A Ghost Immobiliser is a sophisticated electronic vehicle security system that prevents engine start-up until a unique, pre-determined PIN code sequence is entered using existing in-car buttons, such as those on the steering wheel or dashboard. This discreet aftermarket CAN bus device protects against common modern theft techniques like key cloning, hacking, and relay attacks by transmitting no radio signals and featuring no visible components.
Ghost Immobiliser cost in the UK ranges from £399 to £599 including installation.
What is the average Ghost Immobiliser cost in the UK?
The typical cost ranges from £399 to £599, including installation. Prices vary by installer, location, and vehicle type.
Detailed Pricing Breakdown (2025)
The pricing for a Ghost Immobiliser in the UK is typically an inclusive supply-and-fit service, though the final figure depends on the chosen brand, the installer’s location, and the level of service required. The most commonly cited standard installed price for the Autowatch Ghost 2 Immobiliser is £499.
Pricing by Brand and Model
While Autowatch is the original manufacturer of the Ghost CAN bus immobiliser, alternative “Ghost-like” systems exist at different price points.
| Product Type | Typical Installed Price (Inc. VAT) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Budget/Alternative (e.g., Casper Immobiliser) | £399 | Functions identically to Ghost (CAN Immobilisation, PIN entry, key cloning protection) but often without the Autowatch brand name. |
| Standard (Autowatch Ghost II) | £499 | The benchmark price for the industry-leading, TASSA verified immobiliser, usually including nationwide installation. |
| Advanced/Pro (e.g., Ghost 2 Pro Dual) | £849–£999.99 | Features dual immobilisation, tag authorisation, and sometimes integrates phone notifications or 24/7 tracking services. |
Installation Location and Type:
The cost can fluctuate based on where and how the installation is performed.
- In-Store/Garage Installation: Many specialists offer installation at their workshop, with prices often starting at the standard £499 rate for the Ghost II.
- Mobile/Nationwide Installation: Many high-quality installers offer free nationwide mobile fitting at the customer’s home, work, or dealership, maintaining the £499 price point. However, some installation specialists, particularly those located in the Greater London area, quote their in-store price starting at £499, and their mobile service starting from £549.
Factors Influencing the Final Cost
The total expense can increase depending on the vehicle’s complexity, regional labour costs, and any additional features bundled with the immobiliser.
Vehicle Compatibility (Luxury Cars and EVs)
The Ghost is designed to work with a vast array of vehicles that use the CAN-bus system, ranging from common cars to high-value models.
- Luxury and High-Value Vehicles: Since high-end cars like BMWs, Mercedes, Audis, Range Rovers, Porsches, and Bentleys are high theft targets, the Ghost is frequently installed on them. The installation cost might be slightly higher for luxury or exotic cars due to increased complexity in their wiring and security systems, requiring more time and effort. For example, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (an EV) is explicitly mentioned as compatible and often targeted for theft.
- Regional Differences: Prices in major cities, such as London or Birmingham, may potentially be slightly higher due to increased labour costs.
Hidden and Additional Costs
Standard installation costs typically include the device and fitting. However, optional add-ons and services should be accounted for:
- Tracker Integration (Bundles): Combining the Ghost Immobiliser with an insurance-approved GPS tracking system is extremely common and highly recommended for comprehensive security.
- Ghost + S7 Tracker (Thatcham Approved): £549.99 to £648.
- Ghost + S5 Tracker (Advanced ADR): £698 to £799.
- Dashcam Integration: Pairing the immobiliser with front/rear dashcams (such as Thinkware models) is a popular package upgrade.
- Ghost + Dash Cams: £724.99.
- Warranty Extensions: While a two-year warranty is standard, some premium installers offer an extended five-year warranty on the Ghost II system. Lifetime warranties on bundled trackers may cost approximately £69.
- Steering Lock/OBD Port Protection: Some installers include a complimentary OBD Port Lock (such as the Aerpro AOBDLK, valued at around $89.99 AUD) to protect the diagnostic port, which thieves often use to bypass factory security.
- Re-installation/Transfer Costs: The system is transferable if you sell your vehicle or end a lease. However, removal and refitting services incur additional charges.
Value Proposition: Is the Investment Justified?
Considering the average cost of a stolen vehicle and the rising rates of keyless theft across the UK (48,000 vehicles reported stolen in 2023 alone), the Ghost Immobiliser offers robust long-term value.
Benefits (Pros) of the Ghost Immobiliser
- Superior Anti-Theft Protection: Effectively prevents theft resulting from key cloning, electronic hacking, and relay attacks, offering protection where factory immobilisers fail.
- Undetectable Operation: Since the device operates silently via the CAN data network, without key fobs or radio signals, thieves cannot locate it using standard diagnostic equipment or RF scanning.
- Convenient Use: Disarming can be done quickly using the unique PIN code entered via existing vehicle buttons or hands-free via a paired smartphone application (up to two phones).
- Service Mode: A “Valet/Service mode” can be activated to temporarily disable the PIN requirement for mechanics or service garages, protecting the owner’s private code.
- Warranty Integrity: Proper installation by a TASSA-certified professional ensures the device is fitted correctly without damaging vehicle components or cutting wires, maintaining the vehicle’s electrical integrity.
Limitations (Cons) and Considerations
- Not a Tracker: The Ghost is strictly an immobiliser and cannot track the vehicle’s location if it is towed away. For recovery, it must be paired with a separate GPS tracker.
- Dealer Warranty Conflicts: Main franchised dealerships (e.g., BMW) are typically obligated to follow manufacturer guidelines that classify the Ghost as a non-approved aftermarket device connected to the CAN bus. This means they may require the system to be removed for complex diagnostics, which incurs additional cost to the owner for uninstall/reinstall services.
- Battery Concerns (EVs): While installation should be done professionally to prevent issues, owners of vehicles like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 have expressed concerns regarding the load on the 12V battery if the device is not installed correctly.
- Potential for Defeat: While highly secure, there are persistent, unverified rumours within motoring forums that determined thieves may know ways to defeat the device, though the consensus remains that towing is the only guaranteed method to remove a Ghost-protected car.
Insurance and Certification Status
Is the Ghost Immobiliser Thatcham approved? While the Ghost Immobiliser is often described as Thatcham compliant, the primary official security accreditation in the UK is held by TASSA (Tracking and Aftermarket Security Systems Association). TASSA verification is performed by a third-party group of security experts and police. TASSA verified Ghost-II systems include a unique vehicle marking system linked to the International Security Register, which is specifically used by insurance companies across Europe.
Can it reduce insurance premiums? Yes, installing a Ghost Immobiliser can potentially lower insurance costs. Many insurance providers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with approved security devices like the Ghost. For high-risk vehicles, having a Ghost fitted can be essential for validating or lowering high premiums.
Comparison Table of Top UK Installers (Ghost II)
| Installer Name | Standard Pricing (Supply & Fit) | Warranty Period | Mobile Installation Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracker Team / Ghost Installations | £499 inc VAT | 2 Years Standard (Product) | Free nationwide installation offered |
| Trackershop UK | £499 inc VAT | Not specified for standalone Ghost | Free nationwide mobile installation |
| Car Keys Solutions | £499 (In-store start); From £549 (Mobile) | Up to 5 Years (Exclusive warranty on installations) | Yes, mobile service across the UK |
| Car Specialist Customs | £450–£500 | Not specified in source | Services cover the North West region (e.g., Manchester, Stockport) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the Ghost Immobiliser Thatcham approved?
No. The Ghost Immobiliser is not Thatcham approved but is TASSA verified, which is recognized by many UK insurers and includes vehicle marking linked to the International Security Register.
Can a Ghost Immobiliser reduce insurance premiums?
Yes. Many insurers offer discounts for vehicles fitted with TASSA-verified security systems like the Ghost, especially for high-risk models.
Does the Ghost Immobiliser work on electric vehicles (EVs)?
Yes. It’s compatible with most EVs using CAN bus systems, including models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. However, installation must be done professionally to avoid battery drain issues.
Can thieves bypass a Ghost Immobiliser?
It’s extremely difficult. The system has no visible components or radio signals. While towing is the only known bypass, there are no verified cases of electronic defeat.
Is the Ghost Immobiliser transferable to another car?
Yes. You can remove and reinstall it on a new vehicle, but this service incurs additional costs.