Why Insurance Companies Require Thatcham Approved Trackers in 2026

Why Insurance Companies Require Thatcham Approved Trackers in 2026

Why Insurance Companies Require Thatcham Approved Trackers in 2026

Vehicle Theft in the UK continues to rise — especially keyless theft and organised vehicle crime targeting prestige and high-value vehicles. As a result, more insurance companies are now requiring Thatcham Approved Trackers before they will insure certain cars.

At Tracking My Car, we’re seeing a sharp increase in customers being told:

“Insurance required – Thatcham S5 or S7 tracker must be fitted.”

But why is this happening?

Why Insurers Now Require Trackers

Insurance providers calculate risk. If a vehicle is:

  • High value (£40,000+)
  • Performance or prestige (Porsche, Range Rover, BMW M, Audi RS models)
  • Frequently targeted by organised theft rings
  • Keyless entry equipped

…it is considered higher risk.

A Thatcham Approved Tracker reduces that risk significantly.

How Trackers Reduce Insurance Risk

Trackers:

✔ Increase recovery rates
✔ Reduce total loss claims
✔ Help police locate vehicles quickly
✔ Act as a deterrent

Vehicles fitted with monitored trackers have a significantly higher recovery success rate compared to those without.

For insurers, this means lower claim payouts — which is why they now insist on approved systems.

What Is a Thatcham S5 or S7 Tracker?

Thatcham is the UK motor security standard recognised by insurers.

Thatcham S5 Tracker

  • 24/7 Monitored
  • GPS & GSM Tracking
  • Driver ID Authentication
  • Automatic theft alerts if vehicle moves without the tag
  • Police liaison & recovery support

Thatcham S7 Tracker

  • 24/7 Monitored
  • GPS Tracking
  • No Driver ID required
  • Insurance approved but slightly lower specification than S5

Many insurers now specifically request S5 for high-risk vehicles due to the additional driver recognition feature

Real Example – Performance Vehicles

We recently installed Insurance-Required S5 Trackers on:

  • Porsche Cayenne
  • BMW X5 50e
  • Range Rover Sport
  • Audi RS6

In each case, the insurer would not activate the policy until confirmation of installation was provided

Do Trackers Lower Insurance Premiums?

Sometimes yes — but more commonly today:

They are a condition of cover rather than a discount benefit.

Without one, insurers may:

  • Increase premiums dramatically
  • Apply higher excess
  • Refuse cover entirely

Professional Installation Matters

Insurance companies require:

  • Thatcham Approved Product
  • Professionally Installed
  • Installation Certificate Provided

At Tracking My Car, we provide nationwide installation and full certification for insurance compliance.

Need an Insurance Approved Tracker?

If your insurer has requested:

  • Thatcham S5
  • Thatcham S7
  • Insurance Tracker Installation

Call us today on 0333 241 3151
Or request a Call Back

FAQ

No — insurers require professional installation and certification.

Your policy may be void or refused.

Yes — S5 includes Driver ID Authentication for higher theft protection.

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