Auto Trader

Thatcham is an independent research centre which is a centre of excellence for accident repair, safety and vehicle security.

What it says about security devices determines if insurance companies regard them of worthy of an insurance discount, as well as being an important point of reference for standard and aftermarket vehicle security for consumers.

Thatcham has connections with car thieves, police, insurers, manufacturers and the Home Office, meaning that they can keep all relevant parties updated on new methods of attack and theft which allows security to be tightened.

Thatcham also operates the National Security Helpline (0870 550 2006), which is available free of charge for consumers and insurers to get advice on the quality of security systems, help with seeking an approved insurer or contacting a manufacturer.


The Ratings

Most of us will only come into contact with Thatcham when it comes to insurance ratings. You’ve probably heard of Category 1 alarms, but what are they exactly?

To be awarded Thatcham Category approval, the device must reach certain standards. Below are the categories and what they mean:

• Category 1 - Combined alarm and immobiliser
  
• Category 2 - Electronic/electromechanical immobiliser only
  
• Category 2 to 1 - Alarm upgrades
  
• Category 3 - Mechanical immobiliser (Steering wheel locks)
  
  

thatcham.org features Thatcham ratings of virtually all new cars currently on sale. This list is regularly updated, providing a database of secure vehicles that you can rely on.