Troubleshooting GPS Tracker Issues – A Quick Fix Guide

From time to time, you may sometimes find that your GPS tracker doesn’t work like it is supposed to. However, there are ways you can check and fix any potential issues. Please note, that the guide below is broad, there may be different functionalities with different brands and models of GPS trackers. 

Below are four common problems, followed by solutions, that you should try in order to rectify the issue:

1. Tracker Not Reporting Location:

• Check Power: Ensure the tracker is receiving power. For wired trackers, check connections and fuses. For battery-powered ones, check or replace the battery. Check the battery holder incase of any damage.
• Verify Signal: GPS trackers need a clear sky view. Move the vehicle to an open area away from tall buildings or dense trees.
• SIM Card Issues (if applicable): Ensure the SIM card is properly inserted and active with sufficient data.
• Check the Platform: Ensure the tracking platform (website or app) is functioning correctly. Try logging out and back in.

2. Inaccurate Location Data:

• GPS Interference: Move away from potential sources of interference like large metal objects or electronic devices.
• Check Antenna Placement: Ensure the tracker’s antenna (if external) has a clear sky view and isn’t obstructed.
• Software/Firmware Updates: Ensure both the tracker’s firmware and the tracking platform’s software are up-to-date.

3. Intermittent Tracking or Gaps in Data:

• Weak Signal Areas: The tracker may lose signal in tunnels, underground areas, or remote locations. This is often temporary. If it doesn’t rectify when approaching a more urban area, safely stop the vehicle in an appropriate location and restart it.
• Check Battery Life: Low battery can cause intermittent reporting.
• Data Plan Limitations: Some data plans have limitations that might affect reporting frequency.

4. Tracker Not Responding to Commands:

• Check Network Connectivity: Ensure the tracker has a stable network connection (GPRS or cellular).
• Restart the Device: If possible, try remotely restarting the tracker or, if accessible, power cycling it.
• Contact Support: If problems persist, contact your tracking service provider for assistance.

For best results, you should…

• Consult the Manual: Always refer to your tracker’s user manual for specific troubleshooting steps.
• Test in Different Locations: Test the tracker in various environments to identify potential signal issues.
• Regular Maintenance: Periodically check connections, battery health, and software updates to prevent issues.

Can a GPS work without satellites?

GPS, by definition, relies on a network of satellites orbiting Earth to provide location information. Therefore, GPS cannot function without satellites. 

It uses signals from these satellites to calculate a receiver’s precise position through a process called trilateration. However, there are alternative positioning systems that don’t depend on satellites.   

One such alternative is Inertial Navigation Systems (INS), which use accelerometers, gyroscopes, and other sensors to track movement and determine position relative to a known starting point. INS is commonly used in aircraft and submarines as a backup to GPS, as it can operate independently. 

However, INS can accumulate errors over time, requiring periodic recalibration with a known location. Other alternatives include terrestrial radio navigation systems like eLORAN, which use ground-based transmitters, and Wi-Fi or cellular network-based positioning, which estimates location based on proximity to known Wi-Fi hotspots or cell towers. 

These alternatives offer varying degrees of accuracy and have their own limitations, but they can provide location information in situations where GPS is unavailable. 

That being said, the aforementioned alternatives may not be available for trackers made to be applied to your vehicle. 

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