Insurance Approved Trackers

Many UK insurers now require a Thatcham-approved tracker as a condition of cover, or offer a lower premium if one’s fitted, particularly on high-value cars, performance models, and vehicles on a manufacturer’s high-theft list.

An insurance approved tracker constantly monitors your vehicle’s location, alerting a monitoring centre and the police if it’s moved without authorisation. Ghost Installations fits the full range of Thatcham-approved S5 and S7 trackers nationwide, from £189, with 0% finance available.

What Is an Insurance Approved Tracker?

An insurance approved tracker is a vehicle tracking device that meets Thatcham’s testing standards for reliability, tamper resistance, and monitoring response, the standard most UK insurers recognise when they ask for a tracker as a condition of cover. Unlike a basic GPS tracker you might fit yourself, an insurance approved system is professionally installed, linked to a 24/7 monitoring centre, and backed by an insurer-recognised certificate you can submit as proof of fitment.

Do You Need One? (When Insurers Require It)

Insurers typically ask for an insurance approved tracker on high-value cars, imports, performance or high-theft-risk models, and increasingly on any keyless car. Some insurers make it a mandatory condition of cover; others offer a discount for fitting one voluntarily. If your renewal letter mentions “Thatcham Category S5” or “S7,” it’s this type of device they mean, and fitting one yourself rather than waiting to be asked can bring your premium down at the next renewal.

S5 vs S7 Trackers: What’s the Difference?

Category S5 trackers include a built-in immobiliser as well as tracking, so the vehicle can be remotely disabled if it’s stolen, and are usually specified for higher-value or higher-risk vehicles. Category S7 trackers are tracking-only, without remote immobilisation, and are typically the minimum standard insurers accept for lower-risk vehicles. Your insurer or broker will usually specify which category they require; if they haven’t, S5 gives the higher level of protection.

How Much Does an Insurance Approved Tracker Cost?

Insurance approved trackers from Ghost Installations range from £189 to £708 fully fitted, depending on the category (S5 or S7) and features. Fitting is available nationwide by Thatcham-approved engineers, and 0% interest finance is available over 4 payments.

How Does an Insurance Approved Tracker Work?

Once fitted, the tracker communicates with a monitoring centre in real time. If the vehicle is moved without the system being disarmed, an alert is triggered, the monitoring centre attempts to contact you, and the police are notified if theft is confirmed, using the tracker’s live location to help recover the vehicle. Most systems also include a companion app so you can view your vehicle’s location and trip history yourself.

Which Tracker Should You Choose?

If your insurer has specified S5 or S7, start there; if not, choose S5 for the added remote immobilisation if your vehicle is higher value or a common theft target, or S7 if you want tracking-only cover at a lower price point. Browse our full range of Thatcham-approved trackers to compare individual models, or call our team for a recommendation based on your specific car.

Common Insurance Approved Tracker Questions Answered

What is an insurance approved tracker?
It’s a vehicle tracking device that meets Thatcham’s testing standards for reliability and monitoring response, the standard most UK insurers recognise as proof of fitment.

Do I need an insurance approved tracker?
You need one if your insurer specifies it as a condition of cover, which is common on high-value, performance, imported, or keyless vehicles. Fitting one voluntarily can also lower your premium.

What’s the difference between S5 and S7 trackers?
S5 trackers include remote immobilisation as well as tracking; S7 trackers are tracking-only. Your insurer will usually specify which category they require.

How much does an insurance approved tracker cost?
Prices range from £189 to £708 fully fitted, with 0% interest finance available over 4 payments.

Does an insurance approved tracker need a subscription?
Yes, ongoing monitoring is typically provided through an annual or monthly subscription, which covers the 24/7 monitoring centre and alert response.

Will fitting a tracker lower my car insurance?
It can. Many insurers offer a discount for Thatcham-approved trackers, particularly on higher-risk vehicles, though the exact saving depends on your insurer.

Can an insurance approved tracker be fitted to any car?
Yes, Ghost Installations fits trackers to any make or model, nationwide, by magnetic or hardwired installation depending on the vehicle.

Is a tracker the same as an immobiliser?
No. A tracker locates your vehicle if it’s stolen; an immobiliser prevents the engine starting in the first place. S5 trackers combine both.