If you are looking at ways to improve your motorhome security, or your insurer has asked for a particular type of tracking system, you may have come across the term S5 tracker.
An S5 tracker is a monitored vehicle tracking system with driver identification. It is designed to help detect unauthorised vehicle movement and provide a monitored response if certain alerts are triggered.
For motorhome owners, that can make it a useful part of a wider security setup.
At Southdowns Motorhomes, we can fit S5 tracking systems to new and used motorhomes, including systems monitored by Global Telemetrics.
What Does S5 Mean?
S5 refers to a recognised category of vehicle tracking system.
A key feature of an S5 system is driver identification. This allows the system to recognise whether the person driving the vehicle has the authorised identification with them.
Depending on the system, this may be done through a driver identification card, tag or compatible mobile app.
If the motorhome is moved without the expected driver identification being present, the monitoring centre can be alerted.
This is one of the main differences between an S5 system and more basic forms of vehicle tracking.
How Does an S5 Tracker Work?
An S5 tracker uses location technology to monitor the position and movement of the vehicle.
The exact features depend on the system fitted, but an S5 tracker may monitor events such as:
- Vehicle movement
- Driver identification not being present
- Vehicle battery disconnection
- Tracker tampering
- Connected alarm activation
The system is linked to a monitoring service, so it is not simply a case of checking a location yourself through an app.
With the Global Telemetrics S5 systems, monitoring is provided through its Secure Control Centre 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
That monitored element is one of the reasons motorhome owners may choose an S5 system over a basic consumer GPS tracker.
What Is Driver Identification?
Driver identification is a major part of S5 tracking.
When the vehicle is driven, the system checks for an authorised form of identification.
If that identification is not present, an alert can be raised.
This helps the monitoring centre distinguish between normal use of the motorhome and movement that may need to be checked.
For motorhomes, this can be particularly useful because the vehicle may spend long periods parked at home, in storage or on a seasonal pitch.
Can I See Where My Motorhome Is?
Many S5 tracking systems give the owner access to a mobile app.
With the GTE Track app, users can view information such as vehicle location, journey history and movement notifications.
Other functions can include geofencing and service mode.
A geofence allows you to create a virtual boundary around a chosen area.
For example, you may want to set one around the place where your motorhome is normally stored.
If the motorhome moves in or out of that area, the system can provide a notification.
Does My Motorhome Need an S5 Tracker?
Not every motorhome owner will have the same requirement.
There are generally two main reasons for fitting an S5 tracker.
The first is insurance.
Some insurers may ask for a particular type of tracking or security system depending on the value, make, model or circumstances of the motorhome.
If your insurer has specified S5, it is important to check exactly what they require before arranging installation.
The second reason is additional security.
Even where an insurer does not require one, some owners choose to fit an S5 tracker because they want monitored tracking alongside other security measures.
Is an S5 Tracker the Same as an Immobiliser?
No.
A tracker is primarily designed to monitor vehicle location and movement.
An immobiliser is designed to prevent or restrict the vehicle from being started or driven.
Some higher-specification tracking systems may include additional immobilisation functions, but you should not assume that every S5 tracker works in the same way.
If you are comparing systems, it is worth checking the exact specification and what your insurer expects.
Do All Motorhome Insurers Require an S5 Tracker?
No.
Tracker requirements vary between insurers and policies.
An insurer may take into account factors such as:
- Motorhome value
- Vehicle make and model
- Where it is kept
- Storage arrangements
- Existing security equipment
- The level of cover being provided
If your insurer has asked for a tracker, make sure you confirm whether they require S5, S5+, S7 or another approved system.
It is better to check before installation rather than assume that any tracking device will meet the policy requirement.
You can find out more about the differences in our article on S5 vs S7 Trackers, and why the S5 is our best choice.
Is an S5 Tracker Worth Fitting if My Insurer Does Not Require One?
That depends on how you use and store your motorhome.
Some owners choose one simply because they want another layer of security.
This may be especially relevant if the motorhome:
- Is kept away from your home address
- Spends long periods in storage
- Is a high-value vehicle
- Is used regularly for touring
- Already has other security equipment and you want monitored tracking as well
A tracker should not be seen as a replacement for sensible physical security.
Locks, alarms, immobilisers and secure storage can all form part of a wider approach to protecting the vehicle.
Can an S5 Tracker Be Fitted to an Existing Motorhome?
Yes.
An S5 tracker can usually be fitted to a motorhome you already own, as well as to a newly purchased vehicle.
At Southdowns Motorhomes, we can discuss the system you need and arrange installation through our workshop.
If you are buying a motorhome from Southdowns, you can also ask about tracker fitting before collection.
Does an S5 Tracker Need a Subscription?
Yes.
A monitored tracking system requires an active subscription for the monitoring service.
The cost depends on the tracking system and the subscription option chosen.
Because subscription prices can change, it is best to check the current cost when arranging installation.
How Long Does S5 Tracker Fitting Take?
Installation time can vary depending on the motorhome and the system being fitted.
The tracker needs to be installed correctly and discreetly, with the necessary connections made to the vehicle.
If you are booking your motorhome into Southdowns for tracker installation, our team can advise you on the expected fitting time when the appointment is arranged.
Where Should I Get an S5 Tracker Fitted?
Vehicle tracking systems should be fitted properly and in accordance with the system requirements.
Motorhomes can have more complex electrical systems than many standard cars, with habitation systems, auxiliary batteries and additional equipment to consider.
Using a workshop familiar with motorhomes helps make sure the system is installed with the vehicle in mind.
At Southdowns Motorhomes, we can fit S5 tracking systems and explain how the system works once installed.
S5 Motorhome Tracker Fitting at Southdowns Motorhomes
If your insurer has asked for an S5 tracker, or you are looking at ways to improve your motorhome security, we can help.
Southdowns Motorhomes can supply and fit S5 tracking systems for motorhomes and discuss the options available for your vehicle.
Find out more about our S5 motorhome tracker fitting service or contact our team to arrange installation.
FAQs
An S5 tracker is a monitored vehicle tracking system with driver identification. It can alert a monitoring centre if the vehicle is moved without the authorised driver identification being present.
Yes. S5 trackers can be fitted to motorhomes and can be useful where the vehicle is high value, kept in storage or subject to specific insurance requirements.
Not always. Insurance requirements vary between providers and policies. If your insurer has asked for a tracker, check the exact specification before arranging installation.
A basic GPS tracker may simply show the vehicle’s location. An S5 system includes monitored tracking and driver identification, giving it a more security-focused role.
Yes. A monitored S5 tracking system requires an active subscription for the monitoring service. Fitting with Southdowns Motorhomes includes your first years’ subscription cost.
In many cases, yes. The suitability depends on the motorhome and the system being fitted, so it is worth checking before booking the installation.
With compatible systems, yes. The tracking app may allow you to view location information, journey history, movement notifications and geofences.
The system can generate an alert so the monitoring centre can check whether the movement is authorised.
No. A tracker monitors the vehicle’s location and movement. An immobiliser is designed to stop or restrict the vehicle from being driven. Some systems may combine additional security functions, depending on the model fitted.
Southdowns Motorhomes can arrange supply and fit of S5 tracking systems for motorhomes and advise on the right option for your vehicle and insurer requirements. Book with us and have your first years’ subscription included in the cost.
Written by the Southdowns Motorhomes team. With decades of experience supplying premium motorhomes to UK and European customers, our team understands what makes a vehicle suitable for serious touring.
