Can you leave your car running with an interlock device installed?

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Can you leave your car running with an interlock device installed

Installing, servicing, and removing an ignition interlock device with us is very easy and convenient. You may ask: Can you leave your car running with an interlock device installed? The simple answer: No, you should not leave your vehicle unattended when interlock is installed. This post will further explain this topic.

Can you leave your car running with an interlock device installed?

If you have an ignition interlock because of a DWI or DUI, your device is connected to your vehicle and works alongside it. It’s important not to leave your vehicle running with your IID unattended.

Don’t leave your vehicle running if you’re not in it

There are times when you may take your initial ignition interlock test to start your vehicle then go back inside the house for a short time because you forgot something. Or you may start your car before it’s time to leave to allow time for your vehicle to warm up during cooler weather or cool off during hotter weather.

Don’t risk a program violation

Telling you not to leave your vehicle unattended while it’s running isn’t just because we’re trying to tell you what to do. Sometimes people don’t think about the additional issues that can be brought about from simply having a legally required interlock device installed. Having an interlock device installed makes it very important that you always maintain control of what’s happening with your vehicle. If you don’t, you risk a program violation which can set you back lots of time and money.

Our interlock device may prompt for a re-test when you’re not in the vehicle. If you don’t return to the vehicle in time, the test window for that re-test may expire.

Your ignition interlock device will register this as a skipped rolling re-test which can be considered a violation of your program requirements. This can mean various consequences depending on your program.

Save yourself a lot of stress

It’s very important to remember not to leave your vehicle unattended especially while it is on if you have an ignition interlock installed. Your court or state-ordered program can be affected.

You should also make sure to check your device for rolling re-test prompts before exiting your vehicle. These missed tests could cause violations, and we’d hate for that to happen! Stay alert to your device, and stay aware of your program’s requirements.

Smart Start of Louisiana is here for you during every step of your ignition interlock program

We want you to be successful. If you’re ready to explore your options, call us at 1-866-447-8686 or complete our online installation scheduling form to set up your installation appointment. We’ll help you along the way from installation to removal. You’ll be back on the road soon.

interlock device removal

Contact us about ignition interlock device removal

Questions like “Can you leave your car running with an interlock device installed?” are easy to answer since you’ll speak to a real person when you call. Don’t try to navigate this stuff alone. We’re always just a call or click away.

Smart Start of Louisiana is the smart choice for ignition interlock because we offer top-notch customer service and a convenient process. Smart Start offers a toll-free 24/7 service line where you can always speak to a real person. We’re here to help you with any questions you have about what you need to bring to your interlock device removal appointment or other topics.

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Looking for other products?

We’re the interlock pros. If you are looking for other compliance products and services, we suggest you check out our partner company.

Gulf Compliance Solutions
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