Ghost immobiliser guide: how it works, which version, and what it costs
The short answer: the Autowatch Ghost is a CAN bus immobiliser that stops the engine starting until you enter a secret sequence on buttons the car already has, such as the window or steering-wheel controls. There is no extra fob for a thief to steal or clone. Autowatch's recommended retail price is £499 including VAT, plus fitting by an approved technician.
Why it matters on keyless cars
Most modern car thefts don't involve breaking a window and hot-wiring. Thieves relay the signal from a keyless fob, or plug into the car's diagnostic port to programme a blank key. Both methods give the car a "valid" key. A Ghost adds a second check the thief can't see: even with a working key, the engine won't run until the right button sequence is entered.
How the Ghost works day to day
- Get in and switch the ignition on as normal.
- Press your personal sequence on the existing buttons. Autowatch describes this as a "secret disarm sequence via factory buttons".
- Start and drive. Without the sequence, the system blocks the engine from running.
Because it talks to the car over its CAN data network, there is usually no obvious extra box or wiring for a thief to find and bypass. That depends on the fitter, which is why installation quality matters as much as the product.
Service mode, emergency code and optional extras
- Service or valet mode lets a garage drive the car without your sequence. Autowatch says it exits automatically after 15 minutes of continuous driving, configurable at installation.
- Emergency code gets you moving if a button stops working.
- Phone and fob disarm are optional. Up to 2 phones and 2 fobs can be paired. Autowatch itself warns that using them brings "a corresponding decrease in security", so the button sequence alone is the strongest set-up.
Ghost II or Ghost-III?
Autowatch now treats the Ghost-III as its only supported CAN-based Ghost. When you get a quote, ask which version will be fitted. Our Ghost-II vs Ghost-III guide compares the generations in detail, including CAN-FD support.
| Point | What Autowatch says |
|---|---|
| Price | £499 RRP including VAT, plus approved installation |
| Compatibility | Over 1,000 vehicles (check your exact model and year) |
| Current version | Ghost-III is the supported CAN-based Ghost; Ghost-II no longer in production |
| Verification | Ghost-II is TASSA verified; no Thatcham certification is claimed for the Ghost itself |
Will it satisfy my insurer?
Possibly, but don't assume it. A Ghost is not a tracker, so it won't meet an S5 or S7 tracker condition. Autowatch says many insurers view TASSA-verified devices positively, which is different from a policy requirement. Read what insurers mean by approved, and if your policy needs a tracker, consider a tracker and a Ghost together. One makes the car hard to drive away; the other helps find it if it goes.
Common questions
Can a Ghost be fitted to any car?
No. It depends on the car's make, model, year and data network. Give the exact registration or model year when you ask for a quote.
Does a Ghost drain the battery?
The manufacturer doesn't publish a standby figure on the page we checked. Ask the installer, especially if the car is stored for long periods.
What happens when I sell the car?
Ask the installer to reset or hand over the system, and give the buyer the emergency code card and service-mode instructions.
Is a Ghost the same as a steering lock?
No. A steering lock is a visible physical deterrent; a Ghost is hidden electronic protection. Many owners of high-risk cars use both.
Sources: Autowatch, Ghost 2 immobiliser product page (read 5 November 2026). "Ghost" is an Autowatch product name; Trackerstop is independent and not affiliated with Autowatch. See also our general aftermarket immobiliser guide.