Product Overview
The Spy Spot GV53MG is a 4G hardwired vehicle GPS tracker designed for real-time location tracking and remote ignition disablement. It provides reliable tracking on a 4G LTE network, offering accurate and consistent signal coverage.
Key features include minute-by-minute location updates when the ignition is on, up to 6 months of history reports, and the ability to remotely kill the vehicle's starter via a mobile app or website. Its compact size allows for discreet installation, typically by an audio or auto repair shop. This device is a robust solution for vehicle security, asset protection, and theft prevention, with coverage extending across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Image: The Spy Spot GV53MG GPS tracker unit, a kill switch relay, a toggle switch, and a mobile phone displaying the tracking application with a vehicle's live GPS route.
Installation Guide
The Hardwired GPS Device is a self-supporting tracking unit that requires only constant power and ground to operate. The unit contains two antennas: one for GPS data and the other for LTE communication. You can easily install this unit under the dash of the vehicle for concealment.
Mounting the Unit
To mount the unit, make sure the label side is facing the ground (down). Do not place the unit below a metal object as metal objects can interfere with the internal antennas' signals. Plastic, glass, and other materials do not cause interference with the signal. Underneath the dash is a preferred location, however other locations may work.
NOTE: Use of a Digital Multi-meter is highly recommended when probing electrical systems in the vehicle to prevent damage to other components. Once wiring sources are found you may want to disconnect the positive and negative terminals from the battery to ensure deactivation of airbags and other critical components.
3-Wire Installation
This is a simple 3-Wire installation guide that can easily be done by anyone with experience in wiring stereos, car alarms or other similar components. If you do not feel qualified, please seek the help of an installation professional for a nominal fee.
Ground Connection:
Connect wire #7 (black wire) to a grounding source. Make sure this is connected to a solid chassis ground free of plastics and paint. Do not use floating grounds from the vehicles electrical system. Secure with a bolt or screw.
12-Volt/DC Power Connection:
Connect wire #3 (red wire) to a constant 12-volt source from the vehicle. It is important that this source always maintains 12 volts and does not shut off with the ignition power.
Ignition Switch Connection:
Connect wire #4 (white wire) to a switched 12-volt source wire from the vehicle. This connection is used to monitor the ignition on/off status. It's important to make sure that the switched 12-volt source you have chosen drops to (0) zero with the ignition in the "off" position and returns to 12-volts with the switch in the "on" position.
Remaining Harness Wires
Using wire cutters, trim the remaining wires on the harness that were not needed to a manageable length. Make sure you secure any exposed wire on the ends with electrical tape or wire nuts to prevent contact that could cause shorts in the electrical circuit of your vehicle.
Powering up the unit
After attaching the wires and mounting the unit, reconnect the battery terminals and power up the unit by connecting the harness. When powered up, the LED status indicators on the unit light up. See Table 1 below for descriptions on what these LED status indicators mean.
It may take up to five minutes to lock in a GPS signal. If you cannot obtain a GPS signal, wait for two more minutes, reposition the unit, and then try again.
LED Status Indicators
Table 1 below describes the status of the unit based on the LED indicators.
| Color | Condition | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Red | OFF | GPS is asleep |
| SOLID | GPS is fixed | |
| Fast Flashing | Device is searching for GPS | |
| Green | 1 sec flash, 15 sec off | Good cellular coverage |
| 1 sec flash, 1 sec off | No cellular coverage |
Image: Close-up of the GPS tracker showing "THIS SIDE DOWN" label and two LED indicators, one for Cellular (Green) and one for GPS (Red).
Installing the Standard Starter Disable
NOTE: Wiring a Starter Relay in a Push Button ignition vehicle can be tricky. In some vehicles it may be hard to access the correct wires due to the location and design of the push button. Some installers will accept the installation and others may decline, it's up to the installer. ALWAYS CALL AHEAD AND ASK IF YOUR INSTALLER HAS INSTALLED GPS TRACKING DEVICES WITH THE START RELAY ON A PUSH BUTTON STARTER. If not, you may want to call around to find someone more experienced with push button starters.
- Black #86 wired to a constant 12V+ source.
- The wire from the Ignition Switch to the Starter will need to have Red #87a spliced with the Blue #30 to complete the circuit relay.
- Connect the White #85 wire from the socket relay to the green wire from the harness device. Add diode circle facing white wire. GV53 and newer have diode integrated in green wire.
- Connect the starter disable relay to the 12V starter wire. Follow Diagram.
- Optional relay bypass switch included, leave in on position. Show location of switch to the owner of the vehicle.
Image: Detailed wiring diagram for the Spy Spot GPS Starter Interrupter, showing connections between the GPS wire harness, socket relay, ignition switch, and starter, including an optional relay bypass toggle switch.
Installing the Starter Disable with ECM
Vehicles with an engine control module (ECM) installed between the ignition and the starter, require a different method when installing the starter disable. For these vehicles, connect the starter wire to the onboard computer, which typically carries a low voltage instead of the standard 12V.
WARNING: You must use a voltage meter and not a test light to measure voltage. If you tap a wire with low voltage (3 to 5 volts), you may lock down the vehicle.
Track the low voltage wire from the ignition to the ECM. Make sure that a 12V supply is coming out using the voltage meter. After locating the correct 12V wire on the ECM, perform the steps as described in "Installing the standard starter disable" on page 4.
Tips on Installing
- Ground the unit directly to the frame. Do not use small screws which are not attached to the frame for grounding.
- Splice the wires correctly and properly insulate them. Do not splice carelessly and without proper insulation.
- Make sure the device and all wiring are secured. Do not let the device and wiring hang haphazardly.
- Make sure you have proper light sequence before closing the dash.
- Use a constant 12V power supply for main power. Do not use a pulsating 12V power supply. Avoid tapping into power sources with a rheostat or anything else on the line that could provide a power spike when used. This will cause the device to simulate a Power UP event each time and could possibly short out the device! (ex: connecting to CB radio power wire for main power can cause a power spike each time the microphone is keyed by the user to talk).
- Make sure the unit is mounted with the label side facing down for antenna reception.
Note on Relay Bypass Toggle Switch:
This is a safety backup -- if the vehicle starter is disabled through the kill-switch online control, and there is currently no cellular network communication, the safety backup can be used manually re-enable the starter.
If installed, it must remain in the "ON" Position for normal operations, and disable feature to take effect.
Once switched off, the vehicle will always start.
It is important to hide the switch in a location so that only the authorized users will have access.
Operating the Device
The Spy Spot GV53MG GPS tracker offers comprehensive real-time tracking and alert features accessible via a web browser or mobile application. To begin using the device, ensure it is properly installed and activated.
Real-Time Tracking & Alerts
- Monitor Speed, Location, and Routes: Track your vehicle's precise location and speed in real-time.
- App & Email Alerts: Receive instant notifications for various events directly on your mobile device or via email.
- Motion Detection: Get alerts when motion is detected or when the vehicle stops.
- Ignition On/Off: Monitor the ignition status of the vehicle.
- Six-Month History Log: Access a detailed history of all routes and events for up to six months.
- Satellite & Street Views: View tracking data with satellite and street map options, including "breadcrumb trails" for past routes.
Image: A smartphone screen showing the Spy Spot GPS tracking application with a map displaying a vehicle's route and multiple location pins, indicating real-time GPS tracking and alerts.
Geo-Fencing - Smart Boundary Alerts
Set up virtual boundaries (geo-fences) to receive alerts when the tracker enters or leaves a defined area. This feature is ideal for protecting assets and ensuring peace of mind.
- Set Perimeters: Define custom geographical zones for vehicles or loved ones.
- Receive Alerts: Get instant notifications when the tracker crosses these defined boundaries.
- Asset Protection: Enhance security by monitoring movement in and out of specific areas.
Image: A hand holding a smartphone displaying the Spy Spot GPS app, showing a map with a circular geo-fence boundary being set, and a background image illustrating vehicles entering/exiting a fenced area with alert icons.
Remote Ignition Kill Switch
The GV53MG features a remote kill switch that allows you to disable the vehicle's ignition from any location using the mobile app or website. This is a critical security feature for preventing theft or unauthorized use.
- Remote Disablement: Turn off the vehicle's starter remotely.
- Theft Prevention: Immobilize the vehicle to prevent it from being driven away.
- Access Control: Manage vehicle access for various users or situations.
Image: An illustration showing various users (car owners, parents, fleet managers, auto dealers & lenders) benefiting from vehicle control, with a prominent "ENGINE START STOP" button and a red pickup truck, symbolizing the remote kill switch functionality.
For app downloads, visit the official Spy Spot GPS website: www.spyspotgps.com
Maintenance
The Spy Spot GV53MG GPS tracker is designed for low maintenance. Follow these guidelines to ensure optimal performance:
- Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the wiring connections to ensure they remain secure and free from corrosion.
- Cleanliness: Keep the unit free from excessive dust or debris. If cleaning is necessary, use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the unit is installed in a location protected from extreme temperatures, direct moisture, and excessive vibration.
- Software Updates: Keep the mobile application updated to the latest version to benefit from new features and performance improvements.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Spy Spot GV53MG GPS tracker, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No GPS Signal (Red LED Fast Flashing) | Unit is searching for GPS signal; poor placement. | Wait up to 5 minutes for signal lock. Reposition the unit, ensuring the label side faces down and it's not obstructed by metal. |
| No Cellular Coverage (Green LED 1 sec flash, 1 sec off) | Out of cellular service area; SIM card issue. | Move the vehicle to an area with better cellular reception. Ensure SIM card is properly inserted and activated. |
| Device Not Powering On | Incorrect wiring; no constant 12V power. | Check all wiring connections (ground, constant 12V, switched 12V) for proper installation and secure contact. Use a multimeter to verify voltage. |
| Remote Kill Switch Not Working | Wiring issue; no cellular connection; bypass switch engaged. | Verify kill switch wiring. Ensure the device has cellular coverage. Check if the optional bypass toggle switch is in the "ON" position for normal operation. |
| Inaccurate Location Data | Poor GPS signal; environmental interference. | Ensure the unit is mounted correctly and not under metal. Move to an open area for better satellite reception. |
| App Not Displaying Data | Internet connectivity issue; outdated app; subscription expired. | Check your mobile device's internet connection. Update the Spy Spot GPS app. Verify your subscription status. |
For further assistance, please contact Spy Spot customer support.
Specifications
- Model Number: GV50MG (Note: Product title refers to GV53MG)
- Product Dimensions: 2 x 1.8 x 1 inches
- Item Weight: 1.92 ounces
- Connectivity Technology: Cellular, Real-Time 4G LTE
- Special Features: Accelerometer, Alert Notification, Kill Switch Relay, Location History, Real Time Tracking
- Color: Black
- Manufacturer: Spy Spot
- Supported Application: Web Browser, Mobile App
- Specific Uses: Vehicle security, Asset protection, Theft prevention
- What's in the Box: Kill Switch Relay, SIM Card, User Manual
Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact Spy Spot customer service directly.
Customer Support:
- For technical assistance, installation queries, or service-related questions, please visit the official Spy Spot website or contact their support team.
- Official Website: www.spyspotgps.com
