Advanced Vehicle Security Guide
Modern vehicle theft has become increasingly sophisticated, with criminals using relay attacks and key cloning to steal cars in seconds.
The TrackStar S5 iPro is a Thatcham Category S5-approved tracking system that addresses these threats through its “no tag, no start” immobilisation technology, which prevents your vehicle from starting unless an authorised driver tag is present.

This advanced vehicle security system combines GPS tracking with Driver Recognition technology to protect your car 24/7, whilst meeting the strict requirements set by insurance companies for high-value vehicles.
The S5 iPro works through the MyTrackstar app, giving you access to real-time alerts, journey history, and geofence notifications from your mobile device.
Professional installation is included with the system, ensuring that certified engineers fit the device correctly to your vehicle.
The tracker provides continuous monitoring and works with police services to help recover your car quickly if it’s stolen.
Key Takeaways
- The TrackStar S5 iPro uses Driver Recognition tags and immobilisation technology to prevent unauthorised driving and relay theft.
- You receive real-time GPS tracking with 24/7 monitoring, instant alerts, and vehicle recovery support through the MyTrackstar app.
- The system is Thatcham S5 approved and accepted by insurance providers, with professional installation included
Key Security Features and Technologies

The TrackStar S5 iPro uses three main security layers to protect your vehicle: driver recognition technology that identifies authorised users, immobilisation that prevents unauthorised starting, and Thatcham S5 approval that meets insurance requirements.
Driver Recognition and ID Tags
The system uses driver recognition tags automatically to identify authorised drivers.
When you approach your vehicle with your driver ID tag, the system recognises you and allows normal operation.
Each driver ID tag contains unique identification codes.
You carry the tag with you, typically in your pocket or bag.
The system detects the tag’s presence within the vehicle and confirms your authorisation to drive.
How driver recognition tags work:
- Automatically detect authorised drivers when they enter the vehicle
- Use radio frequency technology to communicate with the tracker
- Require no action from you – detection happens automatically
- Allow multiple tags for different authorised drivers
If someone attempts to drive your vehicle without a valid driver recognition tag present, the system triggers an alert to the monitoring centre.
This happens even if thieves have cloned your keys or used relay devices to bypass standard security.
No Tag No Start Immobilisation
The no tag no start system prevents your vehicle from being driven when an authorised driver ID tag is not detected.
This immobilisation feature works even if thieves have your physical keys or use electronic key cloning methods.
When the system doesn’t detect a valid tag, it prevents the engine from starting.
This stops relay attacks, where criminals use electronic devices to capture and replicate your key signal.
The vehicle remains immobilised until an authorised tag is present.
Key immobilisation benefits:
- Blocks relay theft attempts completely
- Prevents key cloning attacks
- Stops unauthorised driving before it starts
- Works independently of your vehicle’s factory security
The immobilisation activates automatically.
You don’t need to remember to turn it on or off – the system handles everything based on tag detection.
Thatcham S5 Approved Protection
The TrackStar S5 iPro holds Thatcham S5 approval, the highest security standard for vehicle tracking systems in the UK.
This certification means the system has passed rigorous testing by Thatcham Research, the organisation that sets security standards for the motor insurance industry.
Thatcham S5 approved systems must include driver recognition and immobilisation features as standard.
Insurance providers recognise this certification and often require it for high-value vehicles.
Some insurers offer reduced premiums when you install a Thatcham S5-approved tracker.
The S5 category specifically addresses modern theft methods.
It was developed to combat keyless theft and key cloning, which standard alarms and immobilisers cannot prevent.
Your insurance provider may specify Thatcham S5 approval as a condition of cover for certain vehicles.
GPS Tracking and Real-Time Monitoring

The Trackstar S5 iPro uses GPS and GSM technology to track your vehicle’s location at all times, with live updates sent directly to a monitoring centre and your smartphone.
You get instant access to your car’s position, past journeys, and security status through the MyTrackstar app.
Real-Time GPS Tracking
The GPS tracking unit in the Trackstar S5 tracker provides accurate location data for your vehicle across the UK and Europe.
The system uses both GPS and GSM networks to ensure consistent coverage, even in areas with weak signals.
You can view your vehicle’s exact position at any time through the MyTrackstar app.
The real-time GPS tracking updates continuously, so you always know where your car is located.
If your vehicle is stolen, this immediate location data helps police recover it quickly.
The tracker also records your last known location if the GPS signal is temporarily lost.
This ensures you maintain visibility of your vehicle even in underground car parks or areas with poor satellite reception.
Continuous 24/7 Monitoring
The Trackstar S5 iPro connects to a 24/7 monitored control centre that watches your vehicle around the clock.
This monitoring centre receives instant alerts if someone tries to move or tamper with your car without authorisation.
When the system detects suspicious activity, the monitoring team can track your vehicle in real time and work with police to recover it.
This continuous monitoring runs every day of the year without any breaks in coverage.
The system also includes tamper alerts that notify the monitoring centre if anyone tries to disable or interfere with the tracking device.
This extra layer of protection ensures your vehicle remains secure even if thieves attempt to remove the tracker.
App Access and Notifications
The MyTrackstar app gives you complete control over your tracking system from your smartphone.
You can check your vehicle’s location, review journey history, and receive instant alerts all from one place.
The app sends real-time alerts directly to your phone when specific events occur.
These motion alerts notify you immediately if your car moves without your driver recognition tag present.
You also receive notifications for geofence breaches if your vehicle leaves a designated area.
Journey history lets you review past trips, including routes taken, distances travelled, and time spent driving.
The app also lets you enable service mode when your vehicle is at the garage, preventing false alarms during maintenance work.
Geofence and Remote Access Capabilities
The TrackStar S5 iPro offers comprehensive remote access via the MyTrackstar app, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s location and set virtual boundaries.
You can control security settings and receive instant notifications when your vehicle moves beyond designated areas.
Geofence Alerts and Boundary Settings
The geofence feature lets you create virtual boundaries around specific locations such as your home, workplace, or a defined area.
When your vehicle enters or exits these boundaries, you receive immediate geofence notifications on your mobile device.
You can set multiple geofence zones through the MyTrackstar app.
This proves useful if you want to monitor unauthorised vehicle movement during specific times.
For example, you might set a geofence around your driveway to alert you if the vehicle leaves while you’re asleep.
The system sends real-time alerts the moment a boundary is crossed.
You can adjust the size and shape of each geofence zone to match your specific requirements.
Mobile App Controls
The MyTrackstar app provides full access to your tracking system from your smartphone.
You can view your vehicle’s last known location at any time, making it easy to locate your car in a crowded car park or unfamiliar area.
The app displays your complete journey history, showing where your vehicle has travelled and when.
This feature helps you track mileage, review routes, and monitor vehicle usage patterns.
Through the Trackstar app, you receive instant alerts for various events, including attempts to tamper, unauthorised driving, and movement detection.
The interface presents all information clearly, allowing you to check your vehicle’s status quickly without complicated menus or settings.
Service and Privacy Modes
Service mode allows you to temporarily turn off certain security features when your vehicle is being serviced or valeted.
This prevents false alarms whilst maintaining basic tracking capabilities during legitimate vehicle use by third parties.
You can activate service mode via the app before handing over your vehicle.
The system continues to track location but suspends driver recognition alerts and immobilisation features.
This ensures mechanics can complete necessary work without triggering security responses.
Once you deactivate service mode, all security features are automatically restored.
This gives you control over when and how your tracking system operates whilst maintaining protection during everyday use.
Theft Response and Vehicle Recovery
The TrackStar S5 iPro provides comprehensive stolen vehicle tracking through continuous monitoring, direct police liaison, and professional recovery support.
The system activates immediately upon detecting unauthorised movement, with trained operators coordinating recovery efforts around the clock.
Stolen Vehicle Tracking Procedures
When theft is detected, the system tracks your vehicle’s location in real-time across the UK and Europe.
Tracking begins automatically if the vehicle moves without an authorised Driver ID tag.
You receive instant alerts through the MyTrackstar App when unauthorised movement occurs.
The monitoring centre simultaneously activates the vehicle tracking system to begin logging the vehicle’s precise location and movement patterns.
The tracker provides continuous location updates every few seconds.
This allows the recovery team to monitor the vehicle’s exact route, speed, and stopping points.
The system continues to track even if thieves attempt to drive the vehicle to a concealed location or transfer it to another area.
24/7 Alarm Monitoring and Control Room
The control room operates continuously to monitor all alerts and coordinate responses. Trained operators assess each alarm notification and verify whether the movement is authorised or represents actual theft.
When an alert triggers, operators contact you immediately to confirm the situation. If theft is confirmed, they maintain constant communication throughout the recovery process.
The control room tracks your vehicle’s location and provides updates on its movements. The monitoring service covers all hours, including nights, weekends, and bank holidays.
This ensures your vehicle receives the same level of protection regardless of when theft occurs.
Police Liaison and Rapid Recovery
The recovery team coordinates directly with police forces across the UK once theft is confirmed. They provide officers with real-time location data and movement updates to support recovery operations.
This approved stolen vehicle tracking system maintains established relationships with police units nationwide. The recovery specialists communicate vehicle locations, routes, and any stops to officers pursuing the vehicle.
Recovery typically occurs within hours of theft confirmation. The system’s precise tracking data allows police to locate and recover vehicles quickly, often before thieves can strip parts or export the vehicle.
Professional support continues until your vehicle is safely recovered and returned to you.
Professional Installation and Coverage
The Trackstar S5 iPro requires professional fitting by certified engineers to meet Thatcham standards. The system provides tracking capabilities across the UK and throughout Europe.
The tracker maintains OEM approval status and can be transferred between vehicles during ownership.
Thatcham-Approved Installation Standards
Your Trackstar S5 iPro must be fitted by Thatcham-approved installers to maintain its certification status. These certified engineers follow strict installation protocols that ensure the system integrates correctly with your vehicle’s electronics and immobiliser functions.
The installation process is discreet and typically causes minimal disruption to your schedule. Professional fitters position the tracking unit in locations that prevent tampering whilst maintaining optimal GPS signal strength.
They also configure the Driver Recognition tags and test all system functions before completion. UK-wide professional installation is included with your purchase.
Many providers offer mobile installation services, meaning engineers can fit the tracker at your home, workplace, or dealership rather than requiring you to visit a fitting centre.
UK-Wide and European Coverage
The Trackstar S5 provides comprehensive tracking coverage throughout the United Kingdom. The system uses GPS technology combined with cellular networks to maintain continuous communication with the monitoring centre.
Your vehicle tracker remains functional across European countries, ensuring protection during continental travel. The 24/7 monitoring service maintains coverage regardless of your location within the supported regions.
Real-time tracking alerts work seamlessly whether you’re driving in London, Edinburgh, or abroad. The MyTrackstar app displays your vehicle’s last known location and journey history across all covered territories.
OEM Approval and Transferability
The Secure S5 iPro is approved by major vehicle manufacturers, meeting warranty requirements for new and high-value cars. This OEM recognition means the installation won’t void your manufacturer’s warranty when fitted correctly.
You can transfer your Trackstar S5 system to another vehicle if you change cars during the subscription period. This transferability protects your investment and allows continuous coverage across different vehicles you own.
Transfer services require professional reinstallation to maintain Thatcham approval standards. Insurance providers recognise the system’s credentials, often resulting in reduced premiums for vehicles equipped with this Thatcham-approved tracker.
Subscription Plans and Ownership Experience
The TrackStar S5 iPro requires an active subscription to maintain its monitoring and tracking capabilities. You can choose between annual and three-year plans, both of which include warranty coverage and access to customer support services.
Annual and Three-Year Subscriptions
TrackStar offers two primary subscription options for the S5 iPro system. The annual subscription offers flexibility if you prefer shorter commitments or anticipate changes in your vehicle security needs within the next year.
The three-year subscription typically offers better value for long-term ownership. This option reduces your annual cost whilst ensuring continuous protection without the need to renew every twelve months.
Both subscription tiers include 24/7 monitoring services, access to the MyTrackstar app, and professional recovery assistance. Your subscription covers all core features, including real-time GPS tracking, driver recognition alerts, geofence notifications, and journey history.
The monitoring centre operates continuously throughout your subscription period to detect unauthorised movement or attempts at tampering.
Device Warranty and Support
Your TrackStar S5 iPro includes warranty coverage for the duration of your active subscription. This warranty protects against hardware failures and manufacturing defects under normal operating conditions.
Technical support is available through TrackStar’s customer service team throughout your subscription period. You can contact support for issues with the device, app connectivity problems, or questions about system functionality.
The professional installation includes initial setup verification to ensure your tracker operates correctly from day one.
Ownership Transfer and Account Management
You can transfer your TrackStar subscription to a new owner if you sell your vehicle. This process requires contacting TrackStar’s account management team to update the registered owner details and transfer monitoring services.
The new owner must complete the ownership transfer documentation and may need to pay a small administrative fee. Account management functions are accessible through the MyTrackstar app and online portal.
You can update your contact information, manage notification preferences, and view your subscription status. Your account dashboard displays the remaining subscription time and provides options to renew before it expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Trackstar S5 iPRO raises common questions about setup procedures, subscription costs, model comparisons, account access, installation requirements, and support contact methods.
How do I set up the tracker and pair it with my mobile app?
You need to download the MyTrackstar App after your professional installation is complete. The certified engineer who installs your system will provide you with login credentials and activation instructions.
The app connects to your tracking system automatically once you enter your account details. You can then access live location data, journey history, geofence alerts, and tamper notifications through the mobile interface.
Your Driver Recognition tags come pre-paired with the system during installation. You keep the tag with you when driving to ensure the vehicle recognises you as an authorised driver.
Is there a monthly subscription fee, and what does it include?
The Trackstar S5 iPRO requires a monthly subscription to maintain the tracking and monitoring services. The subscription covers 24/7 alarm monitoring by the response team, real-time GPS tracking across the UK and Europe, and professional recovery assistance if your vehicle is stolen.
Your subscription also includes access to the MyTrackstar App with all its features. The monitoring centre provides immediate alerts for unauthorised movement, attempts to tamper, and other security events.
What are the main differences between the S5 and the S7 models?
The S5 iPRO includes Driver Recognition technology and no-tag/no-start immobilisation, which prevents the vehicle from starting without an authorised driver tag present. This feature actively prevents theft rather than just tracking after it occurs.
The S7 model provides Thatcham S7-approved tracking with real-time GPS and 24/7 monitoring, but does not include the immobilisation or Driver Recognition features. Both systems offer stolen vehicle recovery support and work with the MyTrackstar App.
The S5 iPRO offers more advanced anti-theft protection, making it suitable for high-value vehicles with stricter insurance requirements.
How do I log in to the tracking portal and reset my password if needed?
You access the tracking portal through the MyTrackstar App or the Trackstar website using the credentials provided during installation. Your login details include a username and password specific to your account.
If you forget your password, you can use the password reset function on the login page. Enter your registered email address,s and you will receive reset instructions.
Contact Trackstar customer services if you cannot access the reset function or did not receive your initial login credentials.
How is the unit wired into the vehicle, and how many wires are required?
The S5 iPRO system requires professional installation by certified Trackstar engineers who handle all wiring connections. The device connects to your vehicle’s electrical system and immobilises multiple wiring connections that vary by vehicle’s make and model.
The installation includes connections to the power supply, ignition system, and immobiliser circuits. The tracking unit also features a built-in backup battery that maintains operation if the main power is disconnected.
You cannot install this system yourself as it requires specialist knowledge of vehicle electronics and security systems. UK-wide professional installation is included with your purchase.
How do I contact customer services for installation, billing, or technical support?
You can reach Trackstar customer services through their website contact form. You may also contact them by phone during business hours.
The support team handles enquiries about installation scheduling and subscription billing. They also assist with technical issues and stolen vehicle reports.
In cases of theft, you must call the dedicated stolen vehicle hotline immediately. The 24/7 monitoring centre operates around the clock to assist with emergency recovery situations.
Keep your vehicle registration number ready when contacting support. Having your account details available will help them locate your information quickly.



