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Best Vehicle GPS Tracker for Car

‘Vehicle GPS Tracker for Car’, something you’ve probably googled but are struggling to find information on.

Do you want a hidden option, plug n play without wiring, a portable option, or a combination of all? Do I need a SIM card?

Depending on your requirements, there is a GPS tracker type that will suit your application.

Introduction to a GPS vehicle tracker

There are some variations of features throughout makes and models of trackers, but the below bullet points are the main components of a device.

best gps tracker for car
  • Requires GPS access to obtain positioning information. This service is available to everyone, and is a capability that is inbuilt into the tracker
  • Requires SIM Card for sending that location data to a tracking server, or another user which has requested the location from that device.
  • Requires Configuration to tell it what SIM card (telco) provider it is using. If you are sending location data from the tracker to a server, it will require the tracking server IP addres or hostname as well as a port. (ie. Hostname: portal.tracking.com.au Port: 9999

How can a GPS Tracker locate itself?

GPS Trackers can find their location using one or multiple of the three methods;

  • GPS
    • Available in most, if not all GPS trackers. The most standard way of locating a device, as it uses GPS data from multiple satellites to determine it’s position.
  • Cell tower triangulation (Assisted GPS)
    • Assisted-GPS technology enabled devices can help to speed the initial detection of satellites.
      Satellite positioning information is provided to GPS devices through a-GPS, sent over the mobile network.
  • Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS)
    • Available in select models. Improves accuracy indoors, where there may be obstructions, preventing line of sight between gps tracker and satellites.
      For example, the roof of a house, or being surrounded by skyscrapers.

How can a GPS tracker send its location?

GPS information is sent over the cellular network.
Within Australia, the most common methods is over the 4G LTE network, as 3G has shut down.

The 2G network shutdown Australia has already happened, so avoid buying any tracker that runs over 2G (GSM). Ideally, you want to be looking for a 4G GPS Tracker to future proof.

The three type of GPS Vehicle Tracker

You have three options for GPS Trackers in your car, you can plug them in, wire them in or use a portable option with a battery, magnet, solar panel or all three.

All of them will require a SIM card with an active phone plan.

Cheap Plug in GPS Tracker

obd tracking device

Since the late 1990s, all cars as a requirement must have an ‘OBD’ port, which is a diagnostic port used for reading information electronically from the cars ECU/Computer

There are OBD GPS trackers that will plug into these ports, drawing power directly from the vehicle.

These types of trackers are much easier than a hard wired options, and the cheapest. These are great options for both business and personal use.

They are generally out of sight, with inbuilt mobile network and GPS antennas as standard, but it depends on where the OBD port is located on your car as to how stealth it is.

Here is some more information about the OBD GPS tracker that we sell.

Hardwired GPS Tracker for car

Hardwired GPS Tracking device

Hardwired GPS solutions are better suited for commercial/fleet use, as they are easily hidden, but do require wiring into your cars power to work.

External antennas for GPS and Network allow you to place the tracker hidden under the dashboard, whilst still having good signal due to well placed antennas.

Hardwired options often come with options for controlling immobilizers, fuel pump activation, driver key fobs and microphones. See our wired hidden gps trackers, also handy as a motorbike tracker.

Battery Powered Tracking Units

battery gps tracking unit

Battery operated GPS Trackers do not require any wiring or plugging in of any kind to work. They work on a rechargeable battery which is charged via USB.

Certain battery GPS trackers such as use the Wi-Fi Positioning System (WPS), which allows for greater accuracy when inside buildings if satellites are not visible, which they are often not when indoors.

This is what makes them great for GPS asset tracking.
As they use a battery, you do need to be mindful of their charge.

You can reduce the location reporting frequency down to as little as once per day to preserve battery life as much as possible, as well as of course leaving the tracker constantly plugged in with USB.

There’s no reason why you couldn’t leave this GPS tracker permanently plugged into your vehicle also, as an alternative to a hard wired, or OBD GPS option. Click the link for information on our battery powered vehicle tracker.

GPS Tracker Cost

The cost of a GPS tracker for car can vary based upon the outright costs, and subscription costs. The costs you will pay are as follows

  • Hardware (Outright, or bundled)
  • SIM card (Separate subscription, or bundled)
  • Tracking portal Subscription (Subscription)

Hardware

This is the cost of the GPS tracker itself

This is a once off fee, or bundled in with a higher subscription cost. Generally, one way or another you will be paying it off, much like how a mobile phone subscription works.’

SIM Card

Sending location data to and from the gps tracker for car

A GPS Tracker requires a SIM card for sending/receiving sending the tracking locations to your phone app, or the server.

There are many cheap SIM card options, but you may opt for a managed SIM card solution which is bundled in with your tracking portal subscription, as it is one less thing to worry about.

An example of a low cost SIM card can be found on our amaysim activiation page.

Tracking portal subscription

How you view your tracking information

This is the main cost you will pay, charged per month. Choose a provider such as GPYes Tracking Solutions that will not lock you into any contracts. Portal subscriptions are separate to SIM card subscriptions, but there is an option to bundle them together to save costs. This is generally only available on bulk purchases (10+ gps trackers) 

GPS tracker portal for car - the Portal Subscription Login

Conclusion of the best GPS Tracker for Car

To determine which is the best option for you, you’ll need to work out your requirements and what features are a must have.

Depending on your requirements, there is a GPS tracker type that will suit your application.

If you want a solution with minimal configuration and installation, use an OBD GPS tracker which plugs into your vehicles OBD port.

Want to a hide a GPS tracker within a truck? Use a wired option which can be installed underneath the dashboard.

Do you have a shipping container which doesn’t have any power? Use a battery or a solar powered gps tracker which uploads tracking data twice a day to conserve battery life.

Best GPS Tracker Options for Australian Drivers

When choosing the best GPS tracker for cars in Australia, consider our range of mini GPS tracking devices and OBD2 trackers for different installation preferences. Our Australian GPS tracking solutions work seamlessly with local 4G networks including Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.

For commercial applications, explore our truck GPS trackers, trailer GPS trackers, and marine GPS tracking devices. All devices comply with Australian GPS tracking regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions – Car GPS Trackers Australia

What is the best car tracker in Australia 2025?

The best car tracker depends on your installation preference. For hardwired installation, our Pulse vehicle tracker offers professional-grade tracking. For DIY installation, our OBD2 GPS tracker plugs directly into your car diagnostic port.

Which GPS tracking device works best with Australian networks?

Our 4G GPS trackers work with all major Australian carriers. We provide compatible SIM cards and support for Australian 4G frequency bands.

Are car GPS trackers legal in Australia?

Vehicle owners typically have rights to track their own vehicles. Read our guide on GPS tracking laws and privacy requirements.

How much does the best car GPS tracker cost?

Our car tracking devices range from budget-friendly mini GPS trackers to professional commercial vehicle tracking systems. Compare features and pricing across our range.

GPS Tracker Installation Options

Choose from multiple GPS tracker installation methods:

  • OBD2 GPS trackers – Plug and play installation
  • Magnetic GPS trackers – No installation required
  • Hardwired GPS trackers – Professional installation available
  • Solar GPS trackers – Perfect for trailers and equipment

2025 Complete GPS Tracker Comparison – Australia

GPS Tracker Model Installation Type Network Compatibility Battery Life Geofencing Best For Australian Price
GPYes Mini Tracker Magnetic Mount 4G LTE (Telstra/Optus/Vodafone) 2-4 weeks standby Yes – Unlimited zones Personal vehicles, tools From 99 AUD
OBD2 Tracker OBD Port Plugin 4G LTE Networks Powered by vehicle Yes – Real-time alerts Easy installation cars From 49 AUD
Pulse Professional Hardwired Installation 4G + 3G Fallback Vehicle powered Advanced geofencing Commercial fleets From 99 AUD
Holdet Battery Tracker Magnetic/Hidden 4G Australian Networks 6+ months Yes – Smart alerts Long-term tracking From 49 AUD

Step-by-Step GPS Tracker Installation Guide Australia

OBD2 GPS Tracker Installation (5 Minutes)

  1. Locate OBD2 Port: Usually under dashboard near steering wheel in Australian vehicles
  2. Insert Tracker: Plug OBD2 GPS tracker firmly into port
  3. Download App: Install tracking app on smartphone
  4. Activate Service: Insert compatible Australian SIM card
  5. Test Tracking: Verify GPS signal and cellular connectivity

Hardwired GPS Tracker Installation

  1. Choose Location: Select hidden spot in vehicle (behind dashboard/under seat)
  2. Connect Power: Wire to constant 12V and ignition sources
  3. GPS Antenna: Position antenna with clear sky view
  4. Cellular Antenna: Install for optimal Australian network reception
  5. Professional Installation: We recommend certified installer for hardwired GPS trackers

Magnetic GPS Tracker Placement

  • Wheel Wells: Protected from weather, good GPS signal
  • Under Vehicle: Strong magnetic mount areas
  • Inside Panels: Hidden locations for mini GPS trackers

Australian GPS Tracking Features You Need in 2025

Real-Time GPS Tracking

The best car GPS tracker Australia offers provides live location updates every 10-30 seconds. Our 4G GPS tracking devices work across Australia using Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone networks for reliable connectivity even in remote areas.

Geofencing Technology

GPS geofencing creates virtual boundaries around locations. Get instant alerts when your vehicle enters or leaves designated areas. Perfect for monitoring teen drivers, company vehicles, or detecting theft. Learn more about how geofencing works.

Historical Route Playback

Review complete journey history with detailed maps showing stops, speeds, and duration. Essential for business mileage tracking and fleet management in Australia.

Speed Monitoring & Alerts

Set custom speed limits and receive notifications when exceeded. Crucial for fleet safety and monitoring teenage drivers across Australian roads.

Tamper Detection

Advanced vehicle GPS trackers detect removal attempts and send immediate alerts. Essential for theft protection and asset security.

GPS Tracker Network Compatibility Australia 2025

4G LTE Network Coverage

Our GPS tracking devices support all major Australian 4G frequency bands:

  • Telstra 4G: Bands 1, 3, 7, 8, 28 – Best rural coverage
  • Optus 4G: Bands 1, 3, 7, 8, 40 – Strong metropolitan coverage
  • Vodafone 4G: Bands 1, 3, 7, 8, 28 – Competitive urban coverage

3G Network Fallback

While 2G networks have shut down, our trackers maintain 3G fallback for areas with limited 4G coverage across rural Australia.

SIM Card Requirements

Choose the right SIM card for GPS trackers in Australia. We recommend data-only plans with national coverage for reliable tracking.

Customer Success Stories – Australian GPS Tracking

Fleet Management Success – Brisbane Logistics

“Installed GPS trackers on our 25 delivery trucks across Brisbane and Gold Coast. Reduced fuel costs by 15% and improved customer service with accurate delivery times. The truck tracking system paid for itself in 3 months.”

– Mark, Brisbane Logistics Manager

Family Safety – Melbourne Parents

“Our teenage daughter drives to uni daily in Melbourne traffic. The GPS car tracker gives us peace of mind with real-time location and speed alerts. Easy installation with the OBD2 tracker.”

– Sarah, Melbourne Parent

Theft Recovery – Sydney Business

“Company ute stolen from job site in Western Sydney. Police recovered it within 2 hours using our hidden GPS tracker. Best investment we ever made for our trade vehicles.”

– John, Sydney Contractor

GPS Tracking Laws & Privacy in Australia 2025

Technical Specifications – GPS Tracker Comparison

GPS Accuracy & Performance

  • GPS Accuracy: 2.5-5 meters typical accuracy
  • Satellite Systems: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo support
  • Update Frequency: 10 seconds to 24 hours (configurable)
  • Cold Start Time: 30-60 seconds average

Power & Battery Performance

  • Vehicle Powered: 12V/24V compatibility
  • Battery Backup: 2-8 hours typical
  • Standby Modes: Extended battery life options
  • Solar Options: Available for remote installations

Communication Features

  • Data Usage: 2-10MB monthly typical
  • SMS Alerts: Real-time notifications
  • Mobile Apps: iOS and Android compatibility
  • Web Platform: Browser-based tracking portal

Choosing the Right GPS Tracker for Your Needs

Personal Vehicle Tracking

For personal cars, consider these factors:

  • Easy Installation: OBD2 GPS trackers require no wiring
  • Theft Protection: Hidden magnetic GPS trackers
  • Family Safety: Real-time tracking with geofence alerts
  • Insurance Benefits: Some insurers offer discounts for tracked vehicles

Commercial Fleet Tracking

Business vehicle tracking requires:

  • Professional Installation: Hardwired GPS trackers
  • Advanced Reporting: Detailed analytics and reporting
  • Driver Behavior: Speed, harsh braking, acceleration monitoring
  • Maintenance Alerts: Service scheduling and vehicle health

Specialty Applications

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