Frequently Asked Questions About Ignition Interlock Devices

Q- Can a balloon or other air source be used to mimic human breath?

A- No. All Smart Start ignition interlock devices are equipped with anti-circumvention technology which aborts the test when a false breath sample is used.

Q- Can a person with an ignition interlock device restriction have another person perform the breath test to start the vehicle?

A- No, not legally. It’s against Oregon law for anyone to blow into an ignition interlock device to start a motor vehicle for an individual with a restricted driving privilege. Smart Start ignition interlock devices require periodic “rolling retests” once the car is in motion. If a rolling retest is failed or not taken, the unit will log a violation.

Q- Will an ignition interlock device unit lose its data if it is disconnected from the car’s battery?

A- No. Smart Start ignition interlock devices are equipped with a backup lithium battery that preserves the data log's memory even if the unit is disconnected from the primary power source.

Q- Will an ignition interlock device shut down the car’s engine if the driver fails to perform a rolling retest when prompted?

A- No. Smart Start ignition interlock devices can only prevent a car from starting if the driver fails the initial breath test. If the driver becomes stranded and believes the ignition interlock is causing a problem, the unit may be able to self-diagnose and indicate the problem with the service light. The driver can also call the nearest Smart Start service center for help.

Q- Can a driver leave the car running while drinking inside a bar and then drive away?

A- No. The ignition interlock device will prompt the driver to perform a rolling retest throughout the time the engine is running. If the driver doesn’t perform the rolling retest, the unit will record a violation. With some devices, the horn will honk continuously until the engine is shut off.

Q- What happens if the driver forgets a scheduled service appointment?

A- The device will prompt the driver with a flashing light and/or an audible tone. If the IID is not serviced, the device will go into lockout mode and the vehicle will be inoperable until the unit is serviced. Once the device is in lockout mode, the vehicle must be towed to a service center or a technician must perform remote service.

Q- What if the driver is taking medicine that contains alcohol?

A- Alcohol-based medicines might cause a driver to fail the breath test. Alcohol is alcohol, so a blood alcohol content that exceeds the preset limit will prevent the vehicle from starting, regardless of the source of the alcohol. Drivers are advised during the initial training session to avoid common substances that contain alcohol.

Q- How will alcohol-based mouthwash affect an ignition interlock device?

A- Drivers using ignition interlock devices are advised against using alcohol-based mouthwashes or to rinse their mouths with water after using and allow 15 minutes for the alcohol to dissipate before using the ignition interlock device. If they fail to follow these instructions, the unit will fail and register a violation.

Q- What happens when a driver fails a breath test?

A- The ignition interlock device will go into a short lockout period after a first failed breath test and a longer lockout for any subsequent failed test. The first lockout allows any mouth alcohol to dissipate.

Q- Can others besides the participating driver use the IID-equipped vehicle?

A- Yes. However, every driver who uses the vehicle must pass a breath test in order to start the vehicle and continue driving. Every driver who intends to use the IID-equipped vehicle should be trained to use the device. The driver for whom the ignition interlock device was assigned is responsible for all activity recorded on the unit.

Q- What happens when a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device needs repairs?

A- A driver using a Smart Start ignition interlock device should contact the nearest service center before having any repairs done. The repair shop must document any repair that requires disconnection of the battery, because the unit will record a violation if its primary power source is interrupted.

Q- What happens if a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device stalls in traffic?

A- The ignition interlock device will permits the driver to restart the vehicle without having to take a breath test, but the driver will be prompted to perform a test shortly after restarting the engine. This delay allows the driver to pull over if needed.

Q- What happens if the driver is out of state and has problems with the ignition interlock device?

A- There are numerous ignition interlock service providers located throughout the United States. A driver experiencing problems can call Smart Start to be directed to the nearest service center.

Q- Will installing an ignition interlock device damage a vehicle?

A- No. An ignition interlock device is connected only to the wiring under the dashboard. When the unit is removed, the vehicle will be restored to the condition it was in prior to installation.

Q- Are “rolling retests” dangerous?

A- No. A driver has six minutes to perform a rolling retest after a prompt – this allows ample time to pull over if needed. However, drivers can perform rolling retests safely while driving without ever taking their eyes off the road.

Q- How often must ignition interlock devices be calibrated?

A- Typically every 30 days.

Q- Can a driver use a computer to tamper with the device?

A- No. Smart Start ignition interlock devices employ proprietary tamper-proof software. A special interface connection is needed to communicate with the device.