In some states, you can just bring your ignition interlock-equipped car or truck go to a mechanic and get it fixed. They can disconnect the battery and reconnect it with no worries about it counting against you. Other states ask that you first notify authorities when you go in for major repairs.
Full Answer
What to do if LifeSafer interlock is not working?
What to do when an ignition interlock user calls?
How much current does an interlock draw?
Do aftermarket accessories need to be checked?
Why is my interlock not working?
The Ignition Interlock Device Won't Turn On If your device won't turn on at all, the most common problem is that your car battery is low or has died completely. Check your vehicle battery to make sure that it's working. You may need to change out your battery.
How often do interlock devices malfunction?
It will likely be several times an hour. When your device alerts you through sounds, lights, or screen messages (or all 3) that it is time for a rolling retest, you have about 5 minutes to submit the breath sample.
What causes a lockout on a interlock device?
Permanent Lockout Causes on an Ignition Interlock Device Failing a number of breath tests as specified by your state. Skipping a number of rolling retests as specified by your state. Failing to take your vehicle in for monthly service and calibration of the device. Attempting to tamper with or remove the device.
How do you reset ignition interlock?
0:331:37How to Reset your Ignition Interlock Device - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe device you're going to leave that unplugged. For about five to ten seconds. And go ahead andMoreThe device you're going to leave that unplugged. For about five to ten seconds. And go ahead and plug it back in congratulations that's an that and you've reset your device.
Why does my interlock keep saying try again?
If you get an Invalid Sample error, the device screen may also display Try Again, or Blow Test Error. This simply means there was a problem with the test. Perhaps you didn't blow into the device correctly. No worries.
Can you jumpstart a car with an interlock device?
If You Need to Jump-Start Your Car If your battery has died, and you need to jump-start your IID-equipped vehicle, it's possible, but you need to take a few extra steps. If your state allows it, disconnect the handset unit from the curly cord before you connect jumper cables or a charger to your battery.
How long does a lockout last on an interlock?
Each subsequent lockout will also be 30 minutes. In addition to the startup test, you are required in all states to submit to random rolling retests. The interlock device will prompt you to submit a breath sample at random intervals while you are driving.
What is permanent lockout?
Permanent Lockout means you won't be able to take a test or start your car. If your jurisdiction allows it, you will need to call LifeSafer at 800-634-3077 to obtain a Lockout Override code or have your vehicle towed to an Authorized Service Center at your own expense.
How long is a temporary lockout?
Temporary lockout means a feature of a device in which a vehicle will not start for 15 minutes after 3 failed or aborted attempts to start the vehicle are made within a 5−minute period.
What happens if I miss my calibration?
Calibrations are required by the state, not the interlock provider, so failure to comply may result in penalties from your state. If you do miss an appointment, reschedule as soon as possible to avoid becoming out of compliance and to keep your vehicle on the road.
Does Intoxalock drain battery?
When you have an Ignition Interlock installed into your electrical system, the device will draw a tiny amount of power from your car's battery as well, but it is never in such an amount that would drain your car battery totally.
What if my battery dies with Intoxalock?
When your car's battery dies or is disconnected, your interlock device will record the event as a potential violation, since tampering with the car's battery could occur when someone tries to bypass their interlock device.
Why does my interlock keep beeping?
Retests are always announced: Your ignition interlock device will beep loudly when a retest is required. You have up to 6 minutes of extra time to pull off to the side of the road if you do not feel comfortable taking the test while driving.
What happens if my car battery dies with intoxalock?
When your car's battery dies or is disconnected, your interlock device will record the event as a potential violation, since tampering with the car's battery could occur when someone tries to bypass their interlock device.
What happens if you fail a rolling retest?
When you give a failed test during a rolling retest, you will need to pull over as soon as possible and shut off the ignition, then your lockout period will begin. This lockout period will vary from state to state. Each time you give a failed test, the lockout period will extend to a longer period of time.
Can intoxalock mess up your car?
The answer to this question is generally no. To say that it's impossible is only false because of the installer. If the person that services the vehicle does not have a firm understanding of the car's electronic system, it's a possibility that damages, such as the interlock device draining the battery, can occur.
Common Ignition Interlock Device Problems & Fixes | Intoxalock
Troubleshooting Common Interlock Device Problems. Intoxalock ignition interlock devices (also referred to as IIDs, BAIIDs, car breathalyzers, and ignition interlock systems) are designed with the purpose of simple activation to get you back on the road in a fast and convenient manner.
Having an Issue with Your LifeSafer IID? | Read Our Troubleshooting Tips
If you're having issues with your LifeSafer ignition interlock device, check out our guide on troubleshooting your device or contact us right away!
Can the ignition interlock device cause car problems?
A friend had an ignition interlock device installed in his car a couple weeks ago because of his DUI conviction, and he swears that it is causing problems with it. He said that twice the car died while he was driving, and both times he had it towed to a shop. The first time was a burnt out CAM...
How Can I Fail My Interlock Device?
You can automatically fail your interlock device in one of two key ways:
How Does an Ignition Interlock Device Work?
To understand how you fail the test, it is essential to first dive into the machinations of the device . An interlock device is a combination of two different devices:
What happens if you blow into an ignition interlock?
If you have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle, you will have to blow into the device to provide a breath sample. The device will test your BAC to ensure that you are not attempting to operate the vehicle under the influence.
What happens if you are court ordered to install an ignition interlock?
If you have been court ordered to install an ignition interlock device, odds are you’re more than aware that there are penalties for device warnings, violations, or failures. These deterrents are meant to ensure that you do not attempt to circumvent the device.
How to use the LCI 777?
To use the device, you will have to first put the keys in the ignition and attempt to turn over the car. This will send a signal to the LCI-777 to turn on. Once it is on, it will give a prompt for you to provide a breath sample. Exhale into the handset for 3 seconds; there are no blowing patterns, humming, or other complicated breathing combinations, simply blow. When the sample has been received, the device will make a tone sound and a click—to let you know that you are done.
What happens when you blow into an interlock device?
Before starting the vehicle, the driver must blow into the interlock device mouthpiece—if the device registers a breath-alcohol concentration that meets the programmed limit requirements, the vehicle will start .
Who installs ignition interlocks?
Typically, third-party companies install ignition interlock devices —most often, these companies must be state- or court-approved businesses. So, your court should be able to advise you about the company/companies from which you can choose.
What is an IID in drunk driving?
Currently, all states have some kind of law regarding the use of an ignition interlock device (IID) in relation to drunk driving convictions. An ignition interlock device also is known as known as a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) or casually as a car breathalyzer.
Why does the ignition interlock not turn off?
Should the driver provide a sample that is higher than the limit, or not provide the sample in time, the device will not turn off the vehicle; it simply will log the event and issue a warning to turn off the vehicle. Depending on the IID, it might even issue an additional warning—such as horn honking—if you don't turn off your vehicle in time.
How long do you have to wait to submit an ignition interlock sample?
Depending on the device, you could have to wait several minutes to submit another sample . Depending on the model of your ignition interlock device, you also might have to look into a camera; this prevents you from allowing other people to blow into the IID.
What happens when you install an IID?
Once you have an IID installed, you'll either receive some sort of installation certificate to present to the monitoring authority, or the installer will electronically notify the monitoring authority itself. (Your “monitoring authority" could be the court, a parole or probation officer, your state's driver license agency, or any combination.)
When do courts order ignition interlocks?
When Courts Order IIDs. Based on the individual state's laws, a judge will order an ignition interlock device when someone is convicted of drunk driving. However, again, this is based on state laws. For example, your state might require an interlock device if this is your first offense; if it's your second or subsequent offense, ...
How to contact Intoxalock?
For more information on making an appointment and what to expect with your device removal, go to our installation and removal page or contact Intoxalock Customer Service at (888) 283-5899.
What is ignition interlock?
Ignition interlock devices are connected to your car’s starter and sometimes also your car horn and windshield wipers. Because of this, service centers that install them are specially trained in their removal. A car-savvy person may be tempted to remove their interlock device (IID) themselves.
What happens if you tamper with an ignition interlock?
Tampering with an ignition interlock device could lead to severe consequences such as: Any sort of tampering with the device or any work that is done on your vehicle without notifying your provider prior will result in a lockout and find you in non-compliance of your lease state’s regulations.
Why does my car lock out?
A lockout it when your ignition interlock device prevents your vehicle from starting until a certain amount of time has elapsed or your device is re-calibrated. Lockouts can be cause for a variety of reasons including when a person has several failed attempts at blowing a clean test.
How to contact Interlock?
Do you still need an Interlock Device? Feel free to call us today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our online form to receive a quote.
How to remove ignition interlock?
Make sure you receive the proper Interlock Device removal paperwork through the mail from your court or DMV/state. Some states, however, may not send you any formal paperwork. In any case, you should confirm with your monitoring authority regarding when you can remove your Interlock Device.
How to contact Smart Start removals?
Smart Start’s Customer Care Center. Now you need to simply send an email to our team at [email protected], or call (800) 831-3299. Make sure to include your full name, your driver’s license number, date of birth and any removal documents.
What is the phone number for a car that has been repossessed?
If your vehicle was repossessed or totaled, you can reach out to our Customer Care Center at (800) 831-3299 to expedite this process and we can assist you quickly.
What happens if you fail an ignition interlock?
If you need help operating your ignition interlock, learn how to use your device. 2. Missed calibration.
How to report maintenance on Intoxalock?
You can report your scheduled vehicle maintenance in the Intoxalock Mobile App by going to “Report Vehicle Maintenance” section . When making your mechanic appointment, you should notify them about your Intoxalock device. If the mechanic needs technical support, they can call (833) 623-0200.
What is the phone number for a mechanic?
If the mechanic needs technical support, they can call (833) 623-0200. For more information on what to do during a lockout, watch our lockout user video. If you need assistance with a lockout, log in to the Intoxalock Mobile App to see if your state allows you to reset the lockout remotely.
What happens if you don't report a maintenance appointment to Intoxalock?
If you don’t notify Intoxalock of the scheduled service appointment for the car's maintenance, or if the mechanic isn’t aware that you have a breathalyzer installed, you could be locked out of your device. Properly reporting any maintenance beforehand will help resolve any potential lockouts far more easily.
What to do if your BrAC is over the threshold?
If your BrAC is over the threshold, the only solution is to wait until you’re sober. Many states require cameras to be mounted in the vehicle to ensure the correct person is blowing into the device, and having a friend take your test is considered tampering. 4. Missing a retest.
What causes lockouts in cars?
1. Failed breath sample. This is the most common cause of lockouts. If you blow into the device and provide a sample with a breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) above what’s allowed in your state, it will be read as failed and you won’t be able to start your car.
What happens if you lock your car after the countdown expires?
Once the countdown expires, you’ll need a new device in order to start your vehicle. Several situations can cause a lockout, and each state’s monitoring authority has its own laws regarding what triggers a lockout, how long your device will be locked and if you need the device serviced.
How to get a VIOL lockout code?
You can obtain your lockout code by calling 1-800-880-3394 or by completing this ticket. This one-time, six hour lockout code is Smart Start’s gift to you so you can avoid towing your vehicle to the service center.
How long does it take to get a lockout code for a smart start?
This one-time, six hour lockout code is Smart Start’s gift to you so you can avoid towing your vehicle to the service center. However, once you have obtained and activated your lockout code, you have only six hours to drive your vehicle to the nearest Smart Start service center so that your Ignition Interlock Device may be properly serviced.
What does it mean when you see a series of numbers following your violation lockout?
If you see a series of numbers following your “VIOL LOCK” notice, this means that you have entered a grace period wherein your Ignition Interlock Device must be calibrated and serviced at a Smart Start service center. If you do not see a series of numbers following your “VIOL LOCK” notice, you may have exceeded the violation grace period, which means that your device will need to be serviced immediately.
What is the phone number for lockout in Missouri?
Here are those phone numbers for your reference: Michigan & Wisconsin: Call 888-234-0198. Nebraska, Kansas, & Iowa: Call (800) 831-3299. Missouri: Call 800-246-3631.
Can Smart Start provide lockout codes?
There are some states that do not allow Smart Start to provide you with a lockout code. If you live in Oklahoma or Washington, we are not authorized to provide you with a lockout code, and your vehicle must be towed to the nearest service center. If you live in the state of Kentucky, you will only have three hours to service your device following lockout code entry. Lastly, if you live in Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Kansas, or Iowa, you will need to contact a different office to obtain your lockout code. Here are those phone numbers for your reference:
What to do if LifeSafer interlock is not working?
Of course, if your LifeSafer interlock is having problems, just call our toll-free number and we’ll troubleshoot, fix or replace the unit. We’re not just here to install interlocks – we’re here to keep you on the road.
What to do when an ignition interlock user calls?
When an ignition interlock user calls to report that he or she is having a problem, our customer support team will ask a series of questions to find out the source of the glitch. You may need to see a authorized installation and service center, but you should check these items first:
How much current does an interlock draw?
Interlocks only draw a tiny amount of current – about the same amount as the clock on a car radio. Usually it’s no more than half an amp and LifeSafer’s devices are pre-set to go into sleep mode when the vehicle is off to draw the minimal amount of power.
Do aftermarket accessories need to be checked?
If you have aftermarket accessories in your vehicle, it’s a good idea to check the wiring or have the installer who did the work check to make sure all wires are connected properly.