If you suspect a GPS tracker is on your vehicle, you can do a baseline inspection yourself before calling a TSCM professional. Here’s the methodology we use at Fob Experts, broken down for DIY use.
Where trackers are most commonly hidden
- OBD-II port (under the steering column, dashboard) — most common for cellular trackers. They plug in and stay there.
- Underbody, magnetic mount — wheel wells, bumpers, spare tire compartment. Easy to spot with a creeper and good light.
- Interior trim cavities — under seats, under floor mats, behind dashboard panels. Look for electrical tape wraps, antenna leads.
- Trunk / cargo area — taped to wheel well liners or hidden in spare tire well.
- Engine bay — wired into 12V circuits. Less common but harder to find without lifting the hood.
Visual inspection — what to look for
- Anything wrapped in electrical tape that doesn’t belong
- Antenna leads (thin black wires) poking out of cavities
- Magnetic mounts on undercarriage (often leave rust signature)
- Recent tape adhesive residue on interior trim
- Unfamiliar small electronic boxes near the battery or fuse box
What you need (DIY tier)
- Bright LED flashlight or work lamp
- Telescoping inspection mirror (Amazon, $15)
- UV blacklight (365nm, $30) — reveals recent adhesive/tape residue
- Smartphone with hidden-camera-detection app (limited but free)
- Creeper to slide under the car
Why a professional sweep is different
What we add at Fob Experts that DIY can’t replicate:
- RF spectrum analysis (we see the tracker’s cellular uplink, not just visual)
- FCC ID cross-referencing on found devices
- Chain-of-custody documentation suitable for court
- Coordination with law enforcement if the device is warrant-authorized
- Knowledge of where installers hide them based on hundreds of recoveries
If your DIY check finds anything suspicious — or if you can’t shake the feeling that something’s there — book a sweep or call 416-676-9142. We’re mobile across the GTA, same-day available.
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