Automotive security
Security marking for all types of vehicles. Deter theft, trace, recover.
Vehicle checks & verifications
200,000+ vehicles checked every year
Complete vehicle marking & registration
Retainagroup provides security marking, registration, and reporting services that reduce theft, support police investigations, with 24/7 protection and verification.
Technologies that protect
Trusted by manufacturers. Respected by police and law enforcement. Proven by results.
Laser etching
Lasers are a proven technology for marking unique codes in glass. Delivering fast, precise and durable results. Ideal for high-volume production and large fleets.
Stencil & fluid
Cost-effective, flexible, and easy to apply with minimal investment, making them a practical choice for dealerships, regional distributors, and small manufacturers.
Electrolysis & metal etching
Permanent, tamper-resistant marks for bare metal, providing discreet identification for Catalytic converters and other components.
UV & ultra-destruct labels
Suitable for plastics and painted parts, providing tamper evidence and discreet identification for component manufacturers, aftermarket suppliers and dealerships.
Marking
Vehicles and parts including catalytic convertors and glass can be marked using durable methods such as laser etching, ultra-destructive labels and PET stencils with appropriate etch fluids.
Markings can be branded, to strengthen the value to OEM customers.
Registration & traceability via the ISR
Vehicle details are registered on the International Security Register (ISR) for 24/7 traceability.
Data from marked vehicles is uploaded onto our standalone servers before being transferred into our International Security Register (ISR). Each code is unique and linked to vehicle identifiers such as VIN, VRM, gearbox, and engine numbers. Self-checks are available 24/7, providing real-time support to deter theft, cloning and component fraud.
Analytical reporting is shared with law enforcement and insurers for crime reduction and spotting trends.
OEM & Dealers
Vehicle windows and/or valuable parts are marked at production plants, import/export centres, or dealerships using a range of methods, including bespoke laser units, stencil & proprietary fluids, electrolysis, and ultra-destruct labels.
Stronger anti-cloning protection, easier verification of replacement parts, and data reporting that helps insurers and authorities track theft trends and recover vehicles faster.
With decades of experience in vehicle security, we are the trusted partner for OEMs, distributors, and dealers. Our systems integrate seamlessly with production processes, are fully scalable, and deliver long-term value by reducing theft and fraud risk.
Trusted by
Proven protection
Law enforcement data indicates that both vehicle and asset marking substantially decrease the chances of theft for cars and valuable belongings alike.
Comprehensive automotive security marking & registration
Retainagroup provides vehicle manufacturers, import/export centres and dealerships with security marking, registration, and reporting services that reduce theft, support police investigations, and protect business reputations. Vehicles and parts are marked using durable methods such as laser etching, ultra-destructive labels and PET stencils with appropriate etch fluids. Vehicle details are then registered on the International Security Register (ISR) for 24/7 traceability.
Dealers and OEMs benefit from stronger anti-cloning protection, easier verification of replacement parts, and data reporting that helps insurers and authorities track theft trends and recover vehicles faster.
Security marking:
Vehicle windows and/or valuable parts are marked at production plants, import/export centres, or dealerships using a range of methods, including bespoke laser units, stencil & proprietary fluids, electrolysis, and ultra-destruct labels.
Registration & traceability via the ISR
Data from marked vehicles is uploaded onto our standalone servers before being transferred into our International Security Register (ISR). Each code is unique and linked to vehicle identifiers such as VIN, VRM, gearbox, and engine numbers. Checks are available 24/7, providing real-time support to deter theft, cloning and component fraud. Find out more
Analytical reporting
We analyse vehicle loss/theft data (including from PNC/LEDS sources) for manufacturers, insurers, authorities and other relevant parties. We provide reports to meet customer requirements. This includes trend reports, vulnerability assessments and effectiveness evaluations of security systems. Find out more
Trusted by vehicle manufacturers, importers, dealers and insurers
With decades of experience in vehicle security, we are the trusted partner for OEMs, distributors, and dealers. Our systems integrate seamlessly with production processes, are fully scalable, and deliver long-term value by reducing theft and fraud risk.
Vehicle window marking
A simple, safe, and effective system for marking a vehicle's glass at a production plant, import/export centre or dealership.
Permanent marking on vehicle glass with unique ISR codes deters theft, prevents cloning, and provides lifetime traceability for faster recovery. Window etching is one of the most widely used automotive marking methods. By permanently marking vehicle glass with a unique ISR-linked code, manufacturers, import centres and dealerships can deter theft, prevent cloning and provide lifetime traceability. Marked windows make stolen vehicles far harder to sell and far easier for police to recover
Vehicle marking explainer video
Our glass marking system is simple, safe and effective. Operators can be trained in minutes, and no capital equipment or protective clothing is required. The process marks only the glass, leaving paintwork and other vehicle parts untouched. Water acts as the neutralising agent, and an MSDS sheet is available on request for full safety information.
Metal marking with stencil and fluid
Permanent identification for bare metal surfaces.
Our stencil and fluid system offers a clear, durable way to mark aluminium, steel, and other metals. Using laser-cut ultra-destruct labels with a custom fluid, parts can be identified visibly and permanently. This method is widely employed to protect catalytic converters from theft, making it more difficult for criminals to resell stolen parts and easier for police and insurers to trace ownership.
Catalytic converter protection
Catalytic converters are a common target for thieves. Our CatGuard system places a unique, permanent mark on converters, registered with the International Security Register (ISR). This makes stolen converters traceable and assists police in identifying offenders.
UV self-etch labels
Permanent marking for painted metal surfaces.
Our ultra-destruct UV labels offer permanent identification without fluids. Once applied to painted metal, the unique code and ISR contact details are engraved into the surface within seven days. If removal is attempted, the label breaks apart and the code remains visible under UV light, ensuring long-term traceability and discouraging theft.
Ultra-destruct labels with uv fluid
Durable marking for plastics and painted metals.
This system utilises laser-cut ultra-destruct labels combined with our proprietary UV fluid. Once applied, the label bonds securely to the surface, and any attempt to remove it causes it to break apart. Even if the label is entirely peeled off, the UV fluid leaves a permanent code and ISR contact details on the item, visible under UV light. Suitable for plastics as well as painted metals, it offers durable identification and effective theft deterrence.
FAQs
Vehicle windows and/or valuable parts are marked at production plants, import/export centres, or dealerships using a range of methods, including bespoke laser units, stencil & proprietary fluids, electrolysis, and ultra-destruct labels. Vehicle details are then registered on the International Security Register (ISR) for 24/7 traceability and verification.
Law enforcement data indicates that both vehicle and asset marking substantially decrease the chances of theft for cars and valuable belongings alike. Stolen vehicles and items are traceable and far more difficult to sell on. Dealers and OEMs benefit from stronger anti-cloning protection, easier verification of replacement parts, and data reporting that helps insurers and authorities track theft trends and recover vehicles faster. Verification through the ISR quickly allows police to confirm ownership.
We offer a range of methods, including bespoke laser units, stencil & proprietary fluids, electrolysis, and ultra-destruct labels.
If a vehicle has not already been marked at OEM or at the vehicle dealership then the system can be retro fitted either by going to an authorised re-seller, such as Halfords, or contacting us directly.
The International Security Register (ISR) is a secure database used by police, insurers, and the public to instantly verify and trace marked components and support the recovery of stolen vehicles and other valuable items. Since 1991, the ISR has played a critical role in crime prevention, asset recovery, and successful prosecutions.
Minutes - the process is very quick, easy and safe.
Markings are permanent and designed to last the lifetime of the asset. They are tamper-resistant and cannot be removed without visible damage, which helps in both theft deterrence and identification.
Both options are available. Marks can be visible to deter theft or applied covertly depending on the application and asset type. Warning labels are also used to supplement etched marks.
Marking an item means it has an identity - which can be checked and verified, making fraud much harder.
Catalytic convertors, high value parts, high risk theft parts and windows are the main parts that are marked. Other parts can also be marked with easy to use kits.
Typically all the vehicle window glass would be marked but depending on the manufacturer, other high value parts will also be marked such as the catalytic converters, doors, main body areas, and removeable parts including doors, bonnets, boot etc.
Yes - there are regulations and compliance to adhere to.
Vehicles have unique IDs, so recovering them to an owner is possible through tracing via the ISR.
Yes - our kits are quick, easy and safe to use. They come with instructions and we have online videos showing the process too.
Yes - you can buy from us and sell them through your own retail channels or give them away as part of a package to your customers.
Yes, OEM branding of window markings and parts marking labels can be achieved.
Data hosted securely in-house with nothing stored in the cloud.
BAB ISO/IEC 27001:2022
BAB Quality Standard ISO 9001:2015
All Retainagroup staff are vetted/screened to BS7858 levels, including Criminal Records Bureau checks.
In the long run, it could if your vehicle was stolen, because it can more easily be recovered to you and verifying your ownership is quick and easy for insurance purposes, or police crime reports or investigations.
The International Security Register (ISR) is a secure database used by police, insurers, and the public to instantly verify and trace marked components and support the recovery of stolen vehicles and other valuable items. Since 1991, the ISR has played a critical role in crime prevention, asset recovery, and successful prosecutions.
Yes - it was developed by and continues to be owned by and hosted by Retainagroup.
Data hosted securely in-house with nothing stored in the cloud.
BAB ISO/IEC 27001:2022
BAB Quality Standard ISO 9001:2015
All Retainagroup staff are vetted/screened to BS7858 levels, including Criminal Records Bureau checks.
Anyone can register their vehicle or asset on ther ISR. Retainagroup can receive data to the ISR via a range of methods. We can supply hardware for operators to collect and send the data, or integrate into your company’s existing processes for seamless data transfer.
Registration is typically completed by the installer or provider at the time of marking. If self-installing, you’ll receive instructions on how to complete registration online.
RETAINAGROUP TO ADD INFO
Please visit this page on our website:
https://www.retainagroup.com/theisr.html
Please visit this page on our website:
https://www.retainagroup.com/theisr.html
There is no extra cost to use the ISR - registration is included in the unit price and verification is free if someone has a code to check.
No - the ISR simply tells you if the ID code on the vehicle matches the vehicle it was registered with. Everything else is confidential.
Only authorised users, such as police, insurers, or Retainagroup staff, can access stored data—strictly for theft recovery or verification purposes. Personal information stored on the ISR is never shared for marketing.
If asked questions about a vehicle ISR operators will only confirm whether the information given to them corresponds to the details held on the ISR.
If there is any doubt about an enquiry, an ISR operator will telephone the registered owner or keeper to clarify the situation.
Retainagroup is registered under the Data Protection Act 2018
If a marked item is stolen, the owner should report the theft to the police immediately. The item should then be reported as stolen to the ISR, by visiting www.theisr.org or calling 01233 333000. This will flag the item as stolen on the database, until the owner, or police confirm that the item has been recovered.
When police find a marked item, they contact the ISR quoting the code etched on the item. Once the caller’s identification is verified, the ISR operators will confirm the item’s registration status (stolen or not) and may provide contact details to assist recovery.
Ready to protect your vehicles?
Join the manufacturers who trust Retainagroup for their security protection requirements.
International Security Register (ISR) 24/7: +44 (0)1233 333000
Sales & General: +44 (0)1233 504167
Email: info@retainagroup.com
Unit 5, St John’s Court,
Foster Road, Ashford Business Park,
Ashford, Kent,
TN24 0SJ,
United Kingdom
Check online the status of a marked and registered motor vehicle or any other item protected by our system: