This is a Guest Post from Barry Saunders owner of Ignition Interlock Company, Quick Start AZ.
Are you in need of an interlock device for your car? If so, you are probably interested in having one of these installed for one of two reasons:
- You have been required to do so by law due to a recent conviction of driving under the influence
- You realize you have a problem with drinking and driving, and are attempting to fix your issue before it gets you into trouble
Either way, you need to realize that there are steps you can take to find the best interlock device for your car.
What is an Interlock Device?
An Ignition Interlock Device (IID) or Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) checks your blood alcohol concentration before allowing you to start your vehicle.
If the alcohol analyzed in your system from your breath is above legal limits, the IID will disable your ignition system, rendering your vehicle inoperable. Even after you have passed your initial breath test to start your car, the system will at random times require another breath sample. For a failed breath test in a moving vehicle, an alarm (e.g., honking horn , flashing lights) will sound and will not turn off until the vehicle comes to a complete stop and the ignition turned off.
How to Find the Best Interlock Device
It is one thing to say you are going to purchase an interlock device, but another thing entirely to find and install the one that is best for you and your vehicle.
When searching for an interlock device, pay close attention to the many models that are currently on the market. There are several to consider, so you want to take your time and be patient before making a final decision. Making the wrong choice can prove very costly.
Here are standard factors to consider when searching for the best interlock device:
- Product Features
- Reputation for Reliability
- Ease of use
- Product Support
- Price
The latest models of the best interlock devices have as standard features these essential functions:
- Adjustable breath sample volume which is essential for those with breathing difficulties like asthma.
- An understandable clear bi-lingual user interface with text and voice messages.
- Remote Lockout Override via phone to reduce expensive towing and service calls.
- Durable ergonomic construction that fits well in your hand and in your vehicle with no small parts to break off easily.
- Vehicle Mechanic Mode for easy car servicing by a phone call. This option is used if the vehicle requires automotive (non-Interlock) service by a mechanic.
- Breath alcohol validation via ethanol specific fuel cell technology that eliminates problems with failed tests attributable to cigarette smoke or vehicle exhaust. Fuel cell units are considered the ‘gold standard’ of all alcohol monitoring units.
- Redundant buttons in the event that any of the controls used to operate the unit becomes inoperable, the remaining buttons will assume that function.
Questions to Ask yourself
Now that you have some basic information as to the features to consider when buying an interlock device, there are sure to be a few questions on your mind. Here are several questions to ask and answer before making the crucial buying decision:
- Does the interlock device have a reputation for being 100 percent reliable?
- Is there an authorized dealer in my area that can offer installation services?
- What is the process for using the interlock device, and will I receive training from the company that installs it on my vehicle?
When you answer these types of questions, among others, you will find it much easier to make a final decision on which device to purchase.
At this point, you should have a better understanding of how to find an interlock device for your car.
About the Author: Barry Saunders
Barry Saunders is the founder and owner of www.QuickStartAZ.com. QuickStart Ignition Interlock AZ is the premier ADOT certified provider for your Ignition Interlock Device. As Arizona’s exclusive INTERLOCKCUP PROVIDER, his clients can avoid the embarrassment of an interlock device.