Skip to content
Best GPS Tracker for Cars

Best GPS Tracker for Cars in 2024: Top-Rated Models for Vehicle Security

Whether you’re protecting your car from theft or keeping tabs on loved ones, choosing the best GPS tracker for your vehicle is crucial. With so much at stake, from family safety to vehicle security, it’s important to invest in a reliable GPS tracker.

In this guide, we’ll simplify the process and help you find the perfect GPS tracker to fit your specific needs.

Why You Need a GPS Tracker for Your Car

One of the primary reasons people invest in GPS trackers is vehicle theft, which has been on the rise. In fact, the Insurance Information Institute reported over one million stolen vehicles in both 2022 and 2023.

Beyond theft prevention, GPS trackers also enhance safety. For instance, if you have a teen driver or elderly relative, real-time tracking can provide peace of mind.

When comparing GPS trackers, look for features like:

  • Geo-fencing that will send you an alert when your car leaves your property.
  • Driving behavior analysis that can notify you about speeding, erratic driving, and other dangerous behaviors.
  • App integration that improves route optimization, tracking, and other features.

How Do GPS Trackers Work?

GPS trackers rely on a system of satellites that orbit Earth and send signals to the surface. As long as a tracker can receive signals from at least three satellites, it can calculate its location.

The best GPS tracker for cars will take a few extra steps to give you more useful information, such as how fast you’re driving and where your vehicle has been over the last several months.

Key Components of GPS Trackers

GPS trackers contain several key components that make them useful for consumers and businesses.

GPS Modules

“GPS module” refers to practically any device with GPS functionality. Your smartphone, for example, counts as a GPS module, and you might even have a smartwatch that acts as a GPS module.

Typically, though, the most powerful GPS modules are stand-alone devices built specifically for GPS.

These include hardwired, battery-operated, and OBD-II (vehicle) GPS trackers. You’ll learn more about these options below.

Data Transmitters

The best GPS trackers have data transmitters that let them communicate with other devices.

For example, your GPS tracker might send data to a smartphone app so the app can determine when your vehicle drives over the speed limit.

There are stand-alone GPS models that don’t transmit data to other devices, but that approach can severely limit your tracker's use.

For instance, a GPS tracker without a data transmitter forces you to use its built-in software instead of connecting with your preferred apps.

Mobile and Web Apps

You need an interface to interact with your GPS module. Today, most interfaces are available as mobile and web applications.

You can access your GPS tracker's features once you download and install a mobile app to your smartphone. However, the features you can access often depend on the applications’ built-in options.

Web apps are similar, but you access them through a computer’s web browser. Often, they have the same features as their mobile counterparts.

When choosing a GPS tracker for cars, make sure it integrates with an app that is compatible with your devices.

For example, LandAirSea’s SilverCloud app has versions for iOS and Android devices. You can also access SilverCloud through any web browser, regardless of your computer’s operating system.

Different Types of GPS Trackers

Getting familiar with the basic types of GPS trackers for cars should help you narrow your options to models that fit your needs. Start by learning about these three major options.

Hardwired GPS Trackers

Hardwired GPS trackers are permanently connected to a vehicle. Many manufacturers already include hardwired GPS trackers in their newer models. (You can also ask some dealerships and repair shops to install aftermarket hardwired GPS trackers.)

Adding them at the factory makes it easier for dealerships and owners to track their vehicles reliably. It’s very unlikely that a thief would know how to locate and disconnect a specific vehicle’s hardwired GPS system.

With that said, you don’t have to use GPS trackers installed at the factory. Many require monthly subscription fees.

If you prefer a different model, you can cancel the subscription and start using a different GPS tracker for vehicles.

Benefits of hardwired GPS trackers for vehicles include:

  • Continuous power without any recharging
  • Long-term tracking

Since the tracker is hardwired into your vehicle, though, you can’t use it to track anything else. Throughout the life of the tracker, it can only work with the specific vehicle it was originally connected to.

Battery-Powered GPS Trackers

Battery-power GPS trackers are stand-alone devices with internal batteries. You will need to recharge the battery to keep the tracker functional. However, battery life can vary significantly from model to model.

For example, the LandAirSea 54 can last one to three weeks on a single charge, but the LandAirSea Overdrive’s battery can power the device for up to six weeks on a single charge.

Some benefits of owning a battery-powered GPS tracker include:

  • Flexibility to use the devices to track assets other than your vehicle
  • Options to use the same tracker in different vehicles as needed
  • Compact designs make them easy to hide for covert tracking

The obvious downside is that you need to recharge them when their batteries run low. If you use the SilverCloud app, though, it will send you an alert when your tracker’s battery runs low.

OBD-II GPS Trackers

ODB-II GPS trackers connect to the OBD-II ports that have been standard in vehicles for years. Trackers like the LandAirSea SYNC connect directly to the OBD-II ports that have been standard in vehicles for decades.

These make excellent vehicle trackers because they:

  • Draw power from the vehicle’s battery
  • Never need you to recharge them

Since they aren’t hardwired, you can use them in different vehicles as needed.

The downside is that it’s often difficult to hide OBD-II GPS trackers, although that partially depends on your OBD-II connection’s location. Regardless, they’re exceptional for when you don’t need covert tracking.

 Best Car Tracking Devices to Buy 

If you’re searching for a reliable GPS tracker, LandAirSea is a standout choice. With three decades of industry experience, they have developed some of the most advanced GPS solutions for both personal and business use.

What sets LandAirSea apart? Here are a few reasons why their products are worth considering:

  • Are always designed and manufactured in the United States, which gives LandAirSea more quality control than companies that outsource to factories in other countries
  • Connect to innovative mobile and web apps designed for specific use cases (the consumer-facing app, SilverCloud, lets you set multiple alerts, monitor movement, and even control how often your device communicates its location)
  • Come in a broad range of models that let you choose the features that matter most to you

LandAirSea 54: Best All-Around GPS Tracker for Cars

The LandAirSea 54 may be compact, but don’t let its small size fool you. This GPS tracker delivers outstanding battery life while offering robust tracking capabilities, making it the go-to choice for anyone seeking a powerful, versatile solution.

Here’s why the LandAirSea 54 stands out as the best all-around GPS tracker for cars:

  • Real-time GPS tracking with instant location updates visible through the SilverCloud app
  • Long battery life that can last up to two weeks on a single charge
  • Waterproof, dustproof design suitable for outdoor use
  • A strong interior magnet that connects easily to most metallic surfaces
  • Connects with the SilverCloud app and all of its features

LandAirSea SYNC: Best Hardwired GPS Tracker for Continuous Monitoring

For those who need dedicated vehicle tracking, the LandAirSea SYNC is the ultimate solution. Hardwired directly into your vehicle via the OBD-II port, it offers constant and reliable monitoring without the hassle of recharging or switching between assets. This makes it perfect for anyone focused solely on keeping their car secure.

Why choose a hardwired GPS tracker like the SYNC? Here are some key reasons:

  • Easy integration with the SilverCloud app for 24/7 monitoring
  • Works well for personal and fleet management use cases
  • Integrates with SilverCloud so you can get instant alerts for movement, speed, and geo-fencing breaches
  • Connects to the OBD-II port standard in all vehicles for continuous power and real-time tracking
  • Real-time GPS tracking.
  • Included SIM.
  • Compact size (2.5 inches high, 1.89 inches wide, and 0.96 inches deep).

How to Choose the Right GPS Tracker

Not sure which GPS tracker is right for you? Consider these factors to help you decide.

Personal Use vs. Fleet Management

LandAirSea makes GPS trackers for personal use and fleet management. The LandAirSea 54 and SYNC can both meet the needs of people tracking their personal vehicles. They’re compact (the 54 is definitely the more compact option, though), reliable, and easy to use. Plus, they both integrate with the SilverCloud app.

Keep in mind that you can use SilverCloud to monitor several vehicles at once. You don’t need to upgrade to a commercial-facing app just because you want to monitor several vehicles. SilverCloud works perfectly for families and small fleets.

Benefits of Tracking Cars With GPS Devices

Devices for tracking cars can benefit individuals and companies in several ways. Some general benefits you can expect from the best car tracking devices include:

  • Location tracking that can help law enforcement retrieve stolen vehicles.

  • Improved safety, especially when drivers know you can track their behaviors.

  • Faster, more efficient driving routes.

The benefits of tracking cars with GPS devices become more specific when you look at the ways families and companies use the technology.

Benefits for Individuals and Families

About 6.6 million vehicles are involved in traffic crashes each year in the U.S. While you can’t control how other drivers behave, you can encourage members of your family to drive safely and avoid collisions. The best car tracking devices make it easy for you to track driving behaviors.

GPS tracking is especially useful for families with young drivers. When parents see that their teenagers drive over the speed limit or engage in other dangerous driving behaviors, they can take appropriate actions to limit those dangerous behaviors.

Benefits for Companies

Companies that use the best devices for tracking cars can rely on the technology to:

  • Improve customer services by sending delivery time alerts.

  • Lower costs by finding more efficient routes that use less fuel. Fuel prices can fluctuate significantly over time, so it’s always a good idea to use as little as possible.

  • Decide when vehicles need maintenance that can prevent more expensive repairs.

  • More productivity from employees who know you can monitor their idle times and driving routes.

  • Lower insurance premiums from some providers.

  • Track vehicles so you always know the location of every car in your fleet, whether they’re on the road or parked in your lot.

  • Help law enforcement find and return stolen vehicles.

Buying devices for tracking cars will cost some money, but you get a strong return on your investment by lowering costs and improving services.

Comparing LandAirSea GPS Trackers: Which One Is Right for You?

Which LandAirSea GPS tracker is right for you? That depends on several factors, such as whether you want to prioritize long battery life or compact design. The following list highlights the best features of popular LandAirSea trackers for cars so you can find the one that fits your needs best.

  • LandAirSea 54: Measuring just 2.275 in. x 0.945 in., the LandAirSea 54 is the right choice when you want a discreet vehicle tracker. It has a strong internal magnet that can attach covertly to most metallic surfaces.
  • LandAirSea SYNC: Since the LandAirSea SYNC connects directly to a vehicle’s OBD-II port, it’s a great choice for when you want continuous tracking without worrying about battery life. Since it draws power from your vehicle, you never need to think about charging it.

Both of these trackers connect to SilverCloud, so you get features like geo-fencing and speed alerts regardless of which one you choose.

How to Install a GPS Tracker in Your Car

LandAirSea designs all of its GPS trackers for easy installation. You don’t need any technical experience to get your tracker up and running within minutes.

Installation for the LandAirSea 54

Follow these instructions to start using the LandAirSea 54:

  • Download and install the SilverCloud app on your smartphone.
  • Make sure the GPS tracker is fully charged.
  • Use the device’s ON/OFF button to turn it on.
  • Follow the steps in SilverCloud to synchronize your tracker with the app.
  • Take the tracker for a drive (10 to 15 minutes) to ensure synchronization.

Now, you can set up any geo-fences and other alerts you want to use.

Installation for the LandAirSea SYNC

Installation is even easier for the LandAirSea SYNC:

  • Download and install the SilverCloud app.
  • Connect the SYNC to your vehicle’s OBD-II port (consult your car’s owner’s manual if you don’t know where the OBD-II port is located).
  • Follow the steps in SilverCloud to synchronize your tracker with the app.
  • Take the tracker for a drive (10 to 15 minutes) to ensure synchronization.

Now, you can use SilverCloud to customize your tracker’s settings.

Benefits of Using GPS Trackers for Vehicle Security

Using GPS trackers for vehicle security gives you several important benefits, including:

  • Location tracking that helps authorities recover stolen vehicles
  • Geo-fence alerts that let you know when a vehicle has left your property
  • More efficient driving routes that save time and money
  • Safety alerts for speeding, erratic driving, etc.

How GPS Trackers Deter Vehicle Theft

Over a million vehicles get stolen in the U.S. each year. GPS trackers for cars can help deter theft by alerting you the moment a vehicle leaves your property.

SilverCloud also lets you share tracking information with authorities, making it easier for them to recover stolen vehicles. Even if someone does steal your car, the theft remains temporary.

Enhancing Driver Safety With GPS Monitoring

Too many people get injured or killed while driving. GPS monitoring can help lower those numbers.

GPS monitoring is especially important for parents with young, inexperienced drivers. SilverCloud can alert you when someone speeds, drives erratically, or engages in other dangerous driving behaviors.

Since SilverCloud can keep up to a year of historical data, you can show drivers in your family where they made mistakes and encourage them to stay safe.

The Right Software for the Best Car Tracking Devices

Devices for tracking cars only work as well as the software you use. All LAS devices for tracking cars use the SilverCloud app. You can install SilverCloud on Android and iOS mobile devices. You can also use an online version accessible from any internet-ready device.

SilverCloud contributes to the success of your car tracking GPS units by:

  • Letting you create alerts for speeding, crossing boundaries, and low batteries.

  • Giving you remote control over your device’s settings.

  • Providing a map with historical playback and vehicle locations accurate within 6 feet.

  • Recording vehicle locations, idle times, and number of stops.

SilverCloud also includes a ShareSpot feature that lets you share device locations with colleagues.

Choose the Best GPS Tracker for Your Car

Still not sure which GPS tracker for cars is best for you? We can help!

If you want more information on GPS trackers, contact LandAirSea, and a member of our friendly team will answer any questions you may have.

 

Filed in: GPS Trackers, Teen Drivers
Previous article How to Track a Car with GPS: A Complete Guide to Real-Time Monitoring
Next article Missing Persons Statistics: How GPS Revolutionizes Search and Rescue