Cold Weather Information – January 4, 2025
Smart Start Ignition Interlock Units are designed for use in Minnesota’s winters. However, with the extreme Cold Weather expected over the next few days we have some tips to ensure that your Ignition Interlock is properly taken care of.
Please read these recommendations and do what you can to follow them:
1. Remove the Head Unit and Bring Inside
To remove, there is a release clip where the curly cord meets the head unit. Push down on the release clip and gently pull the cord out. Do not attempt to force or pull hard on the cord.
The Head Unit on the Smart Start Ignition Interlock is removable and should be taken off and brought inside anytime that you are going to be away from your vehicle, and the weather is cold. The Head Unit should be stored in a warm and dry place.
2. Using a Trickle Charger, Battery Booster or Jump Starting your Vehicle
If the cold weather is affecting your battery, and you need to use one of the above-methods to get extra power to your battery, please remove the Head Unit to the Interlock prior to attaching these power sources.
When you are ready to attempt to start the vehicle, remove external power sources, and you can reattach the Head Unit to the vehicle.
3. Care of the Curly Cord
The Curly Cord and the wires that it contains can become brittle in the extreme cold.
Do not pull on the curly cord when it has been exposed to the cold for a significant period of time. Until the cord has had an opportunity to warm up in a running vehicle, do not stretch the curly cord at all.
4. Store your Vehicle in a Heated Garage.
Obviously, that is not an option for everyone. But, to the extent possible, a heated garage will avoid the serious cold and lessen any possible impact that the cold weather can have on the Interlock Unit.
Leaving your vehicle outside will not harm the interlock, but can result in longer startup times.
Other questions can be answered here: https://smartstartmn.com/support/faqs/
Thanks
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