Not So Smart Start – Ignition Interlock

Fuel cell technology used in many ignition interlock devices is far from being perfect or “smart.” There are all kinds of things that can lead to false positives resulting in the vehicle failing to start.

Here are just a few of the things can lead to false positives:

1. Spicy Foods – Some foods can lead to a false positive because it can create methane gas in in the stomach. (Hydrochloric acid (HCL) in the stomach mixed with food). The sensor detects the hydrocarbons and may result in a false positive.

2. Mouthwash – Mouthwash that contains alcohol definitely can cause a false positive indicating ingested alcohol. The false positive could get as high as .25! It usually takes about 15 minutes for the mouth alcohol to dissipate enough to start the vehicle.

3. Yeast and Sugar – Foods consumed at breakfast like doughnuts can result in a low false positive for alcohol.

4. Cleaning Products – Cleaning products that contain alcohol can result in a false positive. For example, using a degreaser and inhaling the fumes and getting them on the hands can cause a false positive. It is advisable to wear gloves if using products like this before starting a vehicle.

In other words, the technology is far from creating a “smart start” of the automobile.