How Do Car Breathalyzers Work?
đźš— What Is a Car Breathalyzer?
A car breathalyzer—officially known as an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)—is a small gadget installed in your vehicle. You need to blow into it before starting the engine, and it prevents the car from starting if your Breath Alcohol Concentration (BrAC) is above a preset limit (usually ~0.02 g/dL) (NHTSA).
⚙️ How does a Car Breathalyzer Work?
Data Monitoring: The device logs every test, including passes, fails, attempts to tamper, and retest reminders. This data is reviewed by courts or state authorities
Start-Up Check: You blow into the IID before the engine starts. If your BrAC is high, the car won’t start .
Rolling Retests: While driving, the IID may require random retests to ensure you haven’t had a drink after starting the car (DMV).
📉 Why are Car Breathalyzers Used?
IIDs work well. According to the CDC, installing an IID reduces repeat DWI offenses by about 70% while installed, and can cut alcohol-impaired fatal crashes by 20‑26% in states with strict IID laws.
🏛️ Who Needs A Car Breathalyzer?
Some states mandate IIDs for first-time offenders with high BAC levels, or all repeat offenders
If you’ve had a DUI or refused a breathalyzer, many states require an IID before you can get your license back dmv.alaska.gov.
đź’µ How Much Does a Car Breathalyzer Cost?
The cost of a car breathalyzer can vary, but expect to pay unexpected fees throughout the process, such as the following:
- Installation: $70–150
- Monthly Fees: $60–90 (covers monitoring & calibration)
- Removal Fee: $50–100
Many states offer discounts for low-income drivers. Overall, IIDs typically cost about $3–4 per day.
đźš« Is It Possible to Cheat a Breathalyzer?
Modern IIDs use fuel-cell sensors (specific to alcohol), anti-tampering mechanisms, cameras, and even GPS in some states. Trying to bypass it—like letting someone else blow into it—typically triggers alarms and gets flagged.
âś… How can I Prevent Getting a Breathalyzer?
An Ignition Interlock Device is used to help drivers comply with license reinstatement rules- to avoid the costly fines and hassle of a car breathalyzer, contact Attorney Mark Mandell today to build your case and take a stand.