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Home › Blog › Ignition Interlock Devices and Cold Weather: 5 Helpful Tips

Ignition Interlock Devices and Cold Weather: 5 Helpful Tips
The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only, may not reflect the most current developments, is not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. See full disclaimer.

Ignition Interlock Devices and Cold Weather: 5 Helpful Tips

January 16, 2023

With extreme winter storms and cold weather on the rise, you may wonder how to keep your Ignition Interlock Device working despite the cold temperatures. You may have even received a “Too Cold” error from your device in recent weeks.

Smart Start Ignition Interlocks are designed to withstand cold weather. If your device is too cold, it will start heating up and the screen will display “HEATING.” The Interlock Device usually takes about three to five minutes to heat up to its proper temperature. However, there are other things you can do to make sure you are on the road and moving quickly.

Smart Start has created this guide to give you five simple tools to keep you moving and your Ignition Interlock Device working, even in the cold. 

How to Keep Your Ignition Interlock Device Working in the Cold 

5 Cold Weather Tips for your Ignition Interlock Device Infographic

Tip #1: Bring Your Head Unit Inside with You

In most states, you can disconnect the head unit from the curly cord to prevent your Interlock Device from getting too cold. Doing this will help you avoid the “Too Cold” error from your device.

*Remember, you must turn off your car before you disconnect the head unit. 

IMPORTANT! Wisconsin and New York do not allow you to disconnect the head unit from the curly cord. If you live in either of these states, do NOT disconnect your device. 

Tip #2: Check Your

Car Battery 

Making sure your car battery is working properly is another way you can ensure you will get to your destination swiftly. Your Smart Start Ignition Interlock can check your battery voltage for you. Just press the # sign and the number 2 on your keypad. If your results are below 12 volts, you may have issues providing a test. Keep this in mind if your results are near or below 12 volts! 

Tip #3: Insulate and Elevate Your Interlock Device 

If you are not allowed to disconnect your head unit or would rather leave it in the car, another way to keep your Interlock Device working correctly is to keep your device wrapped in something to insulate it from the cold. Anything that fits snuggly around the Interlock Device, such as a mitten or glove, will work. Making sure your device is not left on the ground but put in a cup holder, passenger seat, or console will help keep your device out of the way of moisture. 

Tip #4: Keep Your Car Out of the Snow and Ice 

Parking your car away from wind and snow can help ensure your Ignition Interlock will take less time to heat up. Any type of covered parking, even unheated, will protect your car and Interlock Device from cold weather-related damage. 

Tip #5: Create a Barrier for Your Windshield 

If you don’t have covered parking available, another way to protect your car and Interlock Device from the cold is to create a windshield barrier. There are black snow guards or frost guards available in stores, but you can make one out of household items such as a blanket, cloth, or sheet. Doing this will prevent snow and ice from piling on your windshield. 

We Are Here to Help! 

As always, if you have any questions related to your Ignition Interlock program, including weather-related situations, you can reach out to our Customer Care Center. Our support team is available 24/7/365, even during weekends and holidays, to help you. 

Need a Reliable Ignition Interlock?

Smart Start’s Customer Care Center will set up an installation appointment at your nearest service center. They will also provide any state discounts and answer any questions you may have. Call us today at (800) 831-3299 or fill out our short online form.

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https://www.smartstartinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Blog_image_-_winter_weather.jpg 900 1200 Veronica Maciel https://www.smartstartinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/smartstartlogo-notagline-2020.svg Veronica Maciel2023-01-16 08:00:142023-10-04 04:51:52Ignition Interlock Devices and Cold Weather: 5 Helpful Tips

Disclaimer

The information in this blog is for general informational purposes only. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. The materials contained herein are not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Links to any third-party websites herein are provided for your reference and convenience only; Smart Start does not recommend or endorse such third party sites or their accuracy or reliability. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding all content, materials, and information, and with respect to actions taken or not taken in reliance on such. The content is provided “as is;” no representations are made that the content is error-free.

Meet the expert

Veronica Maciel, CNP Content Strategist

Veronica Maciel received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism at Brigham Young University and is a Certified Nonprofit Professional. For years, she has written articles in the science, education, and technology sectors. She has also worked with many nonprofits, such as Their Story is Our Story, WHOlives, BYU Marriott School of Business, and BYU-Pathway Worldwide. As a Smart Start Marketing Team member, she’s become an expert on how Smart Start works and its technology.

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