Understanding Thatcham Categories, the Impact on Your Insurance, and Choosing the Right Protection for Your Car
For many car owners, the phrase “insurance approved” is a key indicator of a reliable security system. In the UK, this phrase is almost synonymous with Thatcham Research, a non-profit organisation that sets the standard for vehicle security and repair. Their stamp of approval isn’t just a marketing ploy; it’s a recognised benchmark that can have a direct and significant impact on your car insurance policy. Understanding Thatcham categories is vital for anyone looking to protect their vehicle, reduce their risk, and, most importantly, save money on their premium.
What is Thatcham Research?
Founded by the motor insurance industry, Thatcham Research has been at the forefront of improving vehicle security since the 1990s. They rigorously test and certify security devices—from alarms and immobilisers to tracking systems—to ensure they are effective against modern theft techniques. When a product is described as “Thatcham approved” or “Thatcham certified,” it means it has passed these stringent tests and meets a specific, high-level standard of security.
The Thatcham Categories: Your Guide to Vehicle Security
Thatcham classifies security devices into various categories, each representing a different level
of protection. Knowing these categories is crucial as your insurance provider may require a
specific one, especially for high-value or high-risk vehicles.
- Category 1 (Cat 1): Alarm and Immobiliser: This is the gold standard for integrated security. A Cat 1 system includes a sophisticated alarm (with perimeter and interior sensors) and an electronic immobiliser that cuts at least two of the vehicle’s electrical circuits, preventing it from being started.
- Category 2 (Cat 2): Electronic Immobiliser: A Cat 2 system focuses solely on the electronic immobiliser. It prevents the car from being started without the correct key or transponder, making it highly effective against “hot-wiring” and key theft. Many newer cars come with a Cat 2 immobiliser fitted as standard.
- Category 2-1 (Cat 2-1): Alarm Upgrade: This category is for a vehicle that originally had a Cat 2 immobiliser and has been upgraded with a Thatcham-approved alarm to achieve a Cat 1-equivalent level of security.
- Category S5 (formerly Cat 5): Vehicle Tracking System: The top-tier of stolen vehicle recovery systems. A Cat S5 tracker includes Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR), where the driver carries a small tag. If the vehicle is moved without this tag present, it triggers an instant alert to a 24/7 monitoring centre, which then liaises with the police for rapid recovery.
- Category S7 (formerly Cat 6 & 7): Vehicle Tracking System: A more accessible level of tracking. A Cat S7 system provides excellent GPS tracking and theft alerts but does not include the ADR feature. It still provides a monitored service to assist in vehicle recovery.
The Impact on Your Insurance Premium
This is where the real benefit comes in. Insurers are in the business of assessing risk, and a Thatcham-approved security system significantly reduces the likelihood of a theft, and increases the chances of recovery if one does occur. This lower risk directly translates to potential savings on your insurance premium.
- Required Security: For many high-end, high-performance, or luxury vehicles, insurers will mandate the installation of a specific Thatcham system, often a Cat S5 tracker, as a condition of providing coverage. Failing to fit the required system will invalidate your policy in the event of theft.
- Premium Discounts: Even if a Thatcham system isn’t a requirement, having one fitted will almost always make you eligible for a discount. The amount varies between providers and the category of security, with higher-level systems like Cat S5 and Cat 1 often yielding the most significant savings.
- Peace of Mind: Beyond the financial benefits, knowing your vehicle is protected by a system approved by an independent, industry-led body provides invaluable peace of mind.
Our Products and Thatcham/TASSA Verification
While the Autowatch Ghost II isn’t a “Thatcham approved” product, it’s essential to understand its place in the market. The Ghost II has been verified by another leading UK security organisation, TASSA (Tracker and Aftermarket Security System Association). TASSA’s verification process is equally rigorous and is widely recognised by many major UK insurance companies.
The Ghost II holds a TASSA verification because its unique CAN-Bus immobilisation technology and silent operation—which prevent key cloning and relay attacks—are not covered by the standard Thatcham categories. This has led to the development of a new security standard that acknowledges these advanced systems.
Making an Informed Choice
Before purchasing any security device, always check your insurance policy or call your provider to find out their specific requirements and what level of security they recommend. Whether they require a traditional Thatcham-approved alarm, a modern TASSA-verified immobiliser like the Ghost II, or a top-tier tracking system, making the right choice can save you money, protect your asset, and give you the peace of mind you deserve.
