Are OBD Car Trackers Better Than Generic GPS Trackers? 

Most people know what wired trackers and portable trackers are. But have you heard of an OBD tracker? Chances are that you probably have not. They are not as popular, but OBD car trackers are easier to install and use. They have countless benefits as well. These trackers also work as positioning devices and have various features. Some even say that they are more suitable for vehicle tracking.

What is an OBD tracker?

OBD (short for onboard diagnostic) ports are in every car. The trackers you connect to this port are called OBD trackers. This connection allows you to get emission tests, vehicle diagnostics, and engine information as soon as the device records it.

What is the OBD port?

OBD ports first appeared on the market in the 1980s. Since 1996 they have been a requirement for the vehicle. Typically, this port is found on the right under the dashboard. So what does the OBD do? It gathers information on the engine and vehicular functioning. For example, the condition of the exhaust pipe – if the vehicle releases toxic gas, it will record this data and send an emergency alert. Now that OBD ports can be equipped with GPS trackers, they track location and share the data with you. It will be easier for you to keep an eye on the vehicle’s internal workings as well.

How is this tracker different from wired and portable trackers?

OBD trackers are connected to your vehicle’s OBD port. You must have seen this port getting scanned by mechanics. As these ports offer a direct insight into the vehicle’s condition, the purpose of such an inspection is to recognize any anomalies in the car. Hence, the tracker is installed inside the vehicle’s OBD port.

On the other hand, portable (also known as plug-and-play) trackers are installed behind the dashboard. These are attached to the vehicle through a magnetic case. These magnets are made from high-grade materials and are durable. These trackers use satellite technology to track the location of the car. They are usually small and compact and can track other objects. Portable trackers are often used to track family members, pets, luggage, golf carts, and more.

According to Family1st, A wired GPS tracker attaches to the car’s engine through a three-wire connection – ignition, power, and ground connector. It gets its data directly from the engine. Since installing wired trackers requires special skills, it was necessary to hire a specialist. Due to the complex installation process, you cannot shift wired trackers from car to car.

What makes OBD trackers a better choice?

OBD trackers have many hidden advantages. They are discussed further below.

• OBD trackers improve your driving skills. OBD trackers detect risky driving behaviors as soon as they happen. Your tracker will identify any excessive speeding or abrupt braking and alert you. This function allows you to keep an eye on your activity. You are safe on the road by encouraging good driving habits. It also facilitates others’ safety. Some trackers also display comparative driving data. You can see if there has been any improvement in your activity. Some even show graphical data of harsh driving, making it easier for you to understand your mistakes and improve.

• These trackers are easy to install and use. All you need to do is find the OBD port in your vehicle and connect the tracker to it. The port is located below the steering wheel and above the gas pedal. You just need to place the tracker in it. It collects all the data about your vehicle. You can easily access this data as well. Most service providers have an app or a website to display the information.

• No charging is required. OBD trackers do not have a battery. Therefore, they do not require charging! Most GPS trackers run on batteries, so you need to recharge or replace them once in a while. Drivers need to remove the tracker and carry out the task. It can be a tedious affair. Since nothing of the sort is required for an OBD tracking device you do not need to remove it from the port. You also don’t have to worry about your charging not working when you need it.

• OBD trackers collect all sorts of data. Since you plug these trackers inside the car, they can access all your vehicular information. You can track fuel economy, car mileage, vehicle diagnostics, harsh driving behavior, engine activity, etc. If it detects any anomalies in the vehicle, the tracker will alert you of that too, and you can take care of the issue before it becomes a bigger problem. With this information, you can help your car perform better. You can also improve your driving performance. Some OBD trackers also provide suggestions for improving driving and vehicular behavior.

Last Words

It is safe to say that OBD trackers have a variety of unnoticed benefits. They are simple to install and utilize. You may view every sort of vehicle data available to you with OBD trackers. The ideal option for people who wish to learn more about the inner workings of their car is an OBD tracker. With these gadgets, you’ll constantly be aware of the condition of your engine, any vehicle emissions, and most importantly, your safe driving. This information helps you improve and become a better driver and improve your car’s condition.

Usually, OBD trackers cost less than portable or wired trackers as well- another cherry on top! OBD trackers are affordable and offer more features for less cost. Since they are so small and compact, you can barely see them- they do not interfere when you’re driving and cause no trouble. These trackers are also less likely to be stolen. You cannot simply detach them from the OBD port, and it often goes unnoticed. So, if you wish to have a device that provides you with location information but focuses more on other vehicular data, an OBD tracker is the way to go.