Key Takeaways For Waterproof GPS Trackers
• Most magnetic GPS trackers are water-resistant, not fully waterproof, but are designed to withstand harsh weather like rain, puddles, and road spray.
• Waterproof capability is measured by an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, such as IP65 or IP67. Higher numbers indicate better protection against dust and water.
• A rating of IP65 means the tracker is protected from water jets, while IP67 means it can be submerged in up to 1 metre of water for 30 minutes.
• The strong magnets and weatherproof casing allow these devices to be securely placed on the metal undercarriage of a vehicle, providing a discreet tracking solution.
• While water-resistant, it's crucial to check the specific IP rating of any device before purchase to ensure it meets your requirements for outdoor use.
Yes, most high-quality magnetic GPS trackers are designed to be highly water-resistant and weatherproof, but it is important to understand the difference between "water-resistant" and fully "waterproof." These devices are built to be placed externally on vehicles, so they are engineered to withstand exposure to rain, snow, puddles, and road spray. Their level of protection is defined by an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which tells you exactly how resilient they are to the elements. To ensure you get a device suited for the toughest conditions, it is always best to check the specifications on professional-grade GPS trackers.
Understanding IP Ratings: Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
When you see terms like "weatherproof" or "water-resistant," they can be vague. The key to understanding a device's true durability against the elements lies in its IP rating. This international standard provides a clear, two-digit code that classifies the degree of protection a device's enclosure offers against intrusions from solids (like dust) and liquids (like water).
The First Digit: Solids
The first number in an IP rating (e.g., the '6' in IP67) refers to its protection against solid particles. This scale runs from 0 (no protection) to 6 (completely dust-tight). For a magnetic tracker placed on a vehicle's exterior, a rating of 6 is ideal as it ensures that dust, dirt, and grime from the road cannot penetrate the casing and damage the internal electronics.
The Second Digit: Liquids
The second number is the one that relates to water protection. This scale is more complex and ranges from 0 to 9. Here are some of the most common ratings you will see for magnetic GPS trackers:
• IPX4 - Splash Resistant: Can handle water splashing from any direction.
• IPX5 - Jet Resistant: Protected against low-pressure water jets. This is suitable for enduring heavy rain and car washes.
• IPX6 - Powerful Jet Resistant: Can withstand high-pressure water jets.
• IPX7 - Submersion up to 1 metre: The device can be submerged in up to 1 metre of fresh water for up to 30 minutes without damage.
• IPX8 - Submersion beyond 1 metre: Can be submerged deeper than 1 metre (the exact depth is specified by the manufacturer).
For a magnetic tracker attached to the undercarriage of a vehicle, a rating of at least IP65 is recommended. This ensures it can handle being blasted by puddles and spray. An IP67 rating offers even greater peace of mind, confirming the device can survive temporary submersion if the vehicle drives through deep water.
Why Do Magnetic GPS Trackers Need to Be Weatherproof?
Magnetic GPS trackers are valued for their versatility and covert nature. Their powerful built-in magnets allow them to be attached to any flat, metallic surface without the need for complex wiring or installation. The most common placement is on the metal chassis or frame underneath a vehicle.
This placement makes weather resistance non-negotiable. A device in this location is exposed to a constant barrage of environmental challenges:
• Rain and Snow: Direct exposure to precipitation.
• Puddles and Standing Water: The undercarriage is frequently splashed or even briefly submerged.
• Road Salt and Grime: In winter, corrosive road salt and dirt can coat the device.
• High-Pressure Washes: The tracker must be able to survive a visit to the car wash.
Without a robust, sealed casing, moisture would quickly seep in and destroy the delicate internal components, including the GPS receiver, GSM modem, and battery. The combination of a strong magnetic hold and a high IP rating is what makes these devices a reliable choice for discreet asset and vehicle tracking. If you need a device that can be deployed quickly and withstand the elements, explore our range of magnetic GPS trackers.
Are There Any Fully Waterproof Options?
While many devices are highly water-resistant, true "waterproof" status (like that of a diver's watch) is rare and often unnecessary for this application. An IP67 rating is more than sufficient for virtually all land-based vehicle tracking scenarios. These devices are built to survive harsh weather, not deep-sea exploration.
For added protection, many users place their magnetic trackers inside an additional waterproof pouch or case, especially if the tracker itself only has a lower IP rating like IP65. This can provide an extra layer of security against extreme conditions or if the device's seals are compromised over time.
However, it is crucial to remember that placing a tracker inside another container can sometimes interfere with its ability to receive satellite signals. Always test the device in its final configuration to ensure it can still obtain a reliable GPS lock.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Tool for the Job
So, are magnetic GPS trackers waterproof? The most accurate answer is that they are built to be highly weather-resistant to a certified standard. A quality magnetic tracker will have an IP rating (like IP65 or IP67) that guarantees its resilience against the rain, puddles, and dirt it will inevitably encounter when attached to a vehicle.
This durability, combined with their strong magnets and long battery life, makes them an incredibly flexible tool for monitoring vehicles, trailers, plant machinery, and other valuable assets. When making a purchase, don't just look for the word "waterproof." Instead, check for a specific IP rating to be certain that the device you are choosing is tough enough to handle the job.
To ensure your assets are protected no matter the weather, invest in a device built for the outdoors. Browse our curated selection of robust and reliable GPS trackers today.
