Skip to Content
Smiling man sitting in a car holding an Intoxalock ignition interlock device

Intoxalock Interlock Device Help

How to Get Your Device

We understand that having an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle isn’t an everyday occurrence, but we at Intoxalock are here to make the process simple. Learn more about ignition interlock devices.

What to Expect When You Call

Installing your device is simple, and we are here to help you each step of the way. Learn more about how and where to get your ignition interlock device installed.

How to Install Your Device

There are a few simple instructions that you need to follow in order to use your ignition interlock. Learn more about how to use your device.

If you're experiencing issues with your Intoxalock ignition interlock device, check out our blog on Common Interlock Problems for troubleshooting tips.

The Best Choice to Get You Back on the Road

Understand IID Costs
How It Works
Read Reviews & Ratings

What Are Calibrations?

Calibrations are required by the state and are done to make sure your unit is accurately measuring your Breath Alcohol Concentration (BrAC). In most states, you will be required to return to a service center for your calibration and a visual inspection. You must order your calibration 7-10 days in advance of your calibration date to avoid service interruption. The easiest way to do this is through MyAccount. After this, you can call your service center to schedule your appointment.

The process generally takes less than 15 minutes, and your service center will charge a minimal fee.

If your state allows you to do your calibration at home, Intoxalock will automatically send a new device to you in the mail as long as there are no holds on your account. When you receive your new device, unplug your current device and plug the new one in. Some helpful tips include securing your device well and keeping the pins that attach the cord to the device tight. After this is all done, send the old device back in the prepaid postage box to complete the calibration process.

There are a few situations that will stop a calibration request from processing or shipping. First, if you have a past due balance or your lease is not signed, you can pay your bill and e-sign your lease through MyAccount and then order your calibration. Another possible account alert would be if there is any overdue equipment on the account. If you are responsible for returning your expired equipment, you’ll want to make sure that it is returned in a timely fashion.

If you are responsible for returning the expired equipment, you will want to send it back through UPS within two business days. If you don’t, you could incur late fees as well as possibly hold up your next calibration or unit exchange.

What to Do in the Case of a Lockout?

A lock out is a state-mandated function that will not allow you to start your vehicle. A lock out can occur for several reasons, including a missed calibration, too many failed startup attempts, failed retests, missed retests or suspected tampering. If your device is saying “lock out” followed by a timer that is counting down in minutes only, you are in a temporary lock out. Once the timer has expired, you will be able to start your vehicle with a passing breath sample. If the timer started counting down in days, this is a service lock out. You will need to contact Intoxalock at 877-777-5020 to order a new device. Once the countdown on a service lock out expires, you will not be able to start your vehicle until you have a new device. You will be responsible for all fees.

If your Intoxalock registered a BrAC reading and you have not consumed an alcoholic beverage in the last 24 hours, don’t panic. Rinse your mouth out with water and then wait 10-15 minutes before submitting another breath sample. There are many products that contain alcohol that can be read by the fuel cell. Because of this, we strongly recommend that you wait 15-20 minutes after eating, drinking, putting anything in your mouth other than water, or using any product that contains alcohol such as certain mouthwashes, prior to submitting a breath sample. This will allow any contaminants to dissipate.

A person holding an Intoxalock ignition interlock device, which is installed in their vehicle to measure breath alcohol concentration before the vehicle can start.

What to Do When Your Car Needs Maintenance?

If your vehicle needs maintenance work done, you must notify Intoxalock of the work being done. You may do this in MyAccount under the “Report Vehicle Maintenance” section. You can also download instructions for your mechanic when they work on a vehicle with Intoxalock installed. If your mechanic has additional questions, they may call 877-777-5020 and speak with our Service Technical Assistance Network. It’s important to do this before you go to your mechanic so that if a power interruption occurs or tests are missed, you will not be charged for tampering with your device.

As long as you have reported the work to Intoxalock and provided your mechanic with the instruction sheet, you do not need to stay with your vehicle while it is being worked on. We do recommend that you provide your mechanic with additional mouthpieces.

Do You Have More Questions About Intoxalock Devices?

Call us now to speak with a state specialist or check out our ignition interlock device FAQ page.
Intoxalock 30 Years
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety
MADD logo
APPA logo
BBB logo