Hardwiring A GPS vehicle tracking system

11 May 2011

Installing a vehicle tracking device is a fairly simple process when you have the proper information, and tools required to do the job.
Pre-Installation Checklist:

1. Determine the year of the vehicle, make and model
2. Locate your particular vehicle’s wiring diagram
3. Have proper tools: Wire strippers, multi-meter, Phillips screwdriver, socket set, electrical tape, and soldering gun.
4. Info Sheet

Determining the year, make and model of your vehicle is important. It will allow you to find specific wiring diagrams online for you to use as a guide.

A simple search on Google for “vehicle wiring diagrams” should point you in the right direction for locating your particular vehicle’s wiring information.

Newer cars and trucks electronics use what is called a data-bus system, basically this means everything is controlled by a computer. Improper wiring could trigger error codes that could affect the operation of your vehicle.

That being said, you’ll always want to follow the below guidelines when doing the actual wiring:

1. Always, connect the ignition wire from the device to the ignition wire under the ignition column of your vehicle. Usually the ignition wire is a thicker gauge wire.

2. 12 VDC constant connection. Can also usually be found right next to the ignition wire under the column – and again, typically a thicker gauge wire.

3. Verify your ground source, and secure the ground wire.

You should always use a multi-meter to test your connections. Be careful when using a test light, probing unknown connections with a test light can be dangerous – installers have been seriously injured and some even killed, by mistakenly triggering the vehicles air bag system. A multi-meter, on the other hand is safer, and will give you a true voltage reading at your potential connection source.

Soldering vs. The Poke And Wrap Technique.

Generally speaking, soldering your 12 VDC constant and ignition source wires are recommended. This will ensure the connections will not vibrate loose, or come apart after time. Another solid technique is the poke and wrap which is showing in the video below:

Info Sheet – For Multiple Vehicle Installations:

It’s a good idea when installing multiple vehicles to have an info sheet with the device serial #, fleet vehicle ID #, license plate, and other pertinent information. This will assist later on down the line if you have any questions about devices and such.

Finally, if you have any installation questions, we are available to help answer your questions. You’ll be able to speak with an expert with over 30 years of mobile installation experience.

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About George Karonis

George Karonis is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of LiveViewGPS Inc., a company he established in 2008 with the vision of making real-time GPS tracking more reliable, affordable, and accessible for businesses of all sizes. Over the past two decades, he has built a reputation as an innovator in GPS tracking, fleet management, asset monitoring, and Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PTToC) communications. Under George's leadership, LiveViewGPS has grown into a nationally recognized provider of GPS tracking solutions, serving businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, law enforcement organizations, and public works departments throughout the United States. The company's technology helps organizations improve operational efficiency, protect valuable assets, increase driver safety, and reduce operating costs through real-time location intelligence. Before founding LiveViewGPS, George developed a background in security, surveillance, and emerging location technologies. His passion for innovation and practical problem solving has driven the development of products that combine dependable hardware with easy-to-use cloud software, giving customers actionable information when it matters most. In 2018, George expanded into nationwide Push-to-Talk over Cellular communications by launching PeakPTT, providing businesses with rugged, instant communication solutions that operate over LTE and Wi-Fi networks. His focus has remained the same throughout his career: delivering dependable technology backed by exceptional customer service and long-term customer relationships. George regularly writes about GPS tracking, fleet management, asset protection, business technology, and communication systems. Through this blog, he shares industry insights, practical advice, and emerging trends to help organizations make informed decisions about tracking technology and connected operations.