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Vehicle Tracker Not Reporting

Steps to take if a vehicle has stopped sending location data or updates in RAM Tracking.

Updated this week

GPS trackers in your vehicles send location information to RAM Tracking. Sometimes trackers can stop reporting, making the information in your system incorrect or missing entirely.

While some issues like faulty hardware or outdated firmware need support team assistance, here are the troubleshooting steps you can try first:

Check the Detailed Report

If you suspect your vehicle isn't reporting, run a Detailed Report first. This shows where the vehicle has been today or over your selected date range.

Note: Detailed reports don't show real-time information. For the current location, check the Live Map.

Basic Checks To Try

Start the Vehicle

Try starting the vehicle. If it's been unused for an extended period, the battery may be drained, preventing power from reaching the tracker.

Check Cellular Signal

If you see the no signal icon, the vehicle may be out of cellular range. This happens when driving through tunnels, underground car parks, or areas with poor cellular coverage like remote countryside locations.

Check GPS Signal

Trackers need to communicate with satellites and require a clear view of the sky. GPS signals can be blocked by:

  • Metal roofs on buildings

  • Underground car parks

  • Areas surrounded by tall buildings

Remember: Trackers need both GPS and a cellular network to work properly.

Technical Checks

Battery Isolator or Voltage Reducer Issues

These devices prevent the starting battery from draining when the engine is off by reducing the voltage below 6V. However, RAM Tracking units need at least 12V to operate.

Signs of isolator problems:

  • Vehicle shows as "unknown state" on Live Map when the engine is off

  • Live Map only shows the last movement, not the current location

Solution: Wait at least 90 seconds after turning off the engine before engaging the isolator or voltage reducer. This allows the tracker to complete its reporting cycle.

Check Tracker Connection

Trackers stop reporting when unplugged. Plug-and-play devices can be disconnected due to tampering or during maintenance (mechanics use the OBD II port for diagnostic reports).

Reboot the Tracker

Check the lights on the tracker. If they're not on, perform a power reset:

  1. Turn off the engine

  2. Unplug the tracker from the OBD II port

  3. Wait 5 minutes

  4. Plug it back in

Note: This only works for plug-and-play devices.

Check Wiring and Fuses

For plug-and-play trackers:

  • Test the OBD II port power using a digital multimeter

  • Check voltage on pin 16 - if it shows 0 volts, check for blown fuses

  • The OBD II port is often fused on the auxiliary circuit

For wired trackers:

  • Check for blown fuses as the tracker connects to one of the vehicle's fused circuits

Still Need Help?

If you've tried all these checks and your vehicle still isn't reporting, contact our support team. They can perform advanced troubleshooting and arrange a technician visit if needed.

Have this information ready when you call:

  • Vehicle name and vehicle ID

  • Date and time of last report

  • Your contact name

  • Engineer visit location (if needed)

Important: If you have access to the vehicle, make sure the ignition is on so our support team can perform additional checks.

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