Ghost Immobilisers are an excellent aftermarket security system that can help to protect any vehicle from theft. But are there any issues or common problems you should be aware of before you install it into your vehicle?
In this blog, we will show you some Common issues and problems with Ghost Immobilisers explained.
The UK automotive aftermarket industry is thriving, ranking fourth in Europe and ninth in the world in terms of size, and turning over an annual £21.1 billion.
The sector supports 345,600 jobs and contributes £12.2 billion each year to the economy. And it is growing: the sector’s value is set to rise to £28 billion by 2022.
That’s why we at Car Specialist Customs are here to provide you with all the information you require to get the best car customisation possible, whilst being as informed as possible.
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ToggleSigns Your Ghost Immobiliser Was Installed Incorrectly
While Ghost Immobilisers are highly effective anti-theft devices, installation errors can compromise their functionality. Here are some signs that your Ghost Immobiliser might have been installed incorrectly:
Electrical Issues:
- Battery Drain: If your car’s battery is draining more rapidly than usual, it could be a sign of a faulty installation that is drawing excessive power.
- Warning Lights: Check for any new or unusual warning lights on your dashboard. These could indicate a problem with the immobiliser or its connection to the vehicle’s electrical system.
- Engine Stalling: If your engine stalls unexpectedly or intermittently, especially when starting, it might be due to a faulty installation that is interfering with the vehicle’s electrical systems.
Immobiliser Malfunctions:
- Inconsistent Operation: If the immobiliser doesn’t always engage or disengage as expected, it could be a sign of a faulty installation or wiring issue.
- Delayed Activation: If there’s a noticeable delay between entering the code and the immobiliser activating, it might indicate a problem with the installation.
- Inability to Bypass: If you’re unable to bypass the immobiliser even when entering the correct code, it’s likely a sign of a faulty installation.
Security Concerns:
- Vulnerability to Bypass: If you suspect that your immobiliser can be easily bypassed, it’s possible that it was installed incorrectly or that the device itself is faulty.
Visual cues:
- Signs of installation: Ghost Immobilisers are supposed to be installed stealthily, meaning that it can’t be located by any would-be thieves. This means that if it has been installed incorrectly, you will be able to find it.
Lack of Documentation:
- No Installation Records: If you don’t have any documentation or records of the immobiliser’s installation, it can be difficult to troubleshoot issues or verify the quality of the work.
If you suspect that your Ghost Immobiliser was installed incorrectly, it’s important to have it inspected by a qualified technician. They can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs to ensure the device is functioning correctly.
Common issues and problems with Ghost Immobilisers explained

Ghost Immobilisers, may seem like a full-proof security option, but like with anything, there are sometimes setbacks that can occur randomly, or due to a lack of care. Here are some issues you can experience with a Ghost Immobiliser in some instances.
1. Incorrect Code Entry:
To start the vehicle, a code must be entered. This code is set by the user and makes use of buttons within the vehicle itself. If you know you’ll forget this code, it may be worth writing it down and keeping it somewhere secure.
Here are other issues that can occur due to incorrect code entry:
- Frequent Code Mismatch: Repeatedly entering the wrong code can lead to the device locking down the vehicle for a set period.
- Battery Drain: Excessive attempts can drain the vehicle’s battery.
2. Device Failure:
In this instance, the device does not work at all. Although this isn’t a common problem at all, it can come into effect if installed incorrectly. Below are alternative reasons for device failure:
- Electronic Malfunction: The immobiliser’s internal components can fail due to age, exposure to elements, or manufacturing defects.
- Power Supply Issues: Intermittent power supply can cause the device to malfunction.
3. Compatibility Problems:
- Vehicle Model Incompatibility: Some Ghost Immobilisers may not be fully compatible with certain vehicle models, leading to unexpected behavior.
- Interference with Other Systems: The device might interfere with other electronic systems in the vehicle, causing issues like engine stalling or warning lights.
4. Installation Errors:
- Improper Wiring: Incorrect wiring can prevent the device from functioning correctly or even cause damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.
- Hidden Installation: If the installation is not well-documented, it can be difficult to locate and troubleshoot the device in case of problems.
5. Software Glitches:
- Firmware Updates: Outdated firmware can lead to compatibility issues or security vulnerabilities.
- Programming Errors: Errors in the device’s programming can cause unexpected behavior.
6. Theft-Related Issues:
- Bypass Attempts: Thieves may attempt to bypass the Ghost Immobiliser using specialised tools or techniques.
- Relay Attacks: Advanced techniques like relay attacks can exploit vulnerabilities in the device’s communication system.
When it comes to these two specific issues, Ghost Immobilisers are known to have the most resilient systems which prevent theft from bypassing or relay attacks. Ensure your Immobiliser is updated and maintained to keep it secure.
In addition, you can follow the tips below to ensure your Ghost Immobiliser is working optimally:
- Professional Installation: Have the device installed by a qualified technician to avoid wiring errors and compatibility problems.
- Proper Code Management: Keep the code secure and avoid sharing it with unauthorised individuals.
- Choose a Reputable Brand: Opt for a well-known and trusted brand of Ghost Immobiliser, or a car customisation business that installs one of these reputable brands. Like The Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser at Car Specialist Customs. .
By understanding these common problems and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure the reliable and effective operation of your Ghost Immobiliser.
Install a Ghost Immobiliser today

Our team members at Car Specialist Customs are extremely passionate and proud of the multiple services and products we provide for the people of Greater Manchester and beyond.
As a fully insured and approved installer, catering to the needs of vehicle owners of Greater Manchester and beyond, we are proud to let you know that we offer services for the following:
Tints:
Wrapping and PPF:
- Paint Protection Film — PPF
- Exo Shield Window Tint
- Black Packs
- Dechroming
- Custom Decals
- Commercial Wrapping
- Vehicle Wrapping
Interior customisation/ technology:
- Starlights
- Apple Play/ Android Autos
- Android Screen Upgrades
- Parking Sensors
- Reverse Cameras
- Rear Seat Entertainment
Wheel refurbishment:
Protection/Security:
Featuring the brands, Pandora, ScorpionTrak, Meta Trak & SmarTrack, we’ve included affordable, and premium products to suit the needs of our customers. With finance options available, and the option of installation, head to our website to get your quote!
We will always go above expectations to make your car feel special to you. With even more services and options becoming available in the future, Car Specialist Customs is the home of making any car unique, secure and special.
See what we can do for you today, we hope the details we shared have helped you decide to take a step forward in personalising your vehicle with our unique service.
In this blog, we aimed to have provided insight by showing you common issues and problems with Ghost Immobilisers explained. Whilst also providing supplementary information that can help you make an informed choice when it comes to investing in customisation options for your vehicle.
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