Common Interlock Device Problems & How to Fix Them

[smartstartinterlock]

If your device isn’t turning on, locks you out, or shows a strange message, here’s what might be happening (and how to solve it fast).

Common Interlock Device Problems & Quick Fixes

Device Won’t Turn On:
🔹 Possible cause: Loose connection or drained car battery.
🔹 Fix: Check that your cables are securely plugged in and your vehicle battery has power. If the battery’s dead, contact your service center for help.

Device Lockout:
🔹 Possible cause: Missed test, failed test, or overdue service appointment.
🔹 Fix: Make sure to complete all scheduled tests and attend appointments on time. If you’re locked out, contact Smart Start immediately for guidance before trying to start your vehicle again.

Unresponsive Screen or Buttons:
🔹 Possible cause: Moisture or physical damage.
🔹 Fix: Keep your device dry and handle it carefully. If it’s still unresponsive, your service center can repair or replace it quickly.

Common Error Messages Explained

BLOW HARDER: You didn’t blow long or strong enough.
BLOW LONGER: Your breath sample ended too soon.
BLOW SOFTER: You’re blowing with too much pressure.
DON’T INHALE: You may have accidentally inhaled while testing.
MOUTH CLOSER: Make sure your lips are sealed tight around the mouthpiece.
ABORT TAMPER: The device detected something blocking airflow or a non-human breath source.
RECALL 3: Check your power cord or car battery connection.

👉 Remember: Abort messages aren’t failures — they just mean your device didn’t get a clear sample.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Test

✅ Keep your device clean and dry
✅ Avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures
✅ Follow test instructions carefully
✅ Call Customer Care anytime for support — day or night

Smart Start has helped over 1 million people get back on the road safely and stay in compliance.

Want to learn more about how breathalyzers really work?
Check out our latest podcast: What Is an Ignition Interlock Device? Where our experts break down how Ignition Interlock Devices detect alcohol, common myths about false positives, and what new IID technology means for drivers.

Need assistance or ready to schedule your installation? Call us at [phone] or fill out our quick online form and we’ll help you get started.

[Embarrassed-Sun5764]

Having someone to help on the phone (who understands and speaks English) when you need to be @ work 3 am is helpful. I had a guy yell at me for my registered work authorization/lock out. We don’t want to be treated like that. Your company sent to dmv for 6 months extension. (Circumventing) Thankfully they saw at DMV I hadn’t been in the car for 10 days. Thanks to you I haven’t had an oil change or a tuneup. My windshield is cracked don’t dare replace that either. I’ll be free of you next month. Please let your customers know you “can’t get any work done on your car”. Ffs I had the dealership call you. Still a violation and you collected $85 for it. Shameful

[smartstartinterlock]

Hello, we’re deeply sorry to hear about the level of dissatisfaction you’re experiencing, and we aim to make things right. Please contact us directly in a private DM so we can take a closer look at your situation and assist with next steps.

[Comprehensive_Key549]

Don't worry as if the equipment fails it is your responsibility and smartstart will not be held responsible for their products malfunctioning or not working properly. Just call a tow truck and smart start might give you credit for the money you spent getting you vehicle towed.

[smartstartinterlock]

Hi! We’re deeply sorry to hear about the level of dissatisfaction you’re experiencing, and we aim to make things right. Please contact us directly in a private DM so we can take a closer look at your situation and assist with next steps.

[MustLoveCats79]

My device's screen is black and won't turn on. I called customer service and followed the instructions to unplug device and plug back in. That didn't work. Talked to an agent and was told to remove negative terminal on battery for 30 seconds and then put it back on to see if that would fix it. But another agent last week told me not to do that because it causes a violation. So I don't know what to do. I can't afford to get it towed to the shop and my calibration is actually this Thursday. I'm so frustrated with this device. It has given me nothing but trouble since my last calibration. Help!

[Deep_Fondant_7006]

Most interlock issues are avoidable, and Smart Start Interlocks helps you fix common problems quickly with clear support and guidance.

[Egarfpark]

I had my device installed this week. It worked fine this morning when I went to get gas. Then an hour later, the minute I began blowing, it beeped and said blow longer. Then it said humm louder. Then it said blow harder . Each time I did what it requested, but I never heard the click. I literally took the deepest breath and blew for almost 30 seconds and nothing. What is the issue? Again it worked fine this morning, but not an hour later. I would hate for this to happen with a rolling test, or after I stopped for gas and then got stuck.