When You Should Choose a Hardwired GPS Tracker

Not all GPS trackers are the same, and not every tracking situation calls for a plug-in or portable device. In many cases, a hardwired GPS tracker is the better, more reliable choice — particularly where security, concealment, and long-term tracking are important.

This article explains when you should choose a hardwired GPS tracker, who it’s best suited for, and how features such as optional kill switch capability can add another layer of protection.

What Is a Hardwired GPS Tracker?

A hardwired GPS tracker is a device that is permanently installed and connected directly to a vehicle’s electrical system. It is concealed behind trim or panels and operates automatically whenever the vehicle is in use.

Because it draws power from the vehicle, a hardwired tracker:

• Runs continuously
• Requires no recharging
• Is difficult to detect or remove
• Is ideal for long-term tracking

When Long-Term Tracking Is Required

You should choose a hardwired GPS tracker if you want:

• Ongoing tracking with no interruptions
• A “set and forget” solution
• No battery management
• Continuous operation without user input

This is ideal for vehicles that stay in service for long periods, such as work vehicles, fleet vehicles, or personal vehicles you intend to keep.

When Theft Prevention Is a Priority

Hardwired GPS trackers are strongly recommended when:

• The vehicle is high-value
• The vehicle is parked on the street or in public areas
• The vehicle carries tools, equipment, or stock
• Theft risk is a concern

Because the device is hidden and always powered, it is much harder for thieves to locate and disable compared to plug-in trackers.

When You Want the Tracker to Be Concealed

If discretion matters, a hardwired tracker is the right choice.

Hardwired GPS trackers are installed:

• Behind dashboards
• Under interior trim
• Inside panels or cavities

This makes them:

• Invisible to drivers
• Difficult to find
• Less likely to be tampered with

When Vehicles Are Part of a Business or Fleet

Hardwired GPS trackers are commonly used when:

• Vehicles belong to a business
• Vehicles remain in the fleet long-term
• You want consistent tracking across all vehicles
• You don’t want devices unplugged or moved

They provide stability, reliability, and uniformity across the fleet.

When You Want the Option of a Kill Switch

Some hardwired GPS trackers can also support remote engine immobilisation, commonly referred to as a kill switch.

This is an additional feature that allows the vehicle’s engine to be remotely disabled, preventing it from being restarted.

When installed correctly and used responsibly, a kill switch can:

• Assist in immobilising a stolen vehicle
• Prevent a vehicle from being driven away after recovery
• Add another layer of protection in high-risk scenarios

How a GPS Kill Switch Works

A kill switch works by interrupting the vehicle’s ignition or fuel circuit.

In practical terms:

• The GPS tracker is wired to a relay during installation
• When the kill command is sent, the relay opens
• This prevents the engine from starting (or restarts once turned off)

Important points:

• The vehicle is not shut down while driving
• Immobilisation is designed to occur only when the vehicle is safely stationary
• It must be installed professionally

For customers who require this feature, EZY GPS offers hardwired GPS trackers with optional kill switch capability, where suitable and compliant.

When You Don’t Want Devices Removed or Unplugged

Plug-in trackers can be:

• Accidentally removed
• Unplugged by drivers
• Tampered with
• Moved between vehicles

If you want tracking to remain active at all times, a hardwired GPS tracker is the better option.

When Battery Maintenance Is a Problem

Battery-powered trackers require:

• Recharging
• Monitoring
• Periodic replacement

Hardwired trackers avoid all of this by drawing power directly from the vehicle, making them ideal for:

• Busy operators
• Fleets
• Long-term installs

When You Want Maximum Reliability and Uptime

Hardwired GPS trackers provide:

• Stable power supply
• Continuous operation
• No downtime due to flat batteries

This is especially important for:

• Business vehicles
• High-use vehicles
• Security-focused applications

When a Hardwired GPS Tracker May Not Be the Best Choice

A hardwired GPS tracker may not be ideal if:

• You frequently change vehicles
• You only need short-term tracking
• You want a DIY install
• You plan to move the tracker between vehicles

In these cases, an OBD or portable option may be more suitable.

Is a Hardwired GPS Tracker Right for You?

A hardwired GPS tracker is the right choice if you value:

• Security
• Discretion
• Reliability
• Long-term performance
• Minimal maintenance

For many Australian vehicle owners and businesses, these benefits outweigh the convenience of removable devices.

Final Thoughts

Hardwired GPS trackers are designed for situations where reliability, concealment, and long-term performance matter. When combined with features such as optional kill switch capability, they provide a powerful solution for theft prevention and vehicle security.

Choosing the right type of GPS tracker ensures your system works when it’s needed most.

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