How to Disable Vehicle GPS Tracking Before Car Shipping

To disable GPS tracking on your vehicle before shipping, start by locating the GPS device, which is usually under the dashboard or near the steering wheel. Once you’ve located the device, disconnect the power source or remove the device altogether. It’s important to ensure that the GPS system is fully deactivated before transporting your car with an open carrier or with enclosed auto transport to protect your privacy and prevent any issues during transit.

What Are the Reasons to Disable GPS Tracking Before Car Shipping

Preparing a car for transportation will take a bit longer if you’re not sure how to block vehicle GPS tracking. Yet, there are several good reasons why you may want to disable it before the shipment day comes. In fact, every reliable USA auto transport company will advise you to do it.

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So, besides considering all the moving interstate tips, check why you should disable GPS in your vehicle:

Privacy concerns – If you’re transporting your car to a new location, you may not want anyone to be able to track your movements or know where your car is located.
Theft prevention – GPS tracking systems can be used by thieves to locate and steal your vehicle. By disabling the GPS before transportation, you can make it more difficult for thieves to find your vehicle.
Shipping regulations – Some car transportation companies may require that you disable GPS tracking on your vehicle before shipping it to prevent interference with their tracking systems.
Battery drain – Leaving your GPS on during shipping can drain your car’s battery, which can be a hassle if you’re picking up your car in a new location.

Overall, there are many things to consider when moving to a new state, from properly organizing a move to having your vehicle shipped securely. Disabling GPS tracking before transporting your car can help protect your privacy, prevent theft, and ensure a smooth and hassle-free transportation experience.

Vehicles getting transported on an open trailer

Take all the safety precautions when preparing your vehicle for transportation

How to Disable Vehicle GPS Tracking Before Car Shipping – A Step-by-Step Guide

According to a report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), GPS technology has been used in a small number of car thefts in the US. However, shipping cars in the USA can take quite a while, especially for people who ship vehicles from New York to Los Angeles. So, make sure you choose the right shippers and do everything to ensure safe transportation.

Luckily, disabling GPS tracking is a straightforward process that can help protect your privacy and prevent any issues during transit. Let’s see what you have to do.

Step 1 – Check the Owner’s Manual for Instructions on How to Disable GPS Tracking Device in the Car

The manual will usually provide information on how to remove a GPS disabler from a vehicle, from the location of the GPS device to disabling it properly. Look for a section on “GPS tracking” or “navigation system” in the manual, and follow the instructions carefully to avoid causing any damage to your vehicle.

If you can’t find the manual or it doesn’t provide clear instructions, don’t despair, and don’t give up on all the benefits of transporting your four-wheeler. Instead, contact the manufacturer or a professional mechanic for assistance. They can help you locate the GPS device and provide guidance on how to disable it safely and effectively.

man searching for a car shipping company

Check the online owner's manual if you can't find the physical one

Step 2 – Use an Aftermarket GPS Jammer or Blocker Device to Disrupt the Signal

The use of an aftermarket GPS jammer or blocker device to disrupt the signal may violate local laws and regulations. The use of such devices can interfere with other GPS-enabled devices in the vicinity, including emergency services, aviation, and navigation systems, posing a potential safety risk. Additionally, tampering with a GPS tracking device without authorization may lead to legal issues.

Step 3 – Remove the Tracking Device From the Car’s Power Source

This step will help ensure that the GPS device is completely deactivated and prevent it from draining the car’s battery during transportation. To remove the tracking device from the power source, start by locating the GPS device. It is usually located under the dashboard or near the steering wheel, but the owner’s manual or professional mechanic can help you locate it if you’re not sure.

Once you have located the GPS device, carefully disconnect it from the car’s power source. This may involve unplugging a wire or removing a fuse, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Again, refer to the owner’s manual or seek professional help if you’re not sure how to do this safely.

After disconnecting the GPS device from the power source, double-check to ensure that it is completely deactivated. You may need to turn on the car and check the GPS display to make sure that it is no longer functioning. If everything looks good, you can proceed with shipping your car with the peace of mind that your privacy is protected.

Open Carrier Auto Transport

Enclosed Auto Transport

Step 4 – Consider Resetting the System to Its Factory Settings

This step will help ensure that all GPS data and settings are erased from the system, providing an extra layer of privacy and security when transporting a vehicle to another state. To reset the GPS system to its factory settings, start by locating the GPS device and accessing the settings menu. Look for an option to “Reset to factory settings” or “Erase all data,” and follow the prompts to complete the process.

Keep in mind that resetting the system to its factory settings may also erase any saved addresses or settings that you have customized, so be sure to back up any important data before proceeding. After resetting the GPS system to its factory settings, double-check to ensure all data has been erased and that the system is completely deactivated.

Satisfied adorable woman verifying belongings

How to remove a GPS tracker from a car? Try resetting the whole system

Tips for Disabling GPS Tracking Before Car Shipping

While the process can vary depending on the make and model of your car, there are some general tips and best practices that can help you avoid mistakes and ensure that the GPS is fully deactivated and your privacy protected.

If figuring out how to disable GPS tracking on a car seems too overwhelming, allow USA Auto Transport to help you with that and other moving day preparations. We’ll explain how the transporting process works and help you with every aspect of your move.

Plan Ahead How to Disable a GPS Tracking Device Before the Shipping Date

Disabling the GPS system can be a time-consuming process, especially if you’re not familiar with your vehicle’s make and model. That’s how one of the auto transportation tips is to give yourself plenty of time to research and understand the process. This will allow you to locate the GPS device, deactivate it properly, and ensure that the system is fully disabled without rushing anything. Not to mention it will leave you enough time to do other things, like figuring out where to put brake fluid and other steps needed to adequately prepare your four-wheeler for transportation.

Take Precautions to Protect Your Personal Information

GPS systems can store sensitive information such as home addresses, frequently visited locations, and contact information, and it’s important to ensure that this data is erased before you book the shippers. Also, take some time to check the auto transport reviews and ensure you have professionals by your side.

When you avoid scammers, it actually doesn’t matter if you choose door-to-door auto transport or terminal-to-terminal car shipping – you can rest assured your vehicle will be delivered with utmost care. However, when it comes to protecting your personal information, you can reset the GPS to its factory settings, as mentioned earlier. This will erase all data and settings from the system and provide an extra layer of privacy and security.

Keep a Record of Any Steps Taken for Future Reference

Another important tip for disabling GPS tracking before you ship your four-wheeler is to keep a record of any steps taken for future reference, like disconnecting car alarms. This can help you keep track of what has been done to deactivate the GPS system and provide a record of any steps taken in case of any issues or disputes during transportation.

For example, you may want to keep a record of the date and time that you disconnected the GPS device from the power source or the steps taken to reset the system to its factory settings. You can also take photos or videos of the GPS device and the steps taken to disable it to provide additional documentation.

Inform the Car Shipping Company That the GPS Tracking System Has Been Disabled

When you book cross-country moving services and auto transport, be sure to inform the relocation team that the GPS tracking system has been disabled and provide any relevant documentation or records of the steps taken to disable it. This will help ensure that the company is aware of the situation and can take any necessary precautions to protect your privacy during transportation.

In addition, it’s also a good idea to double-check with the movers about their specific requirements and procedures for disabling GPS tracking. Some companies may have specific guidelines or regulations that you need to follow, and it’s important to understand these before transporting your car.

Take the Steps Necessary to Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport, and the Process Will Go Smoothly

Inspect your car for any existing damage, and document it with photos or videos. This will help ensure that any damage that occurs during the transportation is properly documented and can be claimed if necessary. Choose a reputable and experienced company, and make sure to read reviews and check their credentials before booking. Ask about insurance coverage and any additional fees or charges, and make sure you understand specific requirements and procedures for shipping.

Looking to ship your vehicle across the country? Contact USA Auto Transport today for a free quote and expert car shipping services. We’ll take care of your four-wheeler and transport it with the utmost care, ensuring it arrives at your new location safely and without a scratch.

FAQ How to Disable Vehicle GPS Tracking Before Car Shipping

Why Would I Need to Disable GPS Tracking in My Car Before Shipping It?

One reason is to protect your privacy. GPS tracking systems can be used to monitor your location and movements, and you may not want this information to be accessible to anyone who handles your car during shipping. Disabling the GPS can help ensure that your movements are not tracked, and your privacy is protected.

Another reason is to prevent theft. Thieves may use GPS systems to locate and steal vehicles. By disabling the GPS tracking system, you can make it more difficult for thieves to find your car and prevent theft.

How Do I Know if My Car Has GPS Tracking Installed?

Most modern cars have GPS tracking systems installed as a standard feature, but not all vehicles have this feature. One way to determine whether your car has GPS tracking is to check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.

You can also check for a GPS antenna on the exterior of the car or look for a GPS display screen inside the car. If you have a navigation system or an infotainment system, it is likely that your car has a GPS tracking system. Additionally, some cars may have a small black box installed under the dashboard or in the trunk, which is the GPS device.

How Do I Disable GPS Tracking in My Car?

Disabling GPS tracking in your car can be a bit tricky, as the process varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, there are a few general steps you can take to disable GPS tracking:

Check the owner’s manual – The first step is to check your car’s owner manual for information on how to disable the GPS tracking device. The manual should provide information on the location of the GPS device and how to deactivate it.
Locate the GPS device – Once you have read the manual, you need to locate the GPS device in your car. The GPS device is usually located under the dashboard, near the steering wheel, or in the trunk.
Disconnect the power source – After locating the GPS device, disconnect the power source to deactivate the GPS system. This may involve unplugging a wire or removing a fuse, depending on your car’s make and model.
Reset the system – You may also want to reset the GPS to its factory settings to ensure that all GPS data and settings are erased from the system.

Is It Legal to Disable GPS Tracking in My Car?

It is legal to disable GPS tracking in your car, but you need to be careful about how you do it. Using an aftermarket GPS jammer or blocker device is illegal in many countries and can result in hefty fines or even criminal charges. However, deactivating the GPS system by disconnecting the power source or resetting the system is legal.

What Should I Do if I Cannot Disable GPS Tracking in My Car?

If you can’t disable GPS tracking in your four-wheeler, you may need to seek professional help. A mechanic or electronics expert can help you locate and disable the GPS device safely and follow legal and ethical guidelines.

Will Disabling GPS Tracking Affect My Car's Performance or Safety?

Disabling GPS tracking should not affect your car’s performance or safety in any way. However, it’s important to ensure that the GPS system is fully deactivated before transporting your car to prevent any issues during transit.