How Do I Know if My Car Has a Thatcham Device?

It can be a relatively straightforward process to discover if your vehicle has a Thatcham device installed in it. There is more than one way to find this out. 

Firstly, check your vehicle’s documentation. The vehicle handbook will share the type of security the vehicle will have as standard. If your vehicle is second-hand, and has security systems added afterward, ensure there is a security system certificate to confirm Thatcham approval. 

Secondly, contacting the vehicle manufacturer, or the dealer you purchased it from would provide a way to find out the security system on the vehicle and if that is Thatcham approved.

The Thatcham website holds an extensive database of vehicles that have factory-fitted security systems that are Thatcham approved.

Are Thatcham approved devices more expensive?

As a general overview, a device that is Thatcham approved tends to be more expensive than devices that are not Thatcham approved. Thatcham approval requires a standard to be followed in order for security systems to be tested by them and gain their seal of approval. However, the costing isn’t a hard and fast rule. Let’s explore the components that could contribute to the higher cost. 

High quality components 

Thatcham approval involves rigorous testing and adherence to specific standards, this often means that manufacturers use higher-quality components and more sophisticated engineering in their devices, which can contribute to a higher cost.   

R&D

Companies that seek Thatcham approval invest in research and development to make sure their devices meet the required criteria set out by Thatcham. This investment is often reflected in the price of the product.

Installation

While the device itself might be more expensive, professional installation is crucial for any security system to function correctly. Thatcham-approved devices often require specialist installers, which can add to the overall cost. 

However, even a cheaper, non-Thatcham device should ideally be professionally installed, so the installation cost difference might not be as significant as the device cost itself.   

Potential savings 

While Thatcham-approved devices might have a higher upfront cost, they can sometimes lead to lower insurance premiums. These savings over time can offset the initial expense, making them a potentially more cost-effective option in the long run. 

Variety of devices

As highlighted earlier, there are a variety of Thatcham-approved devices available, including tracking systems, immobilisers and more. The model, features, and basic function of the device and how sophisticated it can be will also contribute to pricing. 

Thatcham approved devices can be found at different price points depending on where you buy them from. Be sure to explore different suppliers to compare prices and find the best deal for yourself. 

Non-Thatcham options

Conversely, there are some perfectly good, reliable security devices on the market that aren’t Thatcham-approved. They might offer similar features at a lower price. However, they haven’t undergone the same independent testing, so it’s harder to be certain of their effectiveness. 

This is where research and reviews become really important. It’s not the end of the world if you choose a non-Thatcham device, just make sure you’ve done your due diligence first. 

To summarise, Thatcham-approved devices are often more expensive upfront due to higher-quality components, R&D, and sometimes specialist installation. However, potential insurance savings and the assurance of a rigorously tested product can make them a worthwhile investment. 

Always weigh the initial cost against the long-term benefits and consider your individual needs and budget, don’t simply assume that the most expensive Thatcham device is the best; research and compare different options to find the best balance of price and features for your situation.

Aftermarket security options