Smart Start Reviews

Got a violation. I've had the device for 39 days... Never tampered with the device and haven't had a drink in 18 months. The install was 375 when quoted 250$. The only people who calibrate in my area only except cash. Sketchy... Can't get support by phone... Horrible experience so far and I don't drink anymore. 3 different dealer say Smart Start doesn't pay them for their service either.

My experience over 12 months with Smart Start has been expensive and predatory. The installers and shop in our area are great. They are looking to dump them too if that says anything! It's very expensive to get out from under them.

I had nothing but problems with Smart Start. I've been charged twice for violations which did not happen, looks like a pattern. Charging me for absolutely nothing, 94.50 each time on top of their monthly fees

Impossible to speak with a live agent. When I finally did 30 minutes later when asking for their name they hung up. Not honest. Terrible people. Terrible customer service. Keep away. You will regret dealing with Smart start. I had to put 1 star or you can't leave a review.

Terrible customer service. A lot of hidden fees! A representative hung up on me. I have auto payment on and they didn’t take an older payment out and processed a newer payment so my account is locked. A lot of foreign representatives and can’t understand their English. A lot of bullshit to deal with. Smart Start is not reliable or a good interlock company

This is a piece of crap, blows fuses, drains batteries, failed test by simply eating pizza and you're forced to have this device without any conviction, not to mention it attempts to have problems as it continuously needs to be reprogrammed and takes your money. Do not recommend to anyone.

Absolute worst customer service. They’re intentionally rude and condescending. Keep calling me from their collections department for bills they admit are not yet due. However because they’re bill in advance it shows in my account, still it is not due but I get the calls daily. My calibration is due prior to auto pay so every time I get the device calibrated it voids the auto pay. The device randomly puts you in lockout without a description of the violation so you need to spend $90 to unlock it without knowing why.

I rated this company with two stars, and the only reason there are two stars is that the people I have talked to are very nice. The company's policies are outrageous. I was very sick, and my calibration date was while I was unable to blow into my device, and when I was able to go get it done, they were closed due to the holiday. I have to pay over $150 just for fees to get it working again. Their policies are very strict, and don't give any room for life emergencies. If I were to do it over again, I would not choose this company.

All of these reviews are accurate. This company does the bare minimum to comply with state standards, and makes it extremely difficult for people to comply with court requirements for calibrations. I can only imagine what people who have difficulty affording the monthly calibrations to begin with, and then are not educated or know how to research to report these difficulties to the people that oversee their compliance as a state service provider.

Smart Start has no problem lying to your face, stealing your money, and cheating. Smart Start is a complete scam and their business model is ILLEGAL. Expect a horrible customer service experience (the worst, most worthless people you could imagine). What kind of a person knowingly works for and supports a criminal company? There will be extra fees and double charges and no one to fix them. Also, be prepared for your car to be damaged in one way or another, either from their device or their technicians.

Smart Start is a scam. They will take your money. That’s how they get paid as far as RMV goes. Shame on them and whoever signed that law shame on them all. This is how rmv employees get paid. All these companies need to be shut down asap.

This is a scam. Do not use this product. They have false positives. You can talk to nobody except for an animated system. They are rude. They price gouge, I would not recommend if I could give a zero. I would.

Worst customer service I’ve ever seen. Can’t believe this company is legal for months. I’ve tried to tell them to get this device removed, and that I don’t have the means to pay for it, and they have done nothing but accrue the money and not help me to the point where I owe them more than what my car is worth. I’m looking into legal action as I feel like I’m not the only one and won’t be the last one to get scammed by these people.

I would not waste your money on this device. However, I don't know which device you should choose. I have an appointment next week to have my device removed and another one installed. I have received two violations, one for two in tobacco and another one for a honey bun and a Powerade and I was told that after you brush your teeth in the morning or eat anything, you need to have a simple water before you blow. So what it is is the machine is not looking for alcohol. It's trying to find a certain smell. I don't see how this is legal. I am going to ask a lawyer. I am willing to pay for the installation of the new device because this one is a piece of junk in the company's customer service is pretty much non-existent.

They are not friendly when it comes to helping the customer out at all. You can try to dispute an error on a violation but they wont let you. I would highly recommend LifeSaver over them. Neither are great but at least the other company will work with you.

This is for Smart Start in Haltom City, Tx. I am a disabled senior citizen who had to seek out a ride to this location for install. Got inside at 8AM...Bob said it take 2 hrs. Had the appt people told me I would have gone to another location with better hours. Joshua is wonderful and Bob seems like a grumpy bear.

Would give a zero!!! Horrible company!!! Charged me a removal fee and then violated me for a faulty device. Had it towed as they said on the phone, to the shop and they replaced the device. Now, since the false violation, I can't get the machine removed and lost $130 to them. DO NOT TRUST THIS COMPANY

Smart Start says they use a company named Bounty Removal which there’s no existence of I’ve checked. If you are in a wreck, it’s best you get the equipment out any other way than paying death trap anything?

This company sucks. No one is ever live when you need to dispute a claim and they don’t tell you anything in writing about any fees you. This company does not care. I tried reaching out for someone higher up and no one ever returns the calls. They are so quick to take your money but for disputes it’s a totally different ball game. Smart Start should not even be in business if you ask me. How can you not remove a device when you are finished with the obligations because you owe and never was told this until you literally find out 20 days before you are eligible to get the device removed.

I've had this device in my vehicle for very short period of time and since then they have scheduled my calibration at a service center which was closed on said day and time so had to take more time off work to get that resolved and now I get in my vehicle to blow and start it after putting gas in and it says violation lock out 4 days, call customer service explain situation and they tell me I got to go to service dealer and get it recalibrate and pay the fees associated with the lock out then file a claim to get my money refunded for a malfunction of there machine. Terrible experience with this company. Would not and will not recommend this company to anyone.

If you want to get ripped off go with Smart Start. Just to be clear Elite Auto Sounds is an installer and that’s all they do. Smart Start the company is a complete rip off. Let me tell you. Miss one calibration and you’ll find out. They charged me a missed appointment fee, a code fee, and another fee for not making my appointment on the designated day. The total was about 400.00. They lie and tell you it’s gonna be 50.00. When you call them you’ll get slapped with a fat bill. Ask me for a receipt and I’ll send it.

They need to be shut down! I can’t even begin to describe how awful they are. I don’t understand how they are allowed to stay in business. If I could give a trillion negative stars I would. If you need a reason to not drink and drive…they are at least good for that! You don’t ever want to experience the BS I have gone through. They are POS!

This company is known for being overpriced and uncooperative, making it the least friendly in the industry. They make it very hard to cancel services, often requiring a court order, and even then, they charge extra fees. Customer service is rude and hard to reach, only available to accept payments. Overall, dealing with them can be a tiring and frustrating experience. It’s better to hire another carrier that values its customers and offers better service without so many hidden fees.

Such a horrible experience. I've never written an online review about ANYTHING in my life. However, they are so exceptionally bad that I have to. The customer service is so unprofessional. They give you the run around and will sometimes put you on hold, then disconnect. They are extremely rude and unhelpful. You will get random unexplained charges and there is no process for getting the money back. It has been the most frustrating customer experience process of my life. Also the actual interlock is always malfunctioning and will cost you extra money. Such a horrible company.

Smart Start is just a business asking money anyway they can. A mechanic installed my device two times incorrectly and for five months I got violations I had to pay for that were not caused by me. They added someone else's number to my account and I was getting lockouts I had to pay for because of someone else. It wasn't until the five months when I had to go to another mechanic who told me the mechanic I had didn't even cap or tape the connecting wires which caused electronic violations.... Fraud!

My review is full of the same complaints as everyone else. Zero customer service! Every place that is listed to go have your device calibrated isn’t even a Smart Start. One place I was sent was a beauty shop! They are willing to help to get the device installed to get that money, after that, completely worthless!!!!

I have had 2 violations, neither with alcohol. In Feb 2025 while it was in my hand and I was messaging the technician it sent a missed test. Even after, I sent in proof of the messages and a new machine had to be installed, they made me pay the $80.00 fee. In my area 4 different service centers quit servicing them because of Smart Smart. Try another company. The customer service representatives are usally very nice, but all they can do is put you on hold and process payments. In an emergency situation with the device, the technician will not answer, you'll be anxiously waiting for them to message you.

The customer service is a joke. They find any way they can to get more money from you. There's a $75 administration fee to request removal of the device. Then a removal fee of up to $350? And in my case they are pushing that past a calibration date so they can get that $125. I've had issues with the camera, issues with scheduling calibration dates. If you need this type of device I go to any place beside here. They advertise a lower price & up front it might be but the fees they add on during service are ridiculous. I gave them 1 star because I couldn't give them 0.

It is very difficult to get ahold of anyone and when you finally do, the customer service reps don't speak clear English. They don't help you as they can't even understand what you're asking. Prices are super high and they don't disclose them right away, it is all very sketchy, I have had a horrible experience. Go with literally any other IID service out there and save yourself a headache.

Don’t use them. They changed my appointment without telling me and then I got locked out. They always charge more than you think you’ll be charged and they don’t tell you. The customer service does NOT CARE. Use another company.

Horrible company. Those who have to deal with these uncaring jokes who have jobs need to file complaints with any and all advocates to investigate this in my opinion outrageous company who doesn’t return phone calls. Remove charges that are invalid etc. They need to be charged criminally for their unconscionable behavior and put out of business. Contact the Texas state police, Texas state attorney general’s, the department of motor vehicles applicable to your state, office better business bureau. The reviews speak for themselves.

Nightmare from the beginning...About 10 different phone numbers for customer service, lack of specific training for device, old equipment, no cradle, lack of pertinent facts for individual state, faulty equipment, no help from installer regarding electrical issues, reporting me as "non-compliant" in error, outsourced csr...Every person I have ever spoken with does not understand nor speak fluent English....on and on...

Horrible customer service. Prices always increasing with extra fees. Nearly impossible to get through to a customer service representative unless you are looking to install. You will wait forever to talk to representative. Best bet is to lie and say you want to install and then tell them you wanted customer service. Requested 180 day compliance report for state DOL and when I went in for final download they made me pay for two more months fees that I did not need. Each representative told me something different when it came time for removal. Then they told me I had to pay a $70 administrative removal fee. Which stupid me I paid, and they still would not sent the compliance report to the state DOL needed.

This company is an absolute joke. I have made my scheduled appointments and paid lock out fees for zero reason. Now I see a random unpaid balance with no explanation when I haven't missed a monthly payment and you can't get a single person on the phone. They are absolutely scamming you because they know you require the device to stay compliant. I can't believe anyone would ever refer us to this company knowing how they operate. DO NOT do business with them.

Awful customer service. You have to submit an install request on their website to get someone on the phone. They send an email to you stating to reply to "info@smartstart" yet the response you get is "this inbox isn't checked". Since August of 2023:

Where do I start. My device failed numerous times and I was forced to pay 125.00 each time, or I couldn't drive. There was nothing I could do about it. Because they are the only company which handles the interlock devices for Sask. And they know it. It's either pay or don't drive.

This is the worst company, no one can answer a simple question, you have to be careful about payments because they will not send you a confirmation number and then there is no credit. I have the last 3 Payments that has not been credited. Talk to them on the phone but nobody can answer what or where the money went. I wouldn't recommend this company to anyone....

Where to begin? I installed their device in my vehicle in 2020. No problem with the device itself. Customer service is a ghost after they get you signed up. They answer the phone quickly for new installations. Once you have the device installed, you can easily be on the phone more than an hour to talk to anyone for anything.

I wish there were a zero star option! I have been locked out of my online portal due to showing past due on your end. I have contacted various departments trying to figure all of the amounts up from information I've been given. Customer service is a joke. Ensuring customer satisfaction is nonexistent likely only because I have to have this device in order to drive. Smart Start is beyond crooked. I implore anyone needing a device NOT to do business with this shady company.

This company is defrauding its customers. It preys on the poor who are trying to get their lives back in track. Customer service is non existent. They will take your money AND NOT TELL YOU ABOUT A FINANCIAL AID PROGRAM AVAILABLE! The equipment WILL FAIL YOU even without eating, drinking, or brushing teeth. Even their employees know they are a SCAM!

I went in for a calibration on my IID at a different location because of my work schedule. When I got home, I noticed that my next appointment was 1-2 weeks earlier than normal. I called SmartStart to find out why and it turned combative. They couldn’t give me an answer, except, "It’s 30 days to your next appointment." So I called again a few days later, different person, they got defensive too. I just wanted an explanation why the date was so much shorter than before. I asked to speak to a supervisor and they told me since I asked for a supervisor they can end the call…click.

This company can’t seem to get it together and have not only double dipped into my account but now are attempting to again double bill me when they have been paid. I have the receipts! Every single one of them! They claim I owe them and am behind on payments when I’m not. They say file a dispute just so they can deny the dispute and continue to fraudulently overcharge people! Their devices don’t work properly! My recommendation would be to go with any other company but this one! You have to constantly be watching this company to make sure they don’t rob you!

The shops that calibrate these units have stopped service 4 out of 6 months without notice, leaving me facing being without a working vehicle. Customer service is nearly impossible to reach. Getting the device calibrated every 30 days is vital so the vehicle will not lock you out of starting it. When the service providers stop without notice every other month because they don't want to deal with Smart Start it makes life very difficult. I also have frequent problems being double billed because I have auto pay set up and smart start does not communicate with the service shops. If you get a DUI, I really feel for you. Don't make things worse by dealing with smart start.

I just spoke with the customer service agent. I can not believe that she just hang the phone while I was speaking to her about a issue with charges on my account. That was was very unprofessional and rude was there part as business. Just want to say that I don’t recommend this company.

I have had nothing but problems with this company. Their device wasn't "smart" enough for my car. Customer service advised they would reimburse the 400 dollars to remove device and put on older truck. The customer service rep assured me I would be reimbursed either by check or a credit to my account. After getting it switched over I called to file my claim, I was told they do NOT credit accounts and it will be 10 weeks before I received my reimbursement check. I was also charged 180 dollars for one month of service when it was quoted at 80. Trying to get an actual person on the phone to speak with at smart start is a joke. Save yourself the grief and don't do business with these lying thieves. I have receipts and emails to prove all my claims against this company. Considering a lawsuit if anyone would like to join.

SCAM! This company is TERRIBLE! Every are robbing people blind. They have it systematically set up to screw you over any way they can because they know you need their device in order to be compliant and be able to have a drivers license. I can’t even explain the amount of times they have screwed me out of money but this last time was my final straw. I'm set to have the device removed today, all of a sudden- I have a missed appointment from April and it’s a 58$ fee. I just made My bi weekly payment May 16th of 58$, there was no mention of a missed appointment. Also, if you miss an appointment they lock you out and charge you for that as well. I never missed an appointment- they just wanted more money before I get this device removed. DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY!! I could go on and on!!! YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!! Please do yourself a favor and stay away!!!

The phone tree is ridiculous trying to get someone once you are a client. No options to speak with someone just automated. Have automatic payments set up and they all of a sudden stopped working. This company is a joke. Better to pay more to get the help you need.

One of the worst experience and services I have ever got from this company. This company device working for ATM machine like money making machine for them.. It's indicating violence in device without any reason twice in a month and we have to pay to reset it. They charge hundred dollars. When I requested for the refund from the Manager was very rude and was not cooperating with me at all. They always trying to prove you wrong. One of customer service representative her name is Odell she was very rude when I called to resolution for this. Highly not recommend to go with this company.

I was transferred over 9 times. They have several charges they can't explain. I asked them to review my payments, and they keep sending the same invoices with no explanation. The customer service representatives are horrible. Use any service besides this one!!!

The worst customer service ever!!! Can we bring jobs back to America so we can understand what people saying back to you? Mr. Doron Grosman, who is a CEO of the company lives in Texas. Why won't you let American people to have jobs? We all make mistakes and we all pay for them like most of us doing now while either writing this review or reading it? Why the customer service is so rude and when you trying to tell them like, "Can you please slow down," I can barely understand what they saying!!!! They never listen!!! All they do is interrupt when you trying to explain the situation, but when you being nice about it asking if you can speak to someone else...they never want to transfer you????

They don’t explain their breakdown in fees properly, fee wasn’t explained fully until you have already gotten the installation. I have had the service for two months with auto pay mind you but somehow I now have additional fees that need to be paid… bad sales, bad marketing, bad customer service 👎🏽 Ms Garcia Management

I can't begin to explain the 1200 dollars I spent to have it NEVER WORK!! And milked me to keep trying to bring back to repair shop to have it work. Then cost 350 dollars to uninstall and close account... Don't use them. Literally any other company is better.

I was volunteer customer for SmartStart. I was given a quote of $70 /month. Smart Start charged me $145/month. When asked for explanation, I had to call at least 20 times on different days. No proper explanation was given to me.

So, here’s the thing, I am writing this about the Company and Help line and not the shops. The Shops in Denton and Irving are great. The people are great and helpful. However, the company and the help line are the worst company I have ever dealt with in my entire life. If you have a choice us someone else or sell your car it would be easier than dealing with the customer service in this company.

I have had an ignition interlock for 4 months now and since then I’ve needed a brand new starter and two new batteries. I’ve had nothing but absolute problems since I’ve had this thing installed. My vehicle has spent more time in repair/service shops since I’ve had this thing installed. Also they haven’t been willing to help me, still charging me $130 a month and my car won’t even work anymore.

Had them for 24 months and it was excellent the first 19 until I had issues that I brought to their attention. I've incident reports disappearing on their end claiming they were never submitted causing months with no vehicle. Everything the device enabled or disabled shorted in my car and caused communication issues with my ecm and then had extremely long hold times and rude employees after I submitted enhanced codes backing my claim.

I'll keep this brief, I'm not one to give horrible reviews, but my experience was absolutely awful. And this will be my second, same company, different site. Maybe it's better in other states, but in Denver, Colorado, it was very hard to get info on shops open and available. I did find a guy who was reliable and there full time, but his information provided on the app was a shop he leased out of...and I got yelled at whenever I asked them to pass a message on... And other shops they sent me an auto text from weren't even associated with Smart Start, including LA insurance lol, they acted like I was crazy when I called....

The government of Alberta is FORCING me to use this company based out of Texas. Where I live, we had - 40 degrees Celsius for 3 weeks straight causing my battery to die and I got in trouble and had to pay two lock-out fees cause I didn't have the money to replace my battery fast enough. Then I had work done to fix my exhaust and Super Duper Smart Start said I needed to pay them 100$. Why?? Because they had to do 5 minutes of work and give the mechanic a temporary lock-out code. This company is benefitting from others' misfortune. They're sick parasites and they will exploit you.

I called to find out about something I seen in my Smart Start client portal app, which lead into a couple more questions that came about from inquiring about my first original question. A very long story later, basically they never answered any of my questions, passed me back and forth on the phone transferring me from department to department back to a different department and finally back to the customer care (keep in mind, I spoke with 14 different people throughout 5 departments and had to explain my entire situation everytime I was transferred) all this in the course of almost 2 hours and that doesn't include the 30 minutes I spoke to them the day before.

The worst company I've ever dealt with. App and website are complete garbage. Go anywhere else for ignition interlock systems. App doesn't load and neither does website. Will email you saying you need to pay a balance but have no outlets to do so. Beyond horrible.

I had called SmartStart about getting an ignition interlock in my vehicle. They’re closest location to do the install was 2 1/2 hours away. They had stated that I can get two months free as long as I went and got it installed there. They also stated that there was a location in my city where I could go and get it calibrated when the time came. After I got installed they went ahead and started taking out payments for my every two weeks payments and when I called, they had stated that since there was no notes in my file that I could not receive the two months free.

Choose a different interlock company. They have so many hidden fees. They are not transparent in billing. The customer service is the worst I have ever experienced. Customer service agents will hang up on you, redirect you to automatic message after automatic message til you just can’t take it anymore. They have made my life a living nightmare for the last year and a half. Their machines are faulty. I mean seriously, blowing a violation after drinking coffee? Getting locked out of my car due to their system error yet I was still charged an unlock fee they wouldn’t refund. They are greedy and committing extortion. They’re refusing to remove my device now? I want to switch to another company and they are refusing to take my device out without DMV permission. IT IS MY CAR!!!!

4/15 @ 8am. Whoever I spoke with failed to tell me that you guys went from 90 days to 45 days calibration. I wasn't informed and I was in violation. The guy I spoke with was very rude. No help at all!!

Smart Start is a complete rip off. The device is super sensitive compared to the Intoxalock device I have experienced. Smart Start charges you for everything! With Intoxalock only paid for my initial installation and my 40$ every two weeks. Smart Start, 50$ plus don’t get locked out 'cause it’s about another 80-100$. When I spoke with the rep after doing an “Incident Report” to see about getting the charge removed or at least lowered they were not trying to work with me, keep in mind I had just got the device installed that day less than an hour ago!

Please be aware...of Billing Games! I have been using SS for 18 months now. My service date has always been around the 21st (depending on weekends) which is annoying because my auto pay is on the 23rd and they won't service without payment. Why have automatic payments (Game #1)? Recently they added a $ shop fee for the required service paid at the shop (Game #2) bring the costs well over a Hundo.

This company is not helpful to customers. It's nearly impossible to get ahold of someone on the phone and the people who work at these garages are not smart start employees so they cannot help with issues either. Prices rise every few months without being informed. The device malfunctions regularly and the burden of the device malfunctioning falls on the customer and the customer is made to pay out of pocket for the device malfunctioning.

Can I do no stars? To anyone reading this, if you need an interlock device. STEER CLEAR of Smart Start. They scam, they lie, they provide no real customer service and charge you for bogus malfunction of their devices and blame it on you. I was scammed from the start and continue to have bad experience and bad experience. I take an average of 6 minutes to start my car as I usually have to go through average of three, two-minute waiting period between each redo. It pretty ridiculous. My battery malfunctioned, I have pictures and images of device and how they say to test battery through device and even so, they refused to provide a refund for a bug lockout and blame it on the state of AZ.

This company is completely incompetent. I have been directed back and forth to different departments, different locations, different people, all to just have my device removed after completing the program. The company doesn't care what goes wrong on their end. They force payments in order to "help" you and know that you have to comply or they will report you to your monitoring agency. They took two months to even try to "help" me get the device removed and even though I completed the program they still made me pay for the months that I couldn't get them to help me get the device removed. Unprofessional and worthless. They know they don't have to do anything they don't want to because you are legally obligated to them.

Terrible company, terrible product, terrible customer service. They are doing legalized theft with the fees. They keep raising as well as it is an impossibility to get any help or if you reach someone. They will have to transfer because the call is being outsourced and they cannot help you. But that's fun because you can watch a movie while you wait for a live person.

Do NOT use Smart Start for your BAIID device! They are dishonest, equipment continuously breaks and they charge you to replace it, they continue to raise prices with out justification, they barely have any locations and they continue to lose locations, you can never get a hold of a live representative and they DAMAGED my vehicle on the initial install which I had to pay for. My next steps are reporting the company and two individuals that work there to the BBB and the State Govenor. Seriously, Use any other company. If I was not 3 years in, I would change companies. Use Intoxilock instead.

The product malfunctions and locks me out of my car, due to no fault of my own, and I have to pay a servicing fee to rectify the situation. The company refuses to reimburse me for said fee, and when I call their customer service refuses to allow me to speak to a supervisor.

Absolute con-men! I should have it removed for over three years ago. They keep making all kind of excuses for me to keep it longer so I would pay them more and more fees! Absolute disgrace! It is easier to reach Mr. Trump than their customer service which takes you back to the loop to keep that disgraceful device!

Company comes up with fake charges. When you contact them about it, they tell you to fill out an incident report. They will let the report set for a week then deny your refund. They have increased their monthly charge by 50% within the last six months. Seek another company once you get this installed in your car, you are in it for the long haul.

This company is a complete scam. The people take forever to answer. I sat in my car in 30 degree weather for over 3 hours waiting to receive a service lockout code. Their prices are ridiculous as they practically have a monopoly on the market for breathalyzers with the government. This entire organization should be sued, disbanded, and owners incarcerated for price gouging and unfair practices to consumers.

This company is a complete money grab. They rent an inferior product that they claim works in all weather (hot/cold). Got a violation for the breathalyzer being in my car for 2 hours in -6 temperatures. It read my first test but wouldn't read the next 3 tests which gave me a violation and cost me $100. Called them to put a note on my file, but you can only do that on the website. Another garbage feature. They also don't book removals so they will keep charging you monthly fees until you call them to book a removal. That should be in there system and they should be able to tell you that you're up for removal, not just book you for calibration. Any and every little mistake will cost you at least $100, which to me makes it a complete money grab. Only aspect of this company that I would consider good is the call center. They are usually friendly and are willing to help you out.

I was forced to remove my device by RMV for missing a 2nd calibration in 22 months. My fault, but submitted my removal less than a month after the hearing and Smart Start did not process, After numerous follow ups to Smart Start and 4 months later they want to charge me full price for each month when I have been unable to drive and was removed from the program by the RMV. Now threaten to lock my account until I pay an additional $1200+ so fees keep accumulating.

Absolute garbage customer service. Their unit went out so I had to get 2 tows to the shop only to get denied reimbursement because of their equipment malfunctioned. One of worst customer service experiences.

DO NOT GET YOUR INTERLOCK DEVICE WITH SMART START. I REPEAT DO NOT GET YOUR DEVICE WITH THIS COMPANY. They overcharge you, there is no supervisor you can speak with, they literally cannot help or accommodate you with ANYTHING. The fees are ridiculous, multiple companies revoked their contract with them for too many issues and even the DMV and Courts state they are the worse company to get your device from.

Smart Start in my opinion do not deserve any stars, most horrible customer service. My bill keeps on going up all the time, it went from $65 to $147.65. They are telling me they need to charge more to provide excellent service. You are a joke of a company. I've been hang up on so many times. I will report them to BBB, hopefully they will get their acts together. And I'm transferring to different company.

Your company doesn’t do support. So please don’t tell people that you’re here for support during the interlock. Absolutely should no one trust your company. All this company does is keep taking money for one's mistake that has already been paid for. I use to brag about how awesome you guys were but within the last year your company isn’t worth even telling about. All you do is make up charges and double charge. Then when asked why about the charges you want to lock the account or transfer to different departments. Oh and not mention the time it takes for the device to be ready to blow in, if I was ever in situation that someone was trying to kill me they would succeed. The device takes at least a minute before you can start the car. Anyways do better Smart Start because using your company wasn’t a smart start.

It took me 180 minutes waiting on line to finally could speak with a technical advisor so that I could explain what is going on with my interlock device that suddenly started giving me messages like "blow softer", or "blow longer", things like these messages, I could not start my vehicle for an hour or so, finally when I could talk with technical advisor she asked for some turn off/on ignition, and disconnect and connect handheld device. She gave up and said she did whatever she could, and I need to tow it to their service location and troubleshoot it there.

Be very careful relying on this company. Their customer service agents will tell you anything to get the sale complete. Briefly, they insisted it was possible to install their device in BMW X7 (MILD HYBRID). I went to the local installer they hired and they could not do it. Said the wiring in the car was not compatible. Now I'm fighting with them to get back the enrollment fee.

Worst place. They take and take and take. My device stopped working. I was on hold for 2 hours and 15 mins and no one picked up. Locking devices when no service places are opened. Changing the monthly fee out of nowhere. Just the worse. They are robbing people

Hey, please be warned about this company. If and when you get it installed, the contractors who install it add to the cost of initially getting it. They piggyback off the original cost and add more to it. Then you pay bi weekly, more than what was quoted and pay for for check ups, and for roadside assistance... But you can never get through the automated phone loops to get service and offer get hung up on. Nor will you get a human to answer your questions. If you have problems with the device or getting questions answered, better find another way to solve it. This company is only concerned with making money and really could care less about you. So be warned, it's bad, tremendously bad. It's worse than actually getting the DUI. Hang tough follow peeps in Recovery!

The only reason why I'm giving them one star is because I have to. There are ridiculous removal fees, overcharges, horrible customer service, and it's impossible to get a hold of anyone who can actually resolve issues. If you have a DUI and you're considering Smart Start for your IID I do not recommend!

I really don’t want to give any stars. These people rarely answer the phone. Only time they answer is when you are trying to get the device installed. Once you do it is so hard to speak with a real person. I have been on hold for over an hour trying to speak with someone. They also didn’t send the waiver form from the DMV to the interlock shop that installed my device. Now they are wanting money from me and I can’t even get a live representative on the phone to find out what’s going on. One of the agents that work for Smart Start don’t put notes in the system like they are suppose to. This place is a mess and need some repairing on how they do business with customers. It’s unacceptable.

Smart Start had fees not posted, locks your device on Sundays forcing you to pay for unlock codes. No service shops are open on Sundays. They posted credit on my account but never applied it- I still paid full price despite "credit" showing on the client portal and the biggest issue- My vehicle would shut off during a rolling restart. So crossing large intersection or light rail crossing with a vehicle that just lost power was incredibly scary! Smart Start advertises this to not be possible. It took them too long to send a tech to verify and fix this.

I had a car wreck and the company never went and got the device even though I requested them to do so. So when I got a new car they made me pay for the old device in monthly installments. However I have paid every month, yet get told I never paid even though I have the bank statements. The man working my payments is always rude and hateful. He also set my lockout to time out faster one month. I got to the place to get my car calibrated only to find out the machine was down. My car locked out and I have to pay 35.00 to get it unlocked because their machine was out of order.

They Charge you money and give you faulty equipment multiple times over and charge you to switch out the faulty hardware. The consumables like mouthpieces are never available even if you wanna pay for it. They won’t even give you a holder for your dash. Zero accountability. Must have a computer to do anything with this company. Managers never return calls. Total monopoly taking advantage of those in misfortune.

They force us to install defective product then blame the customer for their junk, and no way to contact a human for help. The government knows this but they are all getting a piece of the pie so it win win for them, This is Criminal.

Please call me back. I'm so tired of this company wasting hours of my life. I have been trying to get ahold of someone at Smart Start for almost 3 consecutive hours. It’s like this every time I need to talk to them. Why is this the only business I have ever had trouble getting ahold of a person to this capacity. Every option Available is an automated voice option. Even tho it leads you to believe that you will get human assistance. You guys do everything in your power to avoid talking to your customers. Don't worry messing your with the one, I will destroy y'all's reputation by telling people the truth about your service. Paying for fake bad 1 star reviews on Google.

Since Smart Start and Penndot go hand in hand, they can choose whatever they want to do. Not answer the phone is one of them, charge whatever. Had the device put in for $212 from a 3rd party (Smart Start affiliate), only to have the device fail after 2 days. It was a Smart Start part that failed. After the review board heard my complaint. They offered 1/2 of the $212 because their reasoning was ("Well, since the shop had to fix it anyway, we'll only give you 1/2 back"). Now that's real logic. Thanks.

They offer an incident report option if you get a fail. After filing the incident report, they tell me that there is nothing wrong with the device and that is that. It is useless to file a report. Contacting Smart Start? I am currently on hold. So far, 47 minutes and waiting. Getting Smart Start to send a 90 day clean report to the DMV? That is harder than getting Congress to tell the truth. All around, this company is going to make you want to break your phone.

Smart Start ignition interlock device is a scam. You get 2 extensions on payment for (false positive) violations and other fees. I'm on SSI, supposed to have device for 12 months. I've had it a little longer because of fear of having to do it over again. I blow; violates me; 4 min timer after every violation but Smart Start still wants 80$ Incedent Reports are a sham; talk to their credit people about payment plan-sham after the 2 extensions. I get paid once a month and when I can't pay 80$ violation; they disable vehicle and charge another 35$ for unlock code. I don't drink and I can prove it but Smart Start doesn't care, just wants more money.

Worst way to recover customer! No resolution given—- very insincere to help customers. Imagine giving a wrong information which cost me to purchase a 91k unit for nothing! Ticket number **. No effort to reach out even and update the status of complaint. You would rather want to shift to globe because of the service they offer.

Scheduled nearly a week in advance to get their interlock installed in my vehicle. I took off work early for this day. Have my step dad drive me to the service center and learned that I could not get it installed. Smart Start was so smart that they put a 1955 Belair as my vehicle. I was denied the installation. Their only resolution was to schedule another day. Waste of my time and they honestly do not care about potential customers. Perhaps they should change their name.

Poor work ethic from the Customer Service on down to the staff. Treat customers right not everyone is perfect and it just goes to show y'all think y'all are better than anyone. Remember God is not sleep. Smart Start is horrible. Haven't had this machine in my car less than a week and already driving back to get it rechecked.

I unfortunately put myself in this situation which has been stressful. To deal with this company has made it more difficult. Trying to reach people to correct a situation due to a car swap has taken months. I also have been told I have 2 accounts for a vehicle that the device was never installed in. People make mistakes but dealing with a company that has agents who hardly speak English and constantly repeat everything gives me more angst than needed. The only recon I would give is for the gentleman that services and calibrates the device! I wouldn’t give any stars but it makes you give one to submit. The states should be aware of this and remove them from their list.

I have been calling and calling and no one answers the phone. I need to get information about records to be sent to the DMV and I can't get any one to answer. I have been on hold for 1:02 minutes at this point. I want answers, I am the client right??!!

Every experience with this company is worse than the last. They charge a $25 fee every time your unit is recalibrated stating it is due to coming in nearly or late. This, despite coming on the exact date showing on the hand-set (you are supposed to have plus/minus a few days). The equipment fails on regular basis, and getting ahold of anyone is technically impossible as the phone options result in an endless loop getting you right back where you started. So you have your car towed to the service center at your expense so they can try to fix their failed equipment. This company is the WORST!

Organized Crime at it's best. A very Shady Company. USE A DIFFERENT COMPANY. The P.O.S tech I had had personal issues that he aimed towards me. He talked to me like I was his step daddy. Maybe that was the issue. They tried to get as much money as they could. They deliberately did not upload my final calibration so I would fall into another month of lease.

The only reason to use this company is if you have no other choice. Let's be honest. No one uses an interlock by choice and these companies know that. You have no choice but to cope with their non-existent customer service or website that directs you to "Service centers" that don't exist. (That's a true story. I went onto their website to find one and tried 4 different locations that turned out to be an auto shop that doesn't partner with Smart Start, two LA insurance centers, and a local DMV.)

This is the most unprofessional company ever! You cannot ever get them on the phone. The technician is the most UNFRIENDLY person I’ve ever come across. Never answer the phone when you need help. So, it’s a big safety issue. For me, I’ve always made it home but for some people this could cause people to be stuck somewhere and put themselves in a very BAD situation! I have an issue at hand and have been on hold for 2 hours! Can’t rely on Smart Start… Find another company.

Ridiculous from the start. Called me at 8 pm to register which is just rude honestly. Scheduled me for an installation at a shop that doesn't do installations, on a day that they're not open but still got an email saying the appointment was all set. Was on the phone for over 2 hours to cancel and get my money back for just wasting my time. Still waiting to get my registration fee back because it's "pending review". I'm not using your service, give me back my money. Ready to call my lawyer.

Smart Start gave me a lockout service. My calibration date is not until 3 weeks from now. I called and they confirmed I should not be in a lockout so they are making me pay to get a code to unlock it and I have to take it to a shop to get it recalibrated to fix it. They will do these kind of things to get extra money. The guy on the phone told me I have to dispute it. This company along with Intoxalock is a scam. Go with lifesaver. - Anthony **

I’ve had nothing but issues and it’s been less than almost 2 weeks. Today From the start of the conversation, the Supervisor Stephen ** at Harrison township location in michigan questioned if I was recording him and I didn’t understand why he came on me with such accusations when I had my device in my hand as a normal person does. I encountered his disposition on the phone prior. He refused to give me the owner's name and his last name to make a complaint because I wanted to speak to someone at a higher level because he couldn’t handle nor was open to listening. He became defensive and dismissive from jump.

The worst experience ever, I am a current customer as of now, I served a full 12 months with a device install in my car, this people waited 6 months to pass by, before sending the information and paperwork letting Penn DOT known about the device install in my car and now they don't even want to answer my calls however they are requesting payments from me, please don't consider this company, look elsewhere, customer service it's the worst. They put you on hold until the call gets disconnected so they don't have to help you, and keep robing your money, nobody I spoken with knows anything, I went to the DMV and they can't do nothing because this company it's the worst...

I wish I can give them ZERO ⭐️. Every time my car needs a blow it turns off. Yes it just shuts off. Be careful people. It’s very unsafe you. Don’t drive with your kids in the car. My car stopped in the middle of the freeway I almost died

The tech that initially setup my device grounded it incorrectly. Every phone call to their customer service is an hour long wait and they aren’t helpful at all. Worst company I’ve ever dealt with. I’ve also had nothing but car trouble since having this device in my car.

Phoned to book an install and got booked in. Stayed on the line and got email to confirm time date location. Turns out Smart Start booked in in a different town 6 hours away from me and wanted me to go there for the install instead of the place I told them and the one that was on the email. Would not recommend.

My lawyer told me to use this device, but unfortunately the Boosted Autos LLC company in Deerfield Beach, Florida that installed my device in Florida turned out to be scam artists. Already during the training, my Smart Start device was not working, but they persuaded me to leave home. After that, when I breathed into the device, it kept showing me - breathe longer... longer... longer ( so I couldn't pass) and I constantly received violations with recall 3.7. Boosted Autos LLC sent a mobile mechanic to my house to fix my car for $ 150 to remove this recall 3.7.

AUTO PAY: I signed up for auto pay on their website. When I tried to cancel auto pay it would not let me but gave me the option to call customer service. I called customer service but no answer only voice mail that requested you leave your number for a callback. There is no option to chat or send an e-mail.

After starting a GoFundMe to assist in buying a car for a woman who fosters children and adopted 5 after hers was totaled by a driver who ran a red light. We contacted as many dealerships as possible in Hamilton county to see who would help in getting her a good deal. Not a single one responded. We came upon Smart Start and the owner was compassionate and worked with us and proved to be the most honest car dealer I ever met. He DEEPLY discounted a minivan that she desperately needed. I will most definitely return there if in the market for a used car again!! Great man with a huge heart of gold. Thank you!

This thing is evil, the installer left wires all loose and ugly, not only that, it's already violated me twice in my first two months. The first within an hour of leaving the installer. The screen turns off and sometimes go static you don't know what going on with it while you are driving unless you move it around and wait the 2 min to give you status you're sitting in your car up to five minutes waiting to blow and it almost certainly always makes you blow twice while it resets. I read the instructions and watched the video. I understand how it has to "heat up"... It's terrible and ruining my life. I don't even want to use the car anymore.

Immediately answer and get you with a program advisor just to put you on hold if you try to cancel the service. They charge $40 before any goods or services rendered and DO NOT want to reimburse apparently.

Worst customer service. They say with Auto Pay you pay less but actually charge me more than the store. Also, they claim they don't charge for calibration but three months later told the store to stop charging me. Hopefully, this can help somebody. My mechanic that deals with this informed me Intoxilock is the better company to go with. The device is harder to blow into, but if you need help you can get it. Smartstart is taking advantage of people in vulnerable situations, and I'm just turned off that in my life if I could rip this thing out and go with another I totally would! Shame on you Smart Start. And now I got this off my chest. I will now wait 2 hours on hold with you guys again for you to hang up in my face.

This was the worst decision I have made in contracting with a company. The customer service is nonexistent, the local agent does not get back to you for weeks. The system tries to take $35 at every turn for no reason. Use any other provider. I wish I could get out. Worse than a bad marriage.

This is without a doubt the worst customer experience I’ve had in my life. I understand that nobody would be happy about having a breathalyzer in their car but SmartStart Canada makes the process even more difficult. The first issue was trying to claim a fee after receiving a charge on their faulty system. While I was driving, my device had not been working properly (faulty cord causing it to be turned off) and I received a rolling violation, meaning I didn’t blow into it when I received a random test. This resulted in a charge for $80. I asked the mechanic why the charge, and explained what my device was doing (he fixed it) and if he could take the charge off. He said I would have to make a claim to smartstart and there’s nothing he could do. You can probably guess that I called them, they said I have to go to the claim form, I filled that out, never got reimbursed or contacted. I decided the $80 wasn’t worth wasting my time.

I’ve had Smart Start in my vehicle for a little over 2 years and it seems like every time I go in there’s a new charge or some sort of late fee when I make it a point to go in at least 2 days earlier than my deadline. I’ve tried multiple times to contact someone and I either get left on hold for HOURS at a time or they hang up on me! If you need an ignition interlock on your vehicle DO NOT use smart start! Horrible customer service and they will take you for all you’re worth.

I don't even know how to begin! I had it installed, the shop did not give me instructions. I had a video to watch. I finally got it started. Drove home. Could not get it started for 4 days. I was on the phone for hours a day. I have it towed to the shop. The mechanic calls me, tells me I have to go on the app and download a picture. I could not figure it out. I call Smart Start. They tell me mechanic should have downloaded the picture. So Smart Start and I are trying to call the mechanic. No answer, no message. Set up finally 5 hours later. He admitted he was wrong. Ever since I am having problems. I can't start it! This is a scam!

Extremely poor service, greatly over priced, the company takes advantage of customers, it is not held accountable by sentencing entities. in Colorado the web sites many venders that do not exist. Their website does not work well, is very time consuming as well. They price gouge.

Stay away from SmartStart and go with any other business. I told them specifically several times what kind of vehicle I have and they repeatedly told me their system is compatible with my vehicle. It is definitely not compatible. My vehicle has shut off 3 times in the last 1.5 years of having this installed. I'd had to wait for the machine to reboot itself while stuck at a red light -- cars honking, going around me, flipping me off. The third time being this past February while in stand still traffic on I-4. It seems to be when my car rolls over into gas saving mode when stopped and a test comes in. But "it's 100% compatible" Very dangerous on highways!!!

This is most horrible experience I ever had with a company. The customer service is ridiculous. They are horrible horrible horrible horrible. Luckily I only had to have a device installed for 4 months but they tried to charge me for a month after my ignition interlock was removed and my license was reinstated. They tried to charge me another $150 out of the blue. Luckily I I had kept proof that I was paid in full. Do not go to this company. Whatever you do do not go with Smart Start. If you get a DUI and you need an interlock go anywhere else. If I could give this a zero star I would. I don't even know how they're in business. It takes two, three hours to get a hold of someone and then they are rude to you. One time I waited for 2 hours for them to reply to a text message and they told me to call the number. Well the number told me to text message. I swear whatever you do run away from this company. Run far away.

Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. SMARTSTART is the absolute WORST company when it comes to customer service and even being able to talk to someone on the phone. I submitted 3 separate trouble tickets and did not hear back for over three weeks. Four times of trying to call them, I spent 90 minutes waiting one time, 50 minutes waiting another and then the other 2 times I couldn't talk to anyone and after all that waiting they told me they cannot send a tech to Rocky Ford to REMOVE the device from my broken down car. So their FIX was I needed to get my vehicle to Pueblo to have the device removed at Five Star Auto Sales and Service, LLC 5 Star Auto in Pueblo OR face two years in jail for removing it myself.

Keep away. Once they get you in their system they will not respond to you. I was told there was no charge for final calibration of device. The tech charged me and then told me to call the 1-800 number for a refund. Smart Start said he was wrong. Warning. Find a reputable company if you can. They all seem to be bad!!

This company is awful. They will sometimes give you incorrect information that can lead to you violating and having to keep your interlock device on for more months. They are not helpful. They have so few customer service agents. Their equipment is old and cruddy. They are just preying on people who get DUIs because they can. Terrible.

!!!WARNING!!! DO NOT bring your business, time, money, anything here. This company is the absolute worst. After all their random fees and lock outs good luck even getting anyone to talk to and if you do after an hour of hold music you will be transferred only to have your call lost and try again. I've had so many problems through the YEARS I'VE BEEN LOCKED IN THIS HORRIBLE COMPANY. As if having an interlock wasn't enough. Please, please go anywhere else and save your money and time.

Smart Start did not send my information to the secretary of state after my BAIID installation. I received a letter in the mail from the Secretary of State saying that my permit to drive will be canceled in 10 days if I don't have a BAIID installed. I got the BAIID installed on April 26th, 5 weeks later, I get this warning letter. When I finally get through to a real person on the phone that I waited on hold for over 1.5 hours to talk to, they transfer my call to someone else and that wait time was over 2 hours. I plan on getting my lawyer involved at this point

Stay away if you like starting your car and not paying a $35 fee for absolutely nothing. This company is money hungry and is altering their contract for a service fee every 3 months. They have already tried to tack on another 1 1/2 years for me charging my battery. Thankfully DMV fixed that. If you try and contact them and are lucky to get a human they will just hang up on you unless you are paying a bill. Stay away

Never have I dealt with a more incompetent, unprofessional company. Customer service is non existent. Our car was t-boned and we needed the device removed. It took seven weeks of phone calls, emails, verified letters, and finally getting the State of Florida involved to get the device removed so the car could be junked. They ran up a $1900 tow yard storage fee with their delay. AVOID AND USE ANY OTHER COMPANY!!!

I would not choose this company, you can never get in touch with who you need to talk to, they have restated my program twice. It’s a load of nonsense. The customer service is very poor, the prices keep going up. They.

Customer Service is appalling. If the government can't resolve your issues then this company is the brown noser of interlock services. Also a bit shady considering I was forced a lockout due to their "calendar mishap". But I'm the one at fault for getting to a mechanic that still runs their requirements out of state even though the main mechanic said not to go to that state but it still met their requirements.... but I get blamed because I got serviced in that state even though the lockout happened before my initial set appointment day prior. Not to mention this happened right at my year threshold. Perfect all year and a problem on their end at the very last minute that could cost me my time and money on being legit for the "process."

Terrible several violations for non-related alcohol violations, for just being plain off give me a violation for absolutely nothing. They didn't bother putting a camera in my car for 3 years so there was no accountability on either end.

If I could rate it zero stars I would. Customer service is absolute garbage, you’ll be on hold for an hour just to get a snobby person on the other end who doesn’t care if you resolve your issue or not. Not to mention their systems are always messed up, and now they are saying my $200 payment from last month “isn’t showing up in the system”. Do not do Smart Start, find a different interlock company.

I have not had to jump start my battery once since removing Smart Start device. The charges/fees are ALWAYS changing. It records false readings for pizza then you have to pay extra money to reset it. There is no install/removal price, any shop can charge any price they want to remove it after you pay smart start a "removal fee". This company is criminal by extortion because if you don't pay their fees they turn off your car and you cannot get it removed or restart your car without paying them.

Dario here in Mesa Arizona, went out of his way to get a charge of 85.00 of my account. He knows exactly how the system works, how to install the Smart Start breathalyzer. I suggest using the Mesa Arizona location!!! Thanks, Dario!!!!

For weeks, I've been getting emails from Smart Start for someone with a different name telling her that she needs to schedule her ignition interlock installation. I have replied to these emails, which come directly from a specific customer service agent named Brandon, saying that apparently SmartStart has the wrong email address for this woman, so please check your records. I also left voice mails (no one, but no one, picks up the phone there) on Brandon's direct line explaining the situation. I get a lot of misdirected emails to my very basic gmail address. I ignore most of them, but in this case I was concerned that this woman has been court ordered to have this device installed and she likely needs to get it done within a specific amount of time. No response either from the voice mails or the emails. So, I tried their toll free number, also to no avail.

Where do I start. This is the worst company to go with any type of interlock or portable device. Absolutely horrific customer service. Corrupt. They take your money. Awful. I picked up my device and as soon as I got home I started encountering issues with the device. I have paid over $100 for the device when the monthly fee is $85. I've called the customer support line which they are not open 24/7 which is an issue. They do not try to help. They are rude. They yell at you, hang up on you and do not try to correct the issue. I'm on day 6 trying to correct the issue and still to no avail. Do they want to help? I would definitely recommend staying far away from Smart Start. Absolutely the worst customer service and the worst company to go with. Do not. I advise do not use Smart start.

This company overcharges you for everything from day one. The credit card charges are much higher than quotes and invoices on the account. Numbers literally don't add up. Local shops point fingers to the main number. The main number to the shops. They keep saying to call each other. So it's impossible to even get refunds as they don't pick up phones, don't call back.

Worst customer service experiences I have ever had in my entire life. Nearly impossible to talk to a real person. I have never seen a company work so hard to avoid their paying customers. The general feeling you get from them, if summarized would be “we don’t care”.

Absolutely no one cares whether the device is functioning properly or not. I had a "violation" on my device after I blew into it to initially start my vehicle. I started my truck and everything was fine, the device went off 5 minutes later and registered a violation. One the machine cleared itself and I blew again, I passed. The company is still charging me $80 for the violation and they're telling me the system was in proper working condition. Do yourself a favor and try INTOXALOCK instead.

Constant issues with this company. It takes writing a bad review to have anything even start the process of fixing. I called technical support and they were zero help. I waited 30 minutes to hear a lady say it is my car, there is nothing she can do. I pass my test and the car won't start. The breathalyzer says my battery is at 9.6 but that is a lie. I test my car battery (which I just replaced not even 2 months ago) and it says battery level is at 11.7. I should be able to have it towed and reimbursed for any costs to the Denton location (closest one to me) and have it replaced and installed properly so I don't have any more issues. Instead, I keep getting ignored after waiting hours on the phone and cold transferred to the technical line, which was zero help.

BUY A PORTABLE BREATHALYZER off Amazon and use that before trying to start your car. It is a lifesaver and will help you. Secondly, DO NOT TRY AND BLOW A SECOND TIME after the 5 minutes you get a violation lockout. Wait 4 hours otherwise this will send it to your state and you WILL have to go to counseling, which is more money. Take it from someone who is almost done with this device and has tried and failed a few times. Lockouts suck and you have about 5 days to get it to a shop and pay $75 each time. Other than that, it’s fairly simple and easy. Just don’t drink and buy a portable breathalyzer so you don’t get locked out.

Corrupt, unethical, and unlawful business practices. I know for a fact because they claim I missed 6 tests, but I didn’t even miss 1. So they made me pay cash or threatened to lock my vehicle and then refused a refund even though I had done nothing wrong. USE A DIFFERENT COMPANY. BEWARE!!

Customer service is non existent. When you have an issue or problem. No one will answer. Just an automated system that goes in circles till you leave a number for a call back. Now they just raised my rate $ 25 a month for "operating expenses." What expenses? You can never actually talk to a real person when needed. But it's ok because they claim in my email the $ 25 is only a "modest" increase in cost to me. I will tell as many people as I can about my experience with Smart Start. Hopefully it saves at least one person a headache.

Every time I go since last summer. When they got new management I been paying $500 TO $600 a month. That's about 8 months. No fails or nothing. Then you call them. After being on hold for 3 days they are rude and pissed off at you. They want no explanation or hear you out besides pay me $600. Knowing you only owe $80 a month. CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT. WHO'S UP FOR THIS?

They are a terrible, greedy, corrupt business. They lie to you and screw you over to get more money out of you because you don't have any other choice. The people that work for them don't know anything. Don't believe what they tell you.

Car quit running. Took it to certified dealer and they found cut wires that were cut with sharp knife during installation. Then they ran main wire thru door hinges and it will also fail. Called to file claim and they won't answer phone. Installer referred me corporate office. He also wants me to bring back to correct. Beware.

Wish I could leave ZERO stars. No wonder we can't leave Google reviews for the company. These guys are con artists. They make it VERY DIFFICULT to reach a live representative, and if you do, trust, they CAN'T help. Their janky devices will throw faulty codes that are NOT your fault and you still have to pay... then dispute and wait WEEKS to get reimbursed... Oh wait...I mean you HAVE TO go through the BBB to even get anything resolved. Not joking. My last month with them I was charged a full month of service even though I had the janky device removed during the 72 hour grace period... They unlawfully took my money and I have to wait 6-8 weeks for the refund. DO NOT GO TO THIS COMPANY! DO NOT! LOOK ELSEWHERE!

Same experience as so many I have read... I have had it in my car since october of 2021 and it has been trouble since the beginning almost... missed rolling blows because it will not accept the blow, clock timing out to say missed attempt. I got a violations for nothing, just starting trying to start the car.. Warnings while already driving. Breath longer. I blew in it at least 10 times to day while driving to even get it to register... Have had to have the camera replaced, which they did improperly without a suction cup, just a bit of M3 tape that will not adhere to my windscreen. I asked if I should super glue it on, they said no...Battery drainage enough to stall traffic in downtown austin for long enough for people to want to beat me up cause my car was stranded in the road...

My Son had a devise put in. He died December, and they are impossible to get a hold of. I tried to get the devise removed from his car, And after many attempts to contact them and even tried to have them call me back has fail. I am now sitting and waiting for someone to answer for 1 hour, they said wait time is 30 minutes. Then 19 mins. Then it goes back to 30 mins. Do not call the installer, they will just tell you to call Smart Start. There is no email address. The website is hard to find anything. Do not get Smart Start, unless you want to waste your life away.

On 12/14/2023 I initialized a breath test to start my vehicle. Was completed and started my vehicle and proceeded to drive the mile and a half up the road to get home from my parent's house. Upon entering my parking lot the device signaled a "rolling retest". So I picked up the handheld and submitted my breath test as required. As I've done thousands of times. To my unpleasant surprise it claimed a positive and a violation. It began a two minute countdown to retest and I submitted before being able to turn my vehicle off. It was fine and I turned off my vehicle.

The company schedules appointments after lockout dates and then charges you for missing your lockout date. They refuse to accommodate when a vehicle is immobilized or in the shop. They refuse to communicate with you. They force you to go through robotic call menus instead of just transferring your call themselves, even after you have finally reached an associate after being on hold for hours. They are unhelpful, rude, over-priced, and unethical.

I had a breathalyzer installed by Smart Start. First was lied to by customer service about having it removed. Was told I had to go to MVA but I didn't. Second it took the person six hours to install it even though I was told it would take two hours, third hard to blow. Car cut off multiple times. Had to have my car towed twice. Cost a lot of money. I will never again go to a hole in the wall company again. I feel robbed. I'm with Intoxalock now. Man came to my house. Installed it within an hour and half and easy to blow. Love it.

Very expensive device that don’t work majority of the time. It’s a money grab. Has technical difficulties on daily basis. Extremely rude staff. They don’t adhere to appointments, I had to wait 2 hours until they took my car in. The device loses power regularly and I can’t start the car. I have missed many days of work because my car wouldn’t start. Because the device is faulty. Worst service by far, If you have a choice do not go with Smart Start.

I signed a lease agreement with Smart Start on 09/26/2022. The agreement I signed had the following conditions. $20 AZ State Fee, $100 Removal Fee, $50 Violation Reset, $75 Lockout Fee and if I decide to change vehicles, $75 transfer fee. I declined the $89.99 warranty fee which was optional and was told verbally that the monthly was $40.00 per month. When I went back to reference by contract, that line item was conveniently left blank. When I realized I was being charged incorrectly and being billed for a warranty I clearly declined the contract.

I have been utilizing a Smart Start "BREATHCHECK" portable device that is linked to my smartphone for about 5 weeks. I have encountered several issues in that time. It is supposed to prompt me for random breath checks, which it does. It is also supposed to start a timer after the prompt is sent, which is also does. However, there are occasions where the "timer" expires before I can even get the portable breathalyzer out of my pocket. There are also occasions where the "random phrase" is not recognized, and the test has to be restarted. This is particularly frustrating due to the fact that a person is already up against a time constraint with completing a test.

Do Not! The installers told me after months of problems that all they have are issues with Smart Start. Boy don’t get me started! Non existent customer service after, all the help you want to get it though! Service messages, to then be charged because there wasn’t a service issue. They are top of the line scammers! I’ve been told by the installers to use Interlock. After three months I paid the additional $300 to have smart start removed and interlock put on. Just don’t do it! Infuriating! Is an understatement!

Please please be cautious with Ignition Interlock companies like SmartStart, because predatory companies like this exist industry-wide. However, also please do not choose Smart Start as your interlock provider! The company has no desire to provide a functional service. Their service is really just a money grab from a captive audience. I was unable to start my car for two days, because of their absolute lack of service.

I had my Smart lock installed, and after a year and some months my case we closed I got the approval to have it removed. I went back to have it taken out. Pier was so rude. I told him I was not the person with his rudeness. While I went upfront to pay I was told my bill was only $80 due to Pier. My car was running and I drove home. On Sat the car wouldn’t start. I waited until Monday when I spoke with Edgar (owner). He did come out to my home, and in 5 mins the car started. I said to Edgar, "Pier did something wrong. Didn’t he." Edgar replied he took short cuts installing and uninstalling. I knew something was not right. Edgar stated, "When you get time bring it in and we can check out." He didn’t say, "I just did a quick fix and bring it in as soon as you can."

I have had this device for over 1 year with no issues via an automatic debit monthly payment. This July, Smart Start failed to initiate my auto debit but sent a notice saying it wouldn't go through. Checked with my bank, funds were available and no charge was attempted. I quickly changed my form of payment to a CC to make sure it was paid. Payment posted 07/02 then a subsequent charge was posted on 7/6 so my account now shows delinquent. In August, Smart Start never withdrew a payment so I called and was told my account was in order. In September, my monthly rate was changed and I'm now being charged $21.00 more per month. They also charged me twice, refunded one of these charges which continued my account in a "delinquent" status.

Buyer beware! I am very thorough and ask a lot of questions and still had many unfavorable surprises. Reps are ill-informed. Window for install was $99-249? Pretty vague.. Shops can charge what they want I have 2006 and was charged the top price for install $249. There’s 7% tax in monthly bill…enrollment fee was taxed. Auto pay has no benefits. And the promotional 50% off my first month’s bill is $56.99 which would make my bill $ 114. Only it’s 107.49. I’m on my 4th phone call. The rep said she thinks tax went up … I had it installed for 4 days ago the tax has not gone up.

Been using this device for 5 weeks now. I've never missed a rolling test or blown anything other than a .000%. Took a break to run across the street to get gas and blew into the device to start the car. Got gas and it had me blow into it again (5 min later) normal procedure. Couple min later it says VIOLOCK04day on the handheld display. Called installation place and said I have to bring it back in for another calibration even though I just calibrated it last week $93.00. Go back today and they claim I missed a rolling test. (I know my device never beeped during that time.) I was told unless I paid the $80 additional dollars I would be locked out and car wouldn't start.

Several horrible experiences with this company. First they are not the cheapest as claimed by their aggressive sale reps. They take pride in the fact they don’t charge for calibration. Why would they? Their monthly fee is close to $100. Plus, $80 start up. Their removal fee is $75 and an additional $45 administrative fee which they don’t show you on the fee list you sign. I paid an extra $30 monthly by not selecting a different company, believing that this one would be better because it’s bigger.

This company states no hidden fees, but there are many. The price changes from month to month, they bill you for months you don’t use their service. Customer service is no help IF they answer the phone.

Hello, I have been fighting with this box/company forever now. This system is flawed and kills batteries. Two tow truck drivers who have had to help me the last 4 times showed me this box has killed my battery and I was charged $45 every single time. This flaw is what is causing the dead batteries. My particular box went into its own loop and was erroring and from that I missed an appointment and was forced again to pay for yet another unlock code and missed appointment fee. I was told on the phone by customer service that when I arrived finally to my second appointment altering having the box force me to miss my first that my amount owing to drive away would be maximum $160.

After having this device installed my vehicle has been at a diesel shop for over 2 weeks. Initially, I told Anne when I picked up my truck the check engine light is on and the ETC warning light is red and flashing. She replied "Oh that’s fine, it should turn off, you may need to cycle the truck on and off a few times." ** and a I don’t care answer. Immediately after leaving the house/shop the truck had no throttle response and could not maintain speed. I messaged Anne and told her the truck was not drivable and sent a picture of the warning lights. No response at all. Later on, I was told the MVD had no record of the device even being installed. Again I reached out to Anne asking for help. Again no response.

When I first got my blow box installed, the lady had no idea what she was doing, it did not work and I thought it was just my car not starting for the longest time, for some reason my blow box only worked between 4pm and 8am the next day and in between my car wouldn’t even turn on, I had to take it too a shop 3hr away in Edmonton Alberta and they said she wired it wrong, also I’m getting my blow box taken out this month, and 2 months ago they told me I would not be charged for a unlock code to get my car to the place because it was passed my recalibration appt and I also wouldn’t have to get it recalibrated for the month because it was getting taken out 6 days after the fact, but I call because I wanted to change the location of the recalibration 7 days before and they now tell me their policies have magically changed and I would be charged for everything and have to get it recalibrated and pay for all of it??? Are you serious?

The Interlock system itself is average I did have trouble with a handset but they did replace it right away. My problem with them is the costs involved and the fact that their website shows that you can purchase an extension for your interlock to not lock you out but in fact it's not an extension just away for them to take your money when you file a report about it they tell you that the extensions are not too extend the calibration of your Interlock system. But the website does not State anywhere that it's not for calibration system. So you think that you have an extension when you indeed get locked out and you have to pay the lockout service fee as well as the same months service charge. So my bill that is normally $74.95 turned into $225. Buyer beware when you look at their website they are very unclear and will rob you of your money regretfully the states require you to have interlock for a certain period and they know this and they take full advantage of it.

Every month or so the monthly price increases. Today June 30th 2023 I get there and now its price has gone up again. Just 2 months ago it went from 74.00 to 79.99 and said it was for taxes. Now today, I had to pay 85.59. This is absolutely a rip off... Machines half work freeze up, reads missed test, or not blowing long enough. I thought their prices were better than the other place but I'm considering taking this to court for early removal or another company.

I was required to install a Smart Start ignition interlock device as part of my DUI sentence. I was initially excited to get the device, as I thought it would be a next step towards license restoration. However, I was quickly disappointed with the device. The first problem I had with the device was that it was outdated. The device was slow and clunky, and it often froze up. One time, while I was driving, the device froze and started flashing and beeping. This caused me to panic, and I almost caused an accident.

After thoroughly interacting with SmartStart, I regret to inform readers that my experience with this company warrants a one-star rating. I cannot recommend this company to anyone in need of their services. First and foremost, customer service is abysmal. I have never dealt with such incompetence. Their product becomes useless at the end of each month and goes into service lockdown. Despite paying a monthly leasing fee for the device on time, it refuses to function as it should. It is disheartening to think that a product intended to serve a crucial function can be this unreliable.

This device has repeatedly triggered a test after the vehicle has turned off. I have a push start so I am unsure if this is part of the problem or if it's due to the installation, but it has attempted to violate me for no reason whatsoever on multiple occasions. I have documentation of this defect within the product and will be looking into finding an attorney who is willing to launch a class action lawsuit against this company for misrepresentation of their product in conjunction with their vendors.

When you are having a rolling retest it should give you 6 minutes to get it. After one blow it shows missed test. I've had it recalibrated and contacted customer service with no positive results. So I get a lockout and have to go in early and pay even more money. Do not use!!!

Don't ask for help, don't ask for an extension of your cal dates, don't for ask for anything period. They won't help you. Even getting thru to a person takes FOREVER. Not kidding you, go somewhere else.

4 months ago I had a device installed in my car and wasn't supposed to. Instead of helping me they cont. Making me pay the fee. Kimberly from Ten-sc collections hung up on me 2 times and was trying to charge me another 232$ to remove it. So I took the device off myself and gave it to the place I got it from ATV Augusta. Matt the CEO did not like that. He was called on 12-9 at 8:38 am from atv augusta to let him know I was returning his device. He raised his voice, was rude and disrespectful. (Karma will get him and Kim.) I have the conversation recorded on my phone and everyone at atv augusta heard too. If these are the type of people you're hiring maybe you need higher standards. Everyone should be treated fair and with respect.

I would like to give 0 stars. Absolutely the worst customer service and scammers. Nothing but problems since day one... Takes hours to get ahold of someone for help. Faulty devices. Calibration is 70+ miles away

Like most customer service businesses, Smart Start is a function of the people who help you. Derrick in Grand Junction, CO is wonderful. Knowledgeable and waaay helpful! If I get in trouble like this again, I will choose Smart Start.

I have really bad asthma. I cannot blow longer at times when it tells me to. I just got this calibrated and almost got locked out of it. Blew into it 20x. Right at 20sec. It let me pass. My lungs hurt! There’s times I barely blow into it and it lets me pass. I nearly passed out. When I drive at night the bright green light is very distracting. I don’t text and drive, this thing is almost like a distracting phone, you have to multitask. You have to read why it’s not letting you pass. You have to wait for a count down. Not sure why this can’t be easier! Also if you have a Volkswagen your EPC light will turn ON. Don’t waste $180 getting it diagnosed. It’s the device.

Their service center is horrible. Takes approximately 90 minutes by phone to get a person. If a person can not help you and they have to forward your call your 90 minutes starts over. This was not a one-time event for me. It was the norm.

When calling the number provided, you’re waiting for a live person for over an hour. When you use the texting option, the staff are BEYOND rude. I recently bought a new car and had to wait 2 weeks just to have them switch the device over to my new vehicle. Once they switched it over, the device began to malfunction and prompt me to blow WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. I have reached out to SmartStart NUMEROUS times and NO ONE has been helpful yet! I’m so over it. On top of the stress you are already going through this company only makes it 10 times WORSE. If I could do it all over again, I would NOT choose or recommend this device or company. Save yourself the trouble and don’t add to it by wasting your time or money with Smart Start!

I am moving to state where my current provider does not serve. Booked an appointment with Smart Start, it was never completed so the shop did not have the right equipment. I have 72 hours for a new install or there would be an extension. I had to scramble to find another company, just added stress to my life. DO NOT USE!!!

This company is horrible. All a scam. Can never get a hold of anyone. Device will lock you out for no reason. And then they want to charge you for it. Lost a great job because I was in another state working got locked out over weekend. Could not get a hold of anyone. Been sitting here on a Monday and still 2 hours later still can’t get a hold of anyone!

Horrible company, not trustworthy. It is a scam. I have had nothing but trouble. I can not believe that the court system & DMV allow this to go on. I have been ready for my Analyser to be removed for 3 months now. You can not get a hold of anyone. Hang ups constantly, never speaking to a person that knows what's going on. Have not seen any of my charges reimbursed. In the thousand dollar area. Please do not use Smart Start. Will give you Medical Symptoms, Stress & Anxiety. Will make you feel trapped.

They are none too happy to get you signed up but then they treat you horribly. Never return calls or emails. They just want to text with you then hide behind their phone. If you call them out for lying they stop responding. Worst of all once you have approval to have your device removed they disappear continuing to stall the process so you have to keep paying them. Expect to pay a additional 1-2 months of service than you have to. How cold hearted when they know their customers already have huge financial issues with all the other expenses.

First of all. They will answer you immediately upon signing up. Once you are a client of theirs, GOOD LUCK getting them on the phone when their device fails. I have three instances: 1st - was software froze the device and the only way to get this situated was let the battery die. But guess what, YOU ARE HELD ACCOUNTABLE STILL. 2nd Issue - Was the same as the 1st. 3rd Issue - I made a payment within my count-down hours and hours prior to my lockout. Guess what? It locked me out and here is why I have decided to write a review on every single site I can cause this is completely UNACCEPTABLE. Especially when you are messing with people's lives and potential violations to their parole officers. Not only did I make a payment hours before the lockout.

No phone call back nothing?!?! It’s been a month?!?? I called to reschedule the appt as we are stuck in BC and I called at 842 am (BC time) and the appt was at 9:15 am. Your client care (called back at 0910 (BC) time and wants to charge me a cancelation fee. You ** kidding me!!! After last place told me about you guys being a money grab I'm actually starting to believe it because the box was you guys' fault that we kept having to pay to get it recalibrated because. Wasn’t installed properly installed and then this 20 min shy of 24 hr Alberta time and we get no refund back from all the money we spent in past that it wasn’t our fault and what about the extra few months added on because of it?!?! Bunch of money grab!!!

Smart Start is the worst company, of any type, to work with. Device worked 50% of time. I had to replace unit 3 times. Closest Service center was 30 miles away. I had to have vehicle towed to service center twice at my expense although the reason for towing was their fault. Calling main company is a nightmare. Hold times are up to 90 minutes. Once I was on hold for 90 minutes and call was terminated. Can take up to ten (10) prompts before speaking with human being. I am very hard of hearing and would miss "blows" resulting in violations. All they could do was install flashing light which was difficult to see and I had to take my eyes off road to see it. I requested a vibrating device that I could place in my lap but was told they did not offer that feature.

The guy who did my installation and does my monthly maintenance is the rudest person I’ve ever dealt with. He actually yelled at me for paying online instead of paying at the shop one month. He never smiles, he acts like he’s better than you, and he’s always right, or he thinks he is. I’ve been dealing with this for over a year and decided after I was locked out of my car at the airport in Atlanta from being gone two weeks, I was switching companies. Well so I thought. I received permission to have the device taken out 3 weeks ago and nothing. I even called last week and the lady told me there was no record of the approval letter written from the state.

Can't imagine how this company stays in business. Every single interaction with these people has been a disaster, and their only response is...no response. They installed a defective device on my stepdaughter's vehicle that resulted in false reports to the DMV and an unwarranted extension of the fine period - and a 50% increase in the fees Smart Start collected. When the compliance period was complete, they failed to file the paperwork with the DMV, despite sending us an email saying they did. There is no ability to escalate a discussion to a supervisor, and attempts to file a complaint are ignored. Absolutely THE WORST business I've ever had the displeasure to deal with.

The worst company.. do not consider them. I’ve had the device in my car for only 3 weeks and have had nothing but problems which have cost me more money. Their systems is old and outdated and does not work most of the time. When It fails they make you tow your car at your expense and then make you pay to fix It. So it’s not affordable. Their reps are Rude and unhelpful. Save yourself a big headache and go to another company. Better to pay a little more and not get stuck with hidden fees because of defective equipment.

2010 Camaro SS. Had device installed. Worked to get my car home, then would not work next day (hum harder 73 times in a row)... Got it in after calling and having them be no help. Service provider tried it wouldn't work so he installed new device.... car died on way home. My hubby is a mechanic... he pulled out the "snap-on" (no cheapy) code reader and it has fried the computer... Needless to say can't drive my car and get to pay for an extremely expensive part. Thank god labor isn't much ... now I'm not sure what to do. I don't want to keep frying vehicles so I guess I don't drive... pretty counter intuitive.

I've had an IID from Smart Start for over a year without incident. My vehicle was in an accident and has now been in the shop for over 30 days. I can not get to a live representative who can Give me any pertinent information. I just get endlessly transferred. I called their collections department and someone answered on the FIRST ring! Shocking. I was told I owe an extra $54 now for not bringing the car in on my service date... my car that is in the shop, that I can not drive. Hmmmmm. Oh and I should have filed an incident report? First I've heard of this. This is the absolute worst company I have dealt with. It's terrifying to have your life in the hands of this company.

I have had my ID installed for 4 out of the 7 years required now. First year and second year weren't too bad. The 3rd and 4th years my device starts malfunctioning, recording false positives, violating on its own with it not being touched, and randomly it will beep, get stuck, won't stop beeping or let me take the test, and causing me more problems than it's worth. Customer Service is rude, unfriendly, treats you inhumane because you have the device and it takes 2+ hrs to actually speak with someone if your device is already installed. If you fail a test (in case of a contaminant) but still pass with the following blow, you will pay $53 per service visit. This is additional to the monthly or bi-monthly service charge. And just hope you live in a town that has a service center open more than one day a week. Actually went to my monthly appt. And nobody was there.

If you’re in the unfortunate situation to where you have to install an interlock device ABSOLUTELY DO NOT USE THIS COMPANY! They overcharge you and give you ** excuses making you over pay. DO NOT USE!

Smart Start is the worst company to go to if you need a IID system installed in your vehicle. Connecticut Dmv cleared all the fake violations they gave me but smart start never refunded the money owed to me. I've been calling them well over a month and they say they would call me back but never do. Don't trust smart start becuse they are cheats and liars.

As part of my sons plea deal he agreed to have the blow device in his car for one year. It has now been two years that it has been on. When we called many times, we can never actually talk to a person. EVER. When we called the DMV we were told that it was reported that the device was removed. Transferred and had been tampered with. All of which was not true.

If you are able to connect with someone they are helpful and nice but in emergencies or a need to speak with someone...2 hour waits are off the wall and reflect poorly on the company! I guess they have a captive audience so timely responses to phone calls means nothing!

I have been using Smart Start for over a year. 11 months in I was pulled over, arrested, charged with a misdemeanor and car impounded. Smart start never sent in my monthly reports even though I never missed an appointment or payment. A company representative reached out to me to tell me he'd take care of it. I ask, "Define take care of it." He gives me his email and tells me to send him receipts etc. I sent him my invoice from the city I had to pay to give my car back and the tow truck and my attorney invoice. A month has passed me. I have not heard any response from the company. Like I said I already had to pay my attorney as I have already one court date and at least one future one. If you decide to use this company, you better hope to have no issues, because if you do, good luck trying to reach someone in customer service who cares or can actually do something.

I signed up back in September with Smart Start over the phone and the representative collected ALL my information. Lo and behold each time I would call in and the system asked me for my last 4 of ss, date of birth and so forth, it would state it did not recognize my information. After speaking to a very nice and knowledgeable representative she re-entered my information.