What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A Ghost immobiliser shields your vehicle from key cloning or hacking. It is incredibly difficult to bypass and is a great addition to any vehicle security device like an alarm system or tracking device.
It uses the buttons built into your steering wheel or center console to let you create a PIN code sequence. The sequence is saved to the device and used 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's actually a reliable, state-of-the-art anti-theft device that can prevent tech-savvy thieves from taking your car even if they've copied or taken your key fob. It is completely hidden and operates silently, so thieves don't even know it exists. It is also unnoticeable by thieves, as it doesn't emit radio signals, and doesn't require any additional hardware inside the vehicle or wire cutting.
It is directly connected to the bus system of the vehicle (CAN) and prevents the engine from running until a PIN code has been entered. It is typically activated using buttons already present on the steering or centre console. There is no new keypad installed in the car. This adds a new layer to security, which will not only stop theft but also ensure that the safety of the vehicle is ensured if keys get lost.
Traditional immobilisers were incredibly effective to stop hotwiring that was a popular type of car theft in the 80s and 90s but as technology has progressed and thieves have become more technologically adept, various forms of theft have emerged, including relay car theft. Ghost immobilisers have become a popular option, as they can safeguard your vehicle from the more sophisticated forms of theft.
Ghost car immobilisers are offered as a standalone system or in conjunction with other security devices, such as Thatcham Approved Vehicle Trackers or full HD Dash Cams which can reduce your insurance costs. ghost vehicle immobiliser are able to be fitted to all cars and are a cost-effective and effective way of boosting the security of your vehicle.
The Ghost 2 is the latest Ghost immobiliser by Autowatch. It protects your car against key cloning and hacking. This system deters thieves from stealing your vehicle unless they physically tow it away.
How does a ghost immobiliser work?
The Ghost Immobiliser is a groundbreaking system, protects your vehicle from key cloning and hacking. It also helps to protect your keys from theft. It was developed by Autowatch which is a South African company at the forefront of security systems for vehicles technology. It is designed to stop these kinds of car theft, making sure that your pride and joy remains in your car where it belongs.
Ghost immobilisers are device that connects directly to your vehicle's CAN data bus system, and intercepts signals from the ECUs (Electronic Control Units) that allow your engine to start. It prevents your engine from starting until you enter an individual pin code or a sequence of buttons in addition to your standard key fob. This prevents thieves from using an application on their phone to record the signal and then clone the key fob in order to steal your car.
It is a subtle and undetectable system that does not make use of lights or sounds. It isn't detectable by radar scanners or by radio detectors. It also does not contain any circuit wires that the thief can cut. It can be incorporated into any security system, including an alarm or tracking device. It's an excellent alternative for those who have to let someone else drive their vehicle for a short period of time, like valet parking or when the vehicle is being serviced.
There are two primary ghost immobilisers available on the market, CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both function in the same method by connecting to your data bus in CAN and blocking your vehicle from starting unless you enter a specific sequence of buttons on the dashboard or steering wheel. The sequence is personalised to you only known to you, and is able to be altered at any time.
Both CAN Phantom & Autowatch Ghost have been TASSA-certified which is a third-party group of experts who have backgrounds in police and security testing. This proves that the system has a high reliability and quality.
It's important to know that both CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost can only be effective if they're installed correctly This is why it's important to have your ghost immobiliser fitted by an authorized installer. You can find one near you using our online search tool, or speak to your local dealer.
How does a ghost-immobiliser prevent thefts?
A ghost immobiliser works by connecting to the CAN system of your vehicle and preventing the car from starting until the code sequence is first entered. This can be done by pressing buttons on your vehicle, such as the steering wheels, centre consoles, or door panels. The code can have up to 20 characters. This means that if a criminal were to enter your vehicle and drive it they will not be in a position to drive away without the correct pin code sequence entered, making it nearly impossible for them to take your joy and pride.
A ghost immobiliser, unlike alarms or key fob signals that can be intercepted by external scanning devices, works silently and independently. This makes it one of the most effective ways to protect your car against modern theft techniques like hacking and signal relay.
It is also a simpler installation process and is compatible with the majority of automobiles, making it simple to use. Additionally, if you ever need to temporarily disable your ghost immobiliser, it is easy to do this through the user interface. This allows your car to be parked for service or valet without compromising security. The system will automatically go back to secure mode after a short period of time, giving you assurance that your vehicle is always protected.
In addition, putting an immobiliser that is ghost-proof to your vehicle could reduce your insurance premium. This is especially relevant if your car is a prestige model like Mercedes-Benz, BMW or Jaguar. It is best to check with your insurance company to confirm this and to discuss other options for additional security measures that may reduce your cost.
Both the Autowatch Ghost and CAN Phantom systems are Thatcham accredited and recognized by the Tracking and Aftermarket Security System Association. These systems are both recognized for their exceptional levels of protection which makes them a great investment for anyone looking to keep their vehicle secure from theft. It could also help preserve the value of your car in the event that you decide to sell it as potential buyers will know that it is a secure vehicle.
How much does it cost to install an immobiliser ghost?
Ghost immobilisers offer an extra layer of security for your vehicle. They are indetectable and impossible to bypass, making them one of the most effective anti-theft measures available. The added peace of mind offered by a ghost immobiliser is well worth the initial cost.
The cost of an immobiliser ghost varies depending on which model you choose as well as the cost set by your installer. However, the majority of users have high praise for their investment, as they value the added layer of protection. They also appreciate the fact the fact that the device is discrete and does not alter the style of their car.
Contrary to key fobs and locks, Ghost immobilisers are invisible and operate in complete silence, without radio signals. This makes them a discrete and effective alternative to security measures like trackers or engine management systems (EMS) immobilisers, trackers and other.
A Ghost immobiliser works by connecting directly to the CAN data network of your vehicle. It then creates a unique PIN number that needs to be entered in order to start the vehicle. The code is entered using buttons already present in your steering wheel and dashboard and dashboard, which makes it virtually unnoticeable. It is also approved by TASSA for Insurance, making it a great choice for modern vehicles that don't have factory immobilisers.
If you're considering a Ghost immobiliser for your vehicle, it's highly recommended to have it professionally installed. Incorrect installation can lead to various issues, including electrical faults or damage to your vehicle. A poor installation can also void the warranties of your vehicle and Ghost immobiliser.
Other security measures such as other security measures like a GPS tracking device or engine immobilisers may be less expensive than Ghost immobilisers. They are more prone to tampering, and may not offer as much protection against determined thieves. They may also be more difficult to fit in older vehicles. Ghost immobilisers are generally believed to be the best option for a variety of drivers.