We’ve discussed how to install GPS trackers on this blog before. Our article, “How Can I Install a GPS Tracker in my Transport Fleet?” will show you how to install a cellular-based GPS tracker. However, you do also have the option of hardwiring your GPS tracker. This option is a little more time-consuming, but your GPS tracker will operate when the vehicle’s ignition isn’t on. Let’s learn how to install a hardwired GPS tracker.
Where to Put a Hardwired GPS Tracker
You have to answer this question before you can begin the installation process. The most common place to install one is under the dashboard at the base of the windshield. You can install it anywhere, but keep some things in mind.
First, GPS signals penetrate glass, foam, wood, plastic, and fiberglass. However, they will not penetrate through metal. This means that you should not install the tracker under your hood.
You will also want to keep your GPS tracker away from other electronics as much as possible. Other electronics can interfere with your GPS signal and cause problems.
Steps for Installing a Hardwired GPS Tracker
There are seven steps involved in installing a GPS tracker through hardwiring.
- Turn off your car’s ignition. You want to ensure that there isn’t any power flowing through your car – otherwise, the process can become dangerous.
- Remove the panels and covers of your car’s dashboard. This way, you can access where you will be installing the device.
- Place the tracking device under the dashboard. You can use a zip-tie to secure the tracker in place.
- Attach the wiring harness to the transceiver. At this point, you will also want to find a constant 12 VDC power source.
- Connect the power source to the tracking device’s red wire. You can use a “poke and wrap” technique to accomplish this.
- Connect the device’s white wire to the vehicle’s ignition/accessory wire. You’ll find this in your steering column.
- Connect the ground wire to the ground wire on the device. Your device’s instructions should help you accomplish this part.
Pros and Cons of Hardwiring Your Device
Our article, “Hardwired GPS Trackers: Pros and Cons versus Plug-n-Play Devices,” discusses the differences between hardwired and plug-n-play devices. We will summarize the pros and cons of hardwiring here.
Pros of Hardwiring
- Secure Installation: The device has a minimum three-wire connection, and most devices can notify you if you lose power.
- Additional Data/Features: You can use hardwired GPS trackers to unlock vehicle doors, turn the motor off or on, enable or disable the vehicle’s starter, or monitor vehicle components.
- Electronic Logging Devices: Electronic logging devices are critical to maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. This tracker makes it easier to keep these records with advanced monitoring.
Cons of Hardwiring
- Downtime: Hardwiring takes much longer than a plug-and-play device to install.
- Difficult to Transfer: If you need to move your tracking device to another vehicle, it can become challenging as you must deal with the downtime again.
Get the Best Tracking Device
Azuga’s GPS trackers can be installed through hardwiring or simply by plugging them in. Our full-featured tracking solution helps keep your fleet safe, cost-effective, and effective. Learn more about what we can accomplish together by scheduling a demo with an expert today!
