What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A Ghost immobiliser is a discrete car security system that protects your vehicle from hacking and key cloning. It is incredibly difficult to get around and is an excellent add-on to any security device in your vehicle, such as an alarm system or tracking device.
The buttons on your steering wheel or console allow you to generate the PIN code. It is then stored to the device and used each time you have to disarm your vehicle to allow 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 and have the ability to take your vehicle even if they've cloned your key fob or stolen it. It is completely hidden and operates silently, so thieves are not aware that it is there. It's also unnoticeable to thieves since it doesn't emit radio signals, and it doesn't use additional hardware that would be visible inside the vehicle or require any wire cutting.
It connects directly to the bus system of the vehicle (CAN) and prevents the engine from running until a PIN number is entered. It's usually used through buttons already present on the steering wheel or center console, and there's no new keypad fitted to the vehicle - it's a hidden and discreet way to add an extra layer of security that will help to deter theft but to make sure that your car is protected in the event that you do happen to lose keys.
Traditional immobilisers were incredibly effective to stop hotwiring that was a popular method of car theft in the 80s and 90s however, as technology has advanced and thieves have become more and more tech-savvy, different types of theft have been discovered like relay car theft. Ghost immobilisers are a great way to protect your vehicle from these more sophisticated thefts.
ghost immobiliser reviews can be used by themselves or combined with other security systems such as Thatcham Approved vehicle trackers or Dash Cams with full HD that can reduce your insurance premiums. These can be installed on all cars and are an an affordable and effective way to increase the security of your vehicle.
The Ghost 2 is the latest Ghost immobiliser by Autowatch. It guards your vehicle from key hacking and cloning. The only way that a burglar could take your car with this system is by physically towing it away and even then they won't be capable of driving your beloved vehicle.
How does a ghost immobiliser work?
The Ghost Immobiliser is a revolutionary device that protects your vehicle from hacking, key cloning and even key theft. Autowatch is a pioneering South African company, designed the system to protect against car thefts.
A ghost immobiliser connects directly to the CAN data bus of your vehicle and intercepts signals sent by ECUs, which are electronic control units that start your engine. It stops the engine from starting until an additional unique pin code or sequence of buttons are entered along with your regular key fob. This is to stop thieves from using a mobile app to capture the signal and then clone your key fob to take your car.
It is a discrete and undetectable system that does not emit any sound or emit any lights. It is not detected by radar scanners or radio detectors, and it also does not have circuit wires that a burglar could cut. It's a great addition to any security system and can be incorporated into other systems, such as alarm and tracking devices. It's also a great alternative for those who have to allow someone else to drive their car temporarily like valet parking or when the vehicle is being repaired.
There are two main ghost immobilisers that are available on the market today, CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both work in a similar method by connecting to your data bus in CAN and blocking your vehicle from starting until you press a particular sequence of buttons on the dashboard or steering wheel. The sequence is exclusive to you, only you know it, and you can modify it at any time.
Both CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost are TASSA verified by a third party group of experts from security and police testing backgrounds. This is a proof of the high level of reliability and quality of the system.
It's important to note that both CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost are only effective when they are installed correctly, which is why it's important to have your ghost immobiliser fitted by an authorized installer. You can locate one close to you using our online search tool, or speak to your local dealer.
How does a ghost-immobiliser prevent thefts?
The ghost immobiliser is connected to the CAN system in your vehicle and stops it from operating until the code sequence is entered. This is done using buttons on your vehicle such as the steering wheel, centre console or door panels and can be up to 20 characters in length. This means that even if thieves successfully gain access to your vehicle and begin driving it, they'll be unable to drive it off without entering the correct pin code.
In contrast to alarms and key fob signals which can be snatched and compromised, a ghost immobiliser is undetectable by external scanning devices and works silently and independently. This makes it the most effective way to protect your vehicle against modern methods of theft, such as hacking or signal relay.
It is also much simpler to install and is compatible with most vehicles. This makes it easy to use. Additionally, if you need to temporarily disable your ghost immobiliser it is simple to do it via the user interface. This allows your car to be serviced or valet parked without any compromise in security. After a short period the system will return to secure mode. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is always secure.
In addition, putting an immobiliser with ghosts to your vehicle can lower your insurance costs. This is particularly true if you have a prestige vehicle, such as a Mercedes, BMW or Jaguar. It is worth contacting your insurance provider to see if they can confirm this, and also to discuss other options for additional security measures that might help lower your premium.
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 recognized as providing high levels of security and security, making them a good investment for anyone who wants to keep their vehicle secure from thieves. It could also help keep the value of your car when you eventually decide to sell it, as potential buyers will be aware that it is a highly secure car.
How much will an immobiliser ghost cost?
Ghost immobilisers provide an extra layer of security for your vehicle. They are undetectable and inaccessible to anyone which makes them among the most effective anti-theft solutions available. The added peace of mind that ghost immobilisers provide is well worth the initial investment.
The cost of an immobiliser ghost is different dependent on the model you choose and the cost set by your installer. However, the majority of users are extremely satisfied with their investment, as they value the additional layer of security. Many also appreciate the fact that the device is discrete and doesn't alter the style of their car.
Unlike key fobs and wheel locks, Ghost immobilisers are invisible and operate in silence without radio signals. This makes them a more discrete and effective alternative to other car security measures, including trackers and engine management system (EMS) immobilisers.
A Ghost immobiliser works by connecting directly to the CAN data network of your vehicle. It then generates a unique PIN number which must be entered to start the vehicle. The PIN code is entered by using the buttons on your dashboard and the steering wheel, making it virtually unnoticeable. It is also approved by TASSA for insurance, which makes it an excellent choice for modern cars that don't have factory immobilisers.
If you're thinking about a Ghost immobiliser for your vehicle, it's recommended that you get it installed by a professional. Incorrect installation could lead to a variety of problems like electrical faults or damage to your vehicle. Additionally, improper installation could result in the cancellation of warranties on both the Ghost immobiliser as well as your vehicle.
Some other security measures, such as an GPS tracker or an engine immobiliser, might be less expensive than a Ghost immobiliser. They are more vulnerable to theft, and may not provide as much protection against determined thieves. They are also more difficult to integrate into older vehicles. Ghost immobilisers are generally considered to be the best choice for a lot of drivers.