- carspecialistcustoms
- September 26, 2022
- Ghost Immobilisers
In a time where everything is becoming electronic, it has never been more important to ensure the security of both you and your valuables. With many would-be thieves targeting things like electric cars, keyless locks and remote-controlled garages, an extra layer of security could bring the peace of mind and comfort that all car lovers need.
One of the best ways of defending your car is with a ghost immobiliser. However, these revolutionary new products are not well known in the market, and those that hear of them are left wondering, “what is a ghost immobiliser?”.
Statistics show that theft of a vehicle rose by 22% in the financial year 2021/22 compared to 2020/21 and that keyless car theft accounted for 94% of all vehicles recovered by Tracker last year, reaching an all-time high. As contactless theft becomes an ever-growing threat to car safety, it’s understandable that many are looking into what exactly ghost immobilisers are.
A popular method of preventing car theft is Faraday bags, but consumers are rapidly looking for a replacement after noticing how easy it is for them to be compromised. As soon as the bag develops holes or the material wears it, it can begin to allow signals through, and some simply don’t work out of the box. That’s why ghost immobilisers have rapidly grown in popularity in recent years, with up to 88,915 being used since March 2022.
In this article, we will look at what a ghost immobiliser is, how much it costs and what other theft prevention techniques there are for protecting your vehicles. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about ghost immobilisers, their pricing and if they are really worth it.
What Is A Ghost Immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers are often used to add another layer of protection to your vehicles and make it harder for them to be stolen or otherwise entered. It serves to protect keys, combat key cloning, hacking or keyless entry and essentially stop thieves from getting your vehicle. We found that no matter where you live or park your vehicle, it can be prone to thieves – that’s why ghost immobilisers can be so important in this modern age.
They work by preventing your engine from working unless an additional, unique pin number or code sequence is entered alongside your key fob. This helps to prevent thieves from driving away with your vehicle, which may encourage them to leave it alone altogether. Your chosen pin code can be entered by pressing a pattern of existing electronic buttons on your steering wheel, in an app, on the door panel or on the central console. Because the device is invisible, you have the added benefit of stealth, which can prevent anyone from trying to tamper with it, and the device only takes seconds to use, yet can save you countless hours trying to recover your vehicle once it has been stolen.
One of the most attractive features of the ghost immobiliser is the fact that it can be fitted without any marks to the internal body of the vehicle. This means that it leaves no lasting damage to your car, which can be highly attractive for those who plan on reselling or developing their existing model. Car care is a big part of the world today, with a study concluding that 63% of people like to clean their car because it is a pride and joy in their life. With more and more people putting emphasis on their cars, it’s only natural for some to choose to improve their security at the same time with the use of a ghost immobiliser.
The device is also low-maintenance and incredibly hard to detect. It has a connection to the CAN (Controller Area Network) and operates through the ECU (Engine Control Unit), and can be installed in a hidden location, works silently, has no radio signals and is unrecognisable to the untrained eye. For added security, only the ghost immobiliser fitters themselves are aware of the location of the device.
Whilst a wheel lock can be cut off, and a car’s wires can be jumped, or a universal key can be applied, a ghost immobiliser cannot be found or detected in time to make a speedy getaway. One of its added benefits is that, if you choose to be, you can be the only person who knows where it is located, and that it even exists. Because of this, thieves can be left wondering why your vehicle will not start, which can lead to them assuming that it is broken and leaving it be.
How Much Does A Ghost Immobiliser Cost?
Ghost immobilisers are the next generation of in-vehicle protection, and are widely regarded as the world’s first aftermarket CAN bus immobiliser. As one of the best car security devices available at the moment, it can sometimes come with a heavy fee, but the cost is worth it when you think of the protection you will be getting.
Like any product, ghost immobilisers can vary in cost depending on your car model, the type you choose, and the business you want to work with. One of the best providers of ghost immobilisers in the market at the moment is Car Specialist Customs, an established and authentic car modification business centred on security and aesthetics.
Car Specialist Customs offer the Autowatch Ghost II, a unique, CAN-based immobiliser trained at securing your vehicle without the need for cutting wires or adding after-market key fobs. Their new TASSA verified Ghost II Immobiliser systems include a special vehicle marking system used by insurance companies across Europe linking it to the International Security Register, helping to provide the added touch of security and a backup plan for if something happens to your vehicle.
You may be worried about the cost to install the Ghost II into your vehicle – but for what you’re getting, the prices can be extremely low and competitive. Typically, the costs are around £450, and that is for the full procedure. As you can see, it’s a lot more affordable than other types of car alarms and has the added bonus of actually being able to stop people from driving away with your car.
Is A Ghost Immobiliser Worth It?
For many, the ghost immobiliser is a necessary piece of equipment that works wonders to protect your vehicles and prevent any damage from being sustained by them. As car thefts spike to 810,400 in recent years, compared to 721,885 in 2019, we have seen an 11.8% increase with 88,515 more motor vehicles being taken. Because of this, many have made the move to get a ghost immobiliser to try and prevent damage or theft of their own vehicle – but is it worth it?
Ghost immobilisers are far better than other protection devices in the market because they cannot be bypassed using standard theft tactics. It will protect you from car theft, as well as damage, by using some of the most innovative and trusted techniques in the market today. With the many different services you can choose once it is installed, you can detect vibrations on or near your vehicle, contact with your vehicle, damage to your vehicle or someone attempting to start your vehicle’s engine, all from the comfort of your own phone.
They add an extra, discrete security measure for vehicle owners on top of the traditionally coded key fob. Engines will often only start if an additional, unique pin number or code sequence is entered so even if thieves have stolen your keys, they will not be able to drive your vehicle away. This makes it highly worth it, especially for car owners who have more exotic and desired vehicles.
Want To Know More About Our Products?
If you want to find out more about our products and services, or would like clarity on how we can help you, it’s always best to get in contact with us. Our specialist team is on hand around the clock to provide quality care and services to help you find the product for you so that you can work on the things you love – your vehicle. With our innovative new services and products, we are able to provide you with a unique and speedy service that will help redefine the meaning of “customer service” forever.
Our mission is always to provide our customers with the best quality items at the most competitive rates. We truly care about car protection and theft prevention, and as such, we would love to roll out these measures as quickly as possible, even if that means operating at lower rates. We have always been proud to be able to say that our customers are extremely satisfied with our work and proud to say that we currently have a 5-star rating on Google.
For more information on how to reach us and get more information today, you can contact Car Specialist Customers at 0752 397 1347 or use our email at info@carspecialistcustoms.co.uk for the quickest responses and swift support from members of our team. Alternatively, if you prefer to browse independently, you can find a portfolio of our work here with plenty of photos to show off the quality of our work. Whatever you choose to do, we have no doubt that you’ll find what you’re looking for with us.
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FAQs
What does a ghost immobiliser do? ›
Ghost immobilisers add an extra, discrete security measure for vehicle owners on top of the traditional coded key fob. Engines will only start if an additional, unique pin number or code sequence is entered so even if thieves have stolen your keys, they will not be able to drive your vehicle away.
Is a ghost immobiliser worth it? ›We found that no matter where you live or park your vehicle, it can be prone to thieves – that's why ghost immobilisers can be so important in this modern age. They work by preventing your engine from working unless an additional, unique pin number or code sequence is entered alongside your key fob.
How much does ghost immobiliser cost? ›The Autowatch Ghost immobiliser system costs £449.99, depending on the vehicle. Please contact us for a price quote for installation on your vehicle.
Can ghost immobiliser be hacked? ›Can a ghost immobiliser be bypassed or hacked? A vehicle with a ghost immobiliser is near impossible to bypass or hack. The wires are integrated to look like they came from the factory with a ghost immobiliser and there is no physical anti-theft equipment, such as steering wheel locks, that can be removed.
Can a car be stolen with ghost immobiliser? ›Can a car be stolen with a ghost immobiliser? No, a car fitted with a ghost immobiliser can not be stolen. Even if a thief makes their way inside your car with the key, without the sequence pin they will not be able to start the car.
Can a car with a ghost immobiliser be bypassed? ›No. They work by preventing your engine from working unless an additional, unique pin number or code sequence is entered alongside your key fob. This helps to prevent thieves from driving away with your vehicle, which may encourage them to leave it alone altogether.
Does ghost immobiliser bring insurance down? ›Having a Ghost immobiliser installed is likely to reduce your car insurance cost in most instances, so it is a worthwhile investment. Most Insurance companies will offer a discounted rate, as it shows responsible vehicle ownership and has less likelihood of being stolen due to the relay method of key cloning.
Can ghost immobiliser be beaten? ›Once it has been successfully installed by an approved fitter such as Car Theft Solutions, it is near impossible to successfully bypass, making it one of the most effective ways to keep your vehicle safe.
Can you steal a car with an engine immobilizer? ›An engine immobilizer is a basic anti-theft device that makes it very hard to steal a car without using an authorized key. The engine immobilizer transmits a code to the engine when an authorized key is in the ignition, or a key fob is inside the vehicle.
Does a ghost Immobiliser have a tracker? ›GHOST IMMOBILISER AND GHOST TRACKER INSTALLATION PACKAGE £549. Save on fitting cost by adding a Ghost Tracker to your Ghost Immobilser installation for just £100 extra including 12 month sim subscription and Ghost Tracker App access £449 stand alone Ghost Immobiliser fitted!
How long does it take to install Ghost Immobiliser? ›
How Long Does Fitting & Installation Take? The Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser is a hassle-free security system to install. No wire cutting means safer and easier installations, averaging around two hours for an Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser fitting.
Does a ghost Immobiliser void warranty? ›Does installing an Autowatch Ghost void my vehicles warranty? This seems to be a question that gets asked a lot about installing an Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser but in a word, no. Installing a Ghost will not void your vehicles warranty.
Can thieves bypass immobilizer? ›'Relay theft' works against cars that have keyless entry and start systems. This is when the thief uses a device that can copy the code sent out by a driver's car key and then replicates it to fool the vehicle that the key is present. This allows the thief to bypass the immobiliser and start up the vehicle.
What triggers the immobiliser? ›How do immobilisers work? When you start your car, the key or fob sends a code to the electronic code unit (ECU) that permits the engine to start. If a thief attempted to steal the car by using an incorrect key, the immobiliser would activate and prevent the ECU from receiving the code.
What triggers immobilizer? ›When you insert a key to the ignition the antenna reads the code and sends it to the ECU. This receiver works like a transponder and then sends a unique authorization code back to the immobiliser system. The engine will start if the code matches.
Does ghost immobiliser drain battery? ›This isn't an extremely common problem, but has been well-documented in some vehicles. If ghost battery drain is ruining your life, try unplugging auxiliary media players when you're not using them.
How do thieves steal cars with immobilisers? ›When someone attempts to start the engine, the vehicle sends a request to the key. If the key returns the correct predefined signal, the immobilizer sends a command to the engine control unit to start. Without the right signal, you can't start the car.
Does your vehicle has a factory installed immobilizer? ›The simplest way to find out if you have a factory-fitted immobiliser is to check your car manual or get in touch directly with the manufacturer. Most car manufacturer's websites will provide their contact details. If you still can't find an answer, a mechanic will be able to tell you.
Can I start my car without immobilizer? ›If your car has an RFID-enabled transponder key, you can bypass the immobilizer by inserting the key in the ignition and turning and switching it on both sides until the vehicle starts. Some vehicles may take longer than others to recognize the key.
What is the difference between car alarm and immobiliser? ›A car immobiliser is a clever bit of tech that stops your car from starting unless you are using the correct fob or key. Essentially, it's the car equivalent of a home alarm system. Your key or hob serves as the pin number to de-activate the alarm, or in this case, activate the car.
What is a ghost immobiliser called for insurance? ›
The Autowatch Ghost is the original aftermarket CAN bus immobiliser and is now Insurance Approved by TASSA Accreditation. For Insurance Approval, the TASSA accredited Ghost II must be installed by a TASSA Approved Installer – We are your TASSA Approved Installer!
What category is a ghost immobiliser? ›In short, Ghost Immobilisers are not Thatcham approved, this is because the method that the Ghost Immobiliser works on does not have a banding category within the Thatcham mode of certification anymore, this is alongside vehicle trackers, as they are aftermarket security measures.
What happens when an immobiliser stops working? ›Immobiliser or security system
Sometimes, it's your car's own security system that stops the engine from starting – if the immobiliser fails to recognise your key, then your engine won't start at all. This may be a flat battery in the key fob which weakens the signal from the fob to the system.
1 deactivate the immobiliser by entering your current. code. 2 push down the accelerator or gas pedal. 3 enter your new code choice and then enter again to.
Where is the immobilizer located? ›A car's immobilizer system is basically an anti theft system located in the engine ECU that prevents cars' engines from running unless the correct transponder key is present.
Can you hotwire a car with an immobilizer? ›In an explainer for Jalopnik, writer Jason Torchinsky notes that most car models from the post-'90s on are equipped with built-in immobilizers, which make hot-wiring a lot more complicated — but not impossible. Cars with immobilizers are designed not to start if that immobilizer isn't bypassed with the correct key.
Can a locksmith reprogram an immobilizer? ›A common customer problem is lost keys, a failed immobilizer or defective ECU. Regardless of the vehicle, in order to solve the problem, the automotive locksmith must be able to retrieve key security information or reprogram the memory chip inside the module itself (immobilizer or ECU).
How can I tell if someone put a tracker in my car? ›Check the Exterior
Using a flashlight, check both front and rear wheel wells. Use your hand to feel in areas that aren't easily visible. If a tracker is located in the wheel well, its magnet will need to be attached to a metal part, so look behind plastic covers that don't require removal.
Finding a Hidden GPS Tracker on Your Car
Perform an exterior inspection: Use a flashlight and mirror to check areas like the wheel wells and under the vehicle. Most trackers are hidden in easy to reach locations. The tracker may be dirty and difficult to see. Perform an interior inspection: Check the data port first.
$220 is the recommended retail price, depending on your choice of product. This includes installation, a minimum two years warranty and GST.
How much does it cost to install immobilizer? ›
Depending on the device, immobilizer bypass modules & interface modules range in price from $49.99 to around $160 installed. When we quote you a remote start price installed we normally include the cost of the interface module if one is needed.
How do I turn off my ghost alarm? ›- Simply enter your normal disarm sequence (must have an ignition cycle since service mode was entered)
- There will be the normal disarm 2 flash confirmation.
- The next time the ignition is switched off the Ghost will rearm as normal.
If you have a 'keyless entry' car then make sure your keys are kept well away from doors and windows. Keep your car key in a screened box/tin/bag so that the signal can't be 'grabbed' from the outside and used to open your car – and don't forget to do the same with any spare set!
How do thieves disable car alarms? ›Many thieves today are using advanced methods to steal vehicles, as well. They might clone the keys or use transmitters and relays to mimic the signal of a car's keys. This bypasses the alarm system entirely.
Can you delete immobilizer? ›Fortunately there is something called an immo bypass, otherwise known as an immobilizer "delete". This reprograms the Engine Control Unit (ECU) immobilizer function, so the ECU ignores the faulty immo. With the immo deleted, the car will run independent of the immobilizer, even if the immobilizer itself is defective.
How do I know if I have an immobiliser? ›Again, be sure to check the handbook and ask the seller. If this isn't possible, you can ask a mechanic to inspect your vehicle. If your chosen car doesn't already have an immobiliser, you can, if you wish, arrange for one to be fitted under your ownership.
How do I get my car out of immobilizer mode? ›Put the key in the ignition and rotate forward two clicks to the “On” position that makes the dashboard light up, but don't try starting the car. Leave the key there for 15 minutes; it doesn't always take that long, but it can.
What causes an immobilizer to fail? ›Faulty immobiliser/security system
Your immobiliser may fail to recognise your key, preventing the vehicle from starting. This is often caused by a dead key fob battery.
Vehicle immobilisation is something the police use to stop a vehicle from moving. Police officers have the power to immobilise your vehicle when they stop you. They also have the power to move the vehicle, or tell you to move it so they can fit an immobilisation device.
How secure is ghost immobiliser? ›It provides your car protection from key cloning, hacking, and even key theft. The only way a thief could take a Ghost Immobiliser protected vehicle is by physically towing it away, even then they will never be able to drive your pride and joy!
Can a ghost immobiliser be turned off? ›
The transport mode is used to switch off the Ghost completely meaning it will NOT immobilise the vehicle at all, and it can only be reactivated by entering the PIN code. This mode should be used when you do not want the security functions of the Ghost system to start automatically.
What triggers an immobiliser? ›When you start your car, the key or fob sends a code to the electronic code unit (ECU) that permits the engine to start. If a thief attempted to steal the car by using an incorrect key, the immobiliser would activate and prevent the ECU from receiving the code. As a result, the engine would fail to start.
Does ghost immobiliser have a tracker? ›GHOST IMMOBILISER AND GHOST TRACKER INSTALLATION PACKAGE £549. Save on fitting cost by adding a Ghost Tracker to your Ghost Immobilser installation for just £100 extra including 12 month sim subscription and Ghost Tracker App access £449 stand alone Ghost Immobiliser fitted!
How much does Ghost car security cost? ›Important Notes. * Autowatch Ghost immobiliser system is fitted from £499 vehicle dependent. Please call sales team for confirmation on price for installation on your vehicle.
Does a ghost immobiliser void warranty? ›Does installing an Autowatch Ghost void my vehicles warranty? This seems to be a question that gets asked a lot about installing an Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser but in a word, no. Installing a Ghost will not void your vehicles warranty.
Can someone steal a car with immobilizer? ›Does immobiliser stop theft? Immobilizers are the only true method of THEFT PREVENTION as they stop unauthorized vehicle or equipment movement while other security devices focus on TRACKING AND RECOVERY after a vehicle or equipment are stolen.
How long does it take to install ghost immobiliser? ›How Long Does the Installation Take? The Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser is a hassle-free process to install. Car Theft Solutions can install on your driveway or place of work. Averaging around two hours for a ghost immobiliser fitting, we give a full demonstration of how to use it correctly.