When it comes to securing your vehicle, choosing the right immobiliser can make all the difference. Two popular options are the Ghost Immobiliser and the Relay Immobiliser. Both have their unique features, advantages, and considerations. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of each, comparing their effectiveness, ease of use, and suitability for different types of vehicles and situations.
What is a Ghost Immobiliser?
A Ghost Immobiliser is a cutting-edge anti-theft device that protects vehicles from unauthorised access. Unlike traditional immobilisers that use keys or remotes, the Ghost Immobiliser uses a digital system that requires a unique PIN code, bluetooth beacon, or mobile app to start the vehicle. If you decide to use a pin, the pin is entered using existing buttons on the steering wheel, dashboard, or door panels, making it extremely difficult for thieves to bypass.
A Ghost Immobiliser offers a modern solution to vehicle security. By incorporating a unique code system, it ensures that only the rightful owner can start the vehicle. This system is particularly effective because it integrates seamlessly with the car’s existing controls, reducing the risk of tampering.
Moreover, the Ghost Immobiliser’s undetectable installation means that there are no visible wires or indicators for thieves to locate. This stealthy approach further enhances its security, making it a formidable barrier against vehicle theft.
Key Features of Ghost Immobiliser
- Undetectable Installation: The Ghost Immobiliser is installed discreetly within the vehicle, with no visible indicators.
- No Radio Frequency Signals: It does not emit any signals, making it nearly impossible for thieves to detect using common scanning tools.
- Customisable PIN Code: The PIN code can be set and changed by the vehicle owner, adding an extra layer of security.
- Bluetooth Beacon: The bluetooth beacon takes away the hassle of using a PIN Code and allows you to carry a physical item with you, that disables the Ghost Immobiliser via proximity.
- Compatibility: It is compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including both old and new models.
The undetectable installation ensures that there are no visible signs of the device, making it difficult for thieves to locate and disable. The absence of radio frequency signals means it cannot be detected using common scanning tools, adding another layer of security.
Advantages of Ghost Immobiliser
- High Security: Since it requires a unique PIN code, it provides an additional security layer that is hard to crack.
- Invisible to Thieves: With no visible indicators or wires, thieves cannot easily identify or disable the device.
- No Key Cloning: As it does not use a traditional key, it eliminates the risk of key cloning and relay attacks.
- Affordable: Compared to some high-end security systems, the Ghost Immobiliser is relatively cost-effective.
The high security offered by the unique PIN code makes it extremely difficult for unauthorised persons to start the vehicle. Its invisibility to thieves, due to the lack of visible indicators or wires, further strengthens its security.
The elimination of key cloning and relay attacks provides peace of mind, knowing that these common methods of vehicle theft are rendered ineffective. Additionally, the affordability of the Ghost Immobiliser makes it an attractive option for those looking to secure their vehicle without breaking the bank.
Disadvantages of Ghost Immobiliser
- Requires User Input: The need to enter a PIN every time can be cumbersome for some users.
- Potential for User Error: Forgetting the PIN or entering it incorrectly multiple times can lead to frustration.
- Limited Availability: Not all installation centres may offer the Ghost Immobiliser, requiring some research to find a qualified installer.
The requirement to enter a PIN each time the vehicle is started can be seen as a disadvantage for those who prefer a more seamless experience. Additionally, the potential for user error, such as forgetting the PIN or entering it incorrectly multiple times, can lead to frustration.
The limited availability of the Ghost Immobiliser means that finding a qualified installer may require some research, which could be a drawback for those looking for a quick and easy solution.
What is a Relay Immobiliser?
A Relay Immobiliser, on the other hand, is a device that intercepts the signals between the vehicle’s key fob and the engine control unit (ECU). This type of immobiliser typically uses radio frequency (RF) signals to communicate and authenticate the key. If the correct signal is not detected, the vehicle will not start.
Relay Immobilisers operate by receiving and verifying the signal from the key fob before allowing the vehicle to start. This method provides a level of convenience as it eliminates the need for manual input, relying instead on automatic authentication.
The use of RF signals means that the system can be controlled remotely, offering additional features such as arming and disarming the immobiliser from a distance. This adds a layer of convenience and flexibility to the vehicle’s security system.
Key Features of Relay Immobiliser
- Signal Interception: It works by intercepting and verifying the signal from the key fob before allowing the vehicle to start.
- Remote Control: Some models come with remote control capabilities, allowing users to arm or disarm the system from a distance.
- Integration with OEM Systems: Relay Immobilisers can be integrated with the vehicle’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) security systems.
- Customisable Settings: Advanced models offer customisable settings for sensitivity, range, and timing.
Signal interception ensures that only the correct signal from the key fob can start the vehicle, adding a layer of security. The remote control capabilities provide convenience, allowing users to manage the system from a distance.
Integration with OEM security systems means that the Relay Immobiliser can work seamlessly with the vehicle’s existing features, enhancing overall security. Customisable settings for sensitivity, range, and timing allow for tailored security measures to suit individual preferences and needs.
Advantages of Relay Immobiliser
- Convenience: No need to enter a PIN code, making it easier and quicker to use.
- Remote Capabilities: The ability to control the system remotely adds a layer of convenience.
- Integration: Works seamlessly with existing vehicle security systems, providing an additional layer of protection.
- Wide Availability: More widely available and easier to find installers and technicians familiar with the system.
The convenience of not needing to enter a PIN code makes the Relay Immobiliser user-friendly and quick to operate. Remote capabilities enhance this convenience, allowing users to control the system from a distance.
The seamless integration with existing vehicle security systems provides an added layer of protection, ensuring comprehensive security. The wide availability of Relay Immobilisers means that finding installers and technicians familiar with the system is generally easier.
Disadvantages of Relay Immobiliser
- Vulnerability to Relay Attacks: Despite its name, a Relay Immobiliser can be vulnerable to relay attacks where thieves amplify the signal from the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle.
- Signal Jamming: Thieves can use signal jamming devices to disrupt the communication between the key fob and the immobiliser.
- Cost: High-end models with advanced features can be expensive.
- Maintenance: May require periodic maintenance or updates to ensure optimal performance.
The vulnerability to relay attacks is a significant disadvantage, as thieves can amplify the signal from the key fob to unlock and start the vehicle. Signal jamming devices can also disrupt communication between the key fob and the immobiliser, posing a security risk.
The cost of high-end models with advanced features can be prohibitive for some users. Additionally, the need for periodic maintenance or updates to ensure optimal performance can be seen as a drawback.
Comparison: Ghost Immobiliser vs Relay Immobiliser
Security
- Ghost Immobiliser: Offers superior security with a user-defined PIN code and no RF signals, making it nearly impossible for thieves to detect or bypass.
- Relay Immobiliser: Provides robust security but is susceptible to advanced relay attacks and signal jamming.
The Ghost Immobiliser’s reliance on a user-defined PIN code and lack of RF signals make it extremely secure and difficult for thieves to detect or bypass. In contrast, the Relay Immobiliser, while providing robust security, is vulnerable to advanced relay attacks and signal jamming, which can compromise its effectiveness.
Ease of Use
- Ghost Immobiliser: Requires manual input of a PIN code, which can be less convenient but ensures high security.
- Relay Immobiliser: Easier to use with no PIN code requirement and remote control options, but with potential vulnerabilities.
The manual input of a PIN code for the Ghost Immobiliser ensures high security but can be less convenient for some users. The Relay Immobiliser, on the other hand, offers ease of use with no PIN code requirement and the added convenience of remote control options, though it comes with potential vulnerabilities.
Installation
- Ghost Immobiliser: Requires professional installation to ensure it is undetectable and properly integrated with the vehicle’s systems.
- Relay Immobiliser: Generally easier to install and integrate with existing OEM security systems, but still requires professional expertise.
Professional installation is necessary for the Ghost Immobiliser to ensure it is undetectable and properly integrated with the vehicle’s systems. The Relay Immobiliser is generally easier to install and integrate with existing OEM security systems but still requires professional expertise to ensure optimal performance.
Cost
- Ghost Immobiliser: Generally more affordable but may vary based on the vehicle and installer.
- Relay Immobiliser: Can be more expensive, especially for advanced models with additional features.
The Ghost Immobiliser is generally more affordable, though the cost may vary based on the vehicle and installer. The Relay Immobiliser can be more expensive, particularly for advanced models with additional features, which may not be suitable for all budgets.
Suitability
- Ghost Immobiliser: Ideal for those who prioritise maximum security and are willing to trade off a bit of convenience.
- Relay Immobiliser: Suitable for users who value convenience and ease of use, but still want a respectable level of security.
The Ghost Immobiliser is ideal for individuals who prioritise maximum security and are willing to trade off some convenience for enhanced protection. The Relay Immobiliser is suitable for users who value convenience and ease of use, while still desiring a respectable level of security for their vehicle.
Conclusion
Both Ghost Immobilisers and Relay Immobilisers offer unique advantages and cater to different needs. The Ghost Immobiliser stands out for its high-security features and undetectable installation, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize security above all else. On the other hand, the Relay Immobiliser offers convenience and ease of use, making it suitable for users who desire a seamless integration with their existing vehicle security systems.
Ultimately, the choice between a Ghost Immobiliser and a Relay Immobiliser will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and the level of security you desire for your vehicle. By understanding the key features, advantages, and disadvantages of each, you can make an informed decision that best protects your vehicle from theft.