7 Reasons GPS Tracking Can Be Wrong (And How to Fix It)

GPS tracking has revolutionized fleet management, personal safety, and logistics. But even the best systems can show wrong locations, delayed updates, or complete signal loss. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common causes of GPS tracking errors—and practical ways to improve accuracy.

Comparison of inaccurate vs accurate GPS tracking on a digital map
Even advanced GPS systems can suffer from accuracy issues—but most can be fixed.

1. Satellite Signal Obstruction

Tall buildings, tunnels, dense forests, and even heavy cloud cover can block or reflect GPS signals—a phenomenon known as “multipath error.” This is especially common in urban areas (called the “urban canyon” effect).

GPS signal blocked by tall buildings in urban areas

How to improve it:

  • Use GPS devices with GLONASS or Galileo support (multi-constellation receivers).
  • Install antennas with a clear view of the sky.
  • In vehicles, mount trackers on the windshield or roof—not under metal surfaces.

2. Low Battery or Power Issues

When a GPS tracker’s battery is low, it may reduce update frequency or shut down non-essential functions—including GPS signal processing.

GPS tracker with low battery causing location inaccuracies

How to improve it:

  • Use hardwired trackers for vehicles (connected to the OBD-II port or main battery).
  • Set up low-battery alerts in your tracking platform.
  • Choose devices with power-saving modes that still maintain location accuracy.

3. Atmospheric Interference

Solar flares, ionospheric delays, and geomagnetic storms can distort signals between satellites and your device—especially during high solar activity.

Atmospheric interference affecting GPS satellite signals

How to improve it:

  • Use GPS systems with WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) or DGPS (Differential GPS) for real-time corrections.
  • Check space weather forecasts if precision is critical (e.g., surveying, aviation).

4. Poor Device Quality or Outdated Firmware

Cheap or outdated GPS trackers often use low-sensitivity receivers that struggle in weak-signal areas.

How to improve it:

  • Invest in industrial-grade trackers from reputable brands.
  • Regularly update firmware to fix bugs and improve signal processing.

5. Incorrect Installation

Metal surfaces, electronic interference (from radios, inverters), or improper grounding can disrupt GPS performance.

How to improve it:

  • Follow manufacturer installation guidelines.
  • Avoid placing trackers near high-power electronics.

6. Software or Server Delays

Sometimes the GPS device works fine—but the tracking platform delays updates due to server load or poor internet connectivity.

How to improve it:

  • Choose a tracking provider with robust cloud infrastructure (like SatellitalTracking.com).
  • Ensure your device uses cellular networks with strong local coverage (4G/LTE preferred).

7. User Error or Misconfiguration

Incorrect geofence settings, wrong time zones, or disabled location services can create false alerts or missing data.

How to improve it:

  • Train users on proper system setup.
  • Use platforms with intuitive dashboards and real-time diagnostics.

Final Thoughts: Accuracy Is Achievable

While no GPS system is 100% perfect, understanding these common pitfalls—and applying the right fixes—can dramatically improve reliability. Whether you’re managing a fleet in Mexico City, tracking assets in Texas, or monitoring personal devices across Latin America, precision starts with the right hardware, installation, and platform.

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