Stahlcar Vehicle Tracking Range
Plug-In 4G GPS Tracking Through the Vehicle’s OBD2 Port
The Stahlcar A1 is a compact 4G GPS vehicle tracker that plugs directly into a powered OBD2 socket. It provides live location, route history, mileage records, geo-fence alerts, speed notifications and unplug warnings through a compatible phone app or web browser.
No hardwiring is required, making the A1 the easiest tracker in the Stahlcar range to install, remove or transfer between compatible vehicles.
4G GPSLive Location
OBD2 Plug-InNo Wiring
15 SecondsListed Live Updates
180 DaysRoute History
Geo-FenceSpeed + Unplug Alerts
12 MonthsPlatform Access Included
The A1 uses GPS satellites to determine position and the mobile network to send that position to the tracking platform. Both a usable GPS signal and 4G mobile-data connection are needed for normal live tracking.
It is powered from the vehicle diagnostic socket and contains a small internal backup battery that can continue reporting for a limited period if the tracker is unplugged or external power is lost.
Best Suited For
The A1 suits personal vehicles, family cars, company vehicles and small fleets where quick installation is more important than hiding the tracker. It is ideal for customers who want to move a tracker between vehicles or avoid permanent wiring.
Live Location and Map View
The app and web platform show the latest reported vehicle position on a map. When the vehicle is moving and network coverage is available, the tracker can send frequent location updates, with a listed live interval as short as approximately 15 seconds.
The displayed position is the most recent report received by the platform. If mobile coverage is lost, the map may continue showing the last known position until the tracker reconnects.
Trip History and Mileage Reports
The platform stores up to 180 days of route history. Previous journeys can be replayed to review where the vehicle travelled, when it moved and where it stopped.
Daily, weekly and monthly mileage information can help with work-vehicle records, customer visits, maintenance scheduling and general fleet oversight.
Mileage is calculated from GPS movement and should not be treated as a certified replacement for the vehicle odometer, road-user charge records or tax documentation without independent verification.
Alert Functions
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Geo-Fence Alert: Notifies the account when the vehicle enters or leaves a selected map area.
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Speed Alert: Sends a warning when the reported GPS speed exceeds the chosen threshold.
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Unplug Alert: Warns when external OBD power is removed.
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Movement and Trip Alerts: Available platform notifications may show when the vehicle begins or completes a journey.
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Power-Loss Reporting: The internal battery can support limited reporting after the tracker is unplugged.
Alerts Are Not Instant in Every Situation
Notifications depend on GPS reception, mobile coverage, platform operation, phone internet access and notification permissions. A tracker should not be treated as a guaranteed real-time emergency or theft-recovery service.
SIM Card Requirements
A compatible 4G SIM card with mobile data is required and is not included. The SIM must be activated and able to use data on a supported New Zealand mobile network.
A small monthly data allowance is normally sufficient because the tracker sends location data rather than video or audio. Actual usage depends on reporting frequency, movement and platform settings.
Disable the SIM PIN before installation. The tracker cannot enter a PIN after power-up. The correct APN may also need to be entered during setup so the tracker can connect to the mobile-data network.
SIM Cost Is Separate
The mobile provider charges for the SIM and data plan separately from the tracking-platform fee. Keep the SIM active and in credit or the tracker will stop sending new positions.
Tracking Platform Costs
Included: 12 months of platform access from first activation.
Renewal prices through Stahlcar, per unit, including GST:
- 1 year: NZ$10
- 3 years: NZ$15
- 5 years: NZ$20
- 10 years: NZ$25
Each price covers the full selected period for one tracker. SIM and mobile-data charges remain separate.
Renew your GPS tracking platform access here. Add the renewal to your cart, then enter your unit serial number in the Special instructions box before checking out. For multiple units, list every serial number and the renewal period for each.
Stahlcar applies renewals manually after purchase. This is a one-off payment, with no automatic recurring subscription. No shipping charge applies to the renewal.
The tracking account, SIM and mobile-data plan are all required for ongoing remote access. The hardware does not become unusable when the included platform period ends, but the platform must be renewed for continued app and web tracking.
OBD2 Installation
The A1 plugs into the standard 16-pin vehicle diagnostic socket, normally located beneath the dashboard. No tools or wiring are required.
Before leaving the tracker connected, check that it does not interfere with pedals, the driver’s legs, lower trim panels or the diagnostic-port cover. An OBD extension cable may be useful where the factory socket points downward or is in an exposed position.
Many vehicles keep the OBD2 socket powered while parked. This allows tracking with the ignition off but also means the tracker draws a small amount of current from the vehicle battery.
Vehicle Battery Drain
The tracker’s normal current draw is low, but any permanently connected device can contribute to battery drain on a vehicle left unused for a long period or fitted with a weak battery. Stored vehicles should have their battery condition monitored or maintained.
GPS and Mobile Coverage Limits
GPS works best with a clear view of the sky. Position accuracy and update frequency can be reduced inside parking buildings, workshops, shipping containers, tunnels, dense city areas or beneath heavy metal structures.
Remote tracking also depends on mobile coverage. The tracker may store or delay information when disconnected, but the user will not see a new live position until the device reconnects to the mobile network.
The internal backup battery is intended for short-term power-loss reporting, not long-term operation after the vehicle battery is disconnected.
Not a Hidden Security Installation
An OBD plug-in tracker is easy to install but can also be found and removed. Choose the hardwired MT1 when concealed installation is more important than portability.
Initial Setup
- Obtain and activate a compatible 4G data SIM.
- Disable the SIM PIN and confirm mobile data works.
- Insert the SIM into the tracker in the correct orientation.
- Plug the tracker into a powered OBD2 socket in an open outdoor location.
- Create the tracking-platform account and add the device using its supplied identifier.
- Enter the mobile-network APN if automatic connection does not occur.
- Allow the tracker time to obtain its first GPS position.
- Test live location, history and alerts before relying on the installation.
Tracking Privacy and Consent
Only install the tracker on a vehicle you own or are authorised to manage. Drivers and employees should be informed where required. Tracking laws, employment obligations and privacy requirements remain the owner’s responsibility.
What the A1 Does Not Do
The A1 does not read fault codes or provide vehicle diagnostics despite using the OBD2 socket.
It cannot immobilise the vehicle, contact emergency services, guarantee theft recovery or continue transmitting indefinitely without vehicle power, mobile data and platform access.
What’s in the Box
- Stahlcar A1 4G GPS vehicle tracker
- Online setup and tracking guide
- 12 months of included platform access from activation
A1, C036 or MT1?
Choose the A1 for the fastest installation and easy movement between vehicles.
Choose the C036 for plug-in tracking disguised as a useful USB charger.
Choose the MT1 for a concealed hardwired installation on a motorcycle, boat, trailer or vehicle.
