Thatcham car alarms are approved by UK motor insurance companies and by fitting a Thatcham approved security system you will enjoy cheaper car insurance and a high level of car security.
Thatcham car alarms for vehicles without a category2 immobiliser must be be fitted with a full cat1 alarm with integrated 2 or 3 circuit immobiliser all combined in one unit. These Thatcham car alarms tend to be fitted to older cars or unofficial imports where they are not designed to UK specification in terms of Thatcham security systems. Thatcham car alarm systems for cars with cat2 already installed are cheaper and quicker to install because they use the existing immobiliser so they are less complicated to manufacture and install. Cat 2:1 Thatcham car alarms are suitable for newer UK specification cars as most of them come factory fitted with a class 2 immobiliser
The Thatcham organisation is an independent body set up by the insurance industry to improve vehicle safety and security for cars, vans, HGVs, motor bikes, plant and other vehicles. Thatcham do not manufacture car alarms but they do set design standards for car alarm manufacturers to meet and each alarm is given an evaluation code if it passes and makes it onto the Thatcham list of car alarms. Some of the best know Thatcham car alarm manufacturers are; Avital, Clifford, Cobra, Gemini, GT, Toad and Viper. Specifications vary from each manufacturer and model range but they all have the following basics; door, bonnet and boot protection, ultrasonic or microwave interior protection, 2 or 3 circuit immobilisation, a self powered siren, remote control central locking, 2x high security remotes and battery backup siren.
Installation should be carried out by an authorised installer who will provide a Thatcham certificate after the fitting is completed. Thatcham car alarms vary in time and complexity to fit and you will have to allow more time for the fitter to install any optional extras sensors.
