Why Does GPS Show the Wrong Location?

If you’ve checked your GPS tracker and found your vehicle showing up in the wrong place, don’t worry — it doesn’t always mean your device is broken.  This issue is often caused by “Multipath” — a phenomenon where GPS signals are reflected off objects before reaching the receiver. These reflections delay the signal and affect accuracy.

Causes of GPS Inaccuracy

            1.Tall Buildings or Nearby Structures

Signals from satellites may bounce off walls before reaching the receiver, creating delays and errors.

             2.Metal Structures Around the Vehicle or Device

Truck roofs, shipping containers, or metal canopies can reflect and block signals.

             3.Improper Antenna Installation

Placing the antenna under metal plates, near structural poles, or in blind spots increases reflected signals.

              4.Weather and Environmental Conditions

Mountains, high humidity, heavy rain, or fog can slightly bend or weaken signals before they reach the receiver.

               5.Electrical Interference from Other Devices

Communication equipment, radio transmitters, or high-voltage electrical systems can disrupt signals and worsen multipath effects.

 

How to Improve GPS Accuracy

✔ Install the antenna in an open space — away from walls, roofs, or large metal surfaces.
✔ Choose the right spot on your vehicle — where signals are clear from all directions.
✔ Use Multi-GNSS (Multi-satellite systems) — combine GPS with GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou for more satellites and stronger coverage.
✔ Reduce interference — avoid placing the antenna near other antennas or high-power electronics.

An inaccurate GPS location doesn’t always mean your tracker is faulty. In most cases, the issue comes from the environment, installation, or external interference. By knowing the causes and applying the right solutions, you can make your GPS tracking system more reliable and efficient.

At Forth Tracking, we don’t just provide GPS devices — we make sure you get accurate, dependable tracking every time.

📞 Call us: 02-615-0808
🌐 Visit: www.forthtrack.co.th
💬 Line: @forthtrack