What is Thatcham?

Understanding Thatcham Research: Vehicle Security and Tracking Explained

Modern vehicles come equipped with advanced alarms, immobilisers, and tracking systems designed to deter theft and protect both your car and possessions. However, with so many security options available—including aftermarket solutions—it can be difficult to determine which provides the best protection.

This is where Thatcham Research plays a crucial role. As an independent body, Thatcham assesses vehicle security devices and categorises them based on their effectiveness. Understanding these categories can help you make informed choices about protecting your vehicle.

What is Thatcham Research?

Thatcham Research, officially known as the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, has been at the forefront of vehicle safety, security, and repair standards for over 50 years. Since the 1990s, its security classifications have set the industry standard, helping consumers compare different car alarms, immobilisers, and tracking systems.

What is a Thatcham-Approved Device?

A Thatcham-Approved device is any security system—such as an alarm, immobiliser, or tracking unit—that has passed Thatcham’s rigorous security assessment. These devices receive a Thatcham Security Certification, ensuring they meet strict performance and reliability standards. Vehicle owners who install Thatcham-approved devices may even benefit from lower insurance premiums.

Thatcham Security Categories Explained

Thatcham Research has established multiple security categories to classify different types of vehicle protection. Here’s a breakdown:

Thatcham Category 1 – Combined Alarm and Immobiliser

This category includes the most advanced security systems, featuring:

• Perimeter and ignition detection
• Movement, glass break, and tilt sensors
• A self-powered siren to alert in case of intrusion
• A passively set immobiliser that isolates at least two operating systems

Thatcham Category 2 – Electronic Immobiliser

Category 2 devices focus solely on immobilisation, preventing unauthorised engine start. Like Category 1 immobilisers, they must be passively set and isolate key vehicle systems.

Thatcham Category 2/1 – Alarm Upgrade

Vehicles initially equipped with a Thatcham Category 2 immobiliser can be upgraded with an approved alarm to meet Category 1 standards. This upgrade can improve security and potentially reduce insurance costs.

Thatcham Category 3 – Mechanical Immobiliser

Mechanical immobilisation devices physically prevent vehicle operation. Examples include steering wheel locks and gear lever locks, which are either permanently or temporarily installed.

Thatcham Category 4 – Wheel Locking Devices

Locking wheel nuts fall under this category. They require a unique key for removal, making wheel theft more difficult. These devices must be durable, resistant to tampering, and have a secure key replacement process.

Thatcham Category S5 – Post-Theft Tracking & Recovery Systems

Previously known as Category 5, S5 tracking systems offer real-time vehicle tracking and ADR (Automatic Driver Recognition). This allows law enforcement or security teams to recover stolen vehicles quickly and safely.

Thatcham Category S7 – Stolen Vehicle Location Systems

Replacing the older Category 6 and 7 classifications, S7 systems focus on tracking a stolen vehicle’s location.

Class Systems – Non-Categorised Aftermarket Devices

This category includes aftermarket security enhancements, such as data recorders, vehicle ID markings, and enhanced locking mechanisms, which do not fit into Thatcham’s main classifications.

Why Thatcham Ratings Matter for Vehicle Security

Investing in a Thatcham-approved security system can help protect your vehicle from theft while potentially lowering insurance premiums. The higher the Thatcham category of your security system, the better protection it offers against theft or break-ins.

At GPSBob, we specialise in Category S7 and S5 tracking and immobilisation solutions, ensuring that your vehicle remains protected even in the event of theft. Our real-time tracking technology gives you peace of mind, allowing you to monitor and recover your vehicle with ease.

Additionally, we offer the Casper Immobiliser, our advanced CAN bus immobilisation system. Sometimes known as a Ghost Immobiliser (which is a brand name), our Casper Immobiliser prevents vehicle theft by blocking engine start unless a unique PIN code is entered, just like a Ghost Immobiliser. This cutting-edge security feature adds an extra layer of protection against key cloning, relay theft, and unauthorised access.

Looking for a Thatcham-approved tracking or immobilisation system? Contact GPSBob today and secure your vehicle with industry-leading technology!