What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A Ghost immobiliser is a discrete vehicle security system that shields your vehicle from key cloning and hacking. It is incredibly difficult to get around and is a great addition to any security device for your vehicle like an alarm system or tracking device.
The buttons on the console or steering wheel allow you to create the PIN code. The code is saved to the device and can be used to disarm your car in valet mode.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
It might sound scary, but the 'ghost immobiliser' is a modern anti-theft system that blocks thieves, who are technically adept and have the ability to take your vehicle even if they've cloned your key fob or taken it. It is completely hidden and operates silently, so thieves are not aware that it is there. It is also unnoticeable by thieves since it does no emit radio signals and doesn't require any additional hardware inside the vehicle or wire cutting.
It connects directly to the bus system of the vehicle (CAN) and stops the engine from starting until a PIN code is entered. It is typically activated using buttons already present on the steering or central console. The keypads are not fitted to the car. This adds an additional layer to security, which will not only stop theft but also ensure that the safety of your vehicle is assured if keys get lost.
Traditional immobilisers worked incredibly well to stop hotwiring which was a typical form of car theft in the 80s and 90s but as technology has advanced and thieves have become more tech-savvy, different types of theft have been discovered, including relay car theft. This is where ghost immobilisers are an increasingly popular option to help protect your car from these more sophisticated types of theft.
Ghost car immobilisers can be used by themselves or in conjunction with other security devices such as Thatcham Approved vehicle trackers or full HD Dash Cams that will help to reduce your insurance premiums. They can be put on most cars, and are cost-effective and efficient to boost your vehicle's safety.
The Ghost 2 is the latest Ghost immobiliser from Autowatch. It safeguards your car against key hacking and cloning. This system prevents thieves from stealing your car unless they physically tow it away.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be used?
The Ghost Immobiliser is a groundbreaking system that protects your car from key cloning, hacking and even theft of keys. It was designed by Autowatch the South African company at the leading edge of vehicle security technology. It is designed to stop these methods of car theft, and ensure that your pride and joy stays on your driveway where it belongs.
A ghost immobiliser is connected directly to the CAN data bus in your car and intercepts signals sent by ECUs which are electronic control units that start your engine. It prevents your engine from starting until you enter an unique pin code or a series of buttons, in addition to your standard key fob. This is designed to stop thieves from using a mobile application to record the signal, and then copy the key fob to steal your car.
It is a quiet and undetectable system that doesn't use lights or sounds. It isn't detectable by radar scanners or radio detectors. Additionally, it does not contain any circuit wires that the thief can cut. It can be added to any security system, such as an alarm or tracking device. It's also a great option for those who want to temporarily let someone else drive their vehicle, for instance when valet parking is required or the vehicle is being maintained.
There are two major ghost-immobilisers that are available: CAN Phantom, and Autowatch Ghost. Both work similarly by connecting to the CAN data bus. They stop your vehicle from being started unless a certain sequence of buttons is entered onto the dashboard or on the steering wheel. The sequence is personalised to you and is only known to you, and can be changed if you ever need to.
Both CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost are TASSA verified, a 3rd party group of experts with security and police backgrounds. This proves that the system has a high level of reliability and quality.
Installers who are approved can install your Ghost immobiliser. You can find one close to you using our online search tool or contact your local dealer.
How does a ghost immobiliser help prevent theft?
The ghost immobiliser is connected to the CAN system of your vehicle and prevents it from operating until the code sequence is entered. This can be done by pressing buttons on your vehicle, like the steering wheels, centre consoles, or door panels. The code can contain up to 20 characters. This means that even if thieves successfully enter your vehicle and start driving it, they will be unable to drive it off without entering the correct pin code.
Unlike alarms and key fob signals which can be intercepted and compromised, a ghost immobiliser is undetectable by external scanning devices and operates completely and in a way that is independent. This makes it one of the most effective methods to protect your car against modern theft methods such as hacking and signal relay.
It is also a lot easier to install and is compatible with all vehicles. This makes it easy to use. If you want to temporarily disable the ghost immobiliser, it is simple to do so via the user interface. This lets you maintain your vehicle or valet park it without any compromise to its security. After a short time the system will change back to secure mode. This gives you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is always safe.
A ghost immobiliser can also lower your insurance premium. This is especially applicable if the vehicle is a high-end model such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Jaguar. It is best to check with your insurance company to confirm this, and also to discuss other options for additional security measures which may reduce your cost.
Both the Autowatch Ghost and CAN Phantom systems are Thatcham recognized and accredited by the Tracking and Aftermarket Security System Association. These systems are both regarded as offering high levels of security, making them an excellent option for anyone looking to protect their vehicle from theft. This can even help you to preserve the value of your car when you decide to sell it, since potential buyers are aware that it's a high-security vehicle.
How much will a ghost immobiliser cost ?
Ghost immobilisers are a high-tech layer of security for your vehicle. They are completely invisible and impossible to bypass. This makes them one of the most effective anti-theft devices available. The added peace of mind offered by a ghost immobiliser is well worth the initial investment.
The cost of an immobiliser ghost can vary according to the model you choose and the rate set by your installer. However, most users report high satisfaction with their investment, as they appreciate the added protection. Many also appreciate that the device is discreet and doesn't alter the style of their car.
Ghost immobilisers like key fobs or wheel locks, are invisibly and operate in complete silence, without radio signals. This makes them a more discrete and effective alternative to other car security measures, such as trackers and engine management system (EMS) immobilisers.
Ghost immobilisers work by connecting directly to your vehicle's CAN data network. It generates a pin code that needs to be entered to start the car. The code is entered through buttons that are already in your steering wheel and dashboard which makes it virtually undetectable. The system is also Insurance Approved through TASSA, making it an excellent option for modern vehicles that do not have factory immobilisers.
If you're thinking about a Ghost immobiliser for your vehicle, it's recommended that you have it professionally installed. Incorrect installation can lead to numerous issues that could result in electrical issues and damage to your vehicle. A bad installation could also invalidate the warranty of your vehicle as well as the Ghost immobiliser.
Some other security measures, such as the GPS tracker or an engine immobiliser might be less expensive than an Ghost immobiliser. They are more prone to theft, and may not offer the same level of protection from determined thieves. Furthermore, they can be more difficult to install in older vehicles. Therefore an Ghost immobiliser is generally thought to be the best choice for many drivers.