Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My battery has gone at and my mechanic says the Smart Start Interlock is
causing it.
Your mechanic is mistaken. The Smart Start Interlock model SSI-20/20 - 20/30 has a
low current draw of only 20mA. With an average car battery with a reserve capacity
of 50 Ah this can last up to 6 weeks.
Note* Modern vehicles are installed with many extra components that can
cause a drain on your vehicle battery supply.
Q: Can other people drive my car?
At all times the Smart Start Interlock is in your vehicle, you remain legally
responsible for the correct operation of the device. If you are condent that another
driver, other than yourself, is of good character and is trained in the use of the Smart
Start Interlock and you understand that you are responsible for the other driver’s
actions, he/she may drive your vehicle
Q: What if the Interlock shuts the car down on my way to an important
Meeting?
The SSI-20/20 - 20/30 is designed to prevent the starting of a vehicle if a breath test
is not passed. There is only one wire interrupted for the installation of the ignition
Interlock device and it serves no other purpose than to send the signal to the
starter for the vehicle to start once the test is passed. If the individual fails a test
while driving, it simply records a violation; it does not shut the vehicle down.
Q: Can an additional program participant permanently use the same vehicle?
An additional participant may utilise the same vehicle with the addition of a second
interlock device and a user interface switch.
The user of each device is responsible for the data recorded on their respective
devices.
Separate lease agreements and charges apply for each unit and the additional unit
is charged at the Non Core rate (concession rate does not apply)
Written consent must be provided to SSI by the original participant and a new user
account and reference photo will be required.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the device request further retests and what do I do?
The Interlock system will require successive retests. The Interlock device will ask
you randomly to give a breathe sample. The unit will sound an alert and the display
will read ‘BLOW’ with a count down of 5 minutes. The rst retest will occur between
5 to 15 minutes from starting the vehicle. Subsequent retests will occur between
15 to 60 minutes with a pass BAC result. Never try to give a breathe sample while
driving the vehicle; ensure you pull the vehicle over when safe to conduct the retest.
Remember not to panic if the unit asks you to conduct a retest. You have 5 minutes
to give a breathe sample.
Q: My car won’t start and the Interlock Device reads ‘LOCKOUT VIOLATION’,
what do I do?
Your car won’t start, the device is in lockout due to violations. You must call Smart
Start Interlocks Head Oce 1300 256 900 to obtain an unlock code. This code
will allow you to operate the vehicle for 6 hours, which is enough time to drive the
vehicle to one of our service centres to have an unscheduled service. A maximum
of 2 unlock codes can be issued per service period at a cost of $55.00 each. Once
2 codes have been issued and have expired the car will need to be towed at the
participants expense.
Q: The ignition Interlock just aborts and I can’t start my vehicle.
The majority of all aborts are caused by improperly blowing into the interlock device.
If the problem continues, the participant should call Smart Start Interlocks on
1300 256 900 for a solution.
Q: I’ve blown a positive breath sample and I believe it’s a false reading. What
do I do?
If you have recorded a positive breath sample and you believe it’s an incorrect
reading, it is suggested that you rinse your mouth with water, while waiting for
the interlock unit to end its temporary lockout period then re-blow into the interlock
unit. If you blow a 0.000 reading, you have conrmed your last test was a
false positive and this will be reected in your interlock reports. We also suggest
you document such events so you can provide details to your alcohol education
assessor and to the courts.
If you have any other questions please do not hesitate to contact your local service
agent or call 1300 256 900.
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