Does Ghost Immobiliser Drain Battery?

So, does a Ghost Immobiliser drain your car battery? The short answer is, not by any noticeable degree. However, this is if its properly installed. Let’s take a closer look at the battery of the Ghost Immobiliser:

How much does it drain?

The Ghost Immobiliser is designed to be efficient and not drain your battery, as a result, most models operate around 8 milliamps. To put this number into context, it would take 0.992 milliamps more to use a full amp. This means that the Ghost Immobiliser uses an almost unnoticeable amount of power.

The capacity of a car battery is measured in a unit named ‘Amp-hours’. Naturally the capacity of a car battery will vary between vehicles, but say for example a car has a capacity of 100 Amp hours, it means it can supply 1 amp for 100 hours. So knowing that a Ghost Immobiliser only uses 8 milliamps in most cases, helps you understand how small the battery usage is. 

It should be noted that the Ghost Immobiliser uses more power when active as opposed to on standby. As long as the code is entered, the battery usage will not be extensive by any means. 

In comparison to other systems that draw power from the car battery, the Ghost Immobiliser’s battery usage is usually comparable to, or sometimes smaller than other systems.

Are there issues that can cause battery drain?

Yes. Installation is the most important factor when it comes to Ghost Immobilisers and battery drainage. Using a certified installer is key to avoid issues such as wiring errors that can inadvertently draw more power than needed. Interference with other systems is also a result of poor installation.

In some rare cases, a faulty unit can contribute to a Ghost Immobiliser malfunction. Choosing a reputable installer and ensuring you have a warranty activated can help rectify this issue quickly. 

Older car batteries, or one that is weak or has had issues in the past, may have difficulty interacting with the Ghost Immobiliser, this is more common in batteries on the end of their life.

If you have other aftermarket installations that draw from the car battery, as well as the Ghost Immobiliser, it can accelerate battery drain or cause further issues. Furthermore, a failing component in your cars electricals will also contribute to drainage. 

Driving your car irregularly, with weeks of inactiveness at a time can affect the battery and further drainage from devices like a Ghost Immobiliser can quickly drain the battery. 

How to prevent battery drain issues

• As mentioned previously, you have to make sure your installation is conducted by a professional installer.
• Drive your vehicle on a regular basis to keep the battery charged.
• Check the health and status of your battery before and after installing the Ghost Immobiliser.
• If you’re still concerned, you can invest in a battery monitor.

In conclusion, while a properly installed Ghost immobiliser is designed to have a negligible impact on battery life, it’s essential to be aware of the potential factors that could contribute to battery drain. By choosing a qualified installer, maintaining your battery, and being mindful of other electrical components in your car, you can minimise any risks and enjoy the added security of a Ghost immobiliser without worrying about a flat battery.

Non-car battery operated car security

1. Mechanical immobilisers

Steering wheel locks

These are physical devices that lock the steering wheel in place, preventing the car from being steered. They are a highly visible deterrent and require no power to operate.

Pedal locks

Similar to steering wheel locks, pedal locks prevent the pedals from being pressed, making the car undrivable. They are also mechanical and don’t rely on the car’s battery.

2. Hidden kill switches

Independent circuit interruption

A kill switch is a hidden switch that interrupts a vital electrical circuit in the car, preventing it from starting. It’s installed independently of the car’s battery, so it will still work even if the battery is dead or disconnected.

Important considerations:

No electronic features:

Because these systems are entirely mechanical, they won’t offer features like alarms, remote monitoring, or GPS tracking. They focus solely on preventing the car from being driven.

Professional installation (kill switch) 

If you opt for a kill switch, professional installation is crucial. A qualified technician will know how to install it correctly without damaging your car’s electrical system.

Layered security

Consider combining these battery-independent systems with other security measures, such as an alarm system with a battery backup or a GPS tracker. This provides multiple layers of protection.

Effectiveness

While these systems can be effective deterrents, a determined thief may still find ways to bypass them. However, they add a significant layer of difficulty and can deter opportunistic thieves.

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