Is a Ghost Immobiliser a Tracker?

When it comes to vehicle security, technology has substantially evolved over the years. Among the most advanced solutions available today are the ghost immobiliser and vehicle trackers. However, there is often confusion between these two devices. Are they the same? Do they serve the same purpose? In this article, we will demystify the ghost immobiliser and explore its function, how it differs from a tracker, and why you might need one for your vehicle.

What is a Ghost Immobiliser?

A ghost immobiliser is a cutting-edge anti-theft device designed to protect your vehicle from being stolen. Unlike traditional immobilisers, the ghost immobiliser does not rely on keys or remotes. Instead, it uses advanced technology to prevent the engine from starting unless a unique, user-defined PIN code is entered.

 

Key Features of a Ghost Immobiliser

  • Invisible Installation: The device is installed discreetly within the vehicle, making it almost impossible for thieves to locate.
  • No Radio Frequencies: The system does not emit any signals, making it undetectable by modern theft detection devices.
  • User-defined PIN Code: The owner sets a unique PIN code, which must be entered via existing vehicle buttons (like those on the steering wheel or dashboard) to start the engine.
  • Compatibility: Ghost immobilisers can be installed on a wide range of vehicles, including cars, vans, and motorcycles.

 

How Does a Ghost Immobiliser Work?

The ghost immobiliser integrates seamlessly with your vehicle’s existing electronic system. When you attempt to start the vehicle, the immobiliser requires the correct PIN code to be entered. If the correct code is not entered, the engine will remain immobilised, making it impossible for the vehicle to be driven away. This system is highly effective in preventing both keyless entry thefts and thefts where the vehicle keys have been stolen.

 

Steps to Operate a Ghost Immobiliser

  1. Enter the Vehicle: Access your vehicle as usual.
  2. Input the PIN Code: Using predetermined buttons on your dashboard or steering wheel, enter your unique PIN code.
  3. Start the Engine: Once the correct code is entered, the immobiliser will allow the engine to start.

 

What is a Vehicle Tracker?

A vehicle tracker, on the other hand, is a device designed to monitor and locate your vehicle. It uses GPS technology to provide real-time location data, which can be accessed via a smartphone app or a web portal. Trackers are particularly useful for recovering stolen vehicles or for fleet management.

 

Key Features of a Vehicle Tracker

  • Real-time Location Tracking: Provides accurate, real-time location data of your vehicle.
  • Geofencing: Allows you to set virtual boundaries and receive alerts if the vehicle crosses these boundaries.
  • Historical Data: Trackers can store historical data, allowing you to review past routes and locations.
  • Alerts and Notifications: Receive notifications for various events, such as movement during specific hours, speeding, or entering/leaving certain areas.

 

Differences Between a Ghost Immobiliser and a Vehicle Tracker

While both ghost immobilisers and vehicle trackers offer significant security benefits for vehicle owners, they serve different purposes and operate in distinct ways.

 

Primary Function

  • Ghost Immobiliser: Prevents the vehicle from starting without the correct PIN code, thereby stopping theft attempts.
  • Vehicle Tracker: Monitors and reports the location of the vehicle in real-time, aiding in recovery if the vehicle is stolen.

 

Security Method

  • Ghost Immobiliser: Immobilises the engine, making it impossible for the vehicle to be driven.
  • Vehicle Tracker: Uses GPS technology to locate the vehicle but does not prevent it from being driven.

 

Installation

  • Ghost Immobiliser: Installed discreetly within the vehicle’s electronic system, invisible to thieves.
  • Vehicle Tracker: Requires a visible or hidden installation, depending on the model and preference.

 

Why Choose a Ghost Immobiliser?

Choosing a ghost immobiliser offers several advantages, particularly for those concerned about modern car theft techniques. Here are some reasons why you might consider installing a ghost immobiliser in your vehicle:

 

Enhanced Security

With the rise in key cloning and relay thefts, traditional security measures like alarms and standard immobilisers are often insufficient. A ghost immobiliser adds an extra layer of protection that is highly effective against these modern theft methods.

 

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your vehicle cannot be started without the correct PIN code offers immense peace of mind. Even if thieves have your keys or access to your vehicle, they won’t be able to drive it away.

 

Non-invasive Installation

The ghost immobiliser is designed to integrate seamlessly with your vehicle’s existing systems. The installation process is non-invasive, meaning no significant changes are required to your vehicle’s wiring or electronics.

 

Why You Might Still Want a Vehicle Tracker

While a ghost immobiliser provides excellent preventative security, a vehicle tracker offers benefits that can complement this protection:

 

Recovery of Stolen Vehicles

If your vehicle is stolen, a tracker can help law enforcement quickly locate and recover it. This can significantly increase the chances of getting your vehicle back undamaged.

 

Monitoring and Alerts

Trackers provide real-time data and alerts, which can be useful not only for theft recovery but also for monitoring the use of your vehicle. This is particularly beneficial for fleet management or if you want to keep an eye on how your family members are using the vehicle.

 

Insurance Benefits

Some insurance companies offer lower premiums for vehicles equipped with tracking devices, as they reduce the risk of total loss in the event of theft.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, a ghost immobiliser and a vehicle tracker are both valuable tools in the fight against vehicle theft, but they serve different purposes. A ghost immobiliser is designed to prevent theft by immobilising the vehicle, while a tracker helps recover the vehicle if it is stolen. For optimal security, many vehicle owners may choose to use both devices in tandem, ensuring both prevention and recovery capabilities. Understanding the distinct functionalities and benefits of each can help you make an informed decision about the best security measures for your vehicle.

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