Car theft in the UK continues to rise, especially with keyless entry systems, relay theft and CAN-bus attacks becoming more sophisticated. As thieves adopt new digital tools, traditional factory-fitted immobilisers are no longer enough.

Active immobilisers, particularly systems like the Autowatch Ghost II have quickly become one of the most effective forms of aftermarket vehicle security available in 2025.

This definitive guide explains exactly what a ghost immobiliser is, how it works, whether your vehicle needs one, and what to expect during installation.

What is a Ghost Immobiliser?

A Ghost immobiliser is an advanced aftermarket vehicle immobilisation system designed to protect modern cars from digital theft techniques such as:

• Key cloning
• Keyless relay attacks
• Signal interception
• CAN-bus manipulation
• ECU swapping

Unlike traditional immobilisers, a Ghost immobiliser requires a unique PIN sequence, entered using existing vehicle buttons (e.g., steering wheel, dashboard, window switches), before the engine will start.

There are no key fobs, no LED indicators, no signals and nothing visible to thieves.

Can a Ghost Immobiliser Be Used in Any Car?

According to the manufacturer’s vehicle compatibility list, Ghost II immobilisers are compatible with most UK vehicles, including:

• Petrol and diesel cars
• Electric vehicles (EVs)
• Hybrids
• Vans
• Motorhomes
• Fleet vehicles

Modern immobilisers integrate with the vehicle’s CAN-bus, making them effective even on the latest 2024–2025 models equipped with smart keys and advanced ECUs.

Can a Ghost Immobiliser Be Bypassed or Hacked?

A correctly installed Ghost immobiliser is extremely difficult to bypass.

Why?

• There are no visible components for thieves to locate.
• Wiring is seamlessly integrated and disguised within the loom.
• It emits no detectable signals, so scanners, code-grabbers and key amplifiers are useless.
• The PIN sequence must be entered inside the vehicle, making remote attacks ineffective.

With CAN-bus attacks increasing in 2025, immobilisers that don’t rely on radio frequencies (like the Ghost II) offer much stronger protection.

Why Are Ghost Immobilisers Better Than Traditional Anti-Theft Devices?

Ghost Immobiliser vs. Other Anti-Theft Devices

Compared to traditional security measures:

Steering Wheel Locks / Wheel Clamps

• Visible deterrents only
• Can be cut or removed
• Provide no protection against key-based attacks

Factory-Fitted Immobilisers

• Rely on key transponders
• Vulnerable to relay attacks or cloned keys

Ghost Immobiliser

• Covert, invisible, and silent
• Requires driver authentication sequence
• Protects against both digital and physical attacks

For many vehicles targeted by organised criminal groups, a Ghost Immobiliser provides far stronger protection than traditional tools.

A Ghost immobiliser is effectively a digital deadlock but hidden. Self-install plug-in OBD immobilisers are not recommended due to their vulnerability.

How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?

A factory-fitted immobiliser checks the signal from your key fob’s transponder. If the code matches, the ECU allows the engine to start.

A Ghost immobiliser adds an entirely separate authentication step:

1. You enter a custom button sequence (your PIN).

2. The immobiliser confirms the correct sequence.

3. The vehicle is permitted to start.

If an incorrect key, cloned key, or stolen key fob is used, the car remains immobilised.

The Autowatch Ghost II includes two convenience modes:

Valet / Service Mode

Allows garages, valeters, or MOT testers to operate the vehicle within limits (e.g., capped speed) without giving them your PIN.

Transport Mode

Allows the vehicle to be transported on low-loaders or moved without the immobiliser repeatedly engaging.

How Long Does It Take to Deactivate a Ghost Immobiliser?

Typically under 20 seconds with your personalised PIN.

Does an Immobiliser Affect My Car?

A properly installed immobiliser will:

• Prevent the engine from starting without the correct PIN
• Interrupt key components (starter motor, fuel, ignition, or CAN-bus control)
• Operate silently in the background
• Cause no damage or interference with normal vehicle operation

Most modern immobilisers also include safety fail-safes for battery issues, servicing, or emergency situations.

Ghost Immobiliser Installation (2025 UK Standards)

Is It Easy to Install a Ghost Immobiliser?

No, professional installation is required. Ghost Immobilisers integrate directly with the vehicle’s CAN-bus system, and incorrect installation can:

• Damage electrical components
• Void warranties
• Affect vehicle performance

Certified installers also ensure that the immobiliser is fitted discreetly and cannot be easily traced or removed. High-grade immobilisers must be installed by trained, certified UK engineers.

ineedatracker.com is a leading installer of Ghost immobilisers:

• All immobiliser installations are carried out by TASSA registered engineers.
• Installation is completely mobile. Engineers come to your home or workplace.
• Installation is included in the price.

Is It Easy to Remove a Ghost Immobiliser?

No. Removing one requires significant vehicle disassembly.

If a thief did find the unit, removal still wouldn’t start the car due to its encrypted integration with the vehicle’s CAN-bus.

How Do I Check if My Car Already Has a Ghost Immobiliser?

Factory immobilisers have been mandatory on UK cars since 1998, but Ghost immobilisers are aftermarket only.

If a previous owner fitted one, you would only know if they disclosed the PIN and details.

Do All New Cars Come With an Immobiliser?

Yes, but factory systems are increasingly vulnerable to:

• Keyless relay theft
• CAN-bus injection
• Key cloning (a major issue in 2024–2025)

A Ghost immobiliser operates independently from the factory system, adding a crucial second layer of security.

Are Ghost Immobilisers Safe?

Yes. Reputable models such as the Autowatch Ghost II undergo extensive testing and comply with TASSA standards.

ineedatracker.com only supplies immobilisers from trusted manufacturers with proven reliability and UK support.

Can a Ghost Immobiliser Malfunction?

Failures are extremely rare. All immobilisers supplied by ineedatracker.com include:

• Manufacturer warranties
• Local engineer support
• Emergency override procedures

What If My Immobiliser Fails? Can I Still Start My Car?

Yes. You will receive a secure emergency override method so you are never locked out of your own vehicle.

What Features Should I Look for in a 2025 Immobiliser?

• CAN-bus integration
• Secure PIN sequence
• TASSA certification
• Service / Valet mode
• Emergency override
• Compatibility with your vehicle make/model
• UK warranty and support

Can I Add a Tracker to a Ghost Immobiliser?

Absolutely and it is recommended. A GPS tracker helps recover a stolen vehicle. An immobiliser helps prevent it from being stolen. Together, they offer the highest possible UK vehicle security package.

Are Some Immobiliser Brands Better than Others?

Each immobiliser brand has unique strengths. That’s why independent retailers such as ineedatracker.com offers a wide range and provides expert recommendations based on:

• Vehicle type
• Theft risk
• Features needed
• Budget
• Insurance requirements

FAQs (2025 Updated

Will a Ghost Immobiliser Lower My Insurance?

Possibly. Many insurers already recognise Thatcham Category 2 immobilisers and may reduce premiums. TASSA approval is also increasingly requested by UK insurance companies in 2025. Lexus insurance especially have been asking policyholders to install TASSA approved security products.

What Is a Passive Immobiliser?

A passive immobiliser disarms automatically when it detects an authorised tag on your person.

What Is an Active Immobiliser?

An active immobiliser (including Ghost systems) requires user input, such as entering a PIN sequence.