Immobilisers

Immobiliser basics

Even though the term immobiliser seems like it should be a weapon out of a futuristic crime movie, in reality it just means something that stops your car from moving.

There are 2 types:

Electronic immobilisers - stop your car's electrical system and engine from working

Mechanical immobilisers - devices like steering wheel, gear or pedal locks. These are discussed in the Steering wheel locks category

Check out the immobiliser buyer's guide to see what to look for.

Jargon buster

You may come across the following jargon or terms when looking for an immobilser.

Use the quick links below to navigate more quickly:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

I

top

Immobiliser

An immobiliser stops the vehicle from being driven away. There are two types:

1. Mechanical: These lock either the steering wheel, gear lever or pedals in position.

2. Electronic: These disable the vehicle's electrical system and engine. This sets off the alarm if a thief breaks a car window.

P

top

Passive arming

The alarm/immobiliser is switched on automatically when you leave the car.

R

top

Radio Key (Remote Control)

A tiny radio transmitter, which may operate the alarm/immobiliser and/or door, locks.

T

top

Touch Key

A key which operates the alarm/immobiliser, by direct contact with keypad.

Transponder

This is a uniquely coded identification microchip, which can be used in an immobiliser key to help prevent a vehicle from being stolen.

Transponder bypass module

Required on most vehicles from 1997 (and some earlier) for remote starters to function. Allows the alarm to turn the factory fitted immobiliser off when remote start is used.