AirTag or GPS tracker for a stolen car?

For recovery, I'd lean toward a dedicated GPS tracker. An AirTag depends on nearby devices in Apple's Find My network to report its location, so updates can be sparse if the car ends up somewhere isolated.

Check how the tracker sends its location too. GPS determines the position, but many trackers need a cellular connection to report it, which may mean a subscription. Battery life varies by model and update frequency, so compare those details before buying.

A garage can interfere with GPS and cellular signals, and metal parts of the car can obstruct reception too. Test the installation in places where you normally park rather than assuming a hidden spot will work.

An AirTag is cheaper and could be useful as a backup, but I wouldn't count on it as the only recovery tool. It can alert someone traveling with it that an unknown tag is nearby, and it may make a sound, giving a thief a chance to find and remove it.

Some people combine an AirTag with a separate tracker. Just remember that two devices still don't guarantee a location update.

Check whether your car already has a connected service with location features before buying another device. Some manufacturers include GPS-based functions in a paid package, though the available features and fees depend on the car and service.

Insurance and parking choices are worth thinking about too. A tracker may help locate a car after it's taken, but it doesn't prevent the theft or guarantee you'll get it back. Check your coverage, and use a garage or a visible parking spot when practical.