Your insurer just told you that you need an “approved tracker” to get coverage. Or maybe your premium doubled because you drive a high-risk vehicle. Either way, you’re wondering: What exactly is an insurance-approved tracker, and why does it matter?
Here’s the truth: installing a TASSA or Thatcham-approved GPS tracker can be the difference between getting insured or being refused coverage altogether. And in many cases, it can save you 5–15% on your annual premium.
What Is an Insurance-Approved Tracker?
An insurance-approved tracker is a GPS tracking device that meets strict security standards set by TASSA (Tracker and Aftermarket Security Systems Association) or Thatcham Research—the UK’s leading authorities on vehicle security.
These trackers do two critical things:
- Live tracking – Monitor your vehicle’s location in real-time via smartphone app or web portal
- Theft recovery – If your vehicle is stolen, the tracking company works directly with police to recover it quickly
Unlike cheap DIY trackers from Amazon, insurance-approved systems are professionally installed, monitored 24/7, and proven to recover stolen vehicles.
Why Do Insurers Require Approved Trackers?
Vehicle theft in the UK is at an all-time high. A car is stolen every 90 seconds, and thieves are targeting specific models with surgical precision. Insurers know that vehicles equipped with approved trackers are:
- Less likely to be stolen (thieves avoid tracked vehicles)
- Recovered faster if stolen (often within hours)
- Lower risk for the insurer (which means lower premiums for you)
Major UK insurers—including Aviva, Admiral, Direct Line, Hastings, LV, and AXA—recognise TASSA and Thatcham-approved trackers. Many now require them as a condition of coverage for high-value or high-risk vehicles.
The Real Benefits of Insurance-Approved Trackers
1. Lower Insurance Premiums
Installing an approved tracker can reduce your annual premium by 5–15%, depending on your vehicle’s value and your insurer’s policy. For high-value vehicles, that’s hundreds of pounds saved every year.
2. Policy Approval for High-Risk Vehicles
If you’ve been refused coverage or quoted an unaffordable premium, an approved tracker often solves the problem. Insurers are far more willing to cover vehicles they know can be recovered.
3. Live Tracking & Alerts
You get real-time access to your vehicle’s location via smartphone app. Set up geofencing alerts to be notified if your car leaves a specific area, or receive movement alerts if it’s tampered with.
4. Fast Theft Recovery
If your vehicle is stolen, the 24/7 monitoring centre is alerted immediately. They work directly with police to track and recover your vehicle—often within hours.
5. Total Peace of Mind
Whether you’re at home, at work, or on holiday, you’ll know exactly where your vehicle is. No more wondering if it’s safe.
What Features Do Insurance-Approved Trackers Include?
TASSA and Thatcham-approved trackers come with professional-grade features:
- 24/7 monitoring centre – Experts on standby to respond to theft alerts
- Police liaison – Direct coordination with law enforcement for recovery
- Geofencing – Set virtual boundaries and receive alerts if your vehicle crosses them
- Movement & tamper alerts – Instant notifications if your vehicle is moved or interfered with
- App access – Track your vehicle in real-time from your smartphone
- Subscription service – Ongoing monitoring and support (paid direct to the tracking company)
Who Needs an Insurance-Approved Tracker?
If any of the following apply to you, an approved tracker is essential:
- Your insurer requires one as a condition of coverage
- You drive a high-value vehicle (£30k+)
- You own a commonly targeted model (Range Rover, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Ford Ranger)
- You’ve been quoted a sky-high premium due to theft risk
- You want live tracking and theft recovery for peace of mind
Real Customer Outcomes
- “Vehicle recovered within hours.” A stolen Range Rover was tracked and returned to its owner the same day.
- “Insurance approved after installation.” Customers who were previously refused coverage gained policy approval immediately.
- “Premium dropped by £200/year.” Installing an approved tracker resulted in significant savings.
TASSA vs Thatcham: What’s the Difference?
Both TASSA and Thatcham set rigorous standards for vehicle security products. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- TASSA – Focuses on aftermarket security systems, including GPS trackers and immobilisers. TASSA-approved products are recognised by most UK insurers.
- Thatcham – The UK’s leading vehicle security research centre. Thatcham categories (like S5 and S7) indicate the level of security and monitoring provided.
Bottom line: Both are trusted by insurers. The key is ensuring your tracker is professionally installed by certified engineers.
Professional Installation Matters
Insurance-approved trackers must be professionally installed to meet insurer requirements and ensure proper functionality. DIY installation voids approval and may result in your insurer refusing a claim.
At Lock & Track, our TASSA-certified engineers provide mobile installation at your home, workplace, or dealership anywhere in the UK—typically within 1–3 working days.
After installation, you’ll receive a completion certificate to forward to your insurer for premium discounts and policy approval.
Don’t Let Theft Risk Cost You Coverage
Vehicle theft is rising. Insurers are tightening requirements. But with an insurance-approved tracker, you’ll gain:
- Lower premiums
- Policy approval
- Live tracking and alerts
- Fast theft recovery
- Total peace of mind
Don’t wait until your insurer refuses coverage or your vehicle is stolen.
Ready to Get Approved?
Get a free quote and book your mobile installation today. Our TASSA-certified engineers cover every UK postcode and can fit your tracker at a location that suits you—within 1–3 working days.
Contact Lock & Track now: https://www.lockandtrack.co.uk
Protect your vehicle. Lower your premiums. Gain peace of mind.