Ignition Interlock Devices Questions
Learn the answers to questions like what is an ignition interlock system and what is a rolling retest below! Our comprehensive ignition interlock faq was created to answer the most common questions our clients have. As your most convenient and affordable alcohol interlock service provider, we are here to lead you through every step of the way. If you do not find the answer to the question you have, give us a call and our bilingual customer services representatives can help you!
What is an ignition interlock device?
An ignition interlock device is a breathalyzer that is installed in your car to monitor your blood alcohol level. In most cases, an interlock device is required because of a DUI and will need to be installed in your car for the period of time that your state requires. In order to drive under a restricted license, you must submit a breath test each and every time you get into your car and if your BrAC is under the state limit than the device will allow you to start your car. Under the guidelines of keeping your driving privilege under a restricted license, all alcohol ignition interlock devices need to be recalibrated every so often at a service station and a service message will flash on screen notifying you when you need to get it serviced. Call us today with any questions you have about our interlock devices.
How do Payments work?
Our payment system is convenient for all of our clients. We have worked hard to create a hassle free experience for everyone. Low Cost Interlock accepts credit cards, prepaid credit cards, and debit cards. The card you have on file will be charged monthly, so you will never miss a payment. After your card is charged you will get a receipt emailed to you for your records. Make sure that if you update or get a new card to notify us so we can change it in our system. It is important that your card information is up to date at all times. If you have additional questions about the ignition interlock device cost contact us today.
Can I mail my payment if I don’t have a credit card?
No, we only accept credit and debit cards. You can also use a prepaid debit card for your Low Cost Interlock monthly payments.
What will happen if my payment is declined?
If your payment is declined, always call our office so we can work together to resolve your payment issue.
Are there any hidden Fees?
There are NO hidden fees with us. Other companies in the industry charge their clients for lockout and reset fees which can cost around $75 each time. We do not charge our clients any fees. Instead, our customer service is ready to help you with any problem you may have. Give us a call today if you have any questions about our pricing or our ignition interlock program in general.
Please note: some states may have an early recall violation policy. In those states a client may incur the standard calibration/download/inspection fee charged by the Service Center.
What is a Lockout or Reset Fee?
This can occur when you miss or fail a state required rolling retest. This may cause your interlock system to put your vehicle into service mode requiring you to take the vehicle back to the service center. Other companies charge on average $75 to reset the device. With us, it’s free.
What is a rolling retest?
A rolling retest is required once you start your vehicle. It is mandatory to submit a breath test at random times during your drive. If your ignition interlock beeps and flashes on screen you must pull over and give a breath sample. You will have between 3 and 10 minutes (each state is different) to give your sample otherwise it will show as a missed test. It can also lead to a lockout where you will not be able to drive your car for an allotted period of time.
How do I start my vehicle?
The state requires you to submit a breath test prior to being able to start your vehicle. Please remember to rinse your mouth out with water first before submitting a test. If your sample registers alcohol, pending the state setting, you may not be able to start your vehicle. Once your breath test registers as under the legal limit you will be able to start your car and get on the road.
Will the IID shut off my vehicle while I’m driving?
No, our ignition interlock systems can only prevent your vehicle from starting. Our interlock cannot shut off your vehicle while it is in use.
How do I know when the device needs service?
Before starting your vehicle, check your device screen to see when your next service date is. If “service due” appears on your screen, it will be necessary to drive to a service center to get your interlock device calibrated. There will also be a countdown on the device to your next state required service date. It is important to get your device serviced before or on the service date. Missing a calibration will make you noncompliant and cause your ignition interlock device to lockout.
How will I be trained to use the device?
A Low Cost Interlock representative will send you a video link to watch, that covers everything about the device and our service. Our interactive training is bilingual and customizable per-state requirements. At the ignition interlock system installation, the certified technician will demonstrate how to use the device and can answer all of your questions.
Who do I call if I need help with the device?
Please call our Low Cost Interlock Customer Service staff and they will be able to help you with general questions, billing, device usage and anything else. If your technical problem cannot be solved over the phone you may need to drive to one of our 100s of interlock device installation locations to get it fixed.
What if I need to get work done on my car by a mechanic?
Call our office prior to getting work done and we can guide you through your state-specific process.
What happens if I’m out of state and have IID problems?
Low Cost Interlock operates in many states and may be able to calibrate and download in a state you’ve traveled to. Before traveling, verify with your state authority and the state you are traveling to.
When can A lockout occur?
There are many circumstances that can prompt a lockout. A few of them include violations, blowing above the state limit, blowing too many high BrACs, failing to submit a sample, or trying to tamper with or circumvent the system.
How do I know when I can take the device out of my car? [Removal]
The state requires different interlock requirement time periods for different individuals. It is mandatory to call the state office prior to removal so you can make sure you are legally able to have it removed without any penalties from the state. Our customer service support staff can answer all of your questions about device removal. Give us a call today!
My interlock device keeps telling me to “Blow for a longer time” but I keep running out of breath before the double beep.
You must blow for at least 3 seconds. Try blowing more softly. As long as you can hear a continuous tone then you are blowing hard enough.
I can see droplets of condensation coming out of the end of the mouthpiece. Will this affect the results?
We recommend that if you see this happening that you change the mouthpiece for a dry one immediately. Condensation may prevent you from starting your vehicle; your wet mouthpiece may be dried out and re-used.
Can I leave my mouthpiece in the handset?
Yes, in fact we would recommend that you do so especially if Random Retests are required.
I have forgotten my mouthpieces. Can I blow directly into the interlock device?
No, the unit is designed to accept a mouthpiece and is unable to take a sample without one. Attempts to use the interlock device without a mouthpiece may damage the handset and your vehicle will be unable to start. Subsequent repair will not be covered by warranty.
Can I reuse my mouthpieces?
Yes, you can also wash them if desired. Simply use water and rinse thoroughly. Do not use solvents (e.g. alcohol laden wipes, acetone). Mouthpieces must be perfectly dry before use.
How many drinks can I have before the interlock device will prevent me from starting my vehicle?
The answer to this question is entirely dependent on where the interlock device setpoint level has been set and how quickly your body metabolizes alcohol. For this reason it is recommended not to drink any alcohol at all before driving. Remember that alcohol stays in the body for many hours after you stop drinking. Alcohol levels in the morning after consuming alcohol the night before may also prevent you from starting your vehicle.
My interlock device is displaying “Invalid Sample” followed by a 1,2, or 3. What does this mean?
The ignition interlock device has detected an unusual reading in your breath sample. Please ensure that you are observing the correct blowing procedure and repeat the test. If the Invalid Sample message is displayed again, then please contact Low Cost Interlock for advice.
Can I disconnect my interlock and drive my vehicle without it?
No, any attempt to tamper with the system, either by trying to disconnect the unit or by providing a sample other than one provided by you, is recorded electronically. It may also result in an Early Recall. Such actions may also leave you subject to penalties under your local jurisdiction.