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Guardian Interlock earns low marks from customers for its ignition interlock devices. Dive into real user feedback on fees, service, and reliability, plus our expert picks for personal breathalyzers like the BACtrack S80 to stay safe proactively. Compare options and find better value today.
Quick Pick
BACtrack S80 Breathalyzer
Professional-grade accuracy with DOT & NHTSA approval. Perfect for personal monitoring to avoid IID mandates. Check current price.
Ignition interlock devices (IIDs), often called car breathalyzers, are court-mandated tools for drivers post-DUI or DWI convictions. Guardian Interlock Systems provides installation, monitoring, and maintenance across multiple states, boasting over 20 years in the industry. However, customer feedback paints a challenging picture, with average ratings hovering around 1.3 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews. Common gripes include surprise fees, unreliable service, and device glitches.
In this guide, we'll break down real customer experiences, weigh pros and cons, and highlight superior personal breathalyzer alternatives. These portable testers empower proactive monitoring without the hassle of full IID installations. Let's get into the details.
Guardian Interlock handles everything from device setup to monthly calibrations and final removal. Devices require a breath sample to start the vehicle, locking out if alcohol exceeds limits (typically 0.02-0.05 BAC).
A small minority praise quick installations (under 1 hour) and helpful local techs. One user noted, "Tech was on time and explained everything clearly—no major issues over 6 months."
Pros of Guardian Interlock:
Cons of Guardian Interlock:
If mandated to use an IID, shop around providers—state laws often allow choices. For prevention, personal breathalyzers offer freedom.
Personal devices like those below provide on-demand testing without vehicle integration. Here's how they stack up against Guardian-style IIDs:
| Feature | BACtrack S80 (/p/bactrack-s80-breathalyzer-review-unmatched-accuracy-for-2024) | 2024 Upgrade Breathalyzer (/p/hoysg-2024-upgrade-breathalyzer-review-accurate-budget-option) | Guardian Interlock IID (Typical) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Professional-grade, FDA-cleared, ±0.005% BAC | Semiconductor sensor, ±0.01% BAC | Fuel cell sensor, ±0.01% BAC |
| Approval | DOT/NHTSA approved | Personal use only | Court-approved |
| Portability | Handheld, 4 oz | Compact, keychain-sized | Vehicle-installed |
| Test Time | 10 seconds | 5 seconds | 5-10 seconds |
| Cost | $150 one-time | $25 one-time | $70-120/month + fees |
| Battery Life | 1,000+ tests | 300+ tests | Vehicle-powered |
| Customer Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.3/5 | 1.3/5 |
| Best For | Pro monitoring, post-DUI prevention | Budget daily checks | Court mandates |
Our Top Pick: The BACtrack S80 Breathalyzer outperforms budget IIDs in accuracy and convenience. See on our review page.
IIDs like Guardian's are restrictive—constant monitoring, rolling retests, and data uploads. Personal units give control:
Pros:
Cons:
Ideal for rebuilding habits safely. Grab the BACtrack S80 now.
Pros:
**Cons:**n
Great starter option. Check current price.
Expect $2,500-4,000 yearly for Guardian-like services: $100 install, $80/month lease, $60 calibrations, $50 violations. States like California or Texas mandate 3-12 months minimum.
Pro Tip: Voluntary personal testing reduces recidivism risk by 50% (per NHTSA studies). Pair with ride-sharing apps for zero-risk nights out.
Enhance your ride with these guides:
Recommended Bundle: Start with the BACtrack S80 for peace of mind.
An IID is a breathalyzer wired into your car's ignition, preventing starts above a set BAC limit. Required post-DUI in most states.
With a 1.3/5 average from 380+ users, complaints dominate on fees and service, though some report smooth experiences.
Personal breathalyzers like the BACtrack S80 offer accurate, hassle-free testing without installation.
Top models like BACtrack achieve ±0.005% BAC, rivaling pro IIDs. Always wait 15 minutes post-drink for validity.
Hardship appeals or first-offense programs sometimes waive them. Use personal testers to demonstrate responsibility.
$70-150/month plus fees, far exceeding one-time personal device purchases ($25-200).
Stay safe on the roads—proactive tools beat mandates every time.
