Ghost Immobiliser Problems

The Ghost immobiliser is a security feature that will stop theft of your car. It utilizes buttons on the steering wheel, door panels, and the centre console to generate a unique pin sequence that stops your vehicle from beginning.

However, as with any aftermarket product, it may encounter some problems. This blog will look at some of the most common issues with ghost immobilisers, and their solutions.


1. Frequent Code Mismatch

The Ghost Immobiliser stops your vehicle from beginning until a PIN code is entered. It is hidden within your vehicle and operates in a silent manner, so it's undetectable to thieves. It can be set to service/valet mode for a short period of time so that you can give someone the key for a limited time, without revealing your PIN.

However, there are instances when users might encounter problems with their ghost immobiliser. This can be caused by problems with the design or software, or could result from a faulty installation. Professional installation can help to avoid these issues and ensure that the ghost immobiliser functions properly.

The disarm sequence that is not correctly entered is a frequent issue. This is typically accomplished by pressing buttons on your car, such as the steering wheels, the centre console, or door panels. If you are having difficulty with this, a smartphone application can be used to reset the disarm sequence. You should become familiar with the disarming procedure and practice it frequently.

There are some users who have had issues with the stop/start feature. Some of the more sophisticated ghost immobilisers can interfere with the stop/start feature of a vehicle, which is an important feature for a lot of people. If you're experiencing this problem it is recommended to contact your Ghost installer for more guidance.

Some thieves are able bypass the Ghost with the help of special tools. One method they use is known as 'key cloning', which involves recording the signal from your vehicle's key fob and duplicating it. It is also possible that thieves to gain access via the CAN bus (Controller Area Network) and to send malicious commands to the ECU directly, bypassing ghost immobiliser. In some instances it has been possible for thieves to accomplish this by installing a relay in the area of the vehicle. This is why it's important to always choose a reputable brand and have your Ghost immobiliser fitted by a skilled professional.

2. Battery Drain

A ghost immobiliser is an extra layer of security that stops thieves who are tech-savvy from starting your car even if they've cloned or stole your key. The device operates by requiring input through buttons on the vehicle, for example those on the steering wheel or on the centre console. It generates a pin number each time you press the button sequence. This makes it difficult for criminals to disable or disable the system. It's not a perfect solution, and there are some issues that could impact its effectiveness.

One of the most frequent ghost immobiliser issues is the excessive battery drain. This is caused by a myriad of causes such as repeated errors in entry or failure to follow the correct sequence of arming or disarming the system. If the issue continues, you might need to consult with an expert technician to ensure that the device operates correctly and isn't being affected by other components.

Another possible cause of battery drain is the corrosion that occurs on the terminals of the battery. The corrosion can be caused by ageing or improper maintenance, and may hinder communication between the engine control unit (ECU) and the battery. This can cause the ECU to not start the car even if the Ghost immobiliser is turned on and connected.

A third potential cause of battery drain could be a dead cell on the battery. It could be caused by an overcharge, shorting or a problem with the ignition system. If you suspect this is the cause you should speak with a professional who will replace the dead cell, and also check the ignition system.

Inconsistent operation may also indicate an issue with the installation. Installing ghost immobilisers requires specialised tools and expertise, as they need to be integrated into the electrical system of the vehicle by using wires. If the device is not functioning properly, it is important to speak with your installer about the issue to see whether it can be fixed.

3. Stop/Start Eco Mode

It's not surprising that you want to safeguard your dream vehicle from thieves. Ghost immobilisers are among the most effective anti theft solutions because they can stop thieves, even if they have a key from opening your car. However, sometimes the device may have problems, like malfunctioning or false warning lights. These issues can arise for many reasons.

The most frequent reason for a ghost immobiliser malfunction is a code match. The device uses the transponder in your key to exchange information and determine if you have the proper pin sequence. Thieves can evade the system by using a transponder that is from an alternative vehicle, however they won't be in a position to start your vehicle if they do so.

Another reason that could cause ghost immobiliser problems is when the device does not activate or disengage as you would expect. This can happen if there's a delay between entering the code and the device responding, or if it doesn't respond at all. In this instance, you can contact your installer for technical support.

Lastly, a ghost immobiliser problem may also occur if the device doesn't shut off your car's stop/start mode in the way it should. It could be caused by various causes, including an incorrect configuration or a fault with the device itself. If this happens, you should contact your approved installer for assistance.

Ghost immobilisers have been made to be discrete and do not require additional keys. They utilize the buttons already on your vehicle's steering wheel, door panels and centre console to generate a unique PIN sequence that is able to be changed up to 20 presses long. This means that only you can drive the vehicle, and it will be nearly impossible for thieves to employ RF scanners, key-cloning or RF scanners technology to gain access to your vehicle. This is one of the most cost-effective and efficient methods to keep your dream car secure from theft. In recent years car theft has increased. It is crucial to take precautions to safeguard your car from thieves.

4. Incorrect Installation

The Ghost immobiliser is an advanced security device that stops thieves from starting your vehicle by generating a unique PIN code sequence using the buttons on your vehicle's dashboard and steering wheel. It is connected to the CAN (Controller Area Network), and is integrated into the ECU for complete protection against engine theft. It can be installed in a hidden location, is silent and doesn't emit radio frequencies, so it is not visible to thieves. It can also be linked to your smartphone to receive alerts if someone attempts to steal your car or alter your vehicle.

There are a myriad of reasons your Ghost immobiliser may not be functioning properly, and one of the most common causes is an installation issue. If the device fails to activate when you enter the correct code sequence, or if it's not disarming within a predetermined time period, this could indicate that the wiring is not correct. It is recommended to select a certified installer for your installation and ensure that the wiring of the vehicle is not damaged.

Another possible issue with an installation that is not properly installed is that it can lead to electrical issues in other systems of your vehicle. If the wires aren't correctly connected, you may have issues with your vehicle's warning or ignition lights which can be very frustrating. A poor installation could make your immobiliser more vulnerable to theft. A skilled criminal may be able to sabotage any exposed wiring or discover an escape route to escape the code sequence, which makes your vehicle more vulnerable to attack.

Although the cost of the Ghost immobiliser may seem high, you should consider the savings over time that you can enjoy through lower insurance costs and a less chance of theft. Autowatch and Car Keys Solutions will provide technical support along with the professional installation to ensure that you receive assistance with any issues that may arise. For more information on the advantages of a Ghost immobiliser, check out our dedicated page. For more information, you can also call our team.