Smart Start

I had it installed on 1/30/2002. It's been nothing but problems. It takes too long to start my car and wants me to retest every 5-10 minutes. I started my car yesterday and let it warm up. Got out to clean the windows. When I got back in retest I had 2 minutes to do it count down. I did not make it so I lost a point. Now I have 5 out of 6 that easy. When I get down to 0 I have to take it in at my cost. I have 5 months with this in. I called them to set up an appointment to remove it; they told me it will be $74 to remove it and $250 cancellation fee. I just put it in 4 days ago. On top of that I get mad and the customer service rep tells me I shouldn't have got in to trouble. I told him it's not about getting in to trouble, it's about a product that I paid for that don't work. What do I do? Pay to get it out or risk going 5 months with it in and hope my validations don't add up to get me with another 5 months?

I just had the device installed today and already it is a nightmare. It took me 20 minutes to start my vehicle and then I had to blow into it 2 times in a half hour of driving. Another year of this. I'm sure it will only get worse from the stories I am hearing. I did my 2 years without driving and I haven't drank in 2 years. Now, I have a year of mental torture to endure. I don't mind blowing into something to start my car but this is ridiculous. I have no desire to drive my vehicle with this device installed. It is also very distracting to have to blow into this while driving.

There is an organization seeking individuals to support a lawsuit on Facebook. You can message your information to Smart Start and there is public page called Smart Start Interlock Device. On that page is also a link to the actual Smart Start Facebook page that allows you to post on it. I encourage you to post your grievances. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smart-Start-ignition-interlock/88667074106?sk=wall

I've had Smart Start for a year and a half now. In this time, I have numerous violations when not even drinking at all. I have been through 5 handsets and stranded twice. The last time I was stranded, I had my 4 children with me on Nov. 4. It was cold outside with no power to my hand unit. Obviously, the unit is bad. I had no number to call to have someone come and fix it (except for the 800 number on the unit, which I did not know could contact the people in my area for help). Nevertheless, I wasn't waiting 2-3 hours with my children in the cold for someone to come. I unhooked all of it and spliced the wires together to start my car normally. Do not do this!

Upon going back to the shop to have it hooked up again, the tech said, "Yeah, the hand unit is bad." Of course, in his description on the violation ticket, he failed to mention that. I now have to go in front of the judge and have no idea of the consequences. If anyone should happen to know, please inform me before 12-15-11. I am debating getting my attorney from my dui who has also sent me a letter on this matter but wants $500 for one day's services. I cannot afford this right before Christmas but can't afford any more jail time either.

This company is an absolute scam, as if the pretty license plates, jail time, and fines and costs weren't enough! I can hardly wait to see what I get for by-passing the interlock for a week until they could schedule me back into their overbooked appointments. The shame of it is through all the problems I've had. My suspension was to over in 3 months and I'm sure they will extend it longer and $70 a month until that's over. Something needs to be done, as I can see I'm not the only one with multiple problems with Smart Start.

I had sent in to you before with all the problem I had with this Smart Start interlock. I ended up contacting the governor's office. They contacted Smart Start, who in turn contacted me and the garage and told me to bring the vehicle to the garage and they switched something. It worked for about an hour, then acted up again. I called the garage and Smart Start again I had to bring it back to garage again. The guy agreed with me that it was the equipment. Smart Start had them replace the whole unit. The box, cord and the head unit it's been working ever since I still have a few minor problems now. But I'm not complaining at the moment because at least it's not locking me out, costing me money every other day and causing me physical problems.

However, I did contact Smart Start a week later. I wanted to make sure the machine was continuing to work and spoke with the woman (Robin). I asked that being how it was obvious it was the equipment that was faulty I wanted to be reimbursed for the money I had to spend to keep getting the machine unlocked. She told me it wasn't obvious and she had to look into it and she'd get back to me in about a week. I waited a month and called her back. She said to hold on and she'd check. Then she said, "Oh, wait a minute. I have it right here on my desk. Let me check it." Then said no, they're not going to give me the money cause it wasn't the machine. They just replaced it as a courtesy to me. I am entitled to this money. I pay my monthly fees for this and do everything I am supposed to for what to be called a liar and treated and talked to so rudely like I'm an idiot. Please, someone needs to look into these people. Why isn't there anyone overseeing these people so they can t keep ripping us off? The state of Massachusetts is handing them free rein to take advantage of us because they know there is no one to answer to. Please help.

If I go into two or more lockout without just cause and prove I could lose my license for up to 10 years. If Smart Start sends the violations into the registry, they call me in for a hearing. They said if I have a paper from the Smart Start saying it was faulty equipment, I should be ok. But here's the catch: I told them Smart Start continues every time there's a problem to refuse to take the fault and they blame me. Yet the technicians agree with me: there's a problem and Smart Start tells them to stop talking to me. So end result: I will lose my license if this goes to the registry because no one will look into this and monitor them.

I had the interlock installed on 11-1-11, and I have already had two rolling retest failure. The machine says, I failed a rolling retest, and it never went off. It cost $25 to calibrate it, and reset my days, because you lose days when you "fail" a test. I can see right now that it is going to be a burden. I have paid a lot of money to put my car on the road, and at this time, I feel I don't want this interlock device. Can anyone refer me to another provider? I have two failures in one week. If I get another two before the month of November is out, I will have to go to the RMV in Mass., to be heard on these fake violations.

Rory ** is the **; she used her legal position to drain me of every dollar whereas every other business I have dealt with would had used moral grounds to "work" with me. I have nothing bad to say about Smart Start but only about Rory **, a high level executive in the company. Stay away, Rory will burn.

I have had Smart Start Interlock installed in my car for six months. It has been a total nightmare. There are many false positive readings and when you complain to the company, they make up excuses like it is what is in herbal tea or it needs to be re-calibrated. Most recently, they sent a service tech who removed the unit completely from my car as my car was broken down. When I called to make an appointment after having my car repaired they stated that I would have to pay the $500 for installation and another $85 for calibration.

I have been getting violations ever since I had Smart Start installed into my car. This is the latest. On 9 Oct 11, at 21:58, I got into my car to do my mandatory 9-11PM PBT/blow. I did as always and the reading was warn. I waited for two minutes and repeated the test. Again, the reading was warn. I immediately shut the car off and went into the house to wake my husband and daughter so I could go down to the police station and provide a PBT to show that I am not drinking and that something is wrong with the system.

Before we left, my husband suggested that I do another blow. I did and it passed me. I still went to police station and paid for a PBT which showed results of 0.00. When I got the actual paperwork that showed times of blows, this is what it showed: initial blow at 9:58PM Bac 0.014, after two minutes, the second blow showed 0.012, then, a third blow before 10:30PM showed Bac 0.007. The time at the police station was 10:51.

On 26 Oct 11, I was on my way to court for a review hearing. The first blow passed and I started my car. I stopped at a local gas station and bought coffee. I returned to my car and the blow passed. Then, I put my car into drive and the system immediately requested me to provide another blow, which I passed again. About 0.5 miles down the road, the system again requested me to provide another blow; this time, it said "warn." I pulled off the side of the road and waited for two minutes. I provided another blow and I passed.

As soon as I arrived at the court house (about 15 minutes after the warn), I requested a PBT in the probation office and showed a result of 0.00. I reported this incident to my probation officer who said nothing regarding the incident, but instead handed me the 9 Oct 11 violation paperwork. I was in the court house for about two hours. I never went to the bathroom nor left the sight of my attorney or my friend who came with me. I pleaded not guilty and proceeded to leave the court house with my attorney and friend. I got into my car and provided my sample and it showed "warn." I immediately showed my friend, who was parked right next to me, what it read. Then, we waited for two minutes before repeating the test and it passed me.

I drove to the police station and paid for another PBT, which showed bac 0.00. On 29 Oct 11, a normal day, I should tell you that my mandatory blow times are between 7-9AM, 5-7PM and 9-11PM. No issues this day that I was aware of. On 30 Oct 11, I provide a blow and I passed. We (my sister, my daughter and I) drove to an AA meeting. (I am going to attend the noon meeting; I am required to attend 3/week). My sister is going to watch my daughter while I am attending the meeting. Around 12:20 to 12:30 I was called out of the meeting because "some girl" wants to talk to me. It was my sister. I asked her what's up and she told me that the system was beeping in my car. I asked her if she turned the car on or did anything to the system and she said no.

I then went out to my car and the system was reading vio/Lock six hours. I immediately turned the car on and provided a blow. I passed, but it continued to read the same as above. By now, people have gathered around my car to see what the problem was. I showed three different people the reading. At the advise of one of the members, I stayed and finished out the meeting. I called and reported the violation to my attorney, Smart Start and my PO. I left the meeting and went straight to police station. I paid for another PBT (results 0.00) and explained the situation to the officer.

Six hours later, my car is in lock out. I couldn't start it without a code from Smart Start. On 31 Oct 11, I received no return call from Smart Start. I called Smart Start to get a code to unlock the car and so I can download the violation and recalibrate the system. In between getting the code and starting my car, I had to have my car jump started twice. Not to mention, on the way to download, my car shut off and I pulled off to the side of the off ramp. At first, I couldn't start the car, then it started. At the place, where the service is provided, I was instructed during my download to call Steve from Smart Start.

In talking with Steve, he told me that my violation started on Saturday night, not Sunday afternoon. Also, the viol/Lock started to count down 24 hours and not just six hours. In addition, I did not provide a 9-11PM blow. I didn't provide a clean sample until 7:18AM of Sunday morning. It also showed that the system was disconnected and reconnected at 7:17AM. I have never disconnected the system unless directed by Smart Start. When I called Smart Start to get a code, Kelly instructed me to disconnect the head. I had to ask her what that even was. Of course, Smart System was operating at maximum status and all the issues were due to my car.

Let me also add that I replaced my battery ($150.00) about a week or plus ago. I also reported this craziness to my attorney and PO. Moving on, on 1 Nov 11, around 1-1:30PM, I was headed to a doctor's appointment. I provided a blow to start the car and it said "fail." I waited for 15 minutes per directions and provided another blow. Again, it said, "fail." I waited for another 15 minutes. This time, I got into another car and drove to the police station (about 10 minutes from our home). I paid for PBT--results 0.00. I drove back home and provided another blow into my car--"fail" again. I drove back to the police station and paid again for PBT (results 0.00). I drove home again to provide yet another blow into my car and finally passed.

Today, 3 Nov 11, I have my court hearing for the 9 Oct 11 violation. This is what happens. PO recommends three days jail if I plead guilty. Or a hearing in front of a judge with the expert witness, Steve, from Smart Start testifying about results. We are told that he is going to testify that the blow results are consistent with the intake of alcohol. Also, that they have never had a false positive on any of their equipment. If I go this route, I take whatever the judge sends down.

My attorney asks for more time to obtain an expert witness from another company to testify on our behalf. We are also asking the police officers to come and testify on my behalf. I have almost three full pages, for one month, I paid twice a day for PBT's just in case I blew numbers on their system. I also have a letter from the chief of police stating that he witnessed the warn on my system immediately after providing a PBT directly in front of him. None is good enough.

The court will not even address the violations that occurred after the 9 Oct 11 violation. In short, I will have to serve three days of jail time before I even get the rest of the violations that have sufficient information for my case. I am begging any and everyone to help me. If you know of anyone or have this problem or have had this problem, please contact me. I need this before 10 Nov 11. We must stop this insanity that Smart Start is allowed to cause upon us. Also, if anyone knows of another system that I could try, to show that Smart Start's system is not infallible as they preach, call me.

I have been getting violations ever since I had Smart Start installed into my car. This is the latest. On 9 Oct 11, at 21:58, I got into my car to do my mandatory 9-11PM PBT/blow. I did as always and the reading was warn. I waited for two minutes and repeated the test. Again, the reading was warn. I immediately shut the car off and went into the house to wake my husband and daughter so I could go down to the police station and provide a PBT to show that I am not drinking and that something is wrong with the system.

Before we left, my husband suggested that I do another blow. I did and it passed me. I still went to police station and paid for a PBT which showed results of 0.00. When I got the actual paperwork that showed times of blows, this is what it showed: initial blow at 9:58PM Bac 0.014, after two minutes, the second blow showed 0.012, then, a third blow before 10:30PM showed Bac 0.007. The time at the police station was 10:51.

On 26 Oct 11, I was on my way to court for a review hearing. The first blow passed and I started my car. I stopped at a local gas station and bought coffee. I returned to my car and the blow passed. Then, I put my car into drive and the system immediately requested me to provide another blow, which I passed again. About 0.5 miles down the road, the system again requested me to provide another blow; this time, it said "warn." I pulled off the side of the road and waited for two minutes. I provided another blow and I passed.

As soon as I arrived at the court house (about 15 minutes after the warn), I requested a PBT in the probation office and showed a result of 0.00. I reported this incident to my probation officer who said nothing regarding the incident, but instead handed me the 9 Oct 11 violation paperwork. I was in the court house for about two hours. I never went to the bathroom nor left the sight of my attorney or my friend who came with me. I pleaded not guilty and proceeded to leave the court house with my attorney and friend. I got into my car and provided my sample and it showed "warn." I immediately showed my friend, who was parked right next to me, what it read. Then, we waited for two minutes before repeating the test and it passed me.

I drove to the police station and paid for another PBT, which showed bac 0.00. On 29 Oct 11, a normal day, I should tell you that my mandatory blow times are between 7-9AM, 5-7PM and 9-11PM. No issues this day that I was aware of. On 30 Oct 11, I provide a blow and I passed. We (my sister, my daughter and I) drove to an AA meeting. (I am going to attend the noon meeting; I am required to attend 3/week). My sister is going to watch my daughter while I am attending the meeting. Around 12:20 to 12:30 I was called out of the meeting because "some girl" wants to talk to me. It was my sister. I asked her what's up and she told me that the system was beeping in my car. I asked her if she turned the car on or did anything to the system and she said no.

I then went out to my car and the system was reading vio/Lock six hours. I immediately turned the car on and provided a blow. I passed, but it continued to read the same as above. By now, people have gathered around my car to see what the problem was. I showed three different people the reading. At the advise of one of the members, I stayed and finished out the meeting. I called and reported the violation to my attorney, Smart Start and my PO. I left the meeting and went straight to police station. I paid for another PBT (results 0.00) and explained the situation to the officer.

Six hours later, my car is in lock out. I couldn't start it without a code from Smart Start. On 31 Oct 11, I received no return call from Smart Start. I called Smart Start to get a code to unlock the car and so I can download the violation and recalibrate the system. In between getting the code and starting my car, I had to have my car jump started twice. Not to mention, on the way to download, my car shut off and I pulled off to the side of the off ramp. At first, I couldn't start the car, then it started. At the place, where the service is provided, I was instructed during my download to call Steve from Smart Start.

In talking with Steve, he told me that my violation started on Saturday night, not Sunday afternoon. Also, the viol/Lock started to count down 24 hours and not just six hours. In addition, I did not provide a 9-11PM blow. I didn't provide a clean sample until 7:18AM of Sunday morning. It also showed that the system was disconnected and reconnected at 7:17AM. I have never disconnected the system unless directed by Smart Start. When I called Smart Start to get a code, Kelly instructed me to disconnect the head. I had to ask her what that even was. Of course, Smart System was operating at maximum status and all the issues were due to my car.

Let me also add that I replaced my battery ($150.00) about a week or plus ago. I also reported this craziness to my attorney and PO. Moving on, on 1 Nov 11, around 1-1:30PM, I was headed to a doctor's appointment. I provided a blow to start the car and it said "fail." I waited for 15 minutes per directions and provided another blow. Again, it said, "fail." I waited for another 15 minutes. This time, I got into another car and drove to the police station (about 10 minutes from our home). I paid for PBT--results 0.00. I drove back home and provided another blow into my car--"fail" again. I drove back to the police station and paid again for PBT (results 0.00). I drove home again to provide yet another blow into my car and finally passed.

Today, 3 Nov 11, I have my court hearing for the 9 Oct 11 violation. This is what happens. PO recommends three days jail if I plead guilty. Or a hearing in front of a judge with the expert witness, Steve, from Smart Start testifying about results. We are told that he is going to testify that the blow results are consistent with the intake of alcohol. Also, that they have never had a false positive on any of their equipment. If I go this route, I take whatever the judge sends down.

My attorney asks for more time to obtain an expert witness from another company to testify on our behalf. We are also asking the police officers to come and testify on my behalf. I have almost three full pages, for one month, I paid twice a day for PBT's just in case I blew numbers on their system. I also have a letter from the chief of police stating that he witnessed the warn on my system immediately after providing a PBT directly in front of him. None is good enough.

The court will not even address the violations that occurred after the 9 Oct 11 violation. In short, I will have to serve three days of jail time before I even get the rest of the violations that have sufficient information for my case. I am begging any and everyone to help me. If you know of anyone or have this problem or have had this problem, please contact me. I need this before 10 Nov 11. We must stop this insanity that Smart Start is allowed to cause upon us. Also, if anyone knows of another system that I could try, to show that Smart Start's system is not infallible as they preach, call me.

I have been getting violations ever since I had Smart Start installed into my car. This is the latest. On 9 Oct 11, at 21:58, I got into my car to do my mandatory 9-11PM PBT/blow. I did as always and the reading was warn. I waited for two minutes and repeated the test. Again, the reading was warn. I immediately shut the car off and went into the house to wake my husband and daughter so I could go down to the police station and provide a PBT to show that I am not drinking and that something is wrong with the system.

Before we left, my husband suggested that I do another blow. I did and it passed me. I still went to police station and paid for a PBT which showed results of 0.00. When I got the actual paperwork that showed times of blows, this is what it showed: initial blow at 9:58PM Bac 0.014, after two minutes, the second blow showed 0.012, then, a third blow before 10:30PM showed Bac 0.007. The time at the police station was 10:51.

On 26 Oct 11, I was on my way to court for a review hearing. The first blow passed and I started my car. I stopped at a local gas station and bought coffee. I returned to my car and the blow passed. Then, I put my car into drive and the system immediately requested me to provide another blow, which I passed again. About 0.5 miles down the road, the system again requested me to provide another blow; this time, it said "warn." I pulled off the side of the road and waited for two minutes. I provided another blow and I passed.

As soon as I arrived at the court house (about 15 minutes after the warn), I requested a PBT in the probation office and showed a result of 0.00. I reported this incident to my probation officer who said nothing regarding the incident, but instead handed me the 9 Oct 11 violation paperwork. I was in the court house for about two hours. I never went to the bathroom nor left the sight of my attorney or my friend who came with me. I pleaded not guilty and proceeded to leave the court house with my attorney and friend. I got into my car and provided my sample and it showed "warn." I immediately showed my friend, who was parked right next to me, what it read. Then, we waited for two minutes before repeating the test and it passed me.

I drove to the police station and paid for another PBT, which showed bac 0.00. On 29 Oct 11, a normal day, I should tell you that my mandatory blow times are between 7-9AM, 5-7PM and 9-11PM. No issues this day that I was aware of. On 30 Oct 11, I provide a blow and I passed. We (my sister, my daughter and I) drove to an AA meeting. (I am going to attend the noon meeting; I am required to attend 3/week). My sister is going to watch my daughter while I am attending the meeting. Around 12:20 to 12:30 I was called out of the meeting because "some girl" wants to talk to me. It was my sister. I asked her what's up and she told me that the system was beeping in my car. I asked her if she turned the car on or did anything to the system and she said no.

I then went out to my car and the system was reading vio/Lock six hours. I immediately turned the car on and provided a blow. I passed, but it continued to read the same as above. By now, people have gathered around my car to see what the problem was. I showed three different people the reading. At the advise of one of the members, I stayed and finished out the meeting. I called and reported the violation to my attorney, Smart Start and my PO. I left the meeting and went straight to police station. I paid for another PBT (results 0.00) and explained the situation to the officer.

Six hours later, my car is in lock out. I couldn't start it without a code from Smart Start. On 31 Oct 11, I received no return call from Smart Start. I called Smart Start to get a code to unlock the car and so I can download the violation and recalibrate the system. In between getting the code and starting my car, I had to have my car jump started twice. Not to mention, on the way to download, my car shut off and I pulled off to the side of the off ramp. At first, I couldn't start the car, then it started. At the place, where the service is provided, I was instructed during my download to call Steve from Smart Start.

In talking with Steve, he told me that my violation started on Saturday night, not Sunday afternoon. Also, the viol/Lock started to count down 24 hours and not just six hours. In addition, I did not provide a 9-11PM blow. I didn't provide a clean sample until 7:18AM of Sunday morning. It also showed that the system was disconnected and reconnected at 7:17AM. I have never disconnected the system unless directed by Smart Start. When I called Smart Start to get a code, Kelly instructed me to disconnect the head. I had to ask her what that even was. Of course, Smart System was operating at maximum status and all the issues were due to my car.

Let me also add that I replaced my battery ($150.00) about a week or plus ago. I also reported this craziness to my attorney and PO. Moving on, on 1 Nov 11, around 1-1:30PM, I was headed to a doctor's appointment. I provided a blow to start the car and it said "fail." I waited for 15 minutes per directions and provided another blow. Again, it said, "fail." I waited for another 15 minutes. This time, I got into another car and drove to the police station (about 10 minutes from our home). I paid for PBT--results 0.00. I drove back home and provided another blow into my car--"fail" again. I drove back to the police station and paid again for PBT (results 0.00). I drove home again to provide yet another blow into my car and finally passed.

Today, 3 Nov 11, I have my court hearing for the 9 Oct 11 violation. This is what happens. PO recommends three days jail if I plead guilty. Or a hearing in front of a judge with the expert witness, Steve, from Smart Start testifying about results. We are told that he is going to testify that the blow results are consistent with the intake of alcohol. Also, that they have never had a false positive on any of their equipment. If I go this route, I take whatever the judge sends down.

My attorney asks for more time to obtain an expert witness from another company to testify on our behalf. We are also asking the police officers to come and testify on my behalf. I have almost three full pages, for one month, I paid twice a day for PBT's just in case I blew numbers on their system. I also have a letter from the chief of police stating that he witnessed the warn on my system immediately after providing a PBT directly in front of him. None is good enough.

The court will not even address the violations that occurred after the 9 Oct 11 violation. In short, I will have to serve three days of jail time before I even get the rest of the violations that have sufficient information for my case. I am begging any and everyone to help me. If you know of anyone or have this problem or have had this problem, please contact me. I need this before 10 Nov 11. We must stop this insanity that Smart Start is allowed to cause upon us. Also, if anyone knows of another system that I could try, to show that Smart Start's system is not infallible as they preach, call me.

I have been getting violations ever since I had Smart Start installed into my car. This is the latest. On 9 Oct 11, at 21:58, I got into my car to do my mandatory 9-11PM PBT/blow. I did as always and the reading was warn. I waited for two minutes and repeated the test. Again, the reading was warn. I immediately shut the car off and went into the house to wake my husband and daughter so I could go down to the police station and provide a PBT to show that I am not drinking and that something is wrong with the system.

Before we left, my husband suggested that I do another blow. I did and it passed me. I still went to police station and paid for a PBT which showed results of 0.00. When I got the actual paperwork that showed times of blows, this is what it showed: initial blow at 9:58PM Bac 0.014, after two minutes, the second blow showed 0.012, then, a third blow before 10:30PM showed Bac 0.007. The time at the police station was 10:51.

On 26 Oct 11, I was on my way to court for a review hearing. The first blow passed and I started my car. I stopped at a local gas station and bought coffee. I returned to my car and the blow passed. Then, I put my car into drive and the system immediately requested me to provide another blow, which I passed again. About 0.5 miles down the road, the system again requested me to provide another blow; this time, it said "warn." I pulled off the side of the road and waited for two minutes. I provided another blow and I passed.

As soon as I arrived at the court house (about 15 minutes after the warn), I requested a PBT in the probation office and showed a result of 0.00. I reported this incident to my probation officer who said nothing regarding the incident, but instead handed me the 9 Oct 11 violation paperwork. I was in the court house for about two hours. I never went to the bathroom nor left the sight of my attorney or my friend who came with me. I pleaded not guilty and proceeded to leave the court house with my attorney and friend. I got into my car and provided my sample and it showed "warn." I immediately showed my friend, who was parked right next to me, what it read. Then, we waited for two minutes before repeating the test and it passed me.

I drove to the police station and paid for another PBT, which showed bac 0.00. On 29 Oct 11, a normal day, I should tell you that my mandatory blow times are between 7-9AM, 5-7PM and 9-11PM. No issues this day that I was aware of. On 30 Oct 11, I provide a blow and I passed. We (my sister, my daughter and I) drove to an AA meeting. (I am going to attend the noon meeting; I am required to attend 3/week). My sister is going to watch my daughter while I am attending the meeting. Around 12:20 to 12:30 I was called out of the meeting because "some girl" wants to talk to me. It was my sister. I asked her what's up and she told me that the system was beeping in my car. I asked her if she turned the car on or did anything to the system and she said no.

I then went out to my car and the system was reading vio/Lock six hours. I immediately turned the car on and provided a blow. I passed, but it continued to read the same as above. By now, people have gathered around my car to see what the problem was. I showed three different people the reading. At the advise of one of the members, I stayed and finished out the meeting. I called and reported the violation to my attorney, Smart Start and my PO. I left the meeting and went straight to police station. I paid for another PBT (results 0.00) and explained the situation to the officer.

Six hours later, my car is in lock out. I couldn't start it without a code from Smart Start. On 31 Oct 11, I received no return call from Smart Start. I called Smart Start to get a code to unlock the car and so I can download the violation and recalibrate the system. In between getting the code and starting my car, I had to have my car jump started twice. Not to mention, on the way to download, my car shut off and I pulled off to the side of the off ramp. At first, I couldn't start the car, then it started. At the place, where the service is provided, I was instructed during my download to call Steve from Smart Start.

In talking with Steve, he told me that my violation started on Saturday night, not Sunday afternoon. Also, the viol/Lock started to count down 24 hours and not just six hours. In addition, I did not provide a 9-11PM blow. I didn't provide a clean sample until 7:18AM of Sunday morning. It also showed that the system was disconnected and reconnected at 7:17AM. I have never disconnected the system unless directed by Smart Start. When I called Smart Start to get a code, Kelly instructed me to disconnect the head. I had to ask her what that even was. Of course, Smart System was operating at maximum status and all the issues were due to my car.

Let me also add that I replaced my battery ($150.00) about a week or plus ago. I also reported this craziness to my attorney and PO. Moving on, on 1 Nov 11, around 1-1:30PM, I was headed to a doctor's appointment. I provided a blow to start the car and it said "fail." I waited for 15 minutes per directions and provided another blow. Again, it said, "fail." I waited for another 15 minutes. This time, I got into another car and drove to the police station (about 10 minutes from our home). I paid for PBT--results 0.00. I drove back home and provided another blow into my car--"fail" again. I drove back to the police station and paid again for PBT (results 0.00). I drove home again to provide yet another blow into my car and finally passed.

Today, 3 Nov 11, I have my court hearing for the 9 Oct 11 violation. This is what happens. PO recommends three days jail if I plead guilty. Or a hearing in front of a judge with the expert witness, Steve, from Smart Start testifying about results. We are told that he is going to testify that the blow results are consistent with the intake of alcohol. Also, that they have never had a false positive on any of their equipment. If I go this route, I take whatever the judge sends down.

My attorney asks for more time to obtain an expert witness from another company to testify on our behalf. We are also asking the police officers to come and testify on my behalf. I have almost three full pages, for one month, I paid twice a day for PBT's just in case I blew numbers on their system. I also have a letter from the chief of police stating that he witnessed the warn on my system immediately after providing a PBT directly in front of him. None is good enough.

The court will not even address the violations that occurred after the 9 Oct 11 violation. In short, I will have to serve three days of jail time before I even get the rest of the violations that have sufficient information for my case. I am begging any and everyone to help me. If you know of anyone or have this problem or have had this problem, please contact me. I need this before 10 Nov 11. We must stop this insanity that Smart Start is allowed to cause upon us. Also, if anyone knows of another system that I could try, to show that Smart Start's system is not infallible, but as any machine, can be faulty, call me.

I have been getting violations ever since I had Smart Start installed into my car. This is the latest. On 9 Oct 11, at 21:58, I got into my car to do my mandatory 9-11PM PBT/blow. I did as always and the reading was warn. I waited for two minutes and repeated the test. Again, the reading was warn. I immediately shut the car off and went into the house to wake my husband and daughter so I could go down to the police station and provide a PBT to show that I am not drinking and that something is wrong with the system.

Before we left, my husband suggested that I do another blow. I did and it passed me. I still went to police station and paid for a PBT which showed results of 0.00. When I got the actual paperwork that showed times of blows, this is what it showed: initial blow at 9:58PM Bac 0.014, after two minutes, the second blow showed 0.012, then, a third blow before 10:30PM showed Bac 0.007. The time at the police station was 10:51.

On 26 Oct 11, I was on my way to court for a review hearing. The first blow passed and I started my car. I stopped at a local gas station and bought coffee. I returned to my car and the blow passed. Then, I put my car into drive and the system immediately requested me to provide another blow, which I passed again. About 0.5 miles down the road, the system again requested me to provide another blow; this time, it said "warn." I pulled off the side of the road and waited for two minutes. I provided another blow and I passed.

As soon as I arrived at the court house (about 15 minutes after the warn), I requested a PBT in the probation office and showed a result of 0.00. I reported this incident to my probation officer who said nothing regarding the incident, but instead handed me the 9 Oct 11 violation paperwork. I was in the court house for about two hours. I never went to the bathroom nor left the sight of my attorney or my friend who came with me. I pleaded not guilty and proceeded to leave the court house with my attorney and friend. I got into my car and provided my sample and it showed "warn." I immediately showed my friend, who was parked right next to me, what it read. Then, we waited for two minutes before repeating the test and it passed me.

I drove to the police station and paid for another PBT, which showed bac 0.00. On 29 Oct 11, a normal day, I should tell you that my mandatory blow times are between 7-9AM, 5-7PM and 9-11PM. No issues this day that I was aware of. On 30 Oct 11, I provide a blow and I passed. We (my sister, my daughter and I) drove to an AA meeting. (I am going to attend the noon meeting; I am required to attend 3/week). My sister is going to watch my daughter while I am attending the meeting. Around 12:20 to 12:30 I was called out of the meeting because "some girl" wants to talk to me. It was my sister. I asked her what's up and she told me that the system was beeping in my car. I asked her if she turned the car on or did anything to the system and she said no.

I then went out to my car and the system was reading vio/Lock six hours. I immediately turned the car on and provided a blow. I passed, but it continued to read the same as above. By now, people have gathered around my car to see what the problem was. I showed three different people the reading. At the advise of one of the members, I stayed and finished out the meeting. I called and reported the violation to my attorney, Smart Start and my PO. I left the meeting and went straight to police station. I paid for another PBT (results 0.00) and explained the situation to the officer.

Six hours later, my car is in lock out. I couldn't start it without a code from Smart Start. On 31 Oct 11, I received no return call from Smart Start. I called Smart Start to get a code to unlock the car and so I can download the violation and recalibrate the system. In between getting the code and starting my car, I had to have my car jump started twice. Not to mention, on the way to download, my car shut off and I pulled off to the side of the off ramp. At first, I couldn't start the car, then it started. At the place, where the service is provided, I was instructed during my download to call Steve from Smart Start.

In talking with Steve, he told me that my violation started on Saturday night, not Sunday afternoon. Also, the viol/Lock started to count down 24 hours and not just six hours. In addition, I did not provide a 9-11PM blow. I didn't provide a clean sample until 7:18AM of Sunday morning. It also showed that the system was disconnected and reconnected at 7:17AM. I have never disconnected the system unless directed by Smart Start. When I called Smart Start to get a code, Kelly instructed me to disconnect the head. I had to ask her what that even was. Of course, Smart System was operating at maximum status and all the issues were due to my car.

Let me also add that I replaced my battery ($150.00) about a week or plus ago. I also reported this craziness to my attorney and PO. Moving on, on 1 Nov 11, around 1-1:30PM, I was headed to a doctor's appointment. I provided a blow to start the car and it said "fail." I waited for 15 minutes per directions and provided another blow. Again, it said, "fail." I waited for another 15 minutes. This time, I got into another car and drove to the police station (about 10 minutes from our home). I paid for PBT--results 0.00. I drove back home and provided another blow into my car--"fail" again. I drove back to the police station and paid again for PBT (results 0.00). I drove home again to provide yet another blow into my car and finally passed.

Today, 3 Nov 11, I have my court hearing for the 9 Oct 11 violation. This is what happens. PO recommends three days jail if I plead guilty. Or a hearing in front of a judge with the expert witness, Steve, from Smart Start testifying about results. We are told that he is going to testify that the blow results are consistent with the intake of alcohol. Also, that they have never had a false positive on any of their equipment. If I go this route, I take whatever the judge sends down.

My attorney asks for more time to obtain an expert witness from another company to testify on our behalf. We are also asking the police officers to come and testify on my behalf. I have almost three full pages, for one month, I paid twice a day for PBT's just in case I blew numbers on their system. I also have a letter from the chief of police stating that he witnessed the warn on my system immediately after providing a PBT directly in front of him. None is good enough.

The court will not even address the violations that occurred after the 9 Oct 11 violation. In short, I will have to serve three days of jail time before I even get the rest of the violations that have sufficient information for my case. I am begging any and everyone to help me. If you know of anyone or have this problem or have had this problem, please contact me. I need this before 10 Nov 11. We must stop this insanity that Smart Start is allowed to cause upon us. Also, if anyone knows of another system that I could try, to show that Smart Start's system is not infallible, but as any machine, can be faulty, call me.

I'm on my second month of installation. The device in my vehicle has already taken my restricted license away, and with no alcohol violations. The machine is so inconsistent, it can't decide if I hum improperly or not. Also, it displays "abort tamper", the "technicians", who carry no certifications, tell me tamper means there is condensation. Guess what I live in Michigan, we always have condensation, because of this issue I kept the machine in my home today before going outside to cut firewood. After roughly 30 attempts to start my vehicle, it finally started. It was unable to decide if I was humming improperly or if I were tampering with it, a more accurate description off the display would be either junk or garbage. Without changing how I was blowing, all of a sudden, I passed, and since I have had no alcohol in roughly two years! Guess I'll just have to hope it reads 0.000. I had one failure where the report shows 24 attempts at trying to pass a rolling test, that 24 attempts in 6 minutes, and just like the roughly 30 attempts of today I became light headed.

I wonder what type liability insurance Smart Start might have. When accidents are caused from frantic users trying their best to use this POS, if any law makers are reading this information please contact me at **. I would climb aboard any class action suit to put these frauds down. I can also provide plenty of insight on how the $20 installation "technicians" are cutting up $50,000 vehicles. My installation included the free service of wrapping the cord around my brake pedal, and I thought Larry, MO and Curly were no longer with us. I miss my calling of inventing a product that works sometimes and when it fails I get to charge more when customers are required to keep it installed longer.

When I called our DMV in Michigan and finally spoke to someone, I had to request a hearing to decide whether or not I can get my work/restricted license back. The person I spoke to told me the state is getting over one thousand reported violations monthly, and most are not alcohol related. Good job Smart Start, lean on taxpayers to pay for the garbage you put on the field. The only thing more hypocritical will be when I discover it was invented by a corrupt law maker. I was wondering are there any youtubes out there showing how this POS works or better yet doesn't. Maybe, it's time to start shooting some video and taking to our Attorney Generals to show what a piece of junk this things really is. As morbid as it might seem, I would like to see a video of an intoxicated person blow through one these things, let me guess "abort hum". On that thought I have something that the makers of this POS can "abort hum" on, pass.

So, I am having my Smart Start SSI 20-20 removed very soon (after 3 years!). And I would like to take this opportunity to tell everyone that there is no reason you should ever register a fail, regardless if you are blowing in it after drinking or if you have a faulty unit. I had several faulty units myself. The simple fact is that if your unit reads "fail" or "violation", unplug it immediately. This is especially helpful if you are hungover in the morning or have consumed a couple drinks and are not sure if you are below the .003 threshold (or whatever it is). Just press #3 on the unit and it will review your remaining violations. Trust me, it won't record the violation. Also, feel free to unplug the head unit after your car is started. It won't record that either. Cheers to everyone who is dealing with this scamming, fraudulent, and downright lying company.

I have had this machine in my vehicle since last December. I had it put in a 2005 G6 in perfect condition. The remote starter worked when I was in to have the machine put in. The interlock drained the battery, trying to start it. I had to replace the battery. It blew a main fuse. Smart Start replaced the head unit after long arguing over it. Things were good for a little while and then acted up again. I then changed the head again after arguing with them, telling me it was me and then they agreed it was the unit.

I transferred it to a different vehicle when they took it out of the Pontiac and the remote starter wouldn't work. They refused to fix that. I have had this head unit replaced twice, and now, it has gotten worse than ever. It interrupts the blow sometimes. It aborts the hum early continuously. It's not initializing properly. It doesn't let me see my appointment dates and violations. When I plug it in, it lights up and there's no initializing. It takes up to 2 minutes, then goes to the wait ##### and sometimes, the wait ##### goes on twice then blows.

On occasions, I hear a crackling like my radio is on and it isn't. So, the result this time was that I called Smart Start because the shop that recalibrates it said it could be the logger box, which Smart Start said there's nothing wrong with, but it's me. I went back and forth with them and then I called back the next day and they agreed for me to take it to the shop to have it checked. They said they have them call Smart Start. When I got there and when I was going in, I said that within the hour, I got to the shop wherein he immediately put it on the recalibration machine (usually he has me call them and have them talk to him to tell him it's ok to do it).

I believe they called him prior to my arrival and then they said, "Nope, nothing's wrong." I had to have him train me again to do the technique. He showed me once and had me do it once and told me, "All set. Try to see how it works, and if it doesn't, come back." Keep in mind, I have already been doing this regularly for almost 1 year. So, I went on my way and drove it for the rest of the day and not one problem. It makes you go, "Hm huh."

I feel this truly needs to be looked into. I am doing everything and then some to do everything by the book and am in no way trying to get out of my obligations, however, they are making it very difficult. I am getting violations and missing tests that are not true. There is more, just too much to go into. I think you can get the picture. It goes along with a lot of these others. I thought it was just me but the more people I talk to and stories I see online, the more I know not the I'm not the only one. I am all for doing something to stop people from drinking and driving but someone needs to look into this and work out the quirks before they make this mandatory.

Smart Start Inc. deals with ignition interlock devices for repeat DUI offenders. My last conviction was in 2002. I was required to have this device installed after I got my license back just last month. I chose Great Scot! Car Stereo because this vendor for Smart Star Inc. is close to home. At any rate, the SSI 20/20 device has been a nightmare. Smart Start's website claims "easy to use ignition interlock devices" and "dependable when you need it most". These are blatant lies. The service tech (Tom) and another tech told me it takes 2-3 months to learn how to use it properly. While trying to start your vehicle, you first need to blow for 2-3 seconds, and follow it by "humming" for 7 seconds. If you don't hum properly, your car will not start.

We know we've all screwed up to get the punishment of dealing with this expensive faulty device. I'm taking my lumps. But I can't help but be aware of the scam going on here. These devices do not work for the purpose they're used. For any die hard drunk in denial who wanted to drink and drive, it's not hard to have someone else blow in it.

The problem I've had with it is that, since having it installed in February 2011, it randomly goes into the 2-minute restart mode. I called the techs and was told it may be my battery. My mechanic says nothing is wrong with my battery. So, I've been unplugging the thing. Whenever it goes into restart as I'm driving, I unplug it.

I've told them I do this and have not been violated. Today, I went out to start my car and the device was stuck on "wait####". I was instructed by two different techs to turn it off, turn it on, unplug it, blah, and blah, blah. They even had me unhook the negative wire to my battery. Nope. Stranded.

So then they gave me the number to headquarters in Massachusetts. The gentleman was very nice and decided I needed the car towed to a service garage. I made it very clear that I was not paying a penny for this. So they're sending over a tow truck. The device is a piece of poo.

But be nice to the people who you have to deal with, because they're not the ones mandating stupid laws, drinking and driving or building cheap **. If we weren't drunken retards, the government wouldn't have to step in and make life harder for us.

P.S. The owner of the shop where I have mine calibrated every month has quickly become one of my favorite people. There are blessings in disguise.

I got home last night and shut my car off -- making sure that 2 minutes restart came up. It did like always then took the handset and disconnected it, like I always do before bringing it for the night. Then, I realized that my back window was down. So, I reconnected it and started the car. It shouldn't have started, but it did. My problem is I need the car to pick up my kids and for approximately 12 minutes I had "abort hum". So, my mom picked them up. After I unplugged the handset, why did it let me start my car it in which shouldn't have. And now, why I cant start my car. It's all about the money and wrecking people's lives, which gives the lawyers and courts more money and the economy is getting better, maybe for them.

I take the test hundreds of times a month. About one to two months ago, I got a word from my probation officer (DUI). In my last visit, he said if I get another sign of alcohol, I'll do jail time. I got violations at the start, but the next rolling test they did just about 5 minutes later said "pass". When I talked to smart start customer service, they said they don't know why that happens. Great! I can do jail time over their wrong reading.

As of May 2011, I was court ordered to have the In-Home Smart Start machine. I have had nothing but problems with this faulty equipment. First off, they don't inform you that certain foods set the machine off to give false positives! Also, I have had the same problems as other people; I blow into the machine and I get "VIOL" and then 5 minutes later, I blow and get "PASS"! This happened on two occasions already and now I am having to go back in front of my judge to explain why I got the VOILs.

I called the Smart Start company and of course, I got the same ** people I have to deal with all the time there. I'm wrong and she's right, I must have been drinking, then sobered up in 5 minutes, must be magic! So I decided to talk to a tech the second time it happened and he finally told me that certain foods such as ice cream, bread, other products and even medical problems can set these machines off. Their customer service is NO service whatsoever! This machine is costing me 150.00 dollars a month and I'm supposed to have it for a year. Total cost of 1800.00. I also have to take it everywhere I go because I have to blow into it three times a day at certain times.

So if you plan on dating or even going on a date, plan on taking this machine with you and good luck on the call back (or even have to explain having to take this faulty machine with you everywhere!). I am always getting a message that says "Tampering" or "Camera error", "Abort Early", "Abort Neg" or other messages. I have also had it say "Missed Test" before and that was also a violation. Also, this machine has to be plugged in to make sure your power doesn't go out like I have had three times this summer due to the extreme heat we have had in Michigan this summer. If you cannot plug it in, then you cannot use the machine. Three more violations to add to!

The judge is going to love this! I called Smart Start and they of course have nothing to say but call your probation officer, which I must say was very understanding but my judge is NOT at all! I have a feeling I am going to be in violation tomorrow and have to serve 84 days in jail and of course, there goes a semester of classes that I have already payed for and signed up for! Of course, the dorm room was already payed for as well so I don't know if I would get the money back for that. But I'm sure that Smart Start won't pay for it! This machine is junk!

If anyone wants to start a lawsuit, please let me know ASAP. Please other people, post about the In-Home Device if you have it. I would love to hear that I'm not the only one with this problem.

I have been reading all the complaints regarding the Smart Start device and every complaint sounds just like what my husband is going through with this equipment.

In fact, just last night, the device read a "violation" and he couldn't start his truck. After calling the 800 number, he was told to try again. Finally he was able to get the truck started but went directly to our local police station to take a voluntary breathalyzer test to prove to Start Smart and the Registry of Motor Vehicles that he wasn't drinking. Of course he got all zeros on the test.

When he went to have the device re-calibrated, the employee of Smart Start said that if my husband weren't drinking (my husband mentioned he went to the police department), it must have been something from the air!

Are you kidding me? These people are nuts! This company is running a scam! Just last June, with all the so-called missed rolling tests and lockouts due to faulty equipment, we paid over $650 to Smart Start for recalibration costs. How can the Registry of Motor Vehicles insist that Smart Start be used and the consumer is getting ripped off? I think it's time to bring this to the Attorney General's office. This has got to stop!

I have to admit, I used to be pro-ignition interlock for repeat DUIs. The main reason was because of certain family members with Multiple DUIs. It wasn't until a very close friend of mine had to get it. Ever since the dang thing was installed, we'd been stranded 5 times.

The hand-held device has been replaced 5 times in 3 months, the under-dash unit, twice, yet none of them work. He keeps getting the ABRT command, and has to keep blowing. Even the company who paid to install the units thinks, the units are junk. I went to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and saw that no one else had. Why haven't there been a ton of complaints there? The consequences: anxiety and the cost of these units.

I had an interlock device for four days. It started counting down. It said I had 72 hours till it locked me out. I didn't fail a test, it just started counting down. I had to take off work the next day to take it back to dealer. He said I would have to pay extra money for failing a test. I told him I didn't fail a test. He finally agreed that I didn't. He had to re-calibrate it. I asked why it did that. He said he had no idea. I am almost afraid to get out in my car. It works alright sometimes, other times it will not work at all. It will tell me to abort hum. I do it the same way every time so I don't understand why it will start right up then it won't.

I was ordered to have the Smart Start device installed on my car for a year. The first six months were okay, but right after I had it recalibrated, I plugged it back into my car and I blew into it and it gave me a violation. I took it back into the service center, and they put it on their machine; it failed for them. I was so worried at that point, that I went to a police station to get a breathalyzer test done. I asked a deputy if he could administer one; he said it would be $6.50. I did not have any money on me, and they would not take credit card. By the time I would have got some money and paid for breathalyzer test, an hour went by. The deputy advised me that if I've been blowing in the device and I'm passing, it should not count against me.

I go up for review in July. I hope this doesn't count against me because the machine is faulty.

Ever since I have had device installed it has never worked properly. When I called to inform them of the problem, I am talked to like I am not taking care of device properly even though I do everything suggested by Smart Start. I'm now in 4th month with device. I am on 3rd device "head" and 3 out of 4 months I have received violation letters from MVD (DMV) saying my one year has started over, even though any miss or problem I have had is because of this device, no food or drink while using it. And I take it inside after every use. My vehicle is currently sitting in driveway unable to start for the last 3 days due to a faulty device. I have a left messages with corporate and have heard nothing.

Their advice when you call service tech is to bang the device on something hard. Sounds like a quality piece of equipment there! Then they act like the customer has done something wrong when they call to say it's not working. When I called service center where I had device installed, they said to bring it in. That is over an hour drive from here and I have already done that twice to have other bad devices changed! I am fed up with this company. One evening while driving a good distance, I was probably on my 5th or 6th rolling retest on my way to LA area, when device instead of saying "wait" after my test it just started counting down. I called Smart Start right away and being late at night the employee told me no one could help me or even answer my question until morning! 24/7 customer service is advertised on their website and holding messages when you call.

Needless to say the device counted down all the way to a "lockout" that night. Next day I went to the service place. No one at Smart Start answered so technician told me to pay $50 lockout and have credited back. I did and when Smart Start called me instead of apologizing for huge inconvenience and immeasurable amount of stress and anxiety, employee accused me of drinking while driving! She said she couldn't credit $ for lockout because there were violations! I was shocked considering just moments before this device started acting up I gave a passing breath then just moments after "fail" it passed? Incredible! Upon further investigation the "violations" had a BAC of .000(zero alcohol), I get another call from same employee and still no apology now for inconvenience and stress but for calling me a liar! Unbelievable! They ended up crediting $50 back but it was a huge deal. And now this is less than 3 weeks later and they expect me to "find a ride" to have this thing exchanged? I have done enough. It's time for them to except some of the responsibility for this horrible device!

I want to know where all of the complaints since April of this year have gone, including mine? I wrote nearly 1000 words about this horrible thing. Now my compliant is about your website. Where are the probably hundreds of complaints about Smart Start that aren't here. If there isn't a class action suit against the crooked people who run Smart Start, when would there ever be a better one.

Okay, no one feels sorry for drunk drivers, that is a given. And Smart Start apparently relies on this to keep going on with their 25-year old devices and their total dismissal of any complaints.

Smart Start has a home unit. This unit does not accurately record your BAC. I just received a letter from probation that says that I have violated for not testing. I have tested on each of the dates in question. This machine and company are not to be trusted.

I have nothing but trouble with the device. All the horror stories on the consumer complaint sound just like mine. I have been treated like a criminal, talked down to and disrespected. It has cost me more than money, My DUI was almost 10 years ago right after my mother died, and I've been totally sober since. They finally got caught up on computers. I've tried to comply with it all but I keep getting violations and having extensions put on this machine, and all I get from anyone from the company is passing the buck! I've had the machine replaced a couple of times in the years I've had it. I've been stranded and had the wiring burn up.

Enough, is enough. I'm not taking it anymore. Anyone interested in starting a class action suit, please contact me. I've got facts and all my paperwork. I also have to drive 75 miles, one way, to the installer for any kind of service.

We had a disagreement over the amount of the line of credit payment. Ms. Hisel turned the line of credit account plus the mortgage loan over to their attorney. We paid off the line of credit but they closed our mortgage account. We have never been late or missed a payment over the span of five years. We have refinanced with another bank but I feel this was not right. We had to pay attorney fees plus $500 for an appraisal that we were unable to get a copy of. We paid for another appraisal for the new loan. If this action is taken against everyone, they have made a lot of extra money with their power. Thank you.

I had the device installed in May 2009. I have not had any alcohol since September 2008. There have been six separate incidences with the hand held device where it failed me falsely because of food, coffee, etc. and never any alcohol involved. Each time, I contacted Smart Start in Boston, MA and they said I had to pay $50 each time (total of $300). This is on top of my monthly calibration fee. The company refused to reimburse me even though the six incidences were all passed within two to three minutes after failing.

If these were serious incidences of fault, after each monthly reading, I should have had to report to the RMV in MA for a discussion regarding these six failures which has never occurred. I feel this is a money making scheme to make people pay extra money to put into their pockets with no questions answered except: You failed, you pay. They will not even show the monthly print-out from the device, which in my case would show that each of the six times the device failed me, I passed immediately within a few minutes after failing.

Apparently, after researching this online, many people have had this same experience. It makes me furious that these companies continue to take advantage of an already bad situation. This should be looked into because many people like me are being taken advantage of.

On June 3, 2009, as a condition of probation, the court ordered me to have a Smart Interlock Device installed on my Toyota pickup truck. I never had any problems until Nov. 28th. I would pass a test and then fail 5 minutes later, and then pass, and then fail again. I had the unit's head replaced and there were no further issues. On April 8th, 2010, I had left my ignition on to listen to the radio while working in a field. I did not know the interlock would continue to request a retest even when the car was not running. Smart reported to the courts that I had refused the retest which is a violation of my conditions of parole and I was arrested and spent 4 days in jail and $1000 on a lawyer who was able to convince the court of my innocent mistake.

Later that month (I don't know the exact date but it will be part of Smart's records), I had a dead battery and jump started the truck and later replaced the battery with a new one. Things got funny. One day I blew clean at 6am, started the truck and then failed 5 retests in a row, finally passing and then it worked fine for the rest of the day. Again, I had the head replaced.

About a month ago, I left my lights on and once again had a dead battery but could not get it to jump start from another car. I called the Smart technician and was advised to always remove the head when working on the electrical system. It's good advise, it should have been part the original instructions. For the next few weeks, the display would turn off and now, misspell words. Sometimes I could shake to keep it working. Sometimes it just wouldn't light back up. All service stations were on back order for new heads, all I could do was get it re-calibrated.

On Sept. 20th, 2010 at 4pm, I blew a clean start. The unit went off while I was driving. When I got it back on, I failed 5 retests in a row. This would mean that as soon as I got behind the wheel, I began drinking heavily. I have problems, but stupidity is not one of them. I called the Smart help line and was advised to get the unit serviced.

Unfortunately, by that time the shop was closed. I was able to get the head replaced the following day but the report generated said that I had failed repeated rolling retests and that at some point, I had also bypassed the interlock to start the truck, push started it I guess, which I never did. I called Smart's California office and they are inclined to believe their data rather then me. In all likelihood within the next few days, a report will be released to the courts and a warrant for my arrest will be issued . I believe I damaged the head when jump starting the truck. Help!

My interlock device is called a 20-20 unit. It has malfunctioned repeatedly. I was stranded and had to have my car towed, due to at least 50 "Abort Early" failures to proceed. I had to use one of my 3 AAA towings, I had to spend the night in a motel.

Smart Start acknowledged that it was an equipment malfunction. Smart Start directed me to go from Grass Valley to Auburn for a new unit. The Auburn Service Center had a software malfunction. They told me to come back in the morning. (More than 90 miles from my home) Ultimately the Auburn location was not able to install a new "head unit" so Smart Start directed me to take the unit and return to the Grass Valley Service Center to get the new unit installed. The Grass Valley Service Center, TUNZ 4 U, kept me waiting 5 hours before they installed the new unit that I had brought from the Auburn Service Center, despite being advised by Smart Start that I was coming in to have the job done.

This all occurred beginning on 7/27/10 and ending on 7/28/10. After the "new" 20-20 unit was finally installed in Grass Valley, it worked just fine until last Monday, 8/9/10 when I drove my Grandson and his girlfriend into the local store, and the unit completely malfunctioned again. Just like had happened on July 27, the unit would not work. All I got was "abort early", over and over and ober. I watched the 6 minute clock tick down, blowing my lungs out, and the unit would not accept anything. And I got "Missed Test" 4 times. My Grandsons girl friend somehow got it to work, and we drove home and I called Smart Start, spoke with Sara,and told her what happened and said...I am done with this company.

I had a regular service appt on Thursday (tomorrow) But Sara told me to disconnect the head piece and take it in the house with me. Well guess what? Once I took the head piece back out and connected it, now the system is working perfectly every time. If the company knows that removing the head piece would make it work better, why did they not tell me that 2 months ago? Finally, I have to say do not use smart start if you need an ID. I am going to sue them to get out of my contract and I am going to try another company.

These are just a few: My device had failed a few times but it was always blamed on me, and I figured that maybe it was my fault. However, one day, on the first day of spring classes I went out to start my vehicle and the device didn't turn on. I called the company and talked to a representative and told them the device would not turn on. Again, they tried to blame it on me and said it was my car, but if I thought it was their device to have my vehicle towed at my expenses and they would refund my money if the device was in fact faulty. So I called my insurance and got the vehicle towed. When I got to the shop, the shop said that in fact the device had stopped working and they also blamed me for not coming in sooner, although I didn't know that the device was going to fail.

I called Smart Start regarding changing companies and felt like I was locked down. After missing two classes from school from waiting for the tow truck and being at the shop I was told by the shop that it would take a few days to get another device in. I told them I had work and school and couldn't wait, so they installed an older model for me and then said they would replace it to the new model and when they got it.

I called Smart Start about the incident and was giving the California Corporate number. When I called it, it was a message giving me about two other numbers. One of them directed me to the number I had called in the first place and another for after hours technical assistance. If neither one of those numbers pertained to my problem I could leave a message; months later I have not received a call back.

Then, a few days after installing the new (older version) model, I went to the gas station and could not start my vehicle. The device kept aborting the procedure so I called Smart Start and it said that their after hours was closed and was given their "after hours" technical support number. When I called the number, it was a message telling me to call another number and telling me not to leave a message for it would not be checked. I called the number that I was given and did not receive and answer; however this one did give me the option to leave a message and was told my call would be returned. After an hour of being at the gas station at midnight, numerous calls to their "after hours" technical support, three not returned messages, and unsuccessful attempts of starting my car, I gave up and called a tow truck. I towed the car to my house and waited until the next morning. The next morning, I tried to turn my car on and it worked. I called Smart Start to see if they would refund my money for the tow but they said it was me who did not do the procedure correctly...even though I had been doing it for months already. Again, the towing costs bills were mine to pay alone. I called the California Corporate number again and left another message. Waited a few days and called again and left another message. Never received a call back.

After having the older model in my car for about a month, I ran into an incident at work where I was almost robbed because the older model takes longer to start than the newer one. I work at nights and sometimes in secluded areas, which is where the incident happened. I called Smart Start to see if I could get the old model put back in and was told to call California Corporate. I called and again left a message but this time I was more demanding. I finally received a call back and was told they would contact the shop to see what had happened and that they would call me back within two days. I have not received a call back. The shop wants to charge me to put the newer model back in. They want to charge me more than it cost me put it in the first time.

I get the runaround with this company and no responses even though their website says "24/7 service." Also, when the first incident mentioned occurred, I was so angry that I called Smart Start to remove the device to go with another company. I was told I could not do that because I was court mandated and needed an ID140. That part got me mad, but I understand why they do that. So I went down to the courthouse's misdemeanor department and told them I needed an ID140 and they didn't know what I was talking about. I called Smart Start back and told them they didn't know what that was and they told me to talk to my probation officer. I explained that I do not have one, and then was told by them that I need to find out who to talk to. I explained to them that I don't have a probation officer and have no future court appearances. They said there's nothing they could do, when I find out who to talk to, call them back. But I called them because I don't know who to talk to, and since they are the ones that are not letting me change companies, I figure they should be able to guide me through the process. But they actually yelled at me, and hung up on me and told me to find out and then call them.

My complaints include: Not being able to talk to their representatives. Not getting calls returned. Not getting my refunds as they promised. Not getting my device switched to the original as promised because it was their device that failed. Bad customer service. Not having the 24/7 service that their website offers. 45.00 for towing. another 45.00 for towing. Missing first day of class and therefore being dropped from classes. Classes that are offered only once a year and therefore was put a year behind. Loss of work. Loss of time. Having to walk having to be in dangerous situations due to device malfunctions.

Earlier this month, I told my technicians I would have payment and information they needed on my unit. I went yesterday to get it serviced, April 29th, 2010, and because technicians have been intimidated by corporate, Lisa ** and Rory **, they refuse to listen to me. I told them I would have their information. I have paid the necessary fees and jumped through their hoops like the monkey they think I may be, but everyone, I'm compliant and this is harassment and extortion! I have exact times of such harassment.

Beware out there. Even when you're being compliant with the law, they will still make your life complicated. Do not let them do this to you! Screw them! They think because they have control of you they can make things complicated. I'm telling you this is grounds for a class action suit. They compute the times of exactly when they are screwing with all of us! A lawyer can pull those times. I'm still waiting for the lawyer I "supposedly" contacted when you print out your complaint.

I was driving around here in Colorado, compliant with the law, cheats you out of your hours. I would be driving around for half an hour and it automatically deducts an hour. I went to get groceries with two hours on my unit and I come out and there is 0. Gee, I wonder why this is happening? I tried to come home and call the 1-800 number and they kept shuffling around with a completely different message than there was this morning. Gee let me guess. And no, I'm not paranoid. All this is happening in front of my face.

Well it started in Boulder, when I called Lisa Marie and asked why her contract was erroneous and she yelled at me and told me that she was in control of the "DMV" and she had two days to fix it. I drive around town and the thing goes off every 5 minutes or it will go a little longer- whatever the company thinks they can intimidate me. Lisa Marie thinks she can intimidate me, harass me and is using abuse of power.

I am hoping that a class action suit comes into play with this Smart Start company, based in Irving, Texas, I believe. After reading all the posts of complaints against this company, I am finally, after over a year, going before the MVD Judge to state my case over 4 separate violations within a years time, after having this device in my vehicle. I at least plan to win my case with MVD beyond a preponderance of the evidence that these units are inaccurate and unreliable... Just for starters.

Four extensions to my Arizona drivers license, and since taking the device off my vehicle, after my years lease, I have been suspended. I am fighting for my privilege to drive again... Thanks for all your great posts relating to this matter.

Similar to what I just read about Daniela of Phoenix, AZ last January 21, 2010, my son, Tyler, has been dealing with a faulty Smart-Start device. Originally charged with a DUI in 2008, he is now receiving MVD notices stating he now has to keep his unit through 2013. That's 4 years for something that should have been over in one year! We have repeatedly asked for a hearing (in writing by registered mail) from the MVD, but have received no response.

Actually, we never got a single MVD notice letter within the 15 day response period until this one today (guess they have been reading my hearing request letters). Tyler has repeatedly asked the Smart Start people to verify the faulty equipment to the MVD, but Smart Start says the MVD will not accept any verification from them now. Sounds like Smart Start and AZ are in together on this (good scam). I will be researching attorney's for at last an individual suit and would like to work towards a class action, as it is happening with two of us in AZ. It's probably is happening with a lot more. Plus, will call the AZ AG and local politicians for their help.

My son has followed his court mandated punishment to a "T". I cannot believe this state's MVD can issue computer generated non-registered robo-letters, but I get a registered letter for having weeds over 8" tall? Tyler even had his license suspended over the Smart Start equipment, but Tyler never received a letter from the MVD. Did not know it until he was stopped by a city cop for a broken windshield. They impounded his car and I had to get an attorney to get most of the multiple charges dropped (total outlay $1,850). The arresting officer said he had the same issue, but called his Sargent to get the charges dropped and his license reinstated. Guess having a badge has its privileges.

Something is severely wrong with this state. This seems like a no-brainer class action for an attorney. Will go after both Smart Start and the State of AZ.

On January 25, 2010, a Smart Start device was installed in my 2000 Jeep Gran Cherokee. While driving home, I received a call from the DMV and was told the local representative did not complete the proper form (California DL 924). I returned and learned they had not received any forms from Smart Start and Smart Start (I learned after initiating some action) did a massive order and finally got the forms out to their shops fifteen days later. Moreover, we had to go back out and have a new form completed!

This Saturday, the LCD lens or "light" on the device did not work. When I called the corporate office, we had to tow the vehicle, once again, out to the local representative who did not start working on it until we arrived.

Cash only representatives? Smart Start's representatives at "Fantastic Sound" in Montclair, California play games about their computer being slow, and finally, after hours of waiting, we went to the bank and got out cash! Twice!

Over the weekend, I never got through to Smart Start and had to wait until today to hear the bad news about needing to tow the car, another lost day of work. Smart Start boasts that they have "emergency 24 hour service, seven days a week" but they do not. Not even close. Smart Start is in it for the money. They appear to want to "get in and get out".

By the way, if you need to get any meaningful communication about your device, if you anticipate being locked out and you need immediate answers when someone finally gets to you, if they get to you, you must have the following: a cell phone a computer, Auto Club Membership for towing, installers, representatives who speaks English and representatives that take credit cards of checks transmitted to.

I didn't know they recommend that the locksmith makes sure a new client actually gets their car started three times before leaving the shop. Instead, the locksmith blew into the device herself and sent me home to practice.

And practice I did, for hours on end during the next ten days. When I could not get the car started, the locksmith did stop by and demonstrate the process again, but to no avail. I spent at least ten hours "practicing" during the next ten days and only managed to get the car started three times. To make things worse, if you do manage to get the car started, five minutes later, the system alerts you that you have to test again. On one of the three occasions I could get the device to work, I was unable to get a successful test done five minutes later, and the car started honking frantically as I tried to get home before it shut down altogether.

Due to start a new job, I called the locksmith yet again to explain that after many hours of "practicing," the car had only started three times. They were very nice people, and the owner came to my home to start my car (where it took him ten tries to get the car going). He drove my car to the shop, where his wife worked with me another 2-1/2 hours. She did her best, but finally admitted that this system simply would not respond to my blowing and humming. She didn't know why.

In desperation, days before I had to leave town to start a new job, I was relieved to learn that there is a rival company, Intoxiclock, which performs the same test, but actually works. It is extremely simple to use, and will make it possible for me to reliably get to work! It is also much less expensive.

I am angry that I paid $168 to have a device installed which was absolutely useless and that after ten days ,they charged me another $63 to remove their absolutely useless product.

I want everyone else in my position to know how miserable a product the Smart Start interlock is and that there is a much better, less expensive product available that will actually serve its purpose. Intoxiclock will make it possible for me to test and drive every time.

This company provided me with an ignition interlock device which was installed on 7-14-2008. I had signed a contract with them (court ordered) for one year. I've had several issues with their device since day one. They provided me with an Ignition Interlock device Model is a SSI-1000. This machine is faulty. On several occasions, it has malfunctioned and would not register during a test and I would blow into it but it would simply not register causing me to violate on the test as I had lost points due to this.

I've also had numerous repairs to wires in my car that are connected to the device installed in my vehicle as well as having the headset replaced (changed out) several times. I have lost track since it's changed almost every time I go to my monthly compliance check. I blow into the headset in order to start my vehicle. I have been late to work and even been stuck in a parking lot in triple digit weather because this machine does not work properly! It's not an every day thing when it malfunctions. There are days it works fine but I should not be at fault for this machine not working properly.

I've had two corrective action notices mailed to me from the MVD notifying me that my driving privilege has an extension of one year due to this. That's an additional two years I'm ordered to have this and I have done nothing wrong. I completed all my monthly compliance checks and paid my fees to them. They in return provide people in my situation with faulty machines that do not work 100% and expect us to pay the price. I researched this company and found hundreds if not thousands of complaints similar to mine. Smart Start is cashing in on its clients by causing these extensions causing us to keep these devices in our vehicles for years and years! I feel unless I take action against them and let them know they will not take advantage of people like this they will never honor my contract and remove this device.

Every time I was informed by a Smart Start Technician during a Compliance check that I had a violation and a letter would be sent I argued with them and reminded them that it was the device that malfunctioned and they agreed but still told me I had to deal with the Motor Vehicle Division when I get the letter. Smart Start is giving me the runaround and I have confirmed this as I called the MVD and was informed Smart Start Inc. simply needs to notify them that it was a device error and not my fault and the corrective actions will be voided! I informed the MVD that I have requested that Smart Start respond in my favor to the MVD but all the technicians told me they have nothing to do with this and I need to request a hearing. The MVD rep was kind and advised me to call the hearing department.

I spoke with a representative at the Hearing Office Vehicle Division and told him what has happened to me and that I'm getting the runaround. He told me he hears this all the time and advised me to complain to the main office for Smart Start Inc. which I have done through the BBB and Consumer Affairs. He again confirmed to me that if Smart Start Inc. techs admitted that the cause of the violations was due to the device not working properly that it's a simply call or e-mail to the MVD notifying them of this and they will correct any action taken against me. This has not been done for me and will never be done if I continue alone. That is why I've gone through the BBB and AG to assist me.

I have reached my boiling point I had a bad wire (connected to my ignition interlock device) repaired the first week of Jan 2010 it had cause me to lose points on my unit again. I informed the technician that the points lost were caused by the device and he confirmed this saying the wire had caused several circumventions. I asked for documentation to be written for me to have for my records. He said all he could do was make a note in my account. He even replaced my headset due to it not calibrating properly. Now this happened one week before my monthly compliance check on Jan 14th 2010.

On Jan 14th 2010, I went to my compliance check and was informed by the technician that I had a violation and will be receiving a letter from the MVD again. This makes three extensions none that are my fault. I reminded him that just one week prior I had repairs done to wires and my headset replaced as they were not working properly. He said there was nothing he could do and I had to request a hearing. He then informed me he would be giving me a new headset as it wasn't calibrating properly. I had just had it changed a week prior and now changed again. How does this company expect anyone to complete their program if the devices are faulty?

I have received terrible customer service from the toll free line. I have had issues with my unit going crazy and not allowing me to blow into it for a test I called them for assistance. I was never given any help and always told to go to my nearest service location for assistance. The worst part is that when the c/s rep is ready to end the call, they hadn't even asked me my name or got any of my information so I was upset and let him know he needed to notate my account that this occurred. I doubt anything was notated. But the company itself is a big joke and there not helping anyone but themselves. I need help with getting this corrected asap please. Thank you for your help and God Bless.

I have been late to work causing me lose hours, stranded, not being able to drive my car at times until I have repairs or replacement of the headset. I'm very stressed with the damage to my driving record. I have to take time off of work to go to my monthly compliance check. I can't commute to visit family as much as I like because I'm afraid that the device will malfunction and leave me stranded again. I should no longer have to deal with this. I have completed my one year contract!

I've had the Smart Start Interlock device installed in my car for almost 2 years now. For the first year, the handset REPEATEDLY malfunctioned. I would have to swap it out at least once a month. Either it would abort over and over.. or I'd blow, then it would abort, or sometimes the display would just fail to appear, and not allow me to perform a test. And even still, st times, it would just shut off mid- trip, and not allow itself to test me. Usually it would turn back on by the next time I started the vehicle, but one time it didn't. It remained off when i started the vehicle subsequently, not allowing me to perform a test, thus not allowing me to start my car. This occurred after having jump starting my car.. However, after the jump, it registered fine.. even re-tested me within 10 mins like it always does.. then all of a sudden the screen goes blank, and I hear it clicking and malfunctioning the entire hour ride home. It didnt work after that.

Upon talking to smart start, they tell me you're not supposed to jump start the vehicle with the device plugged in... Okay; then if the device wasnt plugged in while I'm jumping it, HOW am i supposed to start the car?? It has to be plugged in to perform the test, right? And upon researching through my documents, and extensively on the net, I saw NO documentation about not jump starting your car with the handset plugged in. They're trying to charge me over $300 for the handset.. one that is completely bugged to begin with !! Not only that- once this happened, they tell me they have a new updated version available, and the service center will install the new system for free, since I'm having "issues" with my older version. Okay, so you're making me pay 300 bucks for an outdated faulty piece of equiptment, that was no fault of my own. Mind you, this particualr handset gave me problems prior to this incident, and she's trying to tell me it was my fault, and I am responsible for it. I don't think so.

The smart start ingnition interlock device is monitored by this company monthly and reports their monthly report to the DMV. There was a technical administrative failure to comply with the conditions of the smart start rules and a a report was issued to the DMV causing my DL to be suspended 5 months ago.

I was pulled over by the police and they found that my DL was suspended in Sept 08 and they impounded my car and took my DL. I have been paying smart start to re-calibrate my device $85.00 a month since then. When I spoke to Smart start she admitted yea that the DMV will suspend your license but too bad im out the money. This is fraud. She started back peddling trying to reverse her admittance of this knowlegde that the DMV would suspend my DL but she did know it.