Immobilisers

An immobiliser or immobilizer is an electronic device fitted to an automobile which prevents the engine from running unless the correct key (or other token) is present. This prevents the car from being "hot wired" after entry has been achieved.

In conjunction with Toad Alarms and Autowatch UK, Enhance supply and fit a comprehensive range of immobilisers to help keep any vehicle safe.

If you would like us to call you back regarding an enquiry or for a quote, please complete our "Call Me Back" form to the right of this page. Alternatively you can call us directly on 01622 737 393 or 078844 33207.

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An immobiliser (or immobilizer) is fitted to vehicles to prevent them from starting unless the correct key or fob is present. This then stops the car from being hot wired (bypassing the ignition interlock to start the car without a key).

Since October 1st 1998 it’s been mandatory for an immobiliser to be installed in all new cars sold. It’s possible to add an immobiliser to older cars or vehicles without factory immobilisers.

Most immobilisers are within the key fob, it contains a microcircuit which is activated by a small electromagnetic field which induces current to slow inside the key body, which in turn broadcasts a unique binary code which is read by the car’s ECU (Engine Control Unit). The ECU then determines if the key is both current and valid, if it is then the fuel injection sequence is activated.

If you’re looking to add an immobiliser to a car for insurance purposes you’ll be looking for a Thatcham 2. An approved Thatcham 2 immobiliser must intercept at least two circuits; usually the low-voltage ignition circuit and the fuel pump circuit.

The main reason to install an immobiliser is to prevent theft. A lot of vehicles are stolen by opportunist thieves who rely on older cars that have little or no security.

If you’re having problems with your immobiliser it can be caused by various problems including key fobs losing their coding or transducer chips, damaged or corroded wiring, faulty ECU, can bus errors, faulty sensors and actuators, faulty BSI units, damaged receiver rings or many other things.

Our call out fee to investigate immobiliser problems is £45 (+vat); this will cover you for one hours work with an auto electrician coming to you.

Standard immobilisers can be removed fairly easily; although factory fitted ones will possibly need more work. Although just because it’s not working it’s not always necessary to have the immobiliser removed. Immobilisers can also be reset.

If you require a new immobiliser they start from £99 (+vat).

If you’d like any other help or for a quote please feel free to call us on 07884433207.