Best Cable Detector for Caravans
Finding hidden wires in caravan walls without drilling into them is essential for safe DIY and maintenance. We have analyzed specs, aggregated owner reviews, and compared brand reliability to identify the best cable detector for caravans.
Quick answer
The Bosch Professional GMS 120 is the best overall cable detector for caravans, offering deep scanning, live wire detection, and a robust build. For a budget-friendly option that still provides reliable stud and metal detection, the Stanley SX-100 is a solid choice.
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Research updated June 2026.
Bosch Professional GMS 120
Accurate detection up to 120 mm with live wire warning.
| Product | Best For | Max Depth | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch Professional GMS 120 | Overall / Live Wire | 120 mm | 4.6 / 5 | Mid |
| Stanley SX-100 | Budget / Basic Use | 100 mm | 4.3 / 5 | Low |
| Milwaukee M12 Cable Detector | Battery Ecosystem | 50 mm | 4.4 / 5 | High |
| Bosch Truvo | Compact / Quick Checks | 70 mm | 4.2 / 5 | Low |
| Makita DSP600ZJ | Deep Metal Detection | 120 mm | 4.5 / 5 | Mid |
Bosch Professional GMS 120
Best OverallPros
- Three detection modes for versatile use
- Live wire warning with audible and visual alerts
- Deep scanning up to 120 mm
Cons
- Requires manual calibration on some surfaces
- Battery not included
The Bosch GMS 120 is a professional-grade detector that excels at finding live cables, metal pipes, and wooden studs behind caravan walls. Its deep scanning capability is particularly useful for locating wiring in thicker panelling or insulation. Owner reviews consistently praise its accuracy and the clear live wire indicator, which adds a safety layer when drilling near power lines.
While it is pricier than basic models, the GMS 120's reliability and build quality make it a long-term investment for serious caravan DIYers. The auto-calibration feature simplifies setup, though some users note that it can be sensitive to wall texture. Overall, it is the most trusted choice in owner forums for caravan electrical work.
Stanley SX-100
Best BudgetPros
- Affordable price point
- Simple one-button operation
- Detects live AC wires
Cons
- No stud detection mode
- Shorter depth range than premium models
The Stanley SX-100 is a straightforward, no-frills detector that handles the basics well. It can find metal pipes and live wires up to 100 mm deep, which is sufficient for most caravan wall cavities. Owner reviews highlight its ease of use and reliability for the price, making it a popular choice for occasional DIY tasks.
Its lack of a dedicated stud mode means it is less versatile for wood framing, but for cable and metal detection, it performs admirably. The automatic calibration reduces user error, and the compact design fits easily in a toolbox. For budget-conscious caravan owners, this is a dependable entry-level tool.
Milwaukee M12 Cable Detector
Best for Milwaukee UsersPros
- Uses Milwaukee M12 battery platform
- Compact and lightweight
- Bright LED indicators
Cons
- Shallow detection depth
- Expensive if not already in M12 ecosystem
The Milwaukee M12 Cable Detector is designed for users already invested in the M12 battery system. It offers reliable detection of live wires and metal objects up to 50 mm deep, which works for standard caravan wall panels. Owner reviews appreciate the convenience of shared batteries and the tool's compact size for tight spaces.
Its main limitation is the reduced depth compared to dedicated detectors, so it may miss cables in thicker insulation. The bright LED ring provides clear visual feedback, and the automatic calibration is quick. For Milwaukee loyalists, it is a seamless addition to the kit.
Bosch Truvo
Best CompactPros
- Ultra-compact and pocket-sized
- Simple one-button operation
- Good for quick spot checks
Cons
- No stud detection
- Limited depth for thicker walls
The Bosch Truvo is a minimalist detector designed for speed and portability. It automatically detects metal and live wires up to 70 mm deep, making it suitable for standard caravan panels. Owner reviews often mention its convenience for quick checks before drilling small holes, though some note it can be less accurate on uneven surfaces.
Its compact size is a major advantage for storage in a glovebox or tool bag. The Truvo lacks advanced features like stud detection, but for cable avoidance, it gets the job done. It is a solid secondary tool for caravan owners who want a lightweight option for basic tasks.
Makita DSP600ZJ
Best for Deep MetalPros
- Excellent metal detection depth
- Clear audio and visual alerts
- Robust build quality
Cons
- No stud detection mode
- Heavier than some competitors
The Makita DSP600ZJ is a dedicated metal and live wire detector with a maximum depth of 120 mm. It is particularly effective at finding metal pipes and cables behind thick caravan walls or insulation. Owner reviews highlight its accuracy and the loud audible alerts, which are useful in noisy environments.
Its lack of a stud detection mode limits its versatility for wood framing, but for cable and metal detection, it is among the best. The build quality is typical of Makita, with a durable casing that withstands job site conditions. For caravan owners focused on avoiding metal obstacles, this is a top contender.
What to check before buying a cable detector for caravans
Caravan walls are often thinner than house walls but can contain a mix of 12V DC and 240V AC cables, as well as metal framing. Ensure the detector can handle both live wire types. Check the maximum detection depth: 50 mm is enough for most panels, but 70-120 mm offers more safety margin. Look for auto-calibration to avoid false readings on uneven surfaces. Consider the detection modes: metal and live wire are essential, while stud detection is useful for wood-framed caravans. Finally, check the power source: 9V batteries are common, but rechargeable options like Milwaukee M12 reduce long-term costs.
Mistakes to avoid when using a cable detector in a caravan
One common mistake is not calibrating the detector on the actual wall surface before scanning. Caravan panels can have varying moisture levels that affect readings. Another error is assuming the detector finds every cable: always scan slowly and in a grid pattern. Do not rely solely on the detector for 12V systems, as some detectors struggle with low-voltage DC wires. Finally, avoid using a detector with a dead or weak battery, as this leads to inconsistent results. Always test on a known wire first.
FAQs
Can a cable detector find 12V wires in a caravan?
Yes, but not all detectors are equally sensitive to low-voltage DC. Look for models with dedicated live wire detection that specify AC/DC capability.
What depth do I need for caravan walls?
Most caravan wall panels are 20-50 mm thick, so a detector with 50 mm depth is sufficient. For thicker insulation, 70-120 mm is safer.
Do I need a stud finder for caravans?
Only if your caravan has wooden framing. Many modern caravans use aluminum or composite frames, so metal detection is more important.
How do I calibrate a cable detector on a caravan wall?
Place the detector flat on the wall, press the calibration button, and wait for the indicator. Repeat if the wall surface changes.
Can a cable detector detect wires behind metal panels?
No, metal panels interfere with detection. You need to scan from the interior side or use a different method.
Is the Bosch GMS 120 good for caravan use?
Yes, its 120 mm depth and live wire detection make it ideal for finding cables in thicker caravan walls and insulation.
What is the difference between AC and DC detection?
AC detection finds live 240V wires, while DC detection is needed for 12V caravan circuits. Not all detectors handle DC well.
Can I use a cable detector on damp caravan walls?
Moisture can cause false readings. Calibrate on a dry section of the wall and scan slowly to improve accuracy.
Do I need a professional or DIY detector?
For occasional use, a DIY model like the Stanley SX-100 is fine. For frequent work, a professional tool like the Bosch GMS 120 offers better reliability.
How often should I replace the battery in a cable detector?
Replace the 9V battery when the low-battery indicator appears, or at least once a year if used infrequently.
Our verdict
The Bosch Professional GMS 120 is the best overall cable detector for caravans, combining deep scanning, live wire detection, and robust build quality. For budget-conscious owners, the Stanley SX-100 offers reliable performance at a lower price point, making it a strong value pick.