How Thatcham-Approved Tracking Systems Help Recover Stolen Vehicles Faster!

Here at Infiniti, we understand that vehicle theft remains a significant concern for our customers, vehicle owners in general and insurers alike.
In response to this, Thatcham-approved tracking systems, particularly those classified under categories S5 and S7 like those in our store, have become essential tools in combating this issue all across the UK.
These advanced tracking solutions not only deter theft but also significantly enhance the chances of recovering our customers’ stolen vehicles swiftly.
Understanding Thatcham-Approved Tracking Systems
For those of you unfamiliar with them, Thatcham Research are a UK-based automotive research centre that sets the stringent standards for vehicle security systems.

Their approval signifies that a tracking device meets the highest benchmarks for performance and reliability. The S5 and S7 categories you’ll see in our store on various systems and across the marketplace generally represent different levels of security features tailored to various vehicle types and owner requirements.
How Do Tracking Systems Aid in Stolen Vehicle Recovery?
When a vehicle equipped with a Thatcham-approved tracker is stolen, the whole system springs into action to help you, starting with….
- Immediate Alert: The tracking device detects any unauthorised movement or tampering and sends an instant alert to the monitoring centre and the vehicle owner via their dedicated smartphone app.
- Real-Time Location Tracking: Utilising a mixture of GPS, GSM, GLONASS, MESH and / or VHF (Very High Frequency) technology (depending on the device), the system provides precise, real-time location data of the stolen vehicle.
- Collaboration with Authorities: The now-active monitoring centre liaises directly with the Police, supplying them with the vehicle’s real-time location details to facilitate a swift recovery.
This seamless process ensures that stolen vehicles are often recovered within hours, minimising potential damage and loss.
S5 vs. S7 Trackers: Key Differences
While both S5 and S7 trackers are Thatcham-approved, they often cater to different security needs;
- S5 Trackers:
- Driver Identification: Equipped with Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR), these systems require a driver identification tag or app. If the vehicle is moved without the authorised tag being present, an alert is triggered, effectively preventing keyless theft and relay attacks.
- Advanced Tracking Technology: Utilise a combination of GPS, GSM, and VHF signals to ensure precise location tracking, even in challenging environments like underground parking lots or shipping containers.
- High Recovery Rate: Data indicates that S5 trackers boast a recovery success rate exceeding 96% at least according to market-inspector.co.uk
- Driver Identification: Equipped with Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR), these systems require a driver identification tag or app. If the vehicle is moved without the authorised tag being present, an alert is triggered, effectively preventing keyless theft and relay attacks.
- S7 Trackers:
- Real-Time Tracking: Provide real-time GPS tracking and 24/7 monitoring, allowing owners to view their vehicle’s location via a mobile app.
- Movement Alerts: Feature motion sensors that trigger alerts if the vehicle is moved without authorisation, such as being towed.
- Cost-Effective Solution: While lacking a number of driver identification features, S7 trackers offer reliable security at a more affordable price point compared to S5 systems.
- Real-Time Tracking: Provide real-time GPS tracking and 24/7 monitoring, allowing owners to view their vehicle’s location via a mobile app.
Real-World Examples and Statistics
The effectiveness of Thatcham-approved tracking systems is evident in numerous real-world scenarios:

- Rapid Recovery Instances: There have been cases where vehicles equipped with Thatcham-approved trackers were recovered in as little as 8 minutes after theft as per drive.teletracnavman.co.uk
- High Recovery Rates: Trackers with Thatcham approval have demonstrated recovery rates of over 96%, underscoring their effectiveness in vehicle retrieval according to rewiresecurity.co.uk
These statistics highlight the critical role that S5 and S7 trackers play in not only deterring theft but also ensuring the swift return of stolen vehicles.
Benefits Beyond Recovery
Buying a tracker and installing a Thatcham-approved tracking system through Infiniti offers advantages beyond theft recovery.
Whilst we offer a huge range of systems to suit every circumstance and budget, our UK-wide installation and exceptional customer service offers our customers so much more. Buying a tracking device through us, also gives you:
- Insurance Premium Reduction: Many insurers recognise the added security of these systems and may offer reduced premiums to vehicle owners who have them installed.
- Peace of Mind: Owners gain confidence knowing their vehicle is under constant surveillance, with immediate alerts in case of unauthorised movement.
- Enhanced Vehicle Value: For high-value and high-performance vehicles, having an S5 tracker can be particularly beneficial, as these vehicles are often targeted by thieves.
In an era where vehicle theft remains a persistent threat, Thatcham-approved tracking systems, particularly those in the S5 (inc. S5+) and S7 categories, provide an effective solution.
By offering real-time tracking, immediate alerts and collaboration with the Police, these systems significantly increase the likelihood of recovering stolen vehicles swiftly.
Investing in such technology not only protects your asset but also offers peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is equipped with one of the most effective theft deterrent systems available today.
If you need any help in choosing the best Thatcham-approved tracker for you, please give our dedicated Customer Service team a ring on 0330 043 3993. We’re available Monday – Friday (9am – 6pm) to help you find the perfect system to secure your car, van, motorhome or bike. Don’t forget, we also offer UK-wide installation so our engineers can come to your home or office to fit it at a time and place to suit you.