Having Trouble With Your Ignition Interlock? Check These First.

When an ignition interlock device 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:

Battery Issues. As we’ve noted before, battery issues are the number one complaint.

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. With a good battery, an ignition interlock should pose no problem. Still, any amount of draw can drain a bad battery, so make sure that their battery is in top condition, or else buy a new one. LifeSafer’s ignition interlock battery drain is 4x less than its closest competitor.

Alternator issues. Alternators recharge the battery as it drains. If the alternator isn’t working right, it doesn’t matter how new your battery is – your battery will die. Have the alternator checked if you’re having any new electronics installed in your car – not just an ignition interlock.

Substandard accessory installations. Many motorists like to save money by buying an electronic component online – a stereo or remote starter, say  – and doing the installation themselves. Car electronics are complicated, and they’re getting more so by the year. All it takes is a poorly sheathed wire or loose connection to cause some difficult-to-trace problems.

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.

Aging vehicles. Older vehicles may have mechanical and other issues that simply occur after the interlock is installed, but are not related to the interlock itself.  If you need work on your vehicle, make sure to contact us first to get the proper paperwork for your state’s monitoring authority and avoid any reporting complications.

Many Electronic Features.  Most vehicles today come with a range of standard enhanced electronics.    While vehicle design may accommodate those well, after market additions may make the total load too much for the vehicle to handle.    Also, vehicles that are designed to turn off while stopped in traffic or at signal lights may need to have that feature disabled prior to installing the ignition interlock.  While we work with manufacturers to ensure that the device is compatible with all kinds of vehicles (hybrid, push start, electric) technology is advancing all the time.   It’s a good idea to check with the manufacturer or dealer before installing your interlock to see if any features should be disabled to limit the overall battery load.

Of course, if your LifeSafer car breathalyzer 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.