Why you need a Thatcham S5 tracker in 2025: essential advice for UK vehicle owners
Introduction
Every year, thousands of UK vehicles are stolen, and the methods used by criminals are increasingly sophisticated. If you drive a high‑value, keyless or high‑risk vehicle, you may already have been told by your insurer that you must install a tracker. However, not all trackers are equal. Understanding the difference between an S5 and an S7 tracker, what your insurance policy really demands, how installation works and how to configure your tracker so it actually makes a difference is now essential. In this guide, I walk through the 2025 theft landscape, what insurers expect, how to choose & install a tracker and what settings to enable so your vehicle is properly protected.
The UK vehicle theft picture in 2025
Vehicle theft in the UK has surged in recent years. One credible estimate suggests incidents have risen by around 75% since 2013‑14. RUSI. For example, the rate of theft per 1,000 vehicles climbed from around 2.71 to 4.42 between 2014 and 2023. According to data published for the year ending September 2024, there were 375,048 reported vehicle thefts across England and Wales – roughly 6.2 thefts per 1,000 people.
Add to that the rise of keyless entry and electronic hacking of vehicles, jamming and signal relay attacks, and it is clear that standard security measures are no longer enough. WeCov
For many vehicles, especially premium SUVs or keyless models, insurers have tightened conditions requiring higher levels of tracking or immobilisation. Recognising this shift is the first step to choosing the correct protection.
What is a Thatcham S5 vs S7 tracker, and why does it matter
Thatcham S5 – the “gold standard”
A tracker certified under the Thatcham Research S5 standard features not just location recovery but also Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR) tags. If the car moves without a recognised tag present, the monitoring centre is alerted. That driver‑ID aspect is the key difference.
Insurers view S5 trackers as suitable for high‑risk vehicles because they address unauthorised movement as well as recovery.
Thatcham S7 – a strong but lower‑tier option
S7 trackers also provide theft‑recovery monitoring, tracking and location capability. But they typically do not include ADR tags and do not warn on unauthorised movement in the same way. For vehicles that are lower risk, S7 may be accepted by the insurer. WeCovr
Why the difference matters for your insurance
If your insurance renewal schedule says you must install an S5 tracker (sometimes they say ‘S5 ADR’ or similar), installing only an S7 may not fulfil the condition. That could invalidate theft cover. Specialist Trackers UK
In other words, check carefully what your insurer demands and install the appropriate standard.
Which vehicles are most at risk, and why do insurers require higher standards
Premium SUVs, keyless vehicles, vehicles parked on the street or in insecure locations, and models with known theft history are all at higher risk. Analysts observe that organised crime gangs now treat high‑value vehicles like financial assets, shipping them abroad or breaking them down for parts rather than simply joyriding. RUSI
One recent guide states that for high‑value vehicles, many insurers now only provide cover if an S5 tracker is installed.
What this means for you:
If your vehicle is new, expensive, keyless entry and parked on a driveway or street, your insurer may demand S5 (and possibly also an immobiliser).
If your vehicle is lower risk, stored in a secure garage, older, etc, S7 may suffice – but you still need the correct certification.
Always check the policy schedule wording. If it says “Thatcham category S5” or “S5 ADR”, it means S5. If it simply says “Thatcham tracker”, ask for clarification.
Insurance considerations: what to check at renewal
When you receive your insurance renewal or quote, check for the following:
Does your schedule list a condition for “Thatcham S5” or “S5 ADR driver‑ID tracker”? If yes, S5 required.
Does it list “Thatcham category S7” or simply “approved tracker”? If S7 is acceptable, then you may choose S7 (though installing higher may still help).
Is there an additional immobiliser requirement in addition to the tracker? Some insurers require both for very high‑risk models.
Are deadlines imposed? The insurer may require the device to be installed by a certain date for theft cover to apply.
Are you required to notify the insurer once installation is complete and provide a certificate?
Failing to meet these conditions could mean your theft cover is invalid or your claim may be rejected.
What installation options are available, and what to look for
Choosing an installation provider
When selecting a provider, make sure they are a “professional vehicle security installer”, the system is correctly registered, and the certificate provided is acceptable to your insurer. All Thatcham-accredited tracking systems that Specialist Trackers UK sells are insurance-approved.
Installation steps you should expect
The tracker unit will be installed in a covert position, hidden and wired into your vehicle’s power and appropriate circuits.
ADR tags will be paired (for S5), and the monitoring centre will log your vehicle and driver tags.
System will be tested for correct operation.
You will receive the installation certificate for your insurer, normally via email, after completion of the installation.
Typical time‑frames and costs
Lead times vary, but reputable firms may offer installation within 2–5 working days after booking. Costs are usually fixed for mass-market vehicles, but exotic, rare, or specialised product applications may incur additional charges.
Practical tracker settings and best practices to get full value
Fitting a tracker is one step. Configuring it correctly and maintaining it is the next step. Here are the key best‑practice settings you should enable and review:
ADR / Driver tag management
Ensure each regular driver has a functioning ADR tag (or phone‑based tag if the system supports). Replace tag batteries promptly. Confirm that in the event of movement without a tag, the monitoring centre issues alerts.
Geofence setup
Define geofences (if supported), such as for home (e.g. 200‑300 m radius) and work location. Enable alerts for entry/exit from geofence zones, so you are notified of unusual movement patterns.
Tilt / Tow / Motion alerts
Enable tow and tilt detection. Thieves often lift high‑end vehicles onto flatbeds. Motion without ignition or tilt detection should send immediate alerts.
Power loss / low battery alerts
Many thieves disconnect the battery or attempt relay theft whilst the vehicle is parked. Set power loss and low battery alerts to recognise attempts to tamper or cut power.
Service mode/valet mode
When you send the vehicle for servicing or valeting, enable service/maintenance mode in the tracker so you avoid false alerts. Don’t forget to switch it back off.
App security & second contact
Use a strong password and enable two‑factor authentication or biometrics in the tracker app if offered. Add a second phone number (family member) in case your mobile is unavailable, and review login credentials periodically.
Routine checks
Every 3‑6 months, test your ADR tags, move the car with the tag removed to see that an alert is issued. Review your trip history and confirm the monitoring centre’s call‑out process is operating as expected.
By configuring your tracker correctly and maintaining it, your protection is far stronger – even before a theft attempt happens.
Choosing the right system: S5 only or S5 + Immobiliser?
S5 only
If your insurer requires S5 and you park your vehicle in a secure garage, with no history of theft in your area, an S5 tracker may be sufficient. You gain theft‑recovery capability and alerts for unauthorised movement. However, we always recommend customers install both a tracking system and an immobiliser for protection against modern digital theft methods.
S5 with immobiliser
If your vehicle is high value, parked on‑street, keyless, in a hotspot area, or your policy explicitly requires immobilisation, then choose an S5 tracker version which includes an immobiliser. This gives you both prevention (immobiliser prevents start/drive away) and recovery capabilities.
Cost vs benefit
While the upfront cost is higher for the combined package, you gain a higher security factor. Many insurers may view this favourably, and you may benefit from a discount on your insurance policy.
Summary guidance
If you are uncertain, check the policy wording. If you see the word “immobiliser” in the condition, then you must install one. If only “tracker” and “S5” appear, then S5 alone is acceptable. Always keep your certificate safe and email it to the insurer so you meet their condition.
Integrating manufacturer security updates with your tracker
Many vehicle manufacturers have responded to the theft escalation by releasing software updates and improved hardware to defend keyless entry, relay attacks and hacking of OBD ports. One industry guide mentions that insurers are placing greater emphasis on “more S5 requirements for keyless cars” as of 2025.
What you should do:
Check with your dealer whether your vehicle has had any factory security updates (especially keyless models built in the last 5–6 years).
Combine that update with your tracker and immobiliser installation – layered security always beats single devices.
Keep proof of the dealer’s security update, as some insurers may request it in a claim scenario. In summary, your combined tracker and immobiliser system is the core security feature when considering vehicle theft; however, it should sit alongside the manufacturer’s up-to-date built-in security for optimal protection.
Why choose Specialist Trackers UK for your installation
At Specialist Trackers UK, we specialise in Thatcham-approved installations for S5 and S7 trackers, as well as professional installation of aftermarket vehicle immobilisers. Our expert engineers provide nationwide mobile installation, product demonstrations, and app guidance. Whether you need just an S5 tracker or an S5 with a ‘no go’ immobiliser, we offer transparent advice and insurer‑ready certificates.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Thatcham S5 tracker, and do I need one?
If your insurance renewal or quote names “Thatcham category S5” or “S5 ADR driver recognition tracker”, then yes, you need an S5 tracker. Many insurers now demand S5 for high‑risk vehicles or keyless models. Installing only an S7 when you were required to install an S5 may mean your theft cover is invalid.
Can I install a Thatcham S7 tracker instead of an S5?
Yes, but only if your policy wording allows for S7 (or simply says “approved tracker”) and does not specifically require S5. S7 is still a good solution for many vehicles, but S5 offers driver‑ID and may satisfy insurer conditions for higher‑risk vehicles.
Will installing a tracker reduce my insurance premium?
Possibly, but not guaranteed. The main benefit is meeting your insurer’s condition so your theft cover remains valid. Some insurers may offer discounts for approved trackers or immobilisers, but savings depend on your vehicle, postcode, claims history and overall risk profile.
How soon do I need to install the tracker to meet my insurer’s requirement?
Often by the start date of the new policy or within a specified number of days from renewal. If you leave it too late and a theft happens, you could find your cover is invalid. Book early and send the installation certificate straight to your insurer.
What practical settings should I enable in the tracker app?
Enable geofences for home/work, tow and tilt alerts, no‑tag movement alerts (for S5), low battery/power‑loss alerts, and use service/valet mode when required. Also, add a second phone contact and test the system periodically.
Should I add an immobiliser even if my insurer only asks for a tracker?
It depends on your situation. If you park on‑street, drive a high‑value vehicle, or your previous area has high theft rates, then adding an immobiliser gives extra protection. If your vehicle is lower risk and parked in a secure garage, a tracker alone may suffice.