Thatcham approved trackers explained: S7 vs S5 vs S5+ - Differences, Advantages & Realistic UK Prices
Vehicle theft in the UK continues to rise, especially targeting vans and high value vehicles. As thieves become more sophisticated, insurance companies increasingly require Thatcham approved tracking systems. But with three main categories: S7, S5, and S5+. Many customers aren’t sure which level of protection they actually need.
This VSS guide breaks down the differences clearly, including advantages, security features, and typical UK pricing, so our customers can make an informed decision.
What does “Thatcham Approved” mean?
Thatcham Research sets the security standards recognised across the UK insurance industry. A tracker that meets Thatcham criteria has passed strict testing for:
Reliability
Resistance to tampering
Tracking accuracy
Secure communication
Recovery performance
Thatcham approval is the benchmark insurers trust and often require for theft recovery systems.
Thatcham trackers fall into three categories:
S7 – Entry‑level tracking
S5 – Advanced monitored tracking with ADR
S5+ – Premium tracking with immobilisation
S7 vs S5 vs S5+: What’s the difference?
1. Thatcham S7 Trackers
Best for: Standard theft recovery
Insurance requirement: Common for but not limited to vans, cars, and older vehicles
Key Features
GPS/GSM tracking
24/7 monitoring
Battery tamper alerts
Movement alerts
Tow‑away detection
Advantages
Affordable
Meets basic insurance requirements
Ideal for vans and work vehicles
Typical UK Price
Device: £199-£299
Installation: £100-£150
At VSS: £299 mobile installed
Subscription: £99-£149 per year
2. Thatcham S5 Trackers
Best for: High value vehicles, modern vans, performance cars but can be fitted to any vehicle.
Insurance requirement: Often mandatory for vehicles at higher theft risk
Key Features (includes all S7 features plus):
Driver ID tag / ADR (Automatic Driver Recognition)
No tag = instant alert to monitoring centre
Enhanced anti‑relay attack protection
More accurate tracking technology
Advantages
Helps prevent relay‑attack theft (key cloning)
Detects unauthorised movement even if thieves have the key
Faster police response due to higher security classification
Typical UK Price
Device: £349-£499
Installation: £150-£200
At VSS from £379 mobile installed
Subscription: £149-£199 per year
3. Thatcham S5+ Trackers
Best for (not limited to): Premium vehicles, fleet protection, customers wanting maximum security
Insurance requirement: Required by some insurers for luxury vehicles
Key Features (includes all S5 features plus):
Remote immobilisation (police‑authorised)
Advanced motion sensors
Enhanced tamper protection
Multiple driver ID tags
Secure operating centre escalation
Advantages
Highest level of Thatcham security
Immobilisation prevents vehicle restart after theft
Ideal for customers who want “the best available”
Strongest insurance compliance
Typical UK Price
Device: £499-£699
Installation: £150-£250
At VSS: £599 mobile installed
Subscription: £199-£249 per year
