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Security 7 April 2026 7 min read

Ghost immobiliser fitting in Cambridge: the honest guide

Cambridge has had a rough run with keyless car theft. The Ghost II is the most cost-effective way to make your car uninteresting to thieves.

Cambridgeshire Police data for the last 18 months shows a clear pattern: Range Rovers, BMWs, Audis and Ford Fiestas going missing overnight from driveways in Cherry Hinton, Trumpington, Histon and Newnham. Almost all of them keyless.

What a Ghost actually does

An Autowatch Ghost II talks to your car over the CAN bus. After you start the engine normally with your key, the Ghost waits for a PIN sequence pressed on existing buttons (steering wheel, indicator stalk, climate buttons — your choice). No PIN, no drive-away. The engine cuts within seconds.

Crucially: there's no key fob to clone, no LED to spot, no aftermarket button on the dashboard. A thief who's bypassed your key has no idea the Ghost is there until the car cuts out and they can't restart it.

Why it works against keyless theft

  • Relay attack? Defeated — the Ghost ignores the key fob entirely.
  • OBD port plug-in attack? Defeated — Ghost is on the CAN bus.
  • Stolen key? Defeated — they still need the PIN.

What installation involves in Cambridge

We allow 3–4 hours per car. The unit is hidden inside the loom — there is no visible install. We then code your PIN sequence with you, hand you the emergency override card, and update the TASSA database (insurance recognised).

What it costs

All-in fitted at our Cambridge workshop: typically £499–£599 depending on vehicle. TASSA registration included. Insurance discounts vary by provider but most accept £30–£100/year off comprehensive premiums.

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