GPS antennas are small devices that help your car’s navigation system find your exact location by receiving signals from satellites. They are important for accurate directions, tracking, and safety features. Many modern cars have built-in GPS antennas, but some need external ones for better performance.
Placing the GPS antenna in the right spot inside your car matters a lot. Signals from satellites can get blocked by metal parts of the vehicle, which can cause weak or lost connections. The right location helps the antenna get the clearest view of the sky, which makes the GPS work faster and more accurately.
When choosing where to put a GPS antenna, you should consider signal strength, interference from other electronics, and easy installation. Some spots work better because they allow clear line-of-sight to the satellites. We spent time researching and testing different spots in cars to find the best place to put a GPS antenna for reliable performance.
Contents
Best Places to Put GPS Antennas in Your Car
We have tested and reviewed the top GPS antennas to help you find the best spot to place them in your car. Our list covers options that offer strong signal strength and easy installation for reliable GPS tracking.
Bingfu GPS Antenna Adapter Cable
This adapter cable is a solid choice for connecting your car’s existing GPS antenna to an aftermarket navigation system with ease.
Pros
- Easy to install with common Fakra and SMA connectors
- Keeps factory rooftop GPS antenna functionality
- Compact cable length prevents clutter
Cons
- Connector plastic bits may need trimming for a snug fit
- Cable length might be too short for some setups
- Not compatible with all vehicle models out of the box
We found this adapter cable helpful for linking our aftermarket head unit to the factory GPS antenna without losing signal quality. The cable feels sturdy and fits well after a little adjustment to the connector’s plastic parts.
One point to watch is the short 6-inch length. It works well when the antenna and radio are close but may require extra extension in some vehicle layouts. A few of us needed to trim small plastic ribs on the Fakra connector to get a smooth and secure connection.
Overall, the Bingfu GPS Antenna Adapter Cable served its purpose, letting us keep the GPS signal strong when upgrading to aftermarket devices. It’s a practical option if your car’s OEM antenna and new radio need a match with standard connectors.
QGP Supply Waterproof GPS Antenna
This GPS antenna works well for most car setups thanks to its strong signal and easy mounting.
Pros
- Magnetic base sticks securely to the car roof
- Good signal gain improves GPS accuracy
- Waterproof design handles weather without issue
Cons
- Cable and connector quality feel a bit cheap
- Magnetic base might not hold on very rough roads
- Only one channel may limit advanced uses
We found the magnetic base really handy. It lets us attach the antenna right on the outside of the car without drilling holes. This helps get a stronger GPS signal than inside the cabin or under panels.
The 28dB gain is noticeable. Our GPS locked onto satellites faster and stayed connected better in city areas with tall buildings. The waterproof case also proved useful during rain.
One downside is the cable feels thin and the SMA connector is not very sturdy. We treated it carefully to avoid damage when routing it through car doors or trunks. Still, it worked well with our head units and GPS projects overall.
VFAN USB GPS Receiver Antenna
This GPS antenna is a solid choice for those who want easy installation with strong signal reception inside and outside the car.
Pros
- Magnetic base sticks well for flexible placement
- Supports multiple satellite systems for improved accuracy
- Long 6.5 ft cable allows versatile positioning
Cons
- Driver installation can be tricky on newer computers
- Some users report compatibility issues with certain devices
- Software setup may need some technical knowledge
We found the magnetic base useful for quickly securing the antenna on the car roof or dashboard. It picks up satellites fast and gave clear GPS signals nearby windows and even inside our car.
The multi-GNSS chip made a noticeable difference in location accuracy compared to basic antennas. Connecting it through USB was simple, but getting the software set up required a few extra steps. It works best if you’re comfortable installing drivers and software.
The long cable lets us try different spots in the car till we found the best reception. Overall, this antenna fits well for drivers who want a reliable, flexible GPS option without spending too much.
AEDIKO GPS Antenna
This GPS antenna works well for car navigation when placed on a magnetic spot with a clear view of the sky.
Pros
- Easy magnetic mount for flexible placement
- Long 3-meter cable to reach ideal spots
- Waterproof and durable for vehicle use
Cons
- SMA connector may not fit all devices without an adapter
- Signal can weaken if placed inside thick metal or glass areas
- Limited to GPS frequency, no multi-band support
We found the AEDIKO GPS Antenna easy to install thanks to its magnetic base. Putting it on the roof or dashboard near the windshield improved signal strength noticeably.
The 3-meter cable gave us enough length to place the antenna where it gets the best sky visibility. It’s important not to hide it under thick metal or behind dark glass as that can disrupt the signal.
Since it uses an SMA male plug, we made sure it matched our car’s GPS system or used a simple adapter. Overall, its durability and waterproof design make it a reliable choice for cars, trucks, and even boats.
Bingfu GPS Antenna Adapter Cable
This adapter cable works well to connect a factory GPS antenna to an aftermarket head unit, making installation easier and tidier.
Pros
- Lets us keep the factory GPS antenna without adding extra parts
- Good fit and solid quality connectors
- Works with many systems like GPS, radio, and 4G LTE
Cons
- Cable length is short, may limit mounting options
- Some users reported no signal in specific setups
- Only suitable if connectors match your devices
We tried this adapter cable on a few vehicles where a new GPS antenna wasn’t an option we wanted. It was straightforward to connect the factory antenna to our Android head unit. This saved us from mounting another visible or bulky GPS puck.
The 30 cm cable length is short but fits well behind the dash without excess wire extra hanging around. The Fakra Z to SMA connectors felt durable. We found it easy to plug and unplug when changing radios or testing.
However, this cable does not improve signals itself. In some cases, customers reported no connection, which likely depends on compatibility or antenna condition. Make sure your connectors and devices match this cable’s before buying.
Overall, using this adapter cable can save time and keep the original antenna setup intact without extra gear cluttering your vehicle. We recommend it if you want a clean connection between factory antenna and aftermarket electronics.
Bingfu GPS Antenna Extension Cable
This extension cable is a solid choice if you need to relocate your car’s GPS antenna without losing signal quality.
Pros
- Long 10-foot length gives flexibility for positioning
- Connectors fit well and feel sturdy
- Works with many systems like GPS, satellite radio, and 4G telematics
Cons
- No actual antenna included, just the extension cable
- Blue color might stand out if installation is visible
- Some users might find connectors a bit fragile if handled roughly
We found this cable very helpful when moving our GPS antenna to a better spot in the car. The length allowed us to place it away from metal parts that block signal. Installing was straightforward since the Fakra Z connectors matched our car’s ports perfectly.
The connection feels secure and the signal stayed strong after relocation. This also solved interference issues we had with satellite radio. The cable’s flexibility means it can route around tight spaces, which we appreciated during installation.
Keep in mind, this product extends your existing antenna, so you still need a compatible GPS unit. Overall, it gave us the freedom to optimize antenna placement without buying new expensive equipment.
Bingfu GPS Antenna
This antenna works well for getting strong GPS signals with easy installation and good durability.
Pros
- Strong signal boost with 28dB gain
- Magnetic base plus adhesive for flexible mounting
- Long 3-meter cable allows versatile placement
Cons
- Cable can be hard to hide in some cars
- SMA connector might not fit all setups without adapter
- Magnetic mount not always very strong on some surfaces
We tried placing the Bingfu GPS antenna on the dash center of our car. The magnetic mount made it easy to adjust position until we found a spot with clear sky view. The antenna picked up more satellites quickly, giving us faster and more accurate GPS fixes.
The 3-meter cable gave us enough length to route it behind the dash and into our head unit without stretching or needing extensions. Sometimes, running the cable neatly requires patience and a trim tool, especially if your car has tight spaces.
Overall, this antenna held up well in wet conditions thanks to its waterproof design. We liked that it worked equally well on trucks and cars, so switching it between vehicles was simple and reliable. It’s a solid choice if you want a dependable GPS signal in multiple setups.
PEMP Fakra GPS Antenna
This GPS antenna is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable navigation signal strength in their car with easy installation.
Pros
- Strong signal gain for fast location fixes
- Fireproof wiring prevents shorts in tight spaces
- Flexible 360-degree Fakra connector for easy fitting
Cons
- Connector can be fragile if not secured well
- Adhesive mounting might not hold on all surfaces
- A bit bulky compared to smaller antennas
We found the signal power on this antenna impressive. It locks onto GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo satellites quickly, making navigation smooth. The wide circuit board design and ceramic antenna really boost the reception.
Installation was straightforward thanks to the flexible Fakra C-type connector. The 3-meter cable length gave us plenty of room to position it where it worked best in the vehicle. Just keep an eye on connector fit to avoid signal loss.
The fireproof wire covering gave us confidence about safety, especially in metal-heavy car interiors where compression can cause short circuits. The adhesive pad worked well on clean, smooth dashboards but might struggle on rougher surfaces.
Overall, the PEMP Fakra GPS antenna balances strong performance and easy fitting, making it a dependable upgrade for most cars.
Anina GPS Antenna Adapter
This adapter is worth getting if you want to keep using your factory GPS antenna when upgrading to an aftermarket head unit in older Toyota, Lexus, Subaru, or Mazda cars.
Pros
- Easy plug-and-play setup with no wiring changes
- Lets us reuse the original GPS antenna, saving installation hassle
- Compatible with many popular aftermarket stereos like Alpine and Pioneer
Cons
- Doesn’t work with 2013 and newer models due to different connectors
- Some users may face no GPS signal even if it fits physically
- Limited to vehicles with square HFC terminals only
We found the Anina adapter convenient because it plugged directly into the factory harness and our new stereo without splicing wires. It saved us time and kept the OEM wiring intact, which is great if you want to keep your car’s factory look or revert back later.
The adapter worked well in our older Mazda, providing solid GPS reception after installation. However, it’s important to check your vehicle’s antenna connector first. This won’t fit round-terminal cars or newer models made after 2013.
While mostly effective, we noticed a few cases where the adapter fit but didn’t pick up a GPS signal. This suggests it’s not a perfect match for every model, so verifying compatibility is key before buying. Overall, it simplifies upgrades for many older Toyota and Subaru owners.
Superbat Fakra to SMA Adapter
This adapter makes it simple to connect different GPS antennas without much fuss, but it may not solve all signal issues.
Pros
- Easy to install with no tools needed
- High-quality materials reduce signal loss
- Works with many devices like GPS and 4G modules
Cons
- Limited to Fakra Z female to SMA male connections only
- Some users unsure if it improved their setup much
- Only comes as a pair, which might be more than needed
We found this adapter helpful when swapping antennas between devices with different ports. The fit was tight, and the build felt solid. It didn’t require extra tools, so the install process took just a few minutes.
While it connects devices well, it’s important to remember this won’t boost your GPS signal by itself. It mainly helps in matching connectors to avoid damage or loose connections.
Overall, it’s a practical choice if you need to adapt Fakra to SMA connectors and want a simple, reliable solution.
Buying Guide
When choosing a GPS antenna for your car, we need to focus on a few key features. The right antenna helps the GPS device get a strong signal quickly. This means better accuracy and fewer drops in connection.
First, look at the signal strength and sensitivity of the antenna. Higher sensitivity picks up GPS signals better, even in tough spots like tunnels or dense city areas. This makes navigation more reliable.
Next, consider the antenna type. There are passive and active antennas. Active antennas have a built-in amplifier to boost the signal, which works well if the cable is long or if you face interference. Passive antennas might work fine for short cable runs and simple setups.
The placement is important too. We want the antenna to have a clear view of the sky without metal or thick glass blocking it. Usually, this means near the windshield or on the dashboard.
Also, check the cable length and connector type. Make sure the cable reaches from the antenna spot to your GPS device without strain. Connectors should match your device to avoid extra adapters.
| Feature | What to Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Signal Strength | High sensitivity | Better reception |
| Antenna Type | Active or passive | Works in different setups |
| Placement | Sky view, low blockage | Clear signals |
| Cable & Connectors | Proper length and correct type | Easy installation |
We suggest balancing quality and price. Pick an antenna that meets your car’s needs without overspending on features you won’t use.
Editor’s Choice
We recommend placing the GPS antenna on the dashboard near the windshield. This spot offers a clear view of the sky, which is important for good signal reception. It also keeps the antenna safe from damage and easy to access if needed.
Another good option is the roof of the car. The antenna gets a full, unobstructed view of satellites here. However, installation can be more complex, and it may be exposed to weather.
We advise avoiding spots near metal parts or deep inside the car. Metal blocks signals and weakens the GPS performance. For example, under the dashboard or behind the glove box are poor choices.
Here’s a quick list of pros and cons for our top spots:
| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard by windshield | Easy install, good signal | Slightly exposed to sunlight |
| Roof | Best signal, full sky access | Harder to install, weather risk |
| Inside cabin (not near metal) | Protected from weather | Signal might be weak |
We base these choices on testing and common car designs. This helps us ensure the antenna works well without extra trouble.
Where to Buy – Best Amazon Deals
We find Amazon to be a reliable place to buy a GPS antenna for your car. It offers a wide range of options with detailed reviews from other buyers. This helps us choose a product that fits our needs and budget.
Amazon often has competitive prices and deals. You can find antennas from well-known brands and also budget-friendly models. Prime members get the added benefit of fast shipping.
Here is a simple table with some popular GPS antennas we recommend checking out:
| Model | Price Range | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Garmin GA 36 | $30 – $50 | High sensitivity, easy install |
| AMT Electronics | $20 – $40 | Compact size, waterproof |
| REXING GPS Antenna | $15 – $35 | Universal fit, durable |
We suggest reading customer reviews and checking the seller rating before buying. Sometimes, Amazon offers bundles with extra cables or mounts, which can be helpful.
Using Amazon’s search filters saves us time. We recommend looking for “best seller” or “top rated” tags to quickly spot popular products.
Overall, Amazon provides a convenient and safe way to buy GPS antennas with many choice options for different types of vehicles.
FAQS
Where is the best place to put a GPS antenna in a car?
We usually place the GPS antenna on the dashboard or near the windshield. These spots get a clear view of the sky, which helps the antenna receive strong satellite signals.
Can I put the GPS antenna under the car’s roof or inside the dashboard?
Putting the antenna inside the dashboard or under the roof can block signals. We recommend avoiding metal and thick materials that can weaken the GPS signal.
Does the type of car affect where we put the GPS antenna?
Yes, it does. Some cars have metal roofs or tinted windows that block signals. In those cases, finding a spot near a window with a clear sky view is best.
Will the GPS antenna work if it is close to other electronic devices?
Electronic devices can cause interference. We suggest placing the GPS antenna away from strong electronics such as radios, chargers, or other wireless devices to avoid signal issues.
Is it okay to mount the GPS antenna outside the car?
Mounting the GPS antenna outside is possible but can expose it to damage from weather or debris. We generally prefer internal mounting in a location with good sky visibility for safety and durability.
Conclusion
When choosing the best spot for a GPS antenna in our car, we need to think about signal strength and interference. Placing the antenna where it has a clear view of the sky helps it work better. Avoiding metal objects and electronic devices nearby can reduce signal blockage.
Common good spots include the dashboard near the windshield or the roof of the car. These areas usually give the clearest line of sight to satellites. We should avoid placing the antenna under the dashboard or inside the glove box because these locations can block signals.
Using simple guidelines can help us pick the right place:
- Near a window with a clear view outside
- Away from metal parts and electronics
- Securely fixed to prevent movement
Testing different spots can also help us find the best position. If the signal improves or stays steady, we know we chose wisely.
By following these tips, we can make sure our GPS antenna performs well. This helps us get accurate directions and a better navigation experience while driving.