It’s hard to imagine a time before GPS. For those too young to remember, there were many more instances of getting lost and having no ability to share your location, and ETAs were, at best, a rough estimate. Today, GPS provides highly accurate navigation, safety, convenience, and more. Driving a car with a built-in GPS system is a modern luxury most people prefer. But what cars have GPS tracking built-in? And what are your options if your automobile doesn’t have GPS?

In this guide, we’ll cover the list of cars that come from the factory with built-in GPS tracking systems. We’ll also explore viable alternatives like the versatile and full-featured line of LandAirSea GPS trackers. In many cases, these alternatives actually offer enhanced functionality and are more budget-friendly than built-in tracking systems.

Why Do Cars Have Built-In GPS Tracking?

Before going over the list of cars with built-in GPS tracking, let’s step back and look at the problems these systems are designed to solve. Car manufacturers incorporate GPS technology into their products for a variety of reasons, including:

Navigation Assistance

Integrated GPS systems provide real-time, turn-by-turn directions. If you can’t make a given turn or traffic gets heavier, these systems often offer dynamic rerouting. Navigation assistance makes travel more efficient and safer, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Theft Recovery

One of the more compelling benefits of built-in GPS tracking is the technology’s role in theft recovery. If your vehicle is stolen, law enforcement can work with the manufacturer and use GPS data to pinpoint its exact location. The rates of recovery and apprehending thieves go up with GPS tracking, making built-in systems a powerful deterrent.

Safety Features

Many modern cars offer emergency assistance services that utilize GPS data. In the event of an accident, the system can automatically notify first responders and provide location data. Some systems also have roadside assistance features, dispatching help to your location in case your car is stuck on the side of the road.

Which Cars Come With Built-In GPS Tracking?

While many manufacturers offer cars with built-in GPS tracking systems, the features can vary from make to make and even from model to model. However, here’s a categorized list of the most popular brands and their main GPS offerings:

Luxury Brands

1. BMW’s ConnectedDrive system utilizes GPS tracking to locate vehicles, recover stolen cars, and provide various remote services.
2. Mercedes-Benz offers a GPS called Mercedes.me, which provides vehicle tracking, emergency assistance, and remote access. The system is accessible through a mobile app.
3. Audi’s GPS system, called Audi Connect, provides tracking for navigation, security features, and remote services.
4. Tesla vehicles come standard with GPS tracking, which is used for the Autopilot functions and other advanced features.

Mid-Range Brands

1. Toyota’s SafetyConnect suite includes GPS-enabled emergency assistance, a stolen vehicle locator, roadside assistance, and a collision notification system that calls for help after accidents. SafetyConnect is typically only available on higher trim levels, however.
2. Honda offers a system called HondaLink for some models and trim packages. This service provides enhanced GPS navigation, remote access, and other location-based features.
3. Ford’s FordPass Connect (formerly SyncConnect) provides GPS tracking for vehicle location, remote start, and other connected features.

Budget-Friendly Models

1. Hyundai BlueLink provides GPS-enabled features like emergency assistance, remote start, and stolen vehicle recovery.
2. Kia’s GPS system, alternately known as UVO or Kia Connect, provides location tracking, roadside assistance, and other standard GPS features.
3. Subaru’s STARLINK Safety Plus packages include GPS-powered features like emergency assistance, theft recovery, and collision notification.

How Reliable are Built-In GPS Trackers?

Like most technology, built-in GPS trackers have pros and cons. These systems are generally highly reliable, but they have some limitations.

On the plus side, factory-installed GPS trackers integrate with the car’s infotainment system. This integration usually makes for a user-friendly experience, with navigation services and vehicle location information available with a tap. Built-in systems rely on manufacturer-supported cellular networks, which typically provide dependable coverage across multiple cell carriers.

On the other hand, many advanced features of built-in GPS systems require a subscription. Basic functionality like navigation is usually included, but real-time tracking, remote start, geofencing, and other advanced features are often only available with an ongoing subscription.

In addition, built-in GPS trackers are primarily designed for vehicle-related applications. Alternative trackers, on the other hand, can also be used to track personal belongings and other assets, making them more versatile than built-in units.

Alternatives to Built-In GPS Tracking

Built-in GPS tracking systems offer convenience and integration but may not be the best fit for everyone. You might not want to pay extra for a car trim package with built-in GPS, or you may not like the idea of recurring subscriptions. You may need more flexibility than what a factory-installed system can offer. Fortunately, aftermarket GPS tracking solutions provide compelling alternatives.

For a reliable and versatile alternative, look to LandAirSea GPS trackers. Popular trackers like the LandAirSea SYNC plug directly into your vehicle’s OBD II port, instantly providing real-time location tracking that’s accurate to within six feet. Geofencing — the ability to define a virtual boundary and receive alerts when your car exits it — is typically a subscription-based feature with built-in GPS tracking systems. However, the SYNC includes geofencing, along with useful features like speed alerts and full playback of your car’s travel history.

If you need more flexibility, the LandAirSea Overdrive is a real-time GPS tracker with the longest battery life in the industry. The Overdrive can track vehicles and other personal assets as you see fit. Its built-in accelerometer and other tech make it suitable for a much wider range of applications than any built-in GPS tracker could ever provide. The Overdrive is also IP67 waterproof rated, making it possible to mount the device to outdoor assets other than cars.

Why Choose LandAirSea?

If built-in GPS is convenient and user-friendly, why would someone choose a tracker from LandAirSea instead? There are a few reasons why:

1. Real-time tracking with global coverage for vehicles, other assets, and personal belongings.
2. Compact, versatile design suitable for use in vehicles, personal items, equipment, or other belongings.
3. Advanced features like motion detection, geofencing, and location history.

Compared to the recurring subscription costs required to get these features with many factory-installed GPS trackers, LandAirSea trackers are a more affordable long-term solution. With a one-time purchase and flexible data plan options, you can avoid ongoing monthly fees while still enjoying industry-best tracking features.

Who Should Consider GPS Alternatives?

Is built-in GPS tracking right for you? Or would you be better suited to an alternative like a LandAirSea tracker? Here’s who should consider GPS alternatives:

1. Owners of Older Vehicles: Aftermarket trackers like LandAirSea can affordably add GPS capabilities to older cars that never had the option of built-in systems.
2. Subscription Avoiders: Subscriptions add significant yearly costs, but standalone LandAirSea GPS devices offer a wide range of features without ongoing fees.
3. Versatile Users: If you need the flexibility to track outside your car—like monitoring your luggage or valuable equipment—you need a standalone unit like the ones LandAirSea offers.

How to Choose the Right GPS Tracking Solution

There are many aftermarket GPS trackers available at a range of prices. Choosing the one that’s right for you is a matter of considering these factors:

1. Key Features: Determine the specific features you require. For example, if you need geofencing or historical location data, be aware that not all aftermarket trackers offer these features. Narrow the list of options to the trackers with the required features.
2. Compatibility: Ensure the GPS tracker you’re considering is compatible with the vehicle or items you intend to track. The power source is important, as some units draw power from the vehicle’s OBD II port, while others run on batteries. If you choose a battery-powered unit, be aware of the run time before recharging or replacing batteries.
3. Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is key to utilizing GPS data and other tracking features. Look for a tracker with an intuitive app or web platform so you can easily view location information.
4. Durability: If you plan to track vehicles or other equipment that are routinely exposed to the elements, choose a tracker built to withstand water and weather conditions. Look for the water resistance rating, rugged casing, and long battery life.

LandAirSea GPS trackers stand out amongst the competition, as the various models offer real-time tracking, global coverage, compact designs, and advanced features. The SYNC’s OBD II compatibility makes adding GPS to an older vehicle or a car without built-in GPS easy. For durability, the Overdrive offers a rugged, waterproof design. Other LandAirSea models are perfect for different uses, too.

LandAirSea: Versatile and Reliable GPS Tracking

GPS is an essential feature of daily travel, but not every car offers a built-in tracker. Even if your vehicle has a built-in tracker, monthly subscription costs and a lack of versatility may limit its usefulness. Meanwhile, LandAirSea offers a wide range of aftermarket options with enhanced tracking capabilities. To learn more, explore LandAirSea’s versatile GPS trackers or contact our sales team for help finding the right tracker for your needs.