What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A Ghost immobiliser is a subtle car security system that protects your vehicle from key cloning and hacking. It is extremely difficult to bypass and is an excellent add-on to any security device for your vehicle like an alarm system or tracking device.
It makes use of the buttons integrated into your steering wheel or center console to allow you to create the PIN code sequence. It is then stored to the device and utilized every time you need to disarm your vehicle to enter valet mode.
What is a ghost immobiliser?
The term "ghost immobiliser" might sound scary and spooky, but it is an effective modern, high-tech anti-theft device that helps to prevent tech-savvy thieves from taking your vehicle even if they've copied or taken your key fob. It is completely concealed and operates in a quiet manner, so that thieves are not aware that it exists. It's also invisible to thieves because it doesn't emit any radio signals, and doesn't utilize additional hardware that could be visible inside the vehicle, or require any cutting of wires.
It connects directly to the bus system of the vehicle (CAN) and stops the engine from starting until a PIN code is entered. It's typically used with buttons already present on the steering wheel or on the centre console, and there's no new keypad fitted to the vehicle. It's a hidden and discreet way to provide an extra layer of security that will not only assist to prevent theft, but also make sure that your car is protected in the event that you do happen to lose your keys.
The older immobilisers were effective in preventing hotwiring. This was a common type of car theft during the 1980s and 90s. However as technology advanced and thieves grew more tech-savvy new forms of theft emerged, such as relay car theft. Ghost immobilisers can protect your vehicle against these more sophisticated thefts.
Ghost car immobilisers are able to be used on their own or in conjunction with other security systems such as Thatcham Approved vehicle trackers or full HD Dash Cams that will help to reduce your insurance premiums. These can be installed on most cars, and are inexpensive and effective ways to boost your vehicle's safety.
The Ghost 2 is the latest Ghost immobiliser by Autowatch. It safeguards your car against key cloning and hacking. The only way a thief could steal your car with this system is physically towing it away, and even then they would not be capable of driving your pride and joy.
How does a Ghost Immobiliser work?
The Ghost Immobiliser is a groundbreaking system that protects your car from hacking, key cloning and even key theft. Autowatch, an innovative South African company, designed the system to prevent car thefts.
A ghost immobiliser is connected directly to the CAN data bus in your vehicle and intercepts signals from ECUs which are electronic control units that start your engine. It stops the engine from starting until you enter a unique pin code or sequence of buttons in addition to your standard key fob. This is to prevent thieves from using an application on their phone to capture the signal, and then clone the key fob to steal your car.
It is a discrete and undetectable system that doesn't make any noise or emit any lights. It isn't detectable by radar scanners or radio detectors and it also does not have circuit wires that a burglar could cut. It can be incorporated into any security system, which includes an alarm or tracking device. It's also a great option for people who want to temporarily let someone else drive their vehicle, such as when valet parking is required or when the car is being serviced.
There are two major ghost immobilisers on the market, CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both immobilisers work in a similar way by connecting to the CAN data bus. They prevent your vehicle from being started until a specific sequence of buttons are entered on the dashboard or on the steering wheel. The sequence is exclusive to you, only you know it, and you can alter it if you want to.
Both CAN Phantom & Autowatch Ghost have been TASSA-certified which is a third-party group of experts with backgrounds in police and security testing. This is a proof of the high level of quality and reliability of the system.
It is important to remember that both CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost can only be effective if they're properly installed that's why it's essential to get your ghost immobiliser fitted by an certified installer. You can locate one close to you using our online search tool, or speak to your local dealer.
How does a ghost immobiliser help prevent theft?
A ghost immobilise r works by connecting to the CAN system in your vehicle and stopping the car from starting unless the code sequence is entered first. This can be done by pressing buttons on your vehicle, for example the steering wheels, centre consoles or door panels. The code can have up to 20 characters. This means that if a criminal were to successfully enter your car and begin driving it, they would not be able to drive it away without the correct pin code sequence entered, making it almost impossible for them to take your joy and pride.
Unlike alarms and key fob signalling that can be snatched and compromised Ghost immobilisers are undetectable by external scanning devices and operates completely and in a way that is independent. This makes it the most effective method to safeguard your vehicle from modern methods of theft, such as hacking or signal relay.
It is also a easier installation process and is compatible with most vehicles, making it easy to use. In addition, if ever need to temporarily disable your ghost immobiliser it is simple to do it via the user interface. This allows your vehicle to be parked or serviced without compromising security. After a short time the system will return to secure mode. This provides you with peace of mind knowing your vehicle is always safe.
Ghost immobilisers can lower your insurance premium. This is particularly true if your vehicle is a prestige model such as a Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Jaguar. It's worth checking with your insurer to find out if they are able to confirm this, and also to discuss any other options available for additional security measures that could be able to further lower your cost.
Both the Autowatch Ghost and CAN Phantom systems are Thatcham certified and endorsed by the Tracking and Aftermarket Security System Association. These systems are both recognized as offering exceptional levels of protection, making them an excellent investment for anyone who wants to protect their vehicle from theft. This could help you to preserve the value of your car when you decide to sell it, as potential buyers will know that it's a high-security vehicle.
How much will it cost to install a ghost immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers provide an extra layer of protection for your car. They are inaccessible and difficult to bypass. This makes them one of most efficient anti-theft tools available. The peace of mind provided by a ghost immobiliser is worth the initial investment.
The cost of an immobiliser ghost is different depending on which model you choose as well as the cost charged by your installer. Most customers are pleased with their purchase and appreciate the additional security. Many customers also appreciate the fact that the device is discreet and does not detract the style of their vehicle.
Ghost immobilisers unlike key fobs and wheel locks, are invisible and operate in complete silence, without radio signals. This makes them a discreet and efficient alternative to car security measures, such as trackers, or engine management system (EMS), immobilisers.
A Ghost immobiliser connects directly to the CAN data network of your vehicle. It then generates a unique PIN code that must be entered to start the vehicle. The code is entered through buttons that are already in your dashboard and steering wheel which makes it virtually undetectable. It is also endorsed by TASSA for Insurance, making it a great choice for modern cars that don't come with factory immobilisers.
If you're considering installing a Ghost immobiliser for your vehicle, it's highly recommended to have it professionally installed. A wrong installation can cause a range of problems that could result in electrical issues and damage to your vehicle. An incorrect installation could invalidate the warranty of your vehicle as well as the Ghost immobiliser.
Some other security measures, such as an GPS tracker or an engine immobiliser, might be less expensive than a Ghost immobiliser. They can be more susceptible to tampering, and may not provide as much protection from determined thieves. In addition, they are more difficult to install in older vehicles. Ghost immobilisers are generally believed to be the best option for many drivers.