TRACKERS, IMMOBILISERS & ALARMS
Keeping your vehicle safe and secure is more important than ever! Vehicle theft is becoming an increasing and persistent threat, but fortunately, a variety of security systems exist to deter thieves and increase recovery chances. Among the most effective are trackers, immobilisers, and alarms. Each offers different types of protection, and when used together, they form a robust defense.
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What is a Tracker?
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A vehicle tracker is a GPS-based device installed in your car to monitor its real-time location. It uses satellites to triangulate its position and communicates this data to a central platform via mobile and patented networks (GSM/4G/5G/ VHF)
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Types of Trackers
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Passive Trackers: Record data but do not transmit it in real time; data must be retrieved manually.
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Active Trackers (Real-Time): Provide live updates on the vehicle's location, often viewable via an app or desktop platform.
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Thatcham-Approved Trackers: Meet insurance and security standards in the UK; come in Category S5+ and S5 (High category) and S7 (standard). These systems are primarily covert in design and are configured to activate only when specific parameters are met. This strategic activation reduces the likelihood of detection by signal scanners or tracking countermeasures. Installation is usually required to be carried out by an authorised installer (like WSW Lights Visions & Sounds)
What is an Immobiliser?
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An immobiliser is an electronic device that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct key or digital code is used. It disrupts essential systems like the ignition or fuel pump.
Some types of Immobilisers, like Scorpion Track's X-Series CAN-BUS Imobiliser uses the Vehicles Controller Area Network to immobilise the vehicle untill the correct buttons in the vehicle are pressed in sequence. These types of Immobilisers are often known as 'GHOST IMMOBILISERS' and are effective against the attack of relay theft, key‑cloning, and ECU-swapping.
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Types of Immobiliser
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Factory fitted OEM Immobiliser: Standard in most modern vehicles (since the late 1990s in the UK and Europe). Integrated directly into the vehicle's ECU and paired with the key's transponder chip.
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Aftermarket Immobiliser: These are fitted post-purchase to add an extra layer of security, especially against modern theft techniques.
These include-:​
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​Transponder immobilisers: Similar to OEM systems but added aftermarket. They use a separate coded key fob or card.
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Ghost Immobilsers: These are advanced digital immobilisers that integrate with the vehicle's CAN bus (Controller Area Network). Known as "ghost" immobilisers due to their hidden, undetectable nature.
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Remote Immobilisers: Integrated with GPS tracking systems, these allow the vehicle to be immobilised remotely via an app or monitoring centre in case of theft.
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Keypad Immobilisers: Simple immobilisers that require a numeric code to be manually entered into a keypad before driving.
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What is a Vehicle Alarm?
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A vehicle alarm is an electronic security system designed to deter theft and unauthorized access by emitting a loud siren or alert when triggered. It uses a combination of sensors, control modules, and signal outputs to detect suspicious activity and respond accordingly.
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Alarm Functions
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Door/Boot/Bonnet Sensors-Trigger the alarm if any entry point is opened while the system is armed
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Shock Sensors- Detect impact or vibration (e.g., someone breaking a window)
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Tilt Sensors- Detect if the car is lifted (e.g., for wheel theft or towing)
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Motion Sensors-Detect movement inside the vehicle (useful for convertible or window-down scenarios)
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Glass Break Sensors- Detect the frequency of glass shattering
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