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Ahead of installation, we are often asked how long does a Ghost immobiliser fitting take? Understanding the installation process and timeframe is essential not only for planning your day but also for ensuring that your vehicle’s security is maximised without unnecessary delays. At Safe & Sound, our team specialise in professional fitting services that combine technical expertise with efficiency, giving you peace of mind while keeping your car safe from modern theft techniques.
In this article, we explore what Ghost immobilisers do, how long installation typically takes, factors that can affect fitting times, and why professional installation is crucial. We will also look at ways to complement your immobiliser with additional security solutions, backed by the latest 2025 research and industry data.
Before we dive into timescales, it’s worth understanding why a Ghost immobiliser is relevant right now. In 2025, vehicle theft - especially involving keyless entry systems and digital relay attacks - remains a serious issue across the UK. Recent data shows that keyless car thefts account for a large proportion of thefts and that innovative, technically sophisticated methods are now common among organised vehicle crime groups. Vehicles can be stolen in under a few minutes using electronic exploits, which were almost unheard of a decade ago.
A Ghost immobiliser is designed to protect modern vehicles by preventing an engine start without a unique PIN code entered via existing vehicle controls. It’s invisible, silent and built to integrate directly with the car’s CAN-bus system, making it much harder for thieves to defeat than standard factory immobilisers.
So, how long does a Ghost immobiliser fitting take? From our experience at Safe & Sound, a typical installation usually takes between around 90 minutes and three hours, depending on the vehicle and its electronic systems. For most standard cars, our trained technicians, fully certified by the manufacturer, can complete the fitting in approximately 1 to 2 hours. This includes configuring the system and walking you through the post-fit checks to ensure everything works seamlessly.
For more complex vehicles, including modern models with advanced electronics or luxury cars with sophisticated wiring, the installation can take closer to three hours. The process goes beyond simply connecting the hardware: it involves careful integration with your vehicle’s systems, programming your unique PIN, and demonstrating how to use the immobiliser effectively so you can drive away with confidence knowing your car is protected from day one.
Simple and older vehicles with straightforward electrical systems tend to be faster to work on, while modern cars, hybrids or high-end luxury vehicles with sophisticated wiring and multiple control units may require additional time for secure integration.
Certified installers, like those servicing with Safe & Sound, are trained specifically in Ghost immobiliser installations and will often complete the job more quickly and efficiently than generalist technicians.
For our mobile installation services that come to your home or workplace, travel and preparation - including pre‑install checks - also factor into the total time you need to set aside.
You might wonder: why not install a unit yourself or choose a cheaper alternative? The reasons go beyond convenience. Ghost immobilisers integrate deeply with a vehicle’s electronics and require professional calibration and concealment to function as designed. An improper installation could leave your vehicle vulnerable, void warranties, or even conflict with other security systems.
Our professional installation ensures the device meets manufacturer standards and performs reliably, giving you peace of mind in the face of increasingly sophisticated theft methods.
While a Ghost immobiliser dramatically boosts vehicle protection, pairing it with other technologies can create a stronger defensive ecosystem. Combining an immobiliser with a tracking solution - such as an insurance-approved vehicle tracker from Safe & Sound like the products listed on our insurance approved vehicle trackers page - can not only deter theft but also help recover your vehicle if the worst happens.
Similarly, choosing the right Ghost system, such as the advanced Autowatch Ghost Immobiliser 2, ensures you’re installing one of the most effective options available today.
In most cases, a Ghost immobiliser installation is completed in just a few hours, with 1–2 hours being a common timeframe and up to 3 hours for more complex situations.
This relatively short investment of time delivers long‑lasting protection against threats that are all too prevalent in 2025, from digital relay theft to key cloning. By opting for professional fitting and pairing your immobiliser with trusted tracking solutions, you’re not just answering the question “how long does a Ghost immobiliser fitting take?” - you’re also taking a vital step towards securing your vehicle for years to come.
Can I install a Ghost immobiliser myself?
We strongly advise against DIY installation. Ghost immobilisers integrate deeply with your vehicle’s electronics, and incorrect installation could leave your car vulnerable, void warranties, or conflict with other systems. Professional fitting ensures the device works correctly and is fully concealed.
Will a Ghost immobiliser affect my car warranty?
When installed by certified professionals like our Safe & Sound team, Ghost immobilisers comply with manufacturer standards and should not void your warranty. Always ensure installation is carried out by trained technicians.
Do Ghost immobilisers work with all car models?
Ghost immobilisers are compatible with most modern vehicles. However, installation time and complexity can vary depending on your car’s electronic systems. Our team can advise on compatibility and any special requirements during your booking.
