How to sweep your vehicle for GPS Trackers?

Titan PI TV: Simon Henson explains how to sweep your vehicle for GPS trackers

In the latest episode of Titan PI TV, host Simon Henson, Managing Director of Titan Private Investigation Limited, turns the spotlight on a subject that is increasingly relevant to motorists, businesses and anyone concerned about privacy: how to sweep your vehicle for GPS trackers.

Broadcast from Titan’s operational base in Derby, with the firm also serving clients through a network of offices stretching from Truro in the South West to Manchester in the North West, the episode offers viewers a practical and professional overview of what tracking devices are, why they may be fitted to a vehicle, and what steps can be taken if something does not feel right.

For Titan, this is not simply a theoretical discussion. The episode is framed as an insight into the real-world work of a live investigation agency, and Simon presents the topic in a calm, accessible and authoritative way. He also reminds viewers that those who prefer audio can listen via the Titan PI TV podcast, available wherever podcasts are downloaded.

At the heart of the episode is a simple but important message: not every vehicle tracker is unlawful or sinister, but if you suspect your car has been fitted with one without your knowledge, there are sensible checks you can carry out and professional options available to confirm your concerns.

Understanding the four main types of vehicle tracker

Simon begins by explaining that there are four main categories of tracking device people may encounter.

The first is the OBD port tracker. These are often inexpensive units bought online and plugged directly into the vehicle’s diagnostic socket, usually found beneath the steering wheel. Because they are powered by the vehicle itself, they can be relatively easy to deploy and, in some cases, relatively easy to find. Simon notes that if there is an unfamiliar plug sitting in the vehicle’s diagnostic port, it may be worth investigating further.

The second category is the hardwired tracker. These are more permanent installations and are connected directly into the vehicle’s electrical system. Some are entirely legitimate, particularly where insurers require a tracker to be fitted to a high-value or high-risk vehicle. Simon references the kind of professionally installed system that may be familiar to owners of prestige cars or vehicles considered especially vulnerable to theft. These units are often concealed more carefully than plug-in devices, which means they may be located in areas such as the engine bay or the boot, where power is available.

The third type is the passive tracker. Unlike more active systems, passive devices do not continuously transmit a live signal. Instead, they record location data that can be downloaded later when the device is recovered. This makes them harder to detect through signal-based methods alone, because they are not constantly broadcasting their presence.

Finally, Simon discusses transmitting trackers, which he describes as among the most commonly used devices in investigative work and among the more accessible options sold online. These units vary significantly in size depending on battery capacity and the length of time they are intended to remain in place. A shorter-term deployment may require a smaller battery and therefore a smaller device; a longer-term deployment may use a larger battery and housing.

The overall message is that trackers do not all look the same, and there is no single shape or size motorists should expect.

Why might a tracker be fitted to a vehicle?

One of the most useful parts of the episode is Simon’s explanation of the different reasons a tracker may be present.

He says one possible context is a matrimonial or lifestyle investigation, where concerns about a partner’s movements or changing routines lead someone to seek clarity. In such cases, a tracker may show only where a vehicle has been, not who was inside it or what happened after it arrived. That distinction is important, Simon suggests, because location data alone does not provide the full picture.

A second scenario is commercial investigation work. For example, a company might want to establish whether a vehicle is being used in a way that matches expense claims or reported business mileage. However, Simon is clear that employers must tread carefully. If the vehicle is a company car, there should be a policy in place stating that the vehicle may be tracked. Without that, there may be legal and evidential complications, particularly if the matter later reaches a tribunal.

The episode also covers the use of trackers as an aid to surveillance. If investigators need to lawfully follow a subject but do not yet understand that person’s routine, a tracker may help establish movement patterns so that any later surveillance can be carried out more efficiently and proportionately.

A fourth use, Simon explains, relates to surveillance-aware subjects. These are people who are alert to their surroundings and difficult to follow covertly. In such cases, tracking information may help an investigation team maintain distance and reduce the risk of detection.

For viewers, this section of the programme helps place the issue in context. A tracker may be present for legitimate insurance or fleet-management reasons, but it may also be part of a private or commercial investigation. The key issue is always whether its use is lawful, proportionate and justified.

The legal line: Titan’s emphasis on legitimacy

A particularly important theme in the episode is legality.

Simon explains that at Titan, any instruction involving a tracker must first go through a Legitimate Interest Assessment, or LIA. This process is designed to examine whether the intended deployment is lawful and justified. If the intention would amount to harassment, alarm, distress or stalking, then, he says plainly, it is illegal and Titan will not do it.

That point is central to the tone of the episode. While the subject matter could easily be sensationalised, Simon instead stresses professional standards, proportionality and compliance. In circumstances where a less intrusive option is available, he says that should be considered.

For businesses and private individuals alike, the message is clear: vehicle tracking is not a free-for-all. There are serious legal and ethical boundaries, and any use of this kind of technology needs to be approached with care.

Where should motorists look if they suspect a tracker?

The practical section of the episode is likely to be the most watched, as Simon outlines the places where a suspicious device may be hidden.

He advises viewers to start with the obvious: the OBD port beneath the steering wheel. An unfamiliar device plugged into that socket deserves attention.

From there, he recommends checking the boot area, especially around the spare wheel compartment or the space where a spare wheel would normally sit. Because there is often room and access to power in that part of the car, it can be an attractive location for concealed hardware.

He also advises a careful look inside the vehicle itself, including cubby holes, compartments and other storage spaces. In some cases, a device may be placed inside rather than underneath the car.

The bonnet area is another place to inspect, although Simon notes that the engine block is not always the ideal location for a transmitting device because of performance and signal issues. Even so, any unfamiliar component, wire or casing should raise questions.

Most importantly, he highlights the need to inspect the underside of the vehicle. This can be one of the most common places for externally attached units, particularly magnetic trackers. Simon encourages viewers to look for anything that appears out of place, recently fitted, or inconsistent with the vehicle’s usual components.

This kind of hands-on physical inspection is what Titan describes as a “fingertip search”. According to Simon, Titan offers this service for £300 plus VAT, equating to £360 in total. He also suggests that a trusted mechanic may be able to help by putting the vehicle on ramps and checking whether anything unusual is attached beneath it.

When a visual search is not enough

The episode goes on to explain that physical checks do not always settle the matter. Some devices are concealed more effectively than others, and not all trackers are straightforward to detect by eye.

That is where TSCM, or Technical Surveillance Countermeasures, comes in. Often described more broadly as a bug sweep, this process involves using specialist equipment to detect suspicious emissions and hidden devices.

Simon says Titan uses a suite of equipment worth around £30,000 to carry out these sweeps. However, he is careful to explain an important limitation: many modern trackers do not constantly emit a signal. To conserve battery power and remain discreet, they may switch off when the vehicle is stationary. In practical terms, that means a parked car may appear “clean” until the tracker is activated by movement.

To overcome this, the vehicle may need to be rocked slightly or moved so that the unit wakes up and begins transmitting. Only then can TSCM equipment be used effectively to detect a live signal.

For viewers, this is perhaps the clearest explanation of why suspicions can persist even after an initial check. A simple scan is not always enough, and professional equipment must be used correctly to produce meaningful results.

Reassurance, realism and professional advice

The closing message of the episode strikes a balance between reassurance and realism.

Simon acknowledges that not everyone can immediately instruct a professional bug sweep or specialist search. For that reason, he shares a number of practical clues to help viewers make a start themselves. At the same time, he is candid that if concerns remain, professional assistance is the safest and most reliable route.

His recommendation is to begin with a physical inspection, then escalate if necessary. If suspicions continue after a fingertip search, Titan can advise on the next step, whether that is a more detailed inspection or a full TSCM sweep.

For Titan PI TV, the episode is another strong example of the channel’s aim: to demystify investigative work while giving viewers useful, real-world insight into privacy, surveillance and personal security. It also reinforces Simon Henson’s position as a credible and measured voice on issues that often generate confusion and concern.

As ever, he signs off in personable style, encouraging viewers to give the episode a thumbs up, subscribe to the channel and stay tuned for future content.

For motorists worried about unexplained activity around their vehicle, unusual battery drain, unfamiliar hardware or persistent suspicions that something is not quite right, this latest Titan PI TV instalment offers a timely reminder: check carefully, stay calm, know the legal context, and when in doubt, bring in professionals.

What’s Next on Titan PI TV?

Titan PI TV continues to grow steadily, with 3,700 subscribers and counting – a testament to the appetite for straight-talking guidance in a complex field. If you found Simon’s insights useful, subscribe to the channel to catch future episodes. New content drops every Friday at 3:00 pm, offering grounded advice for investigators, agency owners, and professionals who work with them.

Thank you for reading, watching, or listening to this week’s blog post on Titan PI TV. For more expert advice and behind-the-scenes insights, subscribe to Titan PI TV on YouTube or download the Titan PI TV podcast wherever you get your podcasts. If you found this information helpful, please give us a thumbs up and subscribe to our channel. Stay tuned for more insights into the world of private investigations. Until next time, stay safe and keep learning!

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