what is a ghost immobiliser (read this blog article from Cb 1cb 400)?

A Ghost immobiliser protects your car from key cloning or hacking. It is incredibly difficult to break and is a great option to add to any security system, including an tracking device or alarm system.

The buttons on the console or steering wheel allow you to generate the PIN code. This is then stored to the device and used every time you need to disarm your vehicle for valet mode.

What is a ghost immobiliser?

It might sound frightening It may sound scary, but the ghost immobiliser' is a modern anti-theft system that blocks thieves, who are tech-savvy and have the ability to take your vehicle, even if they've cloned your key fob or taken it. It's completely hidden and operates quietly, so thieves don't have any prior warning that it's there. It is also undetectable by thieves, as it doesn't emit radio signals, and doesn't require any additional hardware inside the vehicle or wire cutting.

It works by connecting directly to the vehicle's CAN bus system and it stops the engine from running in the event that a particular PIN code sequence is first entered. It's typically used with buttons on the steering wheel or on the centre console, and there's no new keypad that's fitted to the vehicle. It's an obscure and subtle method to add an additional layer of security that will not only help to prevent theft, but also ensure that your vehicle is fully protected if you do happen to lose keys.

Traditional immobilisers were incredibly effective to stop hotwiring that was a popular type of car theft in the 80s and 90s however, as technology has advanced and thieves have become more and more tech-savvy, new types of theft have emerged, 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 systems such as Thatcham Approved vehicle trackers or Dash Cams with full HD which can help reduce your insurance premiums. They can be fitted to a wide range of vehicles and are an affordable and effective way of boosting the security of your vehicle.

Autowatch's latest ghost immobiliser, called the Ghost 2, is at the leading edge of security system technology. It gives your vehicle with protection against key cloning, hacking and even key theft. This system deters thieves from stealing your car unless they physically drag it away.

How does a Ghost Immobiliser work?

The Ghost Immobiliser is a revolutionary system that protects your car from hacking, key cloning and even theft of keys. Autowatch is an innovative South African company, designed the system to protect against car thefts.

A ghost immobiliser connects directly to the data bus for CAN in your vehicle and intercepts signals sent by ECUs which are electronic control units that start your engine. It prevents the engine from starting until an additional unique pin code or sequence of buttons is entered alongside your standard key fob. This is to stop thieves from using an application on their phone to capture the signal, and then clone the key fob to take your car.

It is a silent and undetectable device, which does not make any noise or emit lights. It isn't detectable by radar scanners or by radio detectors. It also does not have circuit wires that thieves can cut. It can be added to any security system, which includes an alarm or tracking device. It's also a great option for those who wish to let someone else temporarily drive their vehicle, for instance when valet parking is required or when the car is being serviced.

There are two main ghost immobilisers that are available on the market, CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both function in the same manner by connecting to the data bus in CAN and blocking your vehicle from starting unless you enter a specific sequence of buttons on the steering wheel or dashboard. The sequence is exclusive to you, and only you know it, and you can change it if necessary.

Both CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost are TASSA verified, a 3rd party group of experts with security and police backgrounds. This confirms the high level of reliability and quality of the system.

Installers who have been approved are able to install your Ghost immobiliser. You can find one close to you with our online search tool or talk to your local dealer.

What is a ghost immobiliser review immobiliser to do to help prevent theft?

A ghost immobiliser works by connecting to the CAN system of your vehicle and stopping the car from starting unless a code sequence is entered prior to. This can be accomplished 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 someone were to enter your car and begin driving it they will 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.

In contrast to alarms and key fob signals which are susceptible to being hacked and compromised, a ghost immobiliser is not detected by scanners external to the vehicle and works silently and independently. This makes it one of the most effective methods to safeguard your car from modern methods of theft, such as hacking and signal relay.

It's also a simpler installation process and is compatible with all vehicles, making it easy to use. Additionally, if you need to temporarily disable your ghost immobiliser, it is simple to do so from the user interface. This allows your car to be parked for service or valet without any compromise in security. The system will automatically switch back to secure mode after a brief period of time and gives you assurance that your vehicle is always secure.

A ghost immobiliser can also reduce your insurance premium. This is particularly 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 that could be able lower your cost.

Both the Autowatch ghost immobiliser 2 and CAN Phantom systems are Thatcham recognized and accredited 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 looking to keep their vehicle secure from thieves. This could help you to maintain the value of your vehicle when you decide to sell it, since potential buyers know that it's a high-security vehicle.

How much does a ghost immobiliser car immobiliser cost?

Ghost immobilisers provide a sophisticated layer of security for your vehicle. They are inaccessible and difficult to bypass. This makes them one of most effective anti-theft devices on the market. The added security provided by a ghost immobiliser is well worth the initial investment.

The cost of an immobiliser ghost varies dependent on the model you select and the rate that your installer will charge you. Most customers are pleased with their purchase and appreciate the extra layer of security. Many customers also appreciate the fact that the device is discrete and does not detract the look of their vehicle.

In contrast to key fobs and wheel locks, Ghost immobilisers are invisible and operate without radio signals. They are a quiet and efficient alternative to car security measures such as trackers, or engine management system (EMS) immobilisers, trackers and other.

A Ghost immobiliser connects directly to the CAN data network of your vehicle. It creates a PIN code that needs to be entered to start the vehicle. The PIN code is entered pressing the buttons on your dashboard or the steering wheel, making it virtually undetectable. It is also endorsed by TASSA for Insurance, making it a fantastic option for cars that don't come with factory immobilisers.

It is highly recommended that if you are thinking about the purchase of a Ghost vehicle immobiliser, you get it fitted by a professional. Incorrect installation can lead to various issues, including electrical faults or damage to your vehicle. In addition the incorrect installation can void warranties on both the Ghost immobiliser and your vehicle.

Other security measures, like the GPS tracker or an engine immobiliser, might be less expensive than an Ghost immobiliser. However, they are more susceptible to tampering and may not offer as much protection against a determined thief. They can also be more difficult to fit in older vehicles. Ghost immobilisers are generally believed to be the best option for many drivers.