5 Quick Tips to use after your Ignition Interlock Device Installation
Note: These tips apply to the LCI-777 using Wisconsin program settings, and they summarize some of the items from your Service Agreement.
Before doing anything with the vehicles’ ignition system, power on the handset by holding down the left and right buttons at the same time and pass a breath sample.
1
Why this matters: it helps your vehicle’s battery and avoids some potential violations.
If you put the vehicle in the ACC or ON while waiting to give a breath sample, the vehicle can power multiple electrical systems before the engine is running. That can drain the battery quickly because the alternator does not begin charging until the engine is started.
To help keep your battery charged, drive at least 3 total hours each week, or use a battery tender or trickle charger if the vehicle sits.
2
Why this matters: required monitoring features draw continuous power.
Wisconsin program settings include tamper prevention and monitoring features that require a small, continuous draw from the vehicle battery. Regular driving, roughly 3 total hours per week, typically allows the alternator to maintain charge. If the vehicle is driven infrequently, a battery tender or trickle charger is recommended.
Warning: The vehicles’ battery dying or getting disconnected in Wisconsin will cause an early service recall that must be scheduled within 7 days to avoid device lockout and vehicle immobilization.
Remove the mouthpiece and store the handset in a temperature controlled place whenever possible.
3
Why this matters: extreme heat and cold inside a vehicle can affect the performance of an ignition interlock device, and not removing the mouthpiece can trap moisture over time.
Here is how to disconnect the handset:
Press the small release tab to disconnect, then unplug.
Do not pull on the cable, pulling can damage the connector.
4
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before using the device.
After eating or drinking anything other than water, wait at least 15 minutes before providing a breath sample. Also avoid strong odors in the vehicle cabin.
Why this matters: The device is set with a very low limit of 0.02 BrAC (breath alcohol concentration), so even small amounts of alcohol or residue can trigger a failed test.
Some fermented, acidic, or sugary foods and drinks, as well as products that contain alcohols, can affect a test. Strong chemical odors from items like perfume, cologne, air fresheners, hand sanitizer, cleaners, and similar products may also interfere, especially in a closed vehicle cabin or when the handset is nearby.
5
Understand what the countdown messages on the device screen mean. One countdown is a routine reminder that you are due for calibration (about every 60 days). The other indicates the device recorded an event that requires an early service visit.
Why this matters: If you misunderstand the countdown, you may assume an appointment is automatically scheduled, or you could risk a vehicle lockout.
Next Service:
Counts down to your next required calibration, typically every 60 days from your last service visit. This is not counting down to a scheduled appointment day.
Service Recall:
Means the device recorded an event that requires early service under Wisconsin IID rules. This countdown gives only 7 days notice before the device locks out if you do not come in. We suggest scheduling a service visit as soon as you see this message.