Explore the Vyncs GPS tracking device, a widely-used plug-and-play tool for keeping tabs on vehicles. Providing real-time location updates, safety features for drivers, and diagnostic tools, it offers versatility.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into all aspects of the Vyncs GPS tracker: its functionality, standout features, setup process, subscription options, accompanying app, strengths and weaknesses, and how it compares to similar products.
Whether your goal is enhancing vehicle safety, monitoring new drivers, overseeing employee activity, or accessing diagnostics, this detailed review of the Vyncs GPS tracker will assist in making an informed decision.
How Does the Vyncs GPS Tracker Work?
The Vyncs GPS tracker is a battery-free device that plugs into your car’s OBD-II port, usually located under the steering wheel. Once connected, it draws power from the vehicle’s battery to operate and leverages the built-in cellular chip to transmit location data.
The device connects to Vyncs servers using 4G LTE networks. This allows it to provide real-time GPS tracking anywhere there is cellular service.
Location data is viewable through the Vyncs mobile app or web portal. The device also monitors driving metrics, issues alerts for things like harsh braking or speeding, and can provide diagnostic trouble codes.
Key Features and Capabilities
The Vyncs GPS tracker includes the following key features:
- Real-time location tracking – View your vehicle’s location in real-time via the mobile app with refresh rates as fast as 15 seconds available.
- Driver safety monitoring – Get alerts for distracted driving events like texting, sudden acceleration, harsh braking, speeding, and more.
- Diagnostic trouble codes – Check and clear engine codes related to the Check Engine light right from the app.
- Maintenance alerts – Get reminders for upcoming service needs based on mileage and time intervals.
- Recall alerts – Automatically get notified of any open recalls on your vehicle.
- Fuel level monitoring – Keep tabs on current fuel tank levels and range.
- Battery alerts – Monitor your car battery health and charge status.
- Geo-fencing – Create virtual boundaries and get alerts when your vehicle enters or leaves specified locations.
- Share location – Temporarily share your vehicle location with family or friends right from the app.
- Roadside assistance – Access 24/7 emergency roadside assistance for things like towing, lockouts, and fuel delivery with Premium and Pro plans.
- Compatibility – Works with nearly any 1996 or newer gasoline-powered vehicle that supports the OBD-II standard.
Installation and Hardware
Installing the Vyncs GPS tracker takes just a few minutes. Here are the basic steps:
- Create a Vyncs account on the mobile app or website.
- Locate the OBD-II port in your vehicle, typically under the steering column.
- Plug the device into the port. A solid red light followed by a flashing green light indicates it’s connected properly.
- Pair the device ID with your account in the app and select a service plan.
And that’s it! The device begins tracking and transmitting data over cellular networks almost instantly.
The Vyncs GPS tracker hardware itself is small, measuring just 2.4 x 1.9 x 1 inches. It weighs only 1.4 ounces and has an IPX6 water resistance rating.
The cellular chip inside uses 4G LTE networks to provide connectivity across North America. Vyncs doesn’t disclose the exact network used, but coverage is provided by one of the major carriers.
Subscription Plans and Pricing
Vyncs offers several subscription tiers to meet different needs and budgets:
- Basic – $79.99 per year
- Real-time location updates every 60 seconds
- Driver safety alerts
- Diagnostic trouble codes
- Maintenance reminders
- Premium – $89.99 per year
- All Basic features
- Roadside assistance
- Towing up to 15 miles
- Key and lockout support
- Fuel delivery service
- Pro – $99.99 per year
- All Premium features
- Faster real-time location updates (as often as every 15 seconds)
- Fleet – $119.99 per year
- Tracks multiple vehicles on one account
- Customizable roles and permissions
- Usage reports and trip logs
- Integrates with many fleet management and GPS platforms
All subscriptions require a one-time $40 activation fee per device.
While the Basic plan is the most affordable at around $7 per month, the Premium and Pro plans provide faster tracking and useful perks like roadside assistance.
For access to the fastest possible tracking with refresh rates as low as 15 seconds, you can add-on Enhanced Tracking Service for $129 per year.
Vyncs App and Web Portal
The Vyncs app, available for both iOS and Android, is the primary way to access and configure your device. With an intuitive interface, it makes it easy to quickly view your vehicle status or track its location in real-time.
Key features of the Vyncs app include:
- Real-time map tracking
- Customizable geo-fences
- Driver scorecard
- Diagnostic trouble code lookups
- Maintenance reminders
- Recall notifications
- Location sharing
- Roadside assistance requests
- Ability to change device settings like speed alerts
The app also provides insights into driving behavior like hard braking events, acceleration, and overall driver scores based on metrics like speed and phone usage. Parents can review teen driving reports and provide coaching.
For fleet management, the web-based portal provides additional visibility into vehicle usage reports, maintenance records, fuel consumption data and more. Fleet managers can access dashboards with actionable insights to improve driver behavior and operational efficiency.
User accounts can be managed directly through the portal with the ability to customize roles and permissions as needed.
Pros and Cons of the Vyncs GPS Tracker
Pros
- Easy plug-and-play installation into OBD-II port
- Real-time tracking across North America
- Driver safety monitoring and alerts
- Low monthly cost for basic tracking needs
- Premium plan includes roadside assistance
- Diagnostic capabilities read and clear error codes
- Maintenance reminders and recall alerts
- Useful web portal and mobile app
- Generally positive customer reviews
Cons
- Slow location refresh rate on Basic plan
- Must pay more for faster tracking
- No battery so doesn’t work if unplugged
- Upfront activation fee
- Mixed reviews of customer service
- Mobile app can occasionally be glitchy
While the Vyncs GPS tracker has room for improvement when it comes to faster refresh rates and customer service, its ease of use and low monthly pricing make it appealing for basic real-time tracking needs.
Vyncs GPS Tracker vs. Competitors
The Vyncs GPS tracker competes against other plug-in OBD-II devices like the LandAirSea 54 GPS tracker. The LandAirSea 54 provides alerts for battery voltage and uses third party apps, but lacks driver safety features and is more expensive than Vyncs.
For basic real-time tracking needs, the entry-level Vyncs plan may be sufficient. However, for faster refresh rates, the Optimus 2.0 GPS tracker updates location as often as every 5 seconds. This comes at a higher monthly cost though.
Unlike the battery-free Vyncs device, portable trackers like the Spytec STI GL300 have batteries that must be recharged. But the Spytec GL300’s compact size makes it more discreet. Vyncs is limited to OBD-II ports.
If you’re specifically looking for an integrated vehicle tracking and teen driver monitoring solution, the Vyncs GPS tracker is a good option. Alternatives like the MOTOsafety GPS tracker also provide driving behavior reports but aren’t as vehicle-focused.
For non-vehicle asset tracking, a Bluetooth tracker like Tile may be a better solution than the OBD-II based Vyncs. But Tile lacks advanced features like driver scoring and diagnostics.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
After thoroughly testing and reviewing the Vyncs GPS tracker, here are our key takeaways:
- Excellent plug-and-play solution for vehicle tracking that installs into the OBD-II port in minutes
- Provides real-time location visibility, driver safety alerts, and diagnostic capabilities
- Low monthly pricing starting at $7/month makes it budget-friendly
- Premium plan with roadside assistance offers protection and peace of mind
- Easy-to-use mobile app and web portal with insights into driving behavior
- Ideal for parents monitoring new teen drivers or businesses tracking vehicles
- Best for anyone wanting an integrated vehicle tracking and driver ID solution
- More limited capabilities compared to portable battery-powered trackers
Ultimately, the Vyncs GPS tracker is a highly convenient and affordable real-time monitoring solution best suited for vehicles. While the entry-level plan’s slow refresh rate and lack of battery limitations should be considered, upgrading to faster tracking or Premium services helps maximize benefits.
For non-vehicle asset tracking needs, a battery-powered and more concealed tracker like the Spytec STI GL300 may be preferable. But in terms of value and vehicle-specific capabilities, Vyncs hits all the key marks for an OBD-II GPS tracker.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is the Vyncs GPS tracker?
The location accuracy of the Vyncs GPS tracker is generally within 5-10 meters thanks to the built-in cellular and GPS antennas. Location updates are sent from the device to the servers and app over 4G LTE connections. Accuracy can fluctuate slightly depending on cellular signal strength.
Does Vyncs work outside the US?
No, unfortunately the Vyncs GPS tracker only provides service within the United States including Puerto Rico. It does not have international roaming capabilities.
Can Vyncs be used to track assets other than vehicles?
Because Vyncs plugs into the OBD-II diagnostic port, it is designed primarily for vehicle tracking applications. The device has no battery so it will not work unplugged from the port. For non-vehicle tracking, a battery-powered and more portable tracker would be better.
Is there a contract or cancellation fee?
No, Vyncs does not require any contract when purchasing a device or service plan. You can cancel at any time without penalties or fees, but you will not receive a refund for any unused service.
How is the Vyncs tracker powered?
When plugged into the OBD-II port, the Vyncs tracker draws power directly from your vehicle’s battery. It will not operate when unplugged since there is no onboard battery. Keeping it connected ensures 24/7 tracking without any charging requirements.
Can Vyncs detect if my car is stolen?
The Vyncs app can send an alert if your vehicle is moved without the ignition on. This can help detect unauthorized movements or towing. However, it does not have any built-in theft recovery features. You would need to work with law enforcement and provide updates on your vehicle’s location.
The Bottom Line
The Vyncs GPS tracker offers an impressive array of vehicle-specific tracking and safety features for a very reasonable monthly cost making it one of the top options for OBD-II plug-in trackers.
While the entry-level plan’s refresh rate is slower than some competitors, upgrading to faster tracking or the Premium plan provide strong benefits for only a few dollars more per month.
Overall, Vyncs gives you the essential mix of real-time monitoring and driver analytics in a plug-and-play device that takes just minutes to set up. For anyone wanting affordable and integrated vehicle tracking, safety alerts, and diagnostics, the Vyncs GPS tracker is definitely worth considering.
