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1
Smart Start Interlocks User Manual
Version 2.1
Last Modified 16th August 2023
2
Welcome to Smart Start Interlocks
Thank you for choosing us.
Smart Start Interlocks install and provide servicing for alcohol
interlock devices.
We're a team of Kiwis selected by the NZ Transport Agency to
provide alcohol interlocks nationwide. We offer friendly,
prompt service, and are here to help you get your normal
licence back.
We’re supported by an extensive network of service centres
throughout the country who provide friendly, helpful and
quality service.
Smart Start Interlocks adhere to the alcohol interlock
guidelines and conform to all aspects of the required
legislation.
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Contents
1. The Alcohol Interlock..............................................6
1.1 Handset Shortcuts..............................................6
1.2 Parts of the Interlock.......................................... 7
Head Unit..........................................................7
Relay............................................................... 7
Curly Cord......................................................... 7
Mouthpiece........................................................7
1.3 Caring for the Interlock.......................................... 8
Device Care....................................................... 8
Hygiene............................................................ 8
Tampering and Misuse........................................... 8
2. Preparation..........................................................9
2.1 Preparing for a Test............................................ 9
2.2 Clearing Contaminants........................................ 9
2.3 Contaminants..................................................10
3. Use of the Interlock.............................................. 11
3.1 Start-up Procedure........................................... 11
3.2 Taking a Test...................................................12
3.3 Rolling Re-tests................................................12
3.4 Monthly Service............................................... 13
3.5 Violations...................................................... 13
3.6 Lockouts........................................................14
5-Minute Lockout............................................... 14
30-Minute Lockout.............................................. 14
4
Service Lockout................................................. 15
Violation Lockout............................................... 15
4. Troubleshooting................................................... 16
4.1 Abort Messages................................................16
Blow Longer..................................................... 16
Hum Stronger....................................................16
Blow Softer...................................................... 16
Don’t Inhale..................................................... 16
Abort Tamper.................................................... 16
Abort Pump...................................................... 16
4.2 Service Messages..............................................17
Appt ##:##....................................................... 17
SRVLCK @0d:##..................................................17
SRVLCK @0d:00..................................................17
4.3 Other Messages................................................18
RESTART ##:##...................................................18
BLOW ##:##......................................................18
4.4 Towing, Mechanical Servicing and Repairs................ 18
Towing Your Vehicle............................................ 18
WOF and Servicing..............................................18
Jump-Starting the Vehicle.....................................19
5. Removal............................................................ 20
6. Frequently Asked Questions.....................................21
Smart Start Service Centres........................................ 25
Notes...................................................................26
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1. The Alcohol Interlock
An alcohol interlock is a breathalyser which is wired into the
ignition of a vehicle. The user must take and pass a breath
test before the vehicle will start.
The interlock has no effect on engine
operation and will not turn off the
vehicle when it’s in use.
The interlock can be mounted on the
vehicle dashboard where it can be seen
and heard at all times.
1.1 Handset Shortcuts
#1 Service appointment time and date
#2 Ignition and battery voltage
#5 Creates a call code for an unlock code
#0 To enter the unlock code
#9 Head and relay serial numbers
If your interlock is not working like you think it should or you
need help with the interlock, call 0800 002 182.
If your call is outside normal business hours, you'll be asked
to leave a message. Please be sure to include your full name,
phone number and full details of why you're calling so we can
help you. If your call isn't urgent, you'll be called back on the
next business day.
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1.2 Parts of the
Interlock
Head Unit
The head unit is
mounted on the vehicle
dash and connected to
the relay via the curly
cord.
Relay
The relay is mounted
under the vehicle dash
and isn't visible to the
driver.
Curly Cord
The curly cord connects the head
unit to the relay.
Mouthpiece
Mouthpieces are attached to
the head unit.
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1.3 Caring for the Interlock
Device Care
Do not place the interlock on the floor, where you can’t see or
hear it, or where it may be damaged. Do not expose the unit
to moisture or liquids.
You are responsible for any damage to
the interlock.
Hygiene
We recommend cleaning your mouthpiece with boiling water.
Ensure the mouthpiece is completely dry before re-inserting
into the device. The use of cleaning wipes may affect your
breath sample when taking a test due to alcohol products in
the wipes.
Tampering and Misuse
Do not attempt to circumvent, tamper with or otherwise
misuse this device. The device is designed to detect and
record these incidents as a violation, and may result in your
interlock programme being extended.
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2. Preparation
2.1 Preparing for a Test
From the time you get into your car until the point at which
you're able to turn on your vehicle, the process may take
several seconds to several minutes (depending on your ability
to complete a test). With your personal safety in mind, take
special care when and where you park your vehicle.
To power up the interlock, turn on your engine
ignition. This is the position where all the dash
lights and accessories come on.
2.2 Clearing Contaminants
If you’ve had anything to eat, drink, smoke or chew within 15
minutes prior to taking a breath test, rinse your mouth with
water before attempting a test. This will avoid causing a
‘contaminant’ alcohol reading and logging a violation.
1. Rinse your mouth with
water. Swishing with water
helps to break up food
particles in the mouth.
2. Take a few deep
breaths away from the
interlock then bring the
interlock to your mouth
ready to blow. Exhaling
completely aids in
providing a full breath
sample.
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2.3 Contaminants
The following items may cause an alcohol reading when you
blow into the interlock (not a complete list):
Important note: any foods or drinks can cause contaminant
alcohol readings. Ensure to rinse your mouth with water if
you’ve had anything to eat, drink, smoke or chew just
prior to taking a test.
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3. Use of the Interlock
3.1 Start-up Procedure
1. Turn the car on. The interlock will activate, and the
screen will display INITIALIZING.
2. When the interlock is ready, the screen will display BLOW.
3. After a successful completion of the test, the interlock
analyses the breath sample, and the screen will display
ANALYZING.
The display will then show one of the following test results:
Following PASS, the interlock will show START
3:00. You may now start the engine.
You have blown alcohol into the interlock and
you are close to the fail limit. You are able to
start your vehicle; however, your alcohol level
may continue to rise, and you may be at risk of
blowing a violation on a rolling re-test.
We recommend not driving your vehicle until you
are sure you have no alcohol in your system.
A VIOLATION occurs when the alcohol detected
is above 0.020 BAC. The interlock will enter a
5-minute lockout countdown and you will need
to take the test again. Each subsequent violation
will result in a 30-minute lockout countdown.
One of several ABORT messages: Abort means
that you need to adjust the way that you're
taking the test.
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3.2 Taking a Test
1. To take a test, blow and hum the word ‘who’
into the mouthpiece.
2. Stop blowing when the long beep tone
stops.
3. As the interlock analyses the breath
sample, the screen will display ANALYZING.
When the analysing is complete, the test results will show on
the screen. See test results on page 11
3.3 Rolling Re-tests
You will be requested to complete rolling re-tests while the
engine is running, even if the vehicle isn’t moving. The
interlock will ask for a rolling re-test by indicating BLOW in
the display and a 5-minute countdown timer. It'll also beep
regularly until the test is taken. The first re-test typically
happens 10-15 minutes after the engine is started.
You have 5 minutes to perform the rolling
re-test. We recommend you pull over to do this,
however you can complete the test while driving.
If you fail to pass the re-test, the interlock will
show MISSED TEST. This will put interlock into a
6-day violation countdown.
Failure to pass a rolling re-test will result in a violation,
and the interlock will need to be serviced within 6
days.
DO NOT turn off your vehicle without taking the rolling
re-test. Take every test that the interlock asks for.
Missed re-tests are logged on the interlock record and may
result in an extension of the interlock sentence.
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3.4 Monthly Service
Each month your vehicle must be taken to a
service centre for servicing and to have the data
downloaded. This takes around 10 minutes.
Some service centres require bookings.
You have a 6-day window (either side of the day of the month
of your installation date) to get the vehicle in for a service.
For example, if your installation date was on the 6th, you can
take your car for a service from the 1st through to the 11th of
every month that you've got the interlock installed.
3.5 Violations
The Smart Start Interlock records every type of
violation that occurs. The most serious are
alcohol-related violations.
Your interlock will detect all alcohol, including small traces of
alcohol, because of its accurate, alcohol-specific fuel cell
technology. For instance, your interlock can tell what your
exact breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) level is, or if the
attempted test was performed by a human. Violations include:
Tampering with the interlock e.g. disconnecting the
interlock while driving.
Failing a test when starting the car because of your breath
alcohol level or alcohol reading while driving.
Failing to take a rolling re-test.
Starting or attempting to start the vehicle without an
initial breath test.
Failing to present the vehicle for a scheduled monthly
service.
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3.6 Lockouts
The interlock will lock out and not allow you to take a test as
a result of the following events:
5-Minute Lockout
Causes
blowing an alcohol reading when starting
the vehicle
What to Do
rinse your mouth with water before you
try again
take several deep breaths, and re-test
when prompted
If the interlock has detected alcohol and you haven't
been drinking alcohol, it's important to retake the test
after 5 minutes, to prove it’s a contaminant.
30-Minute Lockout
Causes
blowing a consecutive alcohol reading
into your interlock
What to Do
leave your key in the ignition and turned
on for the full 30 minutes to clear the
lockout
If you have been drinking alcohol in the past 24
hours, we advise you to leave your vehicle and try
again later when your alcohol level is back to zero.
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Service Lockout (LOCKOUT SRVC)
This shows on the screen as SRVC LCK with a countdown. This
is the number of days or hours you have remaining before the
interlock locks out due to missing a monthly service.
Causes
missed monthly service
The interlock will count down after a
service is missed. When it’s finished
counting down, the interlock will be
locked out and display LOCKOUT SRVC
What to Do
if the countdown timer finishes before
you've taken it to service, call 0800 002
182 for an unlock code. The code will
last for 6 hours, incurs an additional
cost, and will only be given once.
take the vehicle for a service within 6
hours of entering the unlock code.
Violation Lockout (LOCKOUT VIOL)
Causes
high alcohol reading on the initial start
alcohol detected on a rolling re-test
missed rolling re-test
disconnecting the interlock after starting
the engine
What to Do
call 0800 002 182 for an unlock code
The code will last for 6 hours, incurs an
additional cost, and will only be given
once
take vehicle for a service within 6 hours
of entering the unlock code
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4. Troubleshooting
4.1 Abort Messages
If your blowing technique does not satisfy the test
requirements, the interlock will show one of the following
error messages:
Blow Longer
The blow/hum sample was not long enough, blow softly and
steadily until the beep changes to a higher tone.
Hum Stronger
Blow/hum not performed properly, Try varying the pitch of
your hum - if it’s too low or too high, it may not be detected.
Blow Softer
Caused by blowing too hard into the interlock, blow softer.
Don’t Inhale
Not enough pressure was detected, or breath was inhaled at
the start of the test. Hold the interlock well away from your
mouth when you inhale and bring it to your mouth when
you’re ready to start blowing.
Abort Tamper
Something is blocking the flow of air through the interlock.
Make sure that your hand isn't covering the vent on the back.
Check for obstacles, remove them and blow again.
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Abort Pump
The pump in the interlock is not responding properly. Try
again. Try blowing hard through the mouthpiece into the
interlock to dislodge any blockages, then try again.
While the car is off, remove and then reconnect the curly cord
after 15 seconds and try again. Call 0800 002 182 if the
problem persists.
4.2 Service Messages
APPT ##:##
Your service appointment is on ## date. To view your
appointment, press # then 1. See Handset shortcuts on page 7
SRVC LCK @##d or ##h
This message shows the days and hours remaining until the
interlock will lock out due to missing a monthly service. Take
the vehicle in for a service before this reaches 0.00.
See LOCKOUT SRVC below
LOCKOUT SRVC
The interlock is in full lockout due to missing a monthly
service. You'll need to call Smart Start on 0800 002 182 to
obtain an unlock code. The unlock code incurs an additional
cost and will only be given once. The unlock code will
temporarily unlock the interlock for 6 hours. You must still
take and pass a breath test after the unlock code is provided.
See Service Lockout on page 15
VIOL LCK ##d or ##h
There’s been a violation caused on the interlock, and you’ll
need to take the vehicle back to the service centre before
the countdown ends.
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4.3 Other Messages
RESTART ##:##
When the vehicle is turned off, you're allowed a short period
of time to restart the vehicle without the need to blow into
the interlock again. This will countdown from 3 minutes.
e.g., RESTART 3:00
BLOW ##:##
The interlock requires a test within the stated timeframe.
e.g., BLOW 05:00
4.4 Towing, Mechanical Servicing
and Repairs
Towing Your Vehicle
If your vehicle is inoperable, we can arrange a towing
company to pick it up and take it to your nearest service
centre.
If it is determined that interlock has been damaged in any way
by the user, then you will need to pay the towing fee as well
as the replacement costs. If the issue isn't related specifically
to the failure of the interlock, you will need to pay the towing
fee.
WOF and Servicing
When you take your vehicle for a WOF or service (unrelated to
the interlock service), it is best for you to stay at the
mechanics and be ready to blow when required.
The interlock client is responsible for all data recorded by the
interlock, so it is essential that anyone who uses the vehicle
18
is shown how to use the device correctly. This includes all rolling
re-tests to be taken if the mechanic leaves the vehicle
running while servicing.
If a mechanic causes a violation, you will need to take your
vehicle for an interlock service at your expense.
outlining the time that the car was in their possession
(including the approximate times that the vehicle was
dropped off and picked up), and the vehicle’s registration.
Jump-Starting the Vehicle
If your battery has gone flat you can still jump start the
vehicle. You’ll need to unplug the interlock head unit, attach
the jumper leads, plug the interlock back in and proceed with
taking a test and starting the engine as normal.
A better option is to remove the battery and charge it or
replace it.
The battery voltage can be checked by pressing #2 on the
head unit. If the voltage is below 13 volts while the vehicle is
running this could be an indication of a problem with the
vehicle's electrical system or battery.
If your vehicle is likely to be out of action over the
time when your monthly service is due,
contact Smart Start on 0800 002 182 immediately.
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5. Removal
Smart Start requires authorisation from the NZ Transport
Agency before the interlock can be removed from your
vehicle. You must meet the exit criteria. For more
information, see Smart Start's Guide to Exiting the
Programme, available on our website:
www.smartstartinterlocks.co.nz/frequently-asked-questions
After you've been approved to
exit the interlock stage of the
programme you'll need to:
1. Obtain a zero-alcohol licence
2. Book an appointment to have the interlock removed
3. After three years, apply for a standard licence
Important!
The interlock isn't automatically removed after 12 months.
The NZ Transport Agency requires you to provide 6 months of
violation-free data before approval to exit the programme is
given.
Your 13th service must be at least 12 months after installation
of the interlock. On or after that day, call the NZ Transport
Agency on 0800 822 422 to apply for your zero-alcohol licence.
Once authorisation from the NZ Transport Agency comes
through, you can go to a licencing agency to obtain your new
zero-alcohol licence. Once you've got your zero-alcohol
licence, call Smart Start to book a removal.
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6. Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone else drive my vehicle?
Yes. Another licenced driver can drive your vehicle, but they
must comply with all interlock requirements. You'll be
responsible for any violations they cause.
Can the interlock turn off my engine?
No. The interlock is not designed to turn off your vehicle. It is
designed to keep you from starting the vehicle without first
taking and passing a breath test.
My interlock screen is saying LOCK #DAYS, what do I do?
This means you have a certain amount of time before your
interlock locks out - ensure you get to a service centre before
the specified hours shown on the screen otherwise you will
need to get your vehicle towed to the service centre.
Alternatively, call us for options.
A violation of some sort has occurred to cause the vehicle to
go into lockout mode - either service is overdue, alcohol
violations or a test has been skipped.
What if I leave the country?
If you're going to be out of the country around the time of
your monthly service, someone else can take the vehicle for
you. Just remember, you are responsible for all readings
blown into the interlock so make sure you show them how to
use it properly. If the interlock locks out, you will need to call
Smart Start for an unlock code.
21
I have been out drinking last night. Is it ok to start my car
this morning?
There is a chance that blowing into the device in this situation
could cause a violation; we do not recommend using the
interlock as a breathalyser. This is particularly vital in the last
six months of an alcohol interlock sentence as the NZ
Transport Agency monitor violations during this period.
We recommend obtaining a quality personal breathalyser to
test yourself before attempting to start your vehicle.
My service is due, and I can’t get to a service centre. Will I
get locked out?
The interlock will count down for six days from the date that
your service is due. If the countdown ends before you've had
the vehicle serviced, you'll be locked out.
If the interlock is reading SRVC LCK @0d:00 you've already
missed the 6-day window around your service date, you'll
need to call Smart Start on 0800 002 182 to obtain an unlock
code. This unlock code will only last 6 hours, allowing you to
drive your vehicle to the closest service centre.
See Monthly Service on page 13
What if I need help after hours, what do I do?
You can call us on 0800 002 182 and leave a detailed message
which we’ll be notified of.
Please ensure you leave your name, phone number and
details of your problem so we can call you back.
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We will deal with messages in order of priority, if we consider
it urgent, we will get back to you right away, otherwise we’ll
call back on the next business day.
When can I get an unlock code?
Unlock codes will only be given out Monday to Friday 7am –
5pm. We don’t provide unlock codes after hours or on
weekends.
Can I change my interlock to a different vehicle?
If you sell your car or it becomes unusable, the interlock can
be transferred to another vehicle. Both vehicles must be
taken to the service centre at the same time to perform the
transfer.
Please call us on 0800 002 182 so we can set up your new
vehicle in the system.
Will the device drain my car's battery?
The interlock does not cause a significant drain on the
vehicle's electrical system. It uses a similar amount of power
to a car radio.
Do I have to take the test if I'm turning off my vehicle?
Yes. You should always check your interlock before you turn
off your vehicle.
● Ensure the interlock is displaying RESTART with a
countdown before exiting the vehicle. This indicates it
has detected the engine stopping, and it won’t call for
further rolling retests.
● If the interlock is asking for a rolling retest, you must take
it to avoid a missed test violation, even if the engine isn’t
running.
23
Will the interlock lose all memory if the battery is
disconnected?
No. The unit has a flash memory so any battery disconnection
does not result in a memory loss, all data will still be available
at the next download.
My interlock is frozen, what do I do?
1. Turn the vehicle off.
2. Gently roll the rubber seal down from the bottom of the
head unit.
3. Unplug the curly cord from the head unit, ensure the screen goes
blank. Don’t leave it unplugged for longer than a minute.
4. Plug the curly cord back into the head unit, ensuring the clip is
facing the back of the head unit.
5. Turn the key on and try again.
If you can't find the answer you're looking for,
please contact us on 0800 002 182, we're here to
help.
24
Smart Start Service Centres
Smart Start Interlocks has the most extensive network of
service centres throughout New Zealand to make the
installation and servicing of your interlock easy.
Please head to www.smartstartinterlocks.co.nz/centres or
search Google Maps to find your closest service centre. If your
location is not listed, contact us on 0800 002 182 as we may
be opening a service centre near you soon.
If you're out of town when your monthly service is
due, you can pop in to any of our other service
centres. Some service centres will require
bookings.
25
Notes
Record dates and note down any events that occur with your
interlock. That way you'll have a record of them for the NZ
Transport Agency when exiting the programme.
Date
Event
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