You have an Interlock Device, but now it’s about time to get your vehicle serviced, inspected, or you need to replace your tires.

One question that may come to mind is if you can even have your vehicle serviced or worked on while an Interlock Device is installed.

The answer is, of course!

The Smart Start Way

Smart Start strives to ensure you have a successful and seamless program, not a burdensome process. You can still have your vehicle serviced by a mechanic, but they must go through the proper steps first before working on it.

How to get your vehicle repaired or serviced with an Interlock Device installed

When you visit our website, hover over the Customer Support tab and click on the first option in the dropdown menu, called Repair Bypass Instructions.

Here is where you can read the specific instructions to your state about temporary bypass instructions for your mechanic. He or she will then need to call 800-831-3299 from a business landline. We cannot provide bypass instructions if he or she calls from a cell phone for verification reasons. In addition, we cannot provide bypass instructions to a relative or friend. These instructions are for mechanics only who need to work on your vehicle.

Keep in mind that each state has their own specific requirements for your mechanic to follow, but each state we operate in should be listed for them to choose, whether it is Arizona or Wyoming. For example, some states require that the mechanic fill out a repair bypass form first. You can always ask our 24/7/365 customer care center at 800-831-3299 if you need assistance.

It’s as simple as that! No need to worry, because Smart Start’s got you covered from start to finish during your program.

Do you still need an Interlock Device? Call today to schedule an appointment at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and simple online form.

When installed, your Interlock Device works alongside your vehicle’s other parts in a cooperative, seamless process. For the Interlock Device to function properly, however, parts like your vehicle’s battery needs to be in good condition as well. That may include charging or changing your car’s battery, even with an Ignition Interlock installed.

Sometimes, charging or changing your car battery may need to happen, regardless if you have an Interlock Device. This may be a worrisome thought, but can be a very smooth process with the right steps taken.

Tips for charging your car battery with Ignition Interlock

It’s easy to test if your battery has somehow lost enough power to support your Ignition Interlock Device. Just take a look at your IID.

Press the # sign on your device, and then 2 on the keypad. If your battery is below 12 volts, your battery could prevent your breath sample from registering.

Here’s a list below to make sure everything goes well while you are charging or changing your battery.

1. If your state allows it, disconnect your head unit from the curly cord before you connect jumper cables or a charger to your battery. You can only disconnect the head unit while your vehicle is off. As of January 2016, only New York and Wisconsin do not allow you to detach your head unit while the car is off, but laws are always subject to change, so check with your Smart Start customer care representative first. If your state does not allow you to disconnect your head unit from the curly cord, call us at (800) 831-3299, and we will help you out.
2. Retrieve the user manual for your vehicle.
3. Follow the instructions in your vehicle’s user manual to connect the jumper cables or charger to your battery.
4. After charging the battery for the determined amount of time, reconnect the head unit.
5. Try to start your vehicle as you normally do.
6. Remove the jumper cables or charger as instructed by your owner’s manual.

If you need additional guidance, contact our Customer Care representatives at (800) 831-3299, and we will help you with speed, efficiency and patience. We are here for you 24/7/365.

Remember, your Smart Start Ignition Interlock Device is designed to work WITH your battery, not against it.

Do you still need an Interlock Device installation appointment scheduled? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form for a quote.

When searching Ignition Interlock Device (IID) information online, some sites may report that when IID’s prompt for a random rolling retest, it is extremely dangerous. They even say that the IID could shut down your vehicle while you are driving.

Don’t be fooled. No state-approved Interlock Device vendor would create a product that is a safety hazard for you, such as turning your vehicle off, if you fail or miss a rolling retest.

We repeat: State-approved Interlock Devices will NEVER shut your engine off while you are driving your vehicle. You may receive a violation for missing or failing a rolling retest, however.

What are Random Rolling Retests?

Rolling retests are an extremely helpful measure for your program. They ensure that there is no drinking and driving at all. The IID will prompt for a random rolling retest during your drive every 30-45 minutes, but varies state-by-state.

State regulations determine how long you have to perform the rolling retest, but they are usually up to six minutes. This gives you some time to pull over, put your vehicle in park and take a breath test that will only last a few seconds.

Smart Start is here for you

Smart Start is a reputable and state-approved Interlock Device provider, which means you get the best in an IID. The speedy testing and accurate results in all Smart Start IID’s is made possible by fuel cell technology, an alcohol-specific sensor that detects any breath alcohol in your system.

We hope we’ve alleviated the fears you had over some IID myths about random rolling retests generated by other websites. Smart Start’s number one focus is customer service. This means we always strive to make your Interlock Device program seamless and successful.

Do you need an Interlock Device (IID)? Call Smart Start to schedule an installation appointment today at 800-831-3299 or fill out our quick and simple online form to receive a quote.

You just confirmed your scheduled Interlock Device installation appointment at your nearest Smart Start service center, so you are on the right track to getting back on the road again.

But what do you need to take with you to your installation appointment?

Bringing the right materials with you to your Interlock Device install appointment is very important, and can save you a headache if you do not bring the right items.

This blog series will help you figure out what to take to your appointment, whether you are on the East or West Coast. In each blog series, we will break the topics down and group different regions together, as each state’s requirements are different.

To get started, we’ll go over a general guide to prep yourself for your installation day.

You should bring the following items to your appointment, wherever you are in the U.S.:

• Any case paperwork you received
• Your proof of residence
• Photo ID
• Car insurance forms
• Vehicle registration papers

Additional Tips

Remember, you can always ask one of our customer care representatives what you need to bring, as well. Our customer care center is 24/7/365, so we will be able to answer your questions at any time, even during weekends and holidays.

Your installation appointment will usually only take up to an hour. Smart Start recommends blocking off at least two hours, since some vehicles may require a longer period to install the Device. We also understand the significance of working with your vehicle – rest assured that our service technicians will take utmost care while installing the Interlock Device.

Need more information? We have state-by-state FAQ’s on Interlock Device regulations and forms you may need in your area.

Installation Day Series

Part 1 – a general guide on what to bring for your Interlock install day

Part 2 install series by state – Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia

Part 3 install series by state – Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Delaware, and Maryland

Part 4 install series by state – South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Mississippi, Minnesota, Missouri, Arkansas, and Louisiana

Part 5 install series by state – Texas, Oklahoma, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, Alaska and Idaho

Part 6 install series by state  – Hawaii, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington

Need to make an Interlock Device installation appointment? Call Smart Start today at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and simple online form.

Parents, if your child is convicted of a DWI or DUI, an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) could be mandatory depending on your state and the case’s circumstances.

Do not worry, though. Interlock Devices are the safest and best tool to use when preventing drunken driving. In addition, most Devices’ breath tests take seconds, leaving little room for disrupting someone’s everyday routine.

So, can Smart Start provide an option for parents to pay for their child’s Device?

The short answer is, absolutely.

Smart Start strives for utmost convenience at what could be a stressful time. You can create an installation appointment for your child at your nearest service center and be present at the appointment for them, too. When you call our customer care center, you’ll be able to pay your child’s IID fees with no hassle. We are flexible, and offer recurring payment options.

Interlock Devices for a Loved One –  A Choice for Parents to Invest in Safe Driving

On a voluntary basis, parents invest in a Smart Start Interlock Device regardless if their child was convicted of a DUI or not. For parents, an IID could mean extra protection every time their child drives.

Interlock Devices are also worthwhile if you and your loved ones are sharing a family car. Another option is if a child starts college for maximum security when they are behind the wheel.

An IID is less expensive than a DWI/DUI conviction, and they help keep the roads safe for everyone

Separating Drinking From Driving

What most people don’t know is that IID’s are the only physical barrier in preventing drunk driving.

If someone tests on their Interlock Device, and their breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) reads above or at the state’s fail limit, the vehicle will not turn on. An Interlock Device with fuel cell technology, like Smart Start’s, is the most accurate tool in alcohol monitoring while driving.

Smart Start offers Interlock Devices for court or state-ordered cases, or on a voluntary basis. Call today to schedule an Interlock Device appointment at 800-831-3299, or fill out our quick and easy online form.