealership managers to optimize their operations. By monitoring vehicle movements and routes, managers can identify inefficiencies, such as excessive fuel consumption or unnecessary detours. This data empowers dealerships to make informed decisions and implement strategies to improve overall fleet efficiency.

Additionally, GPS trackers help in scheduling vehicle maintenance and servicing. The trackers can record mileage and engine hours, providing timely reminders for routine maintenance tasks. By staying ahead of maintenance needs, dealerships can ensure their vehicles are always in optimal condition, minimizing unexpected breakdowns and reducing maintenance costs in the long run.

Streamlined Test Drives and Vehicle Demonstrations:

Test drives and vehicle demonstrations are integral to the sales process in the automotive industry. GPS trackers play a crucial role in streamlining these activities. By tracking the location of test vehicles, dealership staff can easily locate and retrieve the vehicles for interested customers. This eliminates unnecessary delays and enhances the overall customer experience.

Furthermore, GPS trackers enable dealerships to monitor test drives more effectively. They can ensure that vehicles are driven within designated areas and timeframes, preventing misuse or unauthorized use. The ability to track vehicle movements during test drives provides valuable data that can be used for training purposes, improving sales techniques, and optimizing customer interactions.

Improved Customer Service and Satisfaction:

Customer satisfaction is paramount in the highly competitive automotive market. Dealerships that prioritize customer service gain a significant edge over their competitors. GPS trackers contribute to enhanced customer service by providing accurate and timely information regarding vehicle deliveries.

By tracking the location of a vehicle in transit, dealerships can provide customers with precise delivery estimates. Customers appreciate transparency and being kept informed about the progress of their purchase. GPS trackers allow dealerships to manage customer expectations effectively and offer a superior buying experience.

Moreover, in the event of a breakdown or roadside assistance request, GPS trackers enable dealerships to quickly locate the stranded vehicle and dispatch assistance. This swift response not only minimizes customer inconvenience but also strengthens the dealership’s reputation for reliable after-sales service.

9 Common GPS tracker hiding places

With trackers getting smaller every year and the ability for some of the devices to be mounted anywhere, including a vehicle with just a magnet, it’s more imperative than ever that you know how to inspect your cars and trucks for the devices. We sell devices that are as small as a car key and while we don’t sell these for the purpose of spying, an unethical spyware dealer might, but where should you look?

Diagnostic Port : A good place to start is the diagnostic port inside your car. It’s usually located to the lower left of the steering wheel. Simply unplug the tracking device from the port. It won’t cause any damage to your car to disconnect the device.

The Underside of Your Vehicle:Look for any suspicious boxes with or without antennas that attach to your car with a magnet or tape. The fuel tank is a common spot for a person to hide a GPS device.

Wheel Wells and Bumpers: Inside the wheel wells and under the front and rear bumpers are also common hiding places for devices. Use your hands to extend your reach. Keep in mind that devices can be attached by adhesives or with magnets.If the device is wired to your car be careful and check your manual before cutting any wires, or have your mechanic remove the device.

Roof: If your vehicle is tall or you have a sunroof, it’s possible for a stalker to hide a device in plain sight right on top of your car or inside the sunroof retraction slot.

Inside and Under Seats, Floor Mats, and Carpet: If you suspect a criminal has gotten into your car or if your ex has keys, then they might have hidden a tracker inside your vehicle under the seats, floor mats, or the interior carpet. They might have even hidden one inside the upholstery of your seats!

Under the Dashboard: You might not see a device under the dashboard, but it’s a good idea to look for any suspicious wires there. You’re going to have to remove some pieces of the underside of your dash, so if you’re unsure, have your mechanic look here and remove any devices they find. While you are looking under your dashboard, don’t forget to check your glove box, under the seats, and under the floor mats. If your antique car includes an ashtray, look there, too.

Your Hatchback and/or Trunk: Since most GPS trackers have to connect to satellites to work, they usually aren’t going to be in your trunk, but they might be in the rear part of a hatchback, and it never hurts to check the trunk.

Under the Hood: Common hiding places for tracking devices under your hood include behind the radiator, next or between batteries, in air ducts, or even in the air filter.

Plugged into Your Car’s Data Collector: Modern cars have data collectors, usually located between the driver’s legs on the underside of the steering wheel. If there’s something plugged into the dash at the midpoint of the driver’s seat, that’s a reason for immediate concern.

How GPS trackers work?

The Global Positioning System or GPS is a satellite-based radio navigation system operated by the US Space Force. It is one of several global navigation systems that provide time and location information to receivers anywhere on earth that there are unobstructed lines of sight to four or more satellites. Buildings, mountains, and tall trees can block the signals.

Your GPS receiver does not have to send any information back to the satellites. The US government makes the service available to everyone for free. GPS operates independently of any cell phone or Internet reception. Coupling a tracking device to cell service is only necessary if someone wants to monitor data from the receiver in real-time.

Who uses GPS trackers?

GPS trackers are inexpensive to buy and inexpensive to operate, and they have many legitimate uses. Taxi companies want to pair available cabs to customers waiting for a ride. Trucking companies want to be able to keep tabs on trucks and their payloads on the road. Parents want to be able to keep track of their teenage drivers, and adult children of elders don’t want their parents to get lost on the road.

Some other applications of trackers are not so clearly legitimate. Private investigators sometimes surreptitiously install trackers into vehicles of spouses suspected of infidelity. Hijackers and freight thieves may place trackers in trucks carrying valuable cargo. Stalkers may seek to track the movements of their victims with GPS. Now let’s consider the difference between the two kinds of GPS tracking devices, active and passive.

Active GPS tracking devices

Active GPS tracking devices report location in real-time. They are compatible with smartphones and laptop computers. The limitation of most active tracking devices is that they need to be hard-wired into the vehicles they track to have a constant power supply.

Passive GPS tracking devices

A passive tracking device keeps a lot of the places your vehicle has been. It doesn’t need cell service, and it uses a lot less power than an active tracking device. Passive data can be output as points on a grid. But the user must retrieve the device and connect it to a computer to find out where you have been.

Challenges and Limitations of Dealership GPS Trackers

While dealership GPS trackers offer numerous benefits and are widely adopted in the automotive industry, it is important to acknowledge that they also come with certain challenges and limitations. Understanding these limitations can help dealerships make informed decisions and mitigate potential drawbacks. we will explore some of the challenges and limitations associated with dealership GPS trackers, shedding light on the factors that should be taken into consideration.

Signal Interference and Coverage Issues:

One of the primary challenges faced by GPS trackers is signal interference and coverage limitations. GPS trackers rely on satellite signals to determine their location accurately. However, in certain environments with tall buildings, dense forests, or underground parking lots, the signal may be weakened or completely blocked. This can result in inaccurate location data or a complete loss of tracking capabilities. Dealerships operating in areas with poor signal coverage may experience difficulties in effectively tracking their vehicles, compromising the overall effectiveness of the GPS tracking system.

To overcome this challenge, dealerships can explore alternative tracking technologies, such as cellular or radio frequency-based trackers, which may provide better coverage in specific environments. It is essential to carefully evaluate the signal strength and coverage of different tracking options to choose the most suitable solution for the dealership’s specific needs.

Maintenance and Upkeep:

While GPS trackers offer valuable functionalities, they require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure their proper functioning. Dealerships need to allocate resources to monitor and maintain the trackers, including replacing batteries, updating firmware and software, and troubleshooting any technical issues. Failure to adequately maintain the GPS trackers can lead to inaccurate data and unreliable tracking results.

Furthermore, GPS trackers are typically installed in hidden locations within the vehicle, making them susceptible to damage during routine maintenance or repairs. Care must be taken by dealership staff to ensure that the trackers remain intact and functional during service appointments.

Privacy Concerns and Data Security:

The use of GPS trackers raises valid privacy concerns, as they involve collecting and storing location data. Customers may be apprehensive about their personal information being tracked and potentially misused. It is crucial for dealerships to address these privacy concerns by implementing robust data protection measures, obtaining consent from customers, and ensuring compliance with applicable privacy laws and regulations.

Dealerships should establish clear policies and procedures regarding the collection, storage, and use of GPS tracking data. Transparency in explaining the purpose and benefits of tracking can help alleviate customer concerns and build trust. Additionally, dealerships should invest in secure systems and encryption protocols to safeguard the collected data from unauthorized access or breaches.

Cost Considerations:

Implementing a GPS tracking system in a dealership involves initial setup costs, including the purchase of tracking devices and installation expenses. Additionally, ongoing costs such as data subscription plans, software licensing fees, and maintenance expenditures need to be factored in. These costs can vary depending on the scale of the dealership’s operations and the chosen tracking solution.

It is essential for dealerships to carefully evaluate the return on investment (ROI) of GPS trackers and weigh the benefits against the associated costs. Conducting a cost-benefit analysis can help determine whether the implementation of GPS trackers is financially viable and aligns with the dealership’s objectives.

FAQs