Vehicle theft is a growing concern in the Greater Toronto Area. 63% of residents worry about their car being stolen. That’s valid, because 20,418 stolen cars were reported to insurance companies in 2024 – a 265% increase from the 7,693 reported in 2017.
Thankfully, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of your vehicles being stolen. And a Ghost immobilizer is one of your best and simplest options. So, if you’re considering vehicle security upgrades, this is a great place to start. Let’s kick off with the basics: what is a Ghost immobilizer?
Key Takeaways
- Ghost immobilizers connect directly to your car’s electronics and require a button sequence before allowing the engine to start.
- Ghost immobilizers use the existing buttons in your car, such as the horn or indicator stalk.
- You can set your own button sequence.
- Ghost immobilizers prevent key cloning, hacking, and relay attacks.
- Installation is discreet and does not require extra keys or fobs.
What is a Ghost Immobilizer and Why Does It Matter?
So then, what is a ghost immobilizer?
In simple terms, a Ghost immobilizer is a hidden security system for your car that stops thieves from starting it. It connects directly into your car’s electronics (the control area network (CAN) system, to be specific), hidden from view.
Instead of using extra keys or alarms, it makes your car start only when you press a preset sequence of buttons. Even if someone steals or copies your key or uses a range extender, they won’t be able to drive your car without knowing the secret code.
The Ghost immobilizer is so named to reflect both its brand and its design. ‘Ghost’ is a brand of Autowatch, a vehicle security company originating in South Africa.
Because it leaves no visible signs and emits no signals, the vast majority of thieves cannot detect or bypass it. Hence: ‘Ghost’.
Here at Elite Tint, we offer professional installation of the Autowatch Ghost 2 immobilizer. This is a particularly effective option in areas with high rates of relay attacks and key cloning incidents, like Downtown Toronto, North York, and certain areas of Scarborough.
Although the term ‘Ghost immobilizer’ is a trademark of Autowatch, ‘ghost immobilizer’ has become the generic term for any immobilizer of this kind. This article refers to Autowatch’s Ghost Immobilizer range, although similar products are available on the market.
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Although highly effective, these immobilizers are actually far simpler than they might sound. This is how a Ghost immobilizer works.
The Ghost immobilizer doesn’t interfere with your vehicle’s normal operation. Once installed, the engine will only start after you press a specific combination of buttons. These buttons are already part of your vehicle, and could include the horn, the indicator stalk, or buttons on the door or centre console.
Your car won’t start until the driver enters that exact button combination. Then, and only then, will turning the key or pressing the START button turn over the engine.
Until then, the keys – whether they’re the traditional turn-key style or a ‘keyless’ fob – won’t do anything.
It’s particularly effective because, these days, car thieves tend to carry technological theft tools, such as signal extenders or key fob relay devices. If they can access and accept or override the radio code signals between the key and the car, they can start it and drive away.
But because we connect the Ghost II immobilizer directly to the vehicle’s electronics, these devices are completely ineffective.
What are the Benefits of Having a Ghost Immobilizer?
Here are some of the key benefits of installing a Ghost immobilizer in your car.
- You’ll make it far more difficult for anyone in the GTA to steal your car.
- Ghost immobilizers work with almost any car, from sedans to SUVs and pick-ups to luxury cars.
- Ghost immobilizers use the existing buttons in your car, so you don’t have to install anything extra beyond the device itself.
- You can set your own customized button sequence – something that only you know.
- The Ghost-II immobilizer also includes a service mode. This lets you temporarily disable the system for maintenance work or valet parking.
- Elite Tint provides manufacturer-backed warranty coverage and ongoing support for Ghost immobilizers.
How Much is a Ghost Immobilizer?
So, how much is a Ghost immobilizer?
Well, the pricing depends on the installation complexity. On average, expect installation from a professional to take around two or three hours.
Once labour is factored in and added to the device’s cost, the total often ranges from $1,250 to $1,400. A small investment to make such a significant difference in protecting your car.
It’s essential to use a professional because the Ghost II immobilizer must be well hidden. This requires a certain level of expertise.
And the cost savings go far beyond theft prevention. For example, car insurance companies might recognize Ghost immobilizers as advanced security measures. You might qualify for reduced premiums or added coverage benefits.
Should I Get a Ghost Immobilizer from Elite Tint?
A Ghost immobilizer is well worth it. It goes a long way toward preventing relay attacks, key cloning, and hacking attempts – even if a thief steals your physical keys. And while no system is ever completely theft-proof, a Ghost immobilizer makes unauthorized vehicle access extremely difficult.
In and around Toronto, we’re seeing more and more drivers turn to trusted aftermarket technology like this.
And if you want to protect your vehicle from the ever-present worry of car theft in the GTA, a Ghost 2 immobilizer – installed by a certified professional like Elite Tint – could be just what you need.
Schedule an appointment today to learn more about installation options and make your car a much more difficult target for thieves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Ghost immobilizer a tracking device?
No. A Ghost immobilizer is not a tracking device. It contains no GPS or geo-locating features. Autowatch does also make the Ghost Tracker, if a tracking device is what you need.
Can thieves get around a Ghost immobilizer?
The risk is significantly reduced, but no security system is entirely theft-proof. A thief could only start your car by knowing the button combination or by finding and bypassing the immobilizer. Very few people have the skill or foresight to do that.
Will a Ghost immobilizer drain my car battery?
No. The system uses minimal power and does not noticeably impact battery life.
Is a Ghost immobilizer covered by insurance?
Don’t be afraid to ask, even before you install your Ghost immobilizer! Some insurance providers might recognize it as an added security feature and lower your premium.
