Most car owners don’t memorize their vehicle’s operating manual that contains original equipment manufacturer (OEM) policies concerning long-term maintenance for items such as airbags. Most owners know the benefits of airbags and where they are located and expect them to work during an accident. If you purchased a used vehicle or have owned yours for over ten years, there are safety considerations that might prompt you to think about replacing your airbags after 10 years.
About airbags
Airbag design continues to improve, making vehicles safer should an accident occur. When this device is properly deployed (at speeds of up to 200 miles per hour) statistics show that lives are saved and serious injury is avoided. If they are not deployed properly, the tremendous force which inflates the airbags can actually kill passengers or cause injury, especially during a minor crash. There is an element of uncertainty about the reliability of airbags in vehicles that are over ten years old
What can go wrong?
OEM policies in the 1990s were unclear about how long airbags could be relied upon to perform their safety function. The life expectancy of the chemicals used in the propellant considering heat and age deterioration and the type of seal used to house the propellant both play a role in airbag longevity. While most manufacturers have used the preferred glass-to-metal type of sealing that protects against moisture, a few early models used the less reliable plastic-to-metal seals that aren’t as effective a deterrent against corrosion of the electrical pins used in the airbag igniter. Another issue that’s easier to fix is eroded electrical wires leading into airbags.
Most modern airbags are rated to last the life of the vehicle. It’s important that you check the OEM policies for the make and model of your car. Ask our dealership service department to regularly check that the airbag warning light is functional.
Cost of replacement airbags
Owners of older vehicles usually resist buying replacement airbags that can cost $1,000 to $3,000 or even more if the car is in an accident and the dashboard shell or other component is damaged during an accident. When this cost is compared against the book value of an older vehicle, it could be a good idea to check out our new or pre-owned vehicle inventory to see your options.
Avoid airbag fraud
Dishonest independent mechanics have been known to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers by selling them inferior, recycled airbags. Airbag scams can also be found on the Internet. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends that, if your airbags deploy, you should replace them only at your car manufacturer’s dealership and never with a used product.
If you have any concerns about the benefits and safety function of your current airbag system, be sure to speak with the professionals at DCH Kay Honda.
