What is a Ghost Immobiliser?+
A Ghost Immobiliser (made by Autowatch) is a CAN-bus aftermarket vehicle security device that requires the driver to enter a 4–10 button PIN sequence (using existing buttons on the steering wheel, dashboard or door card) before the car will start. It emits no radio frequency, has no key fob and no LED, so thieves with relay or signal-cloning equipment can't detect or bypass it.
How is a Ghost Immobiliser different from a factory immobiliser?+
Factory immobilisers rely on a transponder in your key — exactly the part modern thieves attack with relay-amplifier kits, key-cloning devices and OBD-port replays. A Ghost ignores the key entirely. Even if a thief steals your keys, clones your fob, or plugs a programmer into the OBD port, the engine won't start without the PIN sequence.
How much does Ghost Immobiliser installation cost in the UK?+
TASSA-approved Ghost Immobiliser installation in the UK typically costs £449–£599 fitted, depending on vehicle. We install on your driveway across West London, Slough, Heathrow, Reading and surrounding areas — no need to leave the car at a unit for a day.
Will a Ghost Immobiliser affect my insurance or warranty?+
Most insurers recognise TASSA-registered Ghost installations and many offer a small premium discount (typically 2.5%–10%). It's fully reversible, plugs into the CAN-bus without cutting any wires, and does not affect manufacturer warranty when fitted by a certified installer.
Can a Ghost Immobiliser be defeated by a diagnostic tool?+
No. Because the Ghost has no key, no radio frequency and integrates silently with the CAN-bus, OBD-port diagnostic attacks find nothing to attack. Even if a thief replaces the ECU or BCM, the Ghost still demands the PIN before allowing engine start.
Which cars can have a Ghost Immobiliser fitted?+
Autowatch Ghost supports most modern CAN-bus vehicles — including Range Rover, BMW (1/2/3/4/5/X series), Audi (A3/A4/A5/Q5/Q7/RS), Mercedes-Benz (C/E/S/G/GLE/Sprinter), VW Golf/Tiguan, Ford Ranger, Toyota Hilux/RAV4/Land Cruiser, Lexus, Porsche and many more. Send us your reg and we'll confirm compatibility in under 10 minutes.
How long does installation take?+
Most installations take 2–3 hours on your driveway. We program your PIN sequence with you, walk through Service Mode (so a valet, MOT or workshop can drive the car without your PIN), and provide a TASSA installation certificate for your insurer.
Is a Ghost Immobiliser worth it on a Range Rover, BMW or Audi?+
These three brands sit at the top of every UK 'most-stolen' list because their factory keyless systems are routinely defeated by relay attacks within 30 seconds. For a £40k+ vehicle that's a regular insurance write-off target, a £499 Ghost installation is the single most cost-effective security upgrade available — and the only one that defeats relay theft outright.