Are Insurance Approved Vehicle Trackers Worth It?


 Vehicle theft continues to be a major concern for UK motorists, especially those who own high-value cars, commercial fleets, or live in urban areas with higher crime rates. With growing interest in vehicle security, many drivers are now considering insurance approved vehicle trackers. But what makes them different from standard GPS tracking devices, and are they truly worth the investment?

Let’s look at the key aspects from a user’s perspective to help you decide.

What Are Insurance Approved Vehicle Trackers?

Insurance approved vehicle trackers are tracking systems that meet specific standards recognised by UK insurance providers. These trackers are usually certified by Thatcham, the UK’s leading authority on automotive security. Thatcham categorises these devices into different classes, including:

  • Category S7: Basic GPS tracking with motion and tamper alerts.

  • Category S5: Advanced tracking with driver recognition and immobilisation features.

These categories help insurers assess the level of protection the tracker offers, and in many cases, they offer discounts or require these trackers for certain high-risk policies.

Benefits of Using Insurance Approved Trackers

1. Lower Insurance Premiums

One of the most attractive advantages for motorists is the potential for reduced insurance costs. Because these trackers enhance the chances of vehicle recovery, insurers may lower premiums for vehicles fitted with approved tracking systems. In some cases, having an approved tracker is not just encouraged, but required—especially for luxury or high-performance vehicles.

2. Improved Vehicle Recovery Rates

Standard GPS trackers provide location data, but insurance approved trackers go beyond that. These devices often feature 24/7 monitoring by a security centre, real-time alerts for unauthorised movement, and geofencing. All of these features drastically improve the chances of recovering a stolen vehicle quickly.

3. Meets Insurer Requirements

For many car owners, especially those purchasing performance or prestige vehicles, insurers will only provide cover if a certified tracker is installed. Not having one in place could lead to a refusal of coverage or limitations on your policy. Choosing an approved tracker ensures you meet all the necessary policy conditions.

4. Driver Identification and Immobilisation

Advanced trackers in the S5 category come with driver recognition tags or cards. If the vehicle is started without the authorised tag, the tracker sends an alert and can initiate remote immobilisation in collaboration with the monitoring centre. This extra layer of security helps prevent theft even before it occurs.

Things to Consider Before Installing One

  • Cost: Insurance approved trackers are generally more expensive than basic GPS trackers. However, when weighed against the potential insurance savings and theft protection, the cost often balances out over time.

  • Subscription Fees: Most systems require an annual or monthly fee for monitoring services. Ensure you factor this into your long-term budget.

  • Installation Requirements: These trackers must be installed by certified professionals to maintain their insurance-approved status. Self-installation may void the certification and invalidate any insurance benefits.

Real User Perspective: Peace of Mind

From a user’s point of view, the real benefit lies in the peace of mind these trackers offer. Knowing that your vehicle is being monitored 24/7, that you'll receive instant alerts in case of suspicious activity, and that your insurance provider acknowledges the added security, makes it a practical choice. Especially for those who rely heavily on their vehicles for personal or business use, these trackers become more of a necessity than a luxury.

Final Thoughts

While the initial cost and subscription fees may seem like a commitment, insurance approved vehicle trackers provide genuine security benefits, better insurance deals, and faster recovery rates. If your insurer recommends or requires one, it’s wise to invest in a certified tracker installed by a professional.

For expert guidance and a range of certified vehicle tracking solutions, visit Lock & Track.

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