Keyless entry technology has made unlocking and starting vehicles simpler than ever, but it has also given rise to sophisticated theft methods. Keyless theft, often referred to as relay attack, allows thieves to intercept signals from key fobs located inside homes and mirror them to the vehicle parked outside. Within seconds, doors unlock, ignition starts, and the car vanishes without any physical damage or traditional break-in indicators.
For modern vehicle owners, relying solely on standard factory alarms or Faraday pouches is no longer a complete defense. Thieves continuously develop new ways to exploit electronic signals. This is where the Autowatch Ghost II Immobiliser offers an essential layer of modern security.
What Is the Autowatch Ghost II?
The Autowatch Ghost II is an advanced aftermarket vehicle immobiliser designed to prevent engine start-up unless a unique PIN code is entered. Unlike traditional immobilisers or aftermarket alarm systems, the Ghost II does not rely on key fobs, radio signals, or LED indicators. It connects directly to your vehicle’s CAN (Controller Area Network) bus system, making it completely invisible to standard diagnostic tools used by vehicle thieves.
Because the system operates internally through the CAN bus, there are no physical wires to cut or external fobs that can be cloned. The engine remains disabled until you press a bespoke sequence of physical buttons already built into your vehicle’s steering wheel, door panels, or center console.
How It Stops Relay Attacks and Key Cloning
During a relay attack, thieves use two transmission devices. One device picks up the signal from your key fob sitting inside your house, while the second device replicates that signal next to the car door. The vehicle’s onboard computer assumes the genuine key is present, disarms the factory immobiliser, and enables the push-to-start ignition.
With the Autowatch Ghost II installed, cloning the key fob or relaying its signal becomes ineffective. Even if the thief successfully tricks the vehicle into unlocking and activating the dashboard circuits, the engine will not crank or start. The Ghost II remains active in the background, keeping the fuel pump and ignition system locked until your unique PIN code sequence is successfully entered.
Furthermore, if a thief attempts to use diagnostic tools to program a blank key via the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port, the Ghost II blocks the authorization request. Without the PIN code, key programming attempts fail completely.
Key Features of the Autowatch Ghost II
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Undetectable Operation: The Ghost II emits no radio frequency signals, making RF scanners used by car thieves useless.
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Discreet Integration: It utilizes the existing buttons inside your cabin, ensuring no extra key rings, visible keypads, or aftermarket alterations are needed.
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Valet/Service Mode: When taking your vehicle in for servicing or MOT testing, you can activate Service Mode. This allows mechanics to drive the vehicle up to a set speed limit without needing your secret PIN code.
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Emergency Override: A secure code unique to your unit ensures you can override the system if you ever forget your button sequence.
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TASSA Accreditation: The Ghost II is recognized by the Technology and Audio Security Systems Association (TASSA), which can help lower insurance premiums with participating providers.
Professional Installation Matters
Because the Autowatch Ghost II integrates directly into your vehicle’s delicate CAN bus wiring, installation must be handled by certified professionals. Incorrect installation can result in electrical faults or voided manufacturer warranties. Professional technicians ensure the device is hidden deep within the vehicle’s loom, making physical discovery practically impossible.
Protecting your vehicle against modern keyless theft requires modern solutions. Installing an Autowatch Ghost II immobiliser delivers total peace of mind by ensuring your car stays exactly where you parked it, regardless of key cloning or signal relay tactics.
