If your insurer has asked you to fit a tracker, you'll probably have seen the terms S5 and S7. They're Thatcham categories for approved stolen vehicle tracking systems. Here's what they mean in plain English.
S7 trackers
An S7 tracker gives you GPS location of your vehicle and is linked to a 24/7 monitoring centre. If the vehicle is stolen, the monitoring team can work with the police to help recover it.
S7 is the most common choice for everyday cars and vans, and it's usually the most affordable approved option.
Good for: most cars and vans, especially where the insurer just asks for "a Thatcham-approved tracker".
S5 trackers
An S5 tracker does everything an S7 does, and adds driver identification. Each driver carries a small ID tag. If the vehicle moves without a recognised tag, the system raises an alert straight away, so a theft can be spotted even if the thieves have your keys or have cloned the key signal.
Good for: higher-value vehicles, keyless-entry cars, motorhomes, and anyone whose insurer specifically asks for S5.
S5 Plus (S5+)
Some S5 systems can be supplied with an immobilisation relay. Set up this way, the vehicle won't start unless a valid driver tag is present. It's one of the strongest protections you can add against keyless theft.
Which one does my insurer want?
Insurers set their own requirements, and they can differ between policies. Before you book, check your policy schedule or ask your insurer exactly which category they need. If they say S5, an S7 won't count, so it's worth confirming.
Do trackers need a subscription?
Yes. Approved trackers rely on a monitoring service, which is usually paid annually. Some packages include the first year. We'll always tell you the subscription cost before you book.
Getting one fitted
We supply and fit S5, S5 Plus and S7 trackers from Scorpion, Crystal Ball and Moving Intelligence, with mobile fitting across Nottingham and the Midlands. S7 trackers start from £249 fitted.