For most everyday cars a tracker is optional — but for higher-value and prestige vehicles, insurers increasingly make a Thatcham-approved tracker a condition of cover. Here is when you need one, and how it can work in your favour.
When a tracker is required
Insurers use Thatcham categories as their benchmark. For many high-value, prestige and frequently-targeted vehicles, a policy will require a Thatcham S5 or S7 tracker — and sometimes specifically an S5 with Driver ID — before they will offer cover or pay a theft claim. If a tracker is a condition of your policy and one is not fitted, a claim can be refused.
How a tracker can lower your premium
Even when it is not required, a professionally fitted, Thatcham-approved tracker can reduce your premium, because it lowers the risk to the insurer: stolen vehicles with monitored trackers are recovered far more often and far faster. Always tell your insurer the system is fitted by a recognised installer.
What counts as an approved installation
Two things matter to insurers: a Thatcham-approved system, and professional fitting by a recognised installer with documented evidence. We fit Thatcham-approved ScorpionTrack S5 and S7 systems and provide fitting evidence you can give your insurer. A DIY or undocumented fit may not satisfy your policy.
Which tracker does your insurer want?
If your policy specifies a category, match it: S7 for standard monitored tracking, or S5 (including our S5+ with added immobiliser) where Driver ID is required. Not sure? Send us your policy requirement and vehicle and we will recommend the right system.