Breath Lock on Car: How It Works, Benefits, Cost, and Installation

When it comes to securing your vehicle, there are many options available on the market. From alarms to GPS tracking devices, car owners have a variety of ways to protect their vehicles from theft. One increasingly popular option is the breath lock on car, also known as a breathalyzer ignition interlock device. This device requires the driver to breathe into it before starting the car, and if alcohol is detected, the car will not start. In this article, we will delve into the details of how the breath lock on car works, its benefits, cost, installation process, and more. We will also provide a comparison of the top brands, maintenance tips, and real-world examples to support our findings. Read on to learn more about this innovative vehicle security measure.

How It Works

The breath lock on car works by measuring the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of the driver through their breath. The device is connected to the car's ignition and requires the driver to blow into it before starting the car. If the BAC is above a certain limit, typically 0.02%, the car will not start. This is a safety measure to prevent drunk driving and ensure the safety of both the driver and others on the road.

Symptoms of Intoxication Detected

The breath lock on car measures the BAC through a small sensor that detects the amount of alcohol in the breath. If the BAC is above the set limit, the device will prevent the car from starting. Some common symptoms of intoxication that may trigger the device include:

• Slurred speech
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Strong smell of alcohol
• Impaired motor skills
• Poor coordination

Benefits of a Breath Lock on Car

There are numerous benefits to installing a breath lock on car, both for the driver and society as a whole. Some of the main benefits include:

• Preventing drunk driving accidents: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk driving claimed the lives of 10,142 people in 2019 alone. Breath locks on cars can greatly reduce the risk of these accidents by preventing intoxicated drivers from getting behind the wheel.
• Legal compliance: In many states, a breath lock on car is a mandatory requirement for individuals with a DUI conviction. Installing the device can help individuals comply with their legal obligations and avoid further consequences.
• Lower insurance rates: Some insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who have a breath lock on their car. This is because the device greatly reduces the risk of accidents and shows the driver's commitment to safe driving.
• Peace of mind: Knowing that your car is protected from drunk driving incidents can bring peace of mind to both the driver and their loved ones.

Cost of a Breath Lock on Car

The cost of a breath lock on car can vary depending on several factors, such as the brand, features, and installation fees. On average, the price can range from $50 to $200 for the device itself, and an additional $50 to $150 for installation. Some states offer financial assistance for low-income individuals, and some insurance companies may cover part or all of the cost. It is important to research and compare prices from different brands and installation services to find the best fit for your budget.

Best Brands

There are many brands that offer breath locks on cars, each with its own features and price points. Some of the top brands include:

Brand	Features	Price Range
Intoxalock	Camera for facial recognition, GPS tracking, remote lockout capability	$50-$200 for device, $50-$150 for installation
Smart Start	Camera for facial recognition, GPS tracking, remote lockout capability	$50-$200 for device, $50-$150 for installation
Guardian Interlock	Camera for facial recognition, GPS tracking, remote lockout capability	$50-$200 for device, $50-$150 for installation

It is important to research and compare features, prices, and customer reviews before choosing a brand for your breath lock on car.

Installation Process

The installation process for a breath lock on car can vary depending on the brand and the specific features of the device. In general, the process involves the following steps:

• Choosing a brand and purchasing the device.
• Scheduling an installation appointment with a certified service provider.
• Bringing your car to the installation location.
• Having the device installed and calibrated according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Training on how to use the device properly and what to do in case of any issues.

The installation process typically takes 1-2 hours, and the device will be ready to use immediately after installation.

Comparison with Other Security Measures

While breath locks on cars have gained popularity in recent years, there are other security measures available for vehicle owners. Let's take a look at how a breath lock on car compares to other security measures in terms of effectiveness and cost.

Alarm System

An alarm system is a common security measure for vehicles that detects and alerts the owner of any unauthorized entry or attempted theft. While an alarm system can be effective in deterring thieves, it does not prevent the car from being physically driven away. It also does not address the issue of drunk driving. The cost of an alarm system can range from $50 to $200, not including installation fees.

GPS Tracking Device

A GPS tracking device is another popular security measure for vehicles, allowing owners to track the location of their car in real-time. However, it does not prevent the car from being stolen or the driver from operating it while intoxicated. The cost of a GPS tracking device can range from $50 to $200, not including installation fees.

Breath Lock on Car

As we have discussed, a breath lock on car is a highly effective security measure for preventing drunk driving and ensuring the safety of the driver and others on the road. It also complies with legal requirements in many states and can result in lower insurance rates. While the cost may be higher than other security measures, the benefits and effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment for vehicle owners.

Maintenance Tips

In order to ensure the proper functioning of a breath lock on car, it is important to follow the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations. Some general tips to keep in mind include:

• Do not attempt to tamper with or remove the device.
• Keep the device clean and free of debris.
• Do not use any products such as mouthwash or alcohol-based hand sanitizer before using the device.
• Regularly bring the car to a certified service provider for calibration and maintenance.

Following these tips can help maintain the accuracy and reliability of the device and ensure it continues to function properly.

Real-World Examples

To further demonstrate the effectiveness of a breath lock on car, let's take a look at some real-world examples.

Example 1: John's Story

John was convicted of a DUI and was required to have a breath lock on his car as part of his probation. At first, he was hesitant about the cost and inconvenience of the device, but after using it for a few months, he realized the benefits. Not only did it help him comply with his legal requirements, but it also gave him peace of mind knowing that he could not accidentally drive while intoxicated. John's insurance company also offered him a discount for having the device installed on his car.

Example 2: Maria's Story

Maria's teenage son recently got his driver's license, and she was concerned about the risk of him driving while under the influence. She decided to install a breath lock on her son's car as a precautionary measure. Maria's son initially resisted, but after realizing the potential consequences of drunk driving, he understood the importance of the device. Maria now feels more at ease knowing that her son's car is equipped with a breath lock.