Get a clear, feature-by-feature breakdown of the Scorpion X-Series and Ghost 2 to confidently choose the ultimate protection against key theft.
Why Aftermarket Immobilisers are Essential in 2024
Modern car theft has evolved. Criminals no longer need to physically break into your vehicle; they can exploit the very technology designed for your convenience. In a world of sophisticated relay attacks and key cloning, factory-fitted security systems are often not enough to protect your investment. This is where advanced aftermarket immobilisers come in.
They provide a powerful, invisible layer of security that renders your car’s keys useless to a thief. Two of the UK’s leading solutions are the Autowatch Ghost 2 and the Scorpion X-Series. Both are formidable, but they have key differences that could make one a better fit for you and your vehicle.
What is a CAN Bus Immobiliser?
Both the Scorpion X-Series and the Ghost 2 are CAN Bus immobilisers. Instead of physically cutting wires, they integrate digitally with your car’s own computer network (the CAN Bus).
- Digital Integration: The immobiliser speaks the same language as your car’s electronics, allowing it to control the engine.
- Invisible Operation: Because there are no new key fobs on your keyring or flashing LEDs on the dash, the system is completely covert.
- Undetectable: Thieves cannot easily trace wires to find and remove the small, hidden device. It’s a digital fortress protecting your vehicle.
Meet the Contenders: Ghost 2 vs. Scorpion X
The Autowatch Ghost 2 Immobiliser is the established benchmark in the industry. Renowned for its reliability and minimalist approach, it has become the go-to choice for vehicle owners seeking the highest level of covert security.
The Scorpion X-Series Immobiliser is a powerful modern competitor, bringing its own set of features and app-based controls to the market. It leverages Scorpion’s long-standing reputation in vehicle security to offer a robust alternative.
This guide will break down their technology, security features, and user experience to help you decide which is the ultimate guardian for your car.
Core Technology Showdown: How They Protect Your Vehicle
At their core, both systems work on a simple principle: your car will not start, even with the key, unless a unique disarm sequence is entered first. They are installed covertly by a certified engineer and leave no visible trace. This approach is designed to prevent the theft of the vehicle itself, neutralising the threat of key theft or cloning.
Disarm Sequence: The Fob-Free Approach
The primary method of disarming both the Ghost 2 and the Scorpion X-Series is a customisable PIN code entered via your vehicle’s existing buttons—on the steering wheel, door panels, or centre console.
- Ghost 2 & Scorpion X-Series: Both systems are fundamentally designed around this button-based sequence. You create a unique code (between 4 and 20 presses) that you must enter before you can drive.
- The Optional Fob: Both manufacturers offer the option to purchase separate Bluetooth driver recognition fobs. These fobs allow for automatic disarming when you are near the vehicle.
- Convenience vs. Security: While a fob adds convenience, the button sequence is widely considered the most secure method. There is no physical fob to lose, have stolen, or risk having its signal cloned. By relying on the PIN code, you eliminate a potential vulnerability, ensuring only you can start your car.
Mobile App Integration and Control
Both systems utilise smartphone apps, but for slightly different purposes.
- Ghost 2 App: The Autowatch Ghost 2 app is primarily a tool for maintenance. Its main function is to place the car into ‘Service Mode’ or ‘Valet Mode’ without having to disclose your PIN code to a mechanic or valet.
- Scorpion X-Series App: The ScorpionTrack app offers more direct control. You can use it to change settings, update the device, and put the car into Service Mode. It provides a more feature-rich user interface for managing the immobiliser.
Service / Valet Mode Functionality
This is a crucial feature for any aftermarket immobiliser. When your car is being serviced, you need a way to temporarily disable the system so that mechanics can work on it without needing your secret code.
- Ghost 2: Activating Service Mode is simple. You can either do it through the mobile app or by entering your disarm sequence followed by pressing the service button five times.
- Scorpion X-Series: Service Mode is activated via the mobile app or by presenting the optional driver fob to a specific location in the vehicle.
Security Features: A Head-to-Head Comparison
The only goal of an immobiliser is to stop a thief from driving away in your car. Here, we analyse how each system stands up to modern theft techniques and what official accreditations they hold.
Protection Against Key Cloning & Relay Attack
This is the primary reason to install either device. Both the Ghost 2 and the Scorpion X-Series immobiliser offer outstanding protection against these common and effective theft methods.
- Making Keys Useless: Even if a thief clones your key or uses a relay device to amplify its signal, they cannot start the engine.
- The Second Layer of Defence: The disarm sequence is the crucial second step. Without it, the key is just a tool to open the door. The car remains immobilised and secure.
Thatcham Approval and Insurance Standards
Official accreditation is a key indicator of a product’s security credentials.
- TASSA Approved: Both the Ghost 2 and the Scorpion X-Series are TASSA (Tracking & Aftermarket Security System Association) approved. TASSA is a recognised UK standard for vehicle security products.
- Why it Matters: TASSA approval means the systems have been independently tested and verified to meet high security standards. Many insurance companies recognise TASSA-approved devices and may offer premium discounts for vehicles fitted with them.
Physical Footprint and Undetectability
A major strength of CAN Bus immobilisers is their covert nature.
- Ghost 2: The Ghost is famously tiny. Its minuscule size and silent operation allow it to be hidden deep within the vehicle’s wiring loom, making it exceptionally difficult for thieves to locate even if they have time to strip the dashboard.
- Scorpion X-Series: The Scorpion unit is also very compact and designed for a discreet installation. It operates silently and without any tell-tale lights, ensuring it remains hidden from view.
Installation, Compatibility, and The Verdict
A security system is only as good as its installation. Both of these devices are sophisticated and require expert knowledge to fit correctly and covertly. Choosing a certified professional is non-negotiable.
The Installation Process
To ensure your warranty and the system’s effectiveness, you must use a certified engineer.
- TASSA-Registered Installers: For both the Ghost 2 and the Scorpion X-Series, installation must be carried out by a TASSA-registered technician.
- Nationwide Mobile Service: At Lock and Track, our certified engineers provide a nationwide mobile installation service for both systems, fitting the device at your home, workplace, or dealership for maximum convenience.
Choose the Ghost 2 Immobiliser if…
- You want the most established and reputable CAN Bus immobiliser on the market.
- You prioritise ultimate security and prefer a purely button-based disarm with no extra fobs.
- You value maximum undetectability and a proven, minimalist approach.
Choose the Scorpion X-Series if…
- You want the option to add a driver fob for automatic disarming.
- You prefer having more direct control and features accessible via a mobile app.
- You are looking for the latest technology from a trusted UK brand.
Our Expert Recommendation
Both the Scorpion X-Series and the Autowatch Ghost 2 are excellent, TASSA-approved systems that will significantly boost your vehicle’s security. They both effectively stop key cloning and relay attacks.
However, the Autowatch Ghost 2 remains our top recommendation.
Its reputation is built on years of proven, real-world reliability. The system’s design philosophy prioritises a "fob-free" experience, which we believe is the most secure operational method. By relying solely on the button sequence, you remove any risk associated with losing a fob or having its signal compromised. The Ghost 2 offers the ultimate in discreet, ‘invisible’ security, making it the professional’s choice for vehicle protection.
Protect your vehicle with the industry-leading Ghost 2 Immobiliser.
- TASSA Approved & Recognised by Insurers
- Nationwide Installation by Certified Engineers
- Protects Against Key Cloning & Relay Attacks
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a Scorpion X-Series or Ghost 2 immobiliser drain my car’s battery?
No. Both devices are designed to be incredibly low-power. They draw a minuscule amount of current (less than 10mA) and will not have any noticeable impact on your vehicle’s battery life.
What happens if I forget my disarm sequence or lose an optional fob?
If you forget your PIN, you can recover it. Both systems come with a unique emergency code on a secure card. You can use this code to disarm the system and then set a new PIN. If you lose an optional fob, it can be deleted from the system to prevent it from being used.
Can either of these immobilisers be removed or bypassed by thieves?
Due to their covert installation and deep integration with the vehicle’s CAN Bus network, they are extremely difficult for thieves to find and bypass, especially in the limited time they have during a theft attempt.
Are both the Scorpion X-Series and Ghost 2 compatible with my electric or hybrid vehicle?
Yes, both systems have extensive compatibility lists that include most modern petrol, diesel, hybrid, and fully electric vehicles. A certified installer will confirm compatibility before fitting.
Can I transfer the immobiliser to a new car if I sell my current one?
Yes. Both systems can be professionally removed from your old vehicle and re-installed in your new one by a certified engineer, protecting your investment for years to come.
Does the installation of a Ghost 2 or Scorpion X-Series void my car’s warranty?
When installed correctly by a certified TASSA technician, these devices will not void your vehicle’s warranty. They do not cut or alter the vehicle’s original wiring in a way that would cause warranty issues.