What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
Thieves are constantly developing ways to get around security systems in cars, but modern anti-jamming technology and constant monitoring can mitigate the threat. Ghost immobilisers like the CAN Phantom or the Autowatch Ghost are hidden within the vehicle and aren't detected by diagnostic scanners. They communicate by pressing buttons on the center console and doors.
What is a ghost immobiliser?
Ghost immobilisers is a modern security device designed to stop theft of vehicles. Its design is discrete and it is hard to hack, making it a formidable deterrent to determined thieves.
The system is connected to the CAN data bus in your vehicle and is programmed by your unique PIN code. The system will then block your vehicles ignition until a set of buttons are pressed, ensuring that your vehicle isn't started without your knowledge.
This type of system is especially efficient against thieves who are savvy to modern technology. There is no way to bypass the ghost immobiliser. They could be able to clone your keys or steal your car with a relay attack.
There are several kinds of ghost immobilisers on the market such as CAN Phantom and Autowatch Ghost. Both of these systems are highly recommended, since they're both TASSA tested and offer unbeatable protection against key cloning and relay attacks.
Unlike traditional alarm systems, ghost immobilisers don't send any radio signals. This means that it's nearly impossible to detect using common diagnostic tools such as OBD scanners. The fact that ghost immobilisers don't rely on any radio signals also makes it much harder to hack or disable.
A ghost immobiliser is compatible with other advanced security devices, such as GPS tracking and physical locks. Multiple layers of security can make it harder for thieves to rob vehicles, and ultimately could result in their arrest.

Even the most well-equipped thieves can discover ways to evade security systems. Some thieves employ jamming equipment to interfere with the signal that is sent between an immobiliser ghost and your vehicle's ECU. Some have devised a method known as "spoofing," which involves sending fake signals to the immobiliser to try to fool it. These techniques can be costly for thieves and cause serious damage to your vehicle. By staying vigilant and regularly updating your security systems, you will significantly reduce the risk of your vehicle being taken away.
How does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?
Immobilisers are one of the best investments you could make to protect your vehicle. It can deter thieves, and help you recover your car that was stolen. But determined criminals will find ways to bypass even the best security systems. That's why it's essential to use various security measures and update them regularly.
This is particularly applicable to high-end cars, like Porsches and Mercedes-Benzes, that are frequently targeted by thieves because of their value. A ghost immobiliser is a discreet and effective way to make it difficult for thieves to steal your vehicle, and is an excellent choice to add to other forms of security, such as alarm systems or GPS tracking devices.
The Autowatch Ghost is a hidden immobiliser that doesn't require any new keypads or LED indicators. It is connected to your vehicle's CAN system (Controller Area Network) and is then programmed to a specific pin code that you choose. It's entered by using buttons on the steering wheel or center console. You can select any combination of up 20 characters to provide an extra level of security. The Autowatch Ghost is TASSA certified, which means that it is recognized by major insurers and official companies.
Ghost immobilisers can be easily turned off and back on when you need to bring your car to the shop for repairs or maintenance. This makes them a valuable asset for those who drive their cars frequently. They're not a replacement for a keyfob, and should only be used combination with one.
Many car owners are searching for the most advanced security against theft since the threat of vehicle theft is becoming more sophisticated. In the past, an immobiliser would suffice to stop hotwiring. However, more tech-savvy criminals are now using new strategies, such as relaying car theft. This has led many vehicle owners to seek out ghost immobilisers to use as a method to protect their vehicles, but these criminals are always looking for ways to circumvent these systems.
How can a Ghost Immobiliser be bypassed?
Ghost immobilisers are a very effective way to safeguard your vehicle from theft. They are designed to work with a wide range of vehicles and are easily installed by an approved fitter, making it simple for you to enjoy added peace of mind while driving your prized possession.
Ghost immobilisers unlike other systems that operate via transponders or keys fobs, are a hidden, silent system that works via the CAN bus inside your vehicle. They can be installed without changing any original components or rewiring any wires. This makes them an ideal choice for those who wish to add an extra layer of security to their vehicle while keeping the vehicle looking its best.
A ghost immobiliser is almost impossible to bypass if installed correctly. The reason is that they require an unique code that is only entered by pressing different combinations of buttons on the vehicle. The vehicle owner can customize the code, ensuring that only the driver knows the best way to activate it. The chance of the vehicle being stolen are significantly decreased.
There are ways to circumvent the Ghost Immobiliser, one of most efficient vehicle security systems. In some cases, there may be problems with the ghost immobiliser's stop/start feature. This is typically due to a mis-set-up but it could also be caused by other factors.
A mobile application can also be used to get around a ghost immobiliser. However, it is important to remember that this method is only available when the device is in Bluetooth range and the smartphone is authorized by the vehicle owner. These apps may also be susceptible to connectivity issues as well as malfunctioning, which could result in the disarming process failing.
With so many car criminals becoming more sophisticated, it is essential for car owners to invest in a top-quality security system. Ghost immobilisers are a powerful, discreet option that can deter the most skilled criminals from starting your car.
Countermeasures
The ghost immobiliser is not detectable by thieves as it does not use radio signals or LED indicators, nor is it connected to the key fob. Instead it is directly connected to the engine controller unit using CAN. This makes it tamperproof and is impossible to remove or disable. It also assists in protecting against the most commonly used methods of theft from cars such as key-cloning.
Organised car thief gangs often employ diagnostics reading devices to detect circuit cuts made by security systems. However, the ghost immobiliser cannot to be detected using this method since it does not cause any cuts to the circuit. It does not require the owner of the vehicle to possess their key fob their vehicle to activate it. It is activated by entering a specific code sequence that only the owner can know and can change at any time.
Another way thieves try to get around the ghost immobiliser is using a device known as a 'jammer'. This is a device that can block signals between your vehicle and the driver fob and allow them to start the engine. Advanced anti-jamming techniques and regular inspections for signs of tampering can assist in stopping this.
Ghost immobilisers can be a great way to stop vehicle theft. They can also be used in conjunction with the aid of a tracking device. It is crucial to choose an experienced installer and provider to ensure your device is installed correctly and compatible with the electrical system of your vehicle. To ensure quality and safety, a TASSA-certified company is the best option.
A ghost immobiliser fitted to your vehicle could help you reduce your insurance premiums, since certain insurers offer discounts for vehicles that come with this kind of security. It's worth talking to your insurer to determine whether they offer this discount, as well as exploring other options to increase the security of your vehicle. This could include locking your keys and parking in areas that are well-lit and taking other precautionary measures. With the latest technology becoming increasingly available to thieves, it's crucial to be vigilant and protect your investment.