FAQ2025-08-27T15:49:33+00:00

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

The Guardian Interlock device is a hand-held ignition interlock device (IID), attached to the electrical system of your car that measures the Breath Alcohol Content (BrAC) in your exhale. If this device detects alcohol above a pre-set limit determined by your state, your vehicle will not start. The device will also require that you perform periodic breath tests to ensure that you stay below that pre-set limit in order to continue driving your vehicle.

Your installation appointment will typically take about two hours. This time includes not only the device installation and calibration but also a full training session so that you are completely familiar with the operation of the ignition interlock device. Do not consume any alcohol for 24 hours prior to installation and avoid using any products that contain alcohol such as mouthwash.

Guardian’s device uses a simple blow and hum pattern-just say “D000” while exhaling for five seconds. It’s quick and easy, unlike other providers’ complicated, multi-step patterns. You will be required to blow in it to start the car, and retest periodically through your trip.

No, the interlock will never turn off a running vehicle. If a retest is missed or failed, a violation will be recorded, and the device will require early service.

Once your device is installed, you are required to return to the Guardian service center periodically in order for Guardian to download the event logs from your device and make it available to the monitoring authorities. This appointment is mandated by the state and must be at least every 60 days, unless a violation occurs. Your device will display the number of days until the next appointment whenever the device is powered up. Make sure you come on or before you scheduled appointment date in order to comply with this requirement. If you go past your scheduled appointment date, the device will give you 5 days to come in for service. If you go past the 5 day period, it will result in a lockout of the system.

The Guardian interlock device continuously monitors certain aspects of your vehicle, even when the ignition is turned off. As with all interlock devices, this requires a very small amount of battery power. With the Guardian device, it takes even less as there is an advanced “sleep” mode to conserve power.

Your vehicle can be driven by anyone who could drive the vehicle before the device was installed, however, they will be required to pass the same breath tests as you, and any test violations will be registered on your reports to the monitoring authorities. The Guardian service center technicians will train other drivers at no additional charge.

DOs

  • Rinse your mouth out with water before taking a test to avoid contaminants.
  • Use soap and water to clean the mouthpieces regularly. Dry before use.
  • Take retests when requested. You will hear two high-pitched beeps when it is time.
  • Clear any obstruction from your camera before testing, e.g. hats.

DON’Ts

  • Do not use mouthwash, hand sanitizer, perfume, or other products containing alcohol before starting your vehicle.
  • Do not allow others to blow into the device for you and then drive. This is a violation.
  • Do not blow smoke from a vape or cigarette into the device.
  • Do not leave your vehicle running unattended.

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