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  • Why GPS trackers may not work 🔧

GPS trackers have become increasingly popular for both personal and business use. They provide real-time location tracking, making it easy to keep track of vehicles, pets, children, and valuable assets. However, despite the many benefits of GPS trackers, there are times when they may not work as expected.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons why GPS trackers may not work and what you can do to troubleshoot the issues.


Common GPS tracking device problems

🔶 No Power or Battery Issues
One of the most common reasons why GPS trackers may not work is due to power or battery issues. Without a charged battery, the tracker cannot transmit its location to the server. If the battery is dead, the device will not work, and the tracker will stop transmitting its location. It is essential to ensure that the GPS tracker has sufficient power, either through a charged battery or a continuous power source.

🔶 No GPS Signal
Another common reason why GPS trackers may not work is due to a lack of GPS signal. GPS trackers rely on satellites to provide location data. If there is no GPS signal in the area, the tracker will not be able to provide accurate location data. GPS signals may be obstructed by tall buildings, heavy foliage, or other natural or artificial obstructions. If your GPS tracker is not transmitting location data, try moving to an open area with a clear view of the sky.

🔶 SIM Card Issues
Most GPS trackers use SIM cards to transmit data to the server. If there are any issues with the SIM card, the tracker will not be able to transmit data, and the location information will not be updated. SIM card issues can include a lack of credit, incorrect APN settings, or incorrect SIM card installation.

🔶 Network Issues
Sometimes, the network may be down or overloaded, leading to issues with the GPS tracker’s ability to transmit data. This can happen in areas with poor network coverage or during times of high network traffic. If your GPS tracker is not transmitting location data, check to see if there are any network issues in the area.

🔶 Technical Malfunctions
Finally, there may be technical malfunctions with the GPS tracker itself. This could include issues with the device’s firmware, hardware, or software. If your GPS tracker is not working, it may be worth contacting the manufacturer or supplier for support.


Configure your tracker to connect to our platform

In addition to the common reasons why GPS trackers may not work, it’s important to know how to properly configure your tracker to connect to our platform. Here are some steps to follow to ensure that your GPS tracker is properly configured:

  • Configure the server and port for data transmission
    When you create a unit in the tracking platform, you will be provided with a server address (IP or DNS) and port to which you should direct your GPS tracker. This will allow the platform to receive and process data from your tracker and display it on the map.

  • Set the UTC 0 time zone
    Regardless of your location, it’s important to set the UTC 0 time zone for your GPS tracker. This ensures that the time displayed on the tracking platform is accurate and in sync with the server.

  • Configure the APN
    The APN (Access Point Name) must be properly configured according to the provider of the SIM card you are using with your GPS tracker. Depending on the provider, you may need to enter just the APN or also the APN username and password. This is important for ensuring that the tracker can properly transmit data to the server.

By properly configuring your GPS tracker, you can ensure that it is able to connect to the tracking platform and transmit accurate location data.
More information about How to start you can find here.

If you have any questions in the process of setting up the unit and device you can reach out to us for assistance by sending an email to support@gps-trace.com.


In conclusion, GPS trackers can be incredibly useful tools for personal and business use. However, it’s essential to understand the most common reasons why GPS trackers may not work to troubleshoot any issues. Always ensure that the GPS tracker has sufficient power, a clear view of the sky, a functioning SIM card, a stable network connection, and no technical malfunctions. 

By doing so, you can ensure that your GPS tracker is functioning correctly and providing accurate location data.

rost stickied the discussion .
9 months later

Hello? i have error messege in toolbox, some car lites green like online but not move on maps. And in ToolBox i see this errors. So what is it can be? and how can i solve it?

{“error_text”:“message registration skipped: timestamp parameter invalid”,“event_code”:305,“id”:2392853,“ident”:“862430052136948”,“invalid_timestamp”:1830425541,“origin_id”:2392853,“origin_type”:11,“source”:“46.211.241.71:37620”,“timestamp”:1704195173.68498,“transport”:“tcp”}

  • kula replied to this.

    Dear DimoNET,

    First of all, we recommend checking that the time zone on the tracker is set to UTC= 0, regardless of which region you are in.
    If this does not help to resolve the issue please please write us to support@gps-trace.com specifying login, unit ID and device type, then we can check your issue and try to help.

    Also please write a link to this topic in your email request, so that we can understand that this is you.

    a month later

    Thanks for sharing this insightful information on common GPS tracker issues. It’s crucial to be aware of potential problems like power issues, GPS signal loss, SIM card problems, network issues, and technical malfunctions. Your troubleshooting tips provide valuable guidance for those encountering problems with their GPS trackers, helping users make the most of these devices for personal and business purposes.

    • kula replied to this.

      Dear Vicky31,

      We are always happy to help.
      If you have any additional questions, do not hesitate to write to us.

      2 months later

      My device concox gt06n this is IMEI:353701096092883 please help me, my gps is not working

      • rost replied to this.
        rost unstickied the discussion .

        Hello, bambangphetek,

        Sorry for delayed reply, just missed your message.
        Please write to us at support@gps-trace.com, then we can check your issue and try to help.

        We will be waiting for your email.