What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A Ghost immobiliser is a subtle vehicle security system that shields your vehicle from hacking and key cloning. It is extremely difficult to break and is a great add-on to any security device for your vehicle such as an alarm system or tracking device.
The buttons on the console or steering wheel let you create the PIN code. This code is saved on the device and is used to disable your car for valet mode.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
It might sound scary, but the 'ghost immobiliser is a sophisticated anti-theft device that stops thieves, who are tech-savvy to steal your vehicle even if they've copied your key fob or taken it. It's completely hidden and operates silently and so thieves don't get any prior warning that it's there. It is also undetectable to thieves because it doesn't emit radio signals, and doesn't make use of additional hardware that could be visible inside the vehicle, or require any cutting of wires.
It connects directly to the vehicle's bus system (CAN) and prevents the engine from starting until a PIN number is entered. It is typically activated by existing buttons on the steering wheel or centre console. No new keypad is installed to the vehicle. This adds an extra layer of security that will not only prevent theft but also ensure that the safety of your vehicle is assured if keys get lost.
The traditional immobilisers were very effective in stopping hotwiring. This was a popular kind of car theft in the 80s and 90s. However as technology improved and thieves became more technologically adept, new types of theft began to emerge, such as relay car theft. Ghost immobilisers are a popular choice to protect your car against these more sophisticated forms of theft.
Ghost car immobilisers are offered as a stand-alone system or in combination with other security equipment such as Thatcham Approved Vehicle Trackers or full HD Dash Cams, which will reduce your insurance rates. They can be fitted to a wide range of automobiles and are a cost-effective and efficient way to increase your vehicle's security.
The Ghost 2 is the latest Ghost immobiliser from Autowatch. It safeguards your car against key cloning and hacking. This system stops thieves from taking your car unless they physically tow it away.
How does a ghost immobiliser work?
The Ghost Immobiliser, a revolutionary system, protects your vehicle from hacking and key cloning. It can also stop key theft. It was designed by Autowatch, a South African company at the forefront of vehicle security systems technology and works to prevent these kinds of car theft, ensuring your pride and joy remains in your car where it belongs.
A ghost immobiliser connects directly to the CAN data bus of your car and intercepts signals sent by ECUs which are electronic control units that start your engine. It stops your engine from running until you enter an unique pin code or a sequence of buttons, in addition to the standard key fob. This is to prevent thieves from using an application on their mobile phones to capture the signal, and then copy the key fob to steal your vehicle.
It is a subtle and undetectable device that doesn't use lights or sounds. It is not detectable by radar scanners or radio detectors and it also does not have circuit wires that the thief could cut. It can be integrated into any security system, including an alarm or tracking device. It's an excellent option for people who need to allow someone else to drive their car temporarily like valet parking or when the vehicle is being serviced.
There are two major ghost-immobilisers that are available: CAN Phantom, and Autowatch Ghost. Both work in a similar way by connecting to the data bus of the CAN. They stop your vehicle from starting until a specific sequence of buttons is entered onto your steering wheel or dashboard. The sequence is personalised to you only accessible to you and is able to be altered if you ever need to.
ghost immobiliser for sale & Autowatch Ghost have been TASSA-verified which is a third-party group of experts with backgrounds in police and security testing. This confirms the high level of quality and reliability of the system.
Installers who are approved can install your Ghost immobiliser. You can find an installer near you by using our search tool online or contact your local dealer.
How can a ghost-immobiliser stop thefts?
The ghost immobiliser is connected to the CAN system of your vehicle and stops it from starting until the code sequence is entered. 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 even if thieves successfully enter your vehicle and start driving it, they'll be incapable of driving it off without entering the correct pin code.
A ghost immobiliser, in contrast to alarms or key fob signals which are able to be intercepted by scanners that are external, works silently and independently. This makes it the most effective method to safeguard your vehicle against modern theft techniques like hacking or signal relay.
It is also a easier installation process and is compatible with most vehicles, making it easy to use. If you want to temporarily disable the ghost immobiliser, it's easy to do from the user interface. This allows your car to be parked for service or valet without risking security. The system will automatically switch to secure mode after a brief period of time, giving you assurance that your vehicle is always secure.
In addition, putting a ghost immobiliser to your vehicle can reduce the cost of insurance. This is especially true if you have a prestige vehicle, such as a Mercedes, BMW or Jaguar. It is worth contacting your insurance company to find out if they are able to confirm this and discuss any other options available for additional security measures that could help reduce your premium.
The Autowatch Ghost and CAN Phantom are both Thatcham accredited systems and are recognized by the Tracking and Aftermarket Security System Association (TASSA). These systems are both recognized for their superior levels of security, making them an excellent option for anyone looking to keep their vehicle secure from thieves. This could help keep the value of your vehicle when you eventually decide to sell it because potential buyers will know that it is a secure car.
How much will an immobiliser ghost cost?
Ghost immobilisers offer an extra layer of protection for your vehicle. They are invisible and impossible to get around. This makes them one of most efficient anti-theft tools available. The peace of head that ghost immobilisers offer is worth the initial investment.
The cost of an immobiliser ghost is different dependent on the model you choose and the cost charged by your installer. However, most users have high praise for their investment, as they value the added protection. They also appreciate the fact the fact that the device is discrete and doesn't alter the appearance of their vehicle.
Ghost immobilisers like key fobs or wheel locks, are not visible and operate in complete silence, without radio signals. This makes them a more discreet and efficient alternative to other security measures, such as trackers and engine management system (EMS) immobilisers.
Ghost immobilisers function by connecting directly to the vehicle's CAN data network. It then creates an individual PIN code which must be entered to start the vehicle. The PIN code is entered using the buttons on your dashboard and the steering wheel, making it virtually unnoticeable. It's also endorsed by TASSA for Insurance, making it a great choice for modern cars that don't come with factory immobilisers.
It is highly recommended that if are considering the purchase of a Ghost vehicle immobiliser, that you get it fitted by a professional. Incorrect installation can lead to a range of problems that could result in electrical issues and damage to your vehicle. An incorrect installation could void the warranties of your vehicle and Ghost immobiliser.
Other security measures, like an GPS tracker or an engine immobiliser, may be more affordable than an Ghost immobiliser. They are more vulnerable to theft, and may not offer as much protection from determined thieves. In addition, they are more difficult to install in older vehicles. Therefore an Ghost immobiliser is generally considered the best choice for many drivers.