Have you ever heard of a Ghost Immobiliser and wondered Does a ghost immobiliser reduce insurance? Well, you’re not alone! This nifty little device is like a guardian angel for your car, working invisibly to keep it safe from thieves. It’s all about adding an extra layer of security that’s as stealthy as a ghost—hence the name! Before we dive into the world of insurance rates and security gadgets, let’s quickly explore what a Ghost Immobiliser is, how it helps protect your car, and the big question on everyone’s mind: could it make your insurance cheaper? Buckle up, and let’s get started on this security-savvy journey!
Does a ghost immobiliser reduce insurance?
An immobilizer is a sneaky little device that hides in your car and throws a wrench in the works if a bad guy tries to steal it. The idea is simple: no correct PIN, code, or engine start. It’s like the car asks for a secret handshake before it agrees to move.
Regarding insurance, these widgets can be your wallet’s best friend. Insurance companies love safe cars because they’re less likely to have to pay for theft claims. So, the safer your car, the happier they are—which usually means a happier you when you see the cost of your insurance.
Here’s the scoop on how it breaks down:
- No immobilizer? You might be looking at around £801 for insurance.
- Do you have a factory-fitted immobilizer? That could drop to about £695.
- Fancy a Thatcham-approved device? You’re potentially in the £751 zone.
So, even if your ride didn’t come straight out of the showroom with one of these devices, fitting a Thatcham-approved one can still save you some coins on your car insurance. Just remember, before you run out and get one, give your insurer a ring to make sure it’ll make a difference to your premium.
What do Ghost Immobiliser Features
It’s time for a spotlight on the star of the show: the Ghost Immobiliser. Imagine a security guard who’s so good at hide and seek the bad guys never stand a chance of finding it. That’s your Ghost Immobiliser. It’s a clever bit of kit that hooks up to your car’s brain—the Engine Control Unit—and ensures nobody can take your car for a spin without your say-so.
Here’s the magic it brings to the table:
- It’s invisible to the eye and silent as a shadow, with no radio signals or LED lights giving away its hiding spot.
- The only peeps who know where it’s tucked away are those who fit it and you—if you want to know.
- Thieves could try every trick in their book, but your car’s going nowhere without that secret PIN. It’s like having an invisible shield around your engine.
And changing your PIN? Easy peasy. You can mix it up whenever you feel like it to keep things fresh.
Financial Advantages of a Ghost Immobiliser
When you’ve got a Ghost Immobiliser playing guardian angel, insurers might give you a nod and a wink with a nicer price on your insurance. Why? Because it’s like putting your car in a safe. And insurance folks love safety.
With a Ghost Immobiliser, you’re not just protecting your car; you’re potentially protecting your wallet from those heftier insurance premiums. Think of it as an investment. You put a little in to fit one of these ghostly guards, and you could save more on your insurance in the long run.
Not all insurance companies are the same, and they’ve all got different rules. So, before you jump in, have a chat with your insurer. Ask them straight up, “Hey, if I fit a Ghost Immobiliser, will you cut me a break on my premium?” They’ll let you know if it’s a yes, a maybe, or a no-go.
And remember, if your ride is extra special to you, whether it’s because you’ve tricked it out or it’s worth more than a pirate’s treasure, then the Ghost is a must-have. Knowing your prized wheels are as secure as Fort Knox is all about peace of mind.
How to Install a Ghost Immobiliser
So, you’re thinking about getting this invisible shield for your car? Installing a Ghost Immobiliser is like performing a secret tech-magic trick. It’s not for the faint-hearted or the inexperienced. You could try DIY, but it’s like trying to cut your hair while looking in a spoon—tricky and likely not to turn out as you hoped.
Our advice? Let the pros handle it. When a skilled technician from a place like Car Specialist Customs installs your Ghost Immobiliser, they keep its location top secret—like a hidden treasure map that only they (and maybe you) know about. They’ll put it in, test it to make sure everything’s tickety-boo, and leave no trace behind, not a smear, no evidence for sneaky thieves to find.
Leaving it to the pros means you can sit back, relax, and not worry about accidentally turning your car into a large paperweight.
How to Deactivate or Remove a Ghost Immobiliser
Got to hand your keys over to someone for a wash or a service? No sweat. You won’t need to spill the beans on your secret PIN or immobilizer location. The Ghost has a nifty service mode. Here’s the skinny on how to flick it on and off:
Turning on Service/Valet Mode:
- First, disarm the system—like you’re whispering to the car, “It’s just me!”
- Drive over to the service spot, keep the engine purring, and turn the app off (if you’ve got it).
- Next, tap your service button five times—think of it as knocking on a secret door.
- Look for the light to blink back five times, and voilà! Service mode is on.
Switching off Service/Valet Mode:
- Do the usual disarm jiggle with your PIN, or use the app if you’ve got it.
- Get the two-flash salute back, and you’re good to go.
- Next time you kill the engine, Ghost is back on guard duty.
And if you forget? No problemo! The Ghost is smart enough to quit service mode on its own. Zip above 31 mph, cruise for 15 minutes, and it’ll slip back into protection mode faster than you can say “cloak and dagger.”
But say the day comes when you want the Ghost gone for good (maybe you’re selling the car to someone less spy-savvy). Don’t try this at home, hero. Call the experts, the same ones who installed it. They’ll whisk it away without a hitch or a glitch, keeping your engine safe and sound.
How to Decide if a Ghost Immobiliser Is Right for You
If your car is your pride and joy, your weekend warrior, or just a super slick set of wheels, a Ghost Immobiliser could be the guardian angel you’re looking for. It’s like a secret handshake that only your car knows.
If you’ve sunk a bunch of money into your motor, or it’s as precious to you as grandma’s china, then you’ll want to keep it safe. Sure, it’s an extra expense now, but it’s all about keeping your car out of the hands of those who’d love to take it for a joyride without asking.
Plus, there’s the possible bonus of cheaper insurance. And who doesn’t like saving a bit of money? It’s about weighing the cost against the peace of mind and the potential savings. Do the maths, think about how much you love your car, and you’ll find your answer.
How to Use Service/Valet Mode on Your Ghost Immobiliser
You’re giving your car a spa day (a.k.a. a service or valet), and you don’t want the techs to get caught out by your car’s secret protector, the Ghost immobiliser. No worries, there’s a special mode just for times like these. It’s called Service/Valet Mode, and here’s the lowdown on how to work it.
To switch on Service/Valet Mode:
- First, make your car recognize you’re a friend, not a foe. Enter your disarm sequence or use the mobile app to say, “Hi, it’s me!”.
- Next up, drive your car to where it’s getting its pamper session. Keep the engine running (like keeping your pet hamster on the wheel).
- Now, with the app turned off, tap the service button five times. Letting your car know it’s chill time is like a secret handshake.
- You’ll know you’ve done it right when you get a five-flash wink back from your car. That’s it; you’re in Service Mode!
And to turn it off?
- Just do your normal ‘open sesame’ with your disarm sequence. It’s like telling your car, “Playtime’s over.”
- If your car flashes twice, the message is understood loudly and clearly.
- The next time you turn off the ignition, your car’s Ghost is back in action, ready to guard your pride and joy.
Forgot to switch it off? No problem! The Ghost’s got your back. It’ll turn off Service Mode by itself. Just drive faster than 31 mph for a stretch, and after 15 minutes, it’ll snap back to its usual watchful self. And if you power down before the 15 minutes are up, no biggie; it’ll stay in chill mode.