How to Track Your Vehicle With the Navigation System

by Joanne Cichetti

A Global Positioning System (GPS) is a navigation satellite system, which broadcasts signals that a GPS receiver picks up. When the receiver establishes the signal, you can access the device's location in real time. It's a handy tool for locating and tracking vehicles, and is available for both cell phones as well as computers. Depending on the kind of software you purchase, you may be able to track the directions (on a map) and speed of your car. You may also be able to look at the vehicle's past locations.

Step 1

Buy a GPS tracking device for your car. Many companies sell GPS devices for locating cars, some of which include Teensurance, Zoomback and Tracking the World (see Resources). You can go to any website you want, order the device online and sign up for a navigation system service plan.

Step 2

Place the GPS tracking device in your vehicle. Usually, when you receive the device, the manufacturer suggests the ideal location in your car, such as dash in the front or the rear window. The device works better when it has an unobstructed view for receiving the satellite signal.

Step 3

Install the car tracking software application (comes with the device) on either your computer or your cell phone. GPS tracking software applications are Internet based and you have to access them using your phone browser or PC. Navigate to your web browser, and enter the URL provided by the GPS service company with whom you have signed up for a service plan.

Step 4

Log in by entering your username and password. Now your account will open on the web browser, in which you will find several tabs for each function/feature of the GPS tracking software. Click the relevant tab, for instance "Find my Position" or "Locate" to see where your car is at the moment.

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