An alcohol interlock device is essentially an electronic breath-testing device connected to the ignition system of cars, motorcycles, and heavy vehicles designed to prevent drivers from operating a vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol.

 Drivers are required to provide a breath sample via the device which the Guardian Interlock then analyses for the presence of alcohol. If a positive sample is detected, the vehicle will not start. Randomly timed breath tests must also be passed during a journey. In some states or circumstances, the alcohol interlock also includes a camera and takes a photograph of the person providing the breath sample to prevent the risk of circumventing the program.

The most obvious reason for the interlock device preventing you from starting a vehicle is that alcohol has been detected in the sample you provided. While you may not have been drinking, there are products that contain alcohol which may cause the device to return a positive result for alcohol detection. 

Reasons you might be locked out of starting a vehicle with an interlock device

Alcohol has been detected.
Toothpaste, Mouth wash, cough medicine, vanilla extract and non food products such as windshield cleaners and hand sanitisers may all have a slight impact on the accuracy of the readings. The best approach is to avoid ingesting or using any products containing alcohol immediately prior to providing a sample for the device. In the case of hand sanitiser, use it outside of the car and allow sufficient time for it to fully dry before attempting to use the interlock device.

Missed Service.
Another reason you may find yourself locked out of starting the vehicle is if you have missed a scheduled service appointment. You should receive notification and reminders of scheduled service appointments for your device. If you miss one you run the risk of a permanent lockout until you are able to have the vehicle towed to an authorised Guardian Interlock Service Centre, such as Southern Highlands Service Centre to have a Lockout Reset performed.

Attempts to modify the vehicle.
Interlock devices are designed to prevent attempts to circumvent or get around the device without providing a sample. Trying to disable or remove the device will result in you being permanently locked out of the vehicle until a reset can be arranged. If you need to do any work on your car your best bet is to contact an authorised agent for advice to avoid being locked out and possibly being in violation of state law. Removing or disconnecting the battery for example may lock you out of starting the vehicle. A mechanics affidavit and use of a special code to bypass the interlock are required to safely perform many service tasks on your car and avoid a breach of the rules associated with the device.

So if you are unsure about anything to do with your interlock device, have any other questions or need to have any work carried out on your vehicle whilst it is fitted with an interlock device, be sure to contact Southern Highlands Service Centre first for advice and avoid the lockout altogether.

While you may not have been drinking, there are products that contain alcohol which may cause the device to return a positive result for alcohol detection. Here are a few reasons you might be locked out of starting your vehicle it could pay to be aware of...

Reasons your interlock device may lock you out

Southern Highlands Service Centre are authorised installers of the Guardian Interlock Device.

Designed to be discreet and accurate, the Guardian Ignition Interlock device is one of the smallest and easiest to use ignition interlock devices available.

An alcohol interlock is a breath-testing device connected to a vehicle’s ignition and stops a driver from starting a vehicle if they have been drinking alcohol. Alcohol Interlocks can be fitted to most types of vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and trucks. An interlock device is connected to your vehicle with a preset level for blood alcohol concentration (BAC). This is typically very low, so any alcohol or even using alcohol containing products can cause a test failure.  If you blow into it when you are over the set limit, your vehicle won’t start.

You will need to have regular service appointments for your interlock device to ensure it is operating correctly and failure to attend appointments may result in you being locked out of starting the vehicle and having to get it towed to the nearest

Southern Highlands Service Centre are fully authorised to install, service, repair and remove Guardian Interlock devices. We have three technicians authorised to do installations and a further two able to perform services. 

So if you have a court order to install an interlock device or if you just want to be sure you don't inadvertently drive your vehicle while under the influence call Southern Highlands Service Centre today to discuss the fitting of a Guardian Interlock Device to your vehicle.

An alcohol interlock is a breath-testing device connected to a vehicle’s ignition and stops a driver from starting a vehicle if they have been drinking alcohol. Alcohol Interlocks can be fitted to most types of vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and trucks...

Guardian Interlock Device Installation in Mittagong

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Southern Highlands Service Centre (LIC# MVRL54068) take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. Conveniently located in Mittagong, the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. Southern Highlands Service Centre have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. As a Repco Authorised Service centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.

Southern Highlands Service Centre

Guardian Interlock Devices

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