As a typical ignition interlock system the Interceptor V3 requires a breath sample before the vehicle will start. If the breath sample contains a blood alcohol content (BAC) above a set level the car will not start for a given amount of time. In addition, the V3 requires a rolling retest during the operation of the vehicle. This is a mechanism designed to prevent someone other than the driver from providing the original breath sample. However, for safety reasons the V3 will not shut the car off while it is in motion. Instead if a rolling retest is failed then the car will sound an alarm, flash lights, or repeatedly honk the horn.

Another feature that is available on the Interceptor v3 that ensures the person who blows into the device is also the driver is the Infrared Positive Driver Identification Option. This option does add on the price of the ignition interlock device (IID).

The original price of the device is $899 plus a $125 installation fee. Installation of the device is done at certified installation centers, takes about one hour, and includes training on how to use the ignition interlock breathalyzer. Mobile installation of the IID may be available in your area. The driver identification offer adds an additional $199 to original retail price of the ignition interlock.

Interceptor offers GPS tracking and Live Internet Downloading as an option feature on its ignition interlocks.

Other valuable features that can be added to the Interceptor V3 include Live GPS Vehicle Tracking and Real Time Internet Data Downloading 24/7. With this option a parent, or employer, can monitor the vehicle with the IID installed via the internet and a home or office computer. This feature costs $239.

All of the optional features that can be added to the original V3 package also have a $30 communication charge for the first 12 months. These additions are not optional if you are looking to receive an insurance deduction by using an ignition interlock device, but rather must be on the ignition interlock to receive any kind of deduction.

If you don’t want to pay the price of the Interceptor V3 at once the company does have a leasing option that includes the optional upgrades mentioned previously. The cost of leasing the ignition interlock breathalyzer in a car decreases over time. With a three year lease the price for leasing starts at $90 per month plus tax, then drops to $75, and after the first year the price for leasing is merely $22.50 per month plus tax.

The Interceptor V3 is certified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). For more information or to find a certified installation center near you Interceptor may be contacted at 1-800-215-2007.

For anyone that is required to have an ignition interlock due to a court order or by a state agency you should make sure that the ignition interlock you use is approved by your state and is installed by a state certified ignition interlock installation center. Interceptor promotes the M-1 ignition interlock system for such mandatory use. A state by state list of ignition interlock installers is available.