Do dealerships replace airbags?
When it comes to vehicle safety, airbags play a crucial role in protecting passengers during a collision. However, there are times when these essential components may need to be replaced, leading many car owners to wonder whether dealerships handle this service. In this article, we will explore the process of airbag replacement at dealerships, the reasons for replacement, and what car owners should know.
Understanding Airbag Replacement
Airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a crash, providing a cushion that helps reduce the risk of injury. However, once deployed, they cannot be reused and must be replaced. Dealerships are typically equipped to handle airbag replacements, as they have access to the necessary parts and specialized training. Here’s what you need to know:
- OEM Parts: Dealerships use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, ensuring that the replacement airbags meet the same safety standards as the original components.
- Expertise: Technicians at dealerships are trained specifically for the vehicles they service, which means they are familiar with the airbag systems and can perform the replacement safely and efficiently.
- Diagnostic Tools: Dealerships have advanced diagnostic tools to identify any issues with the airbag system, ensuring that all related components are functioning correctly before and after the replacement.
Reasons for Airbag Replacement
There are several scenarios in which an airbag may need to be replaced:
- Deployment: The most common reason for replacement is the deployment of the airbag during an accident.
- Faulty Sensors: If the sensors that trigger the airbags are malfunctioning, it may lead to a need for replacement to ensure proper functionality.
- Recalls: Sometimes, manufacturers issue recalls for airbags due to safety concerns, necessitating replacement even if the airbag has not yet deployed.
What to Expect During the Replacement Process
When you take your vehicle to a dealership for airbag replacement, here’s what you can generally expect:
- Inspection: The technician will first inspect the vehicle to assess the extent of the damage and determine if other components need attention.
- Replacement: The old airbag will be removed, and a new one will be installed. This process may also involve replacing the airbag control module and any other damaged components.
- Testing: After installation, the system will be tested to ensure that the new airbag and related systems are functioning correctly.
Conclusion
In summary, dealerships do replace airbags and are well-equipped to handle the process safely and effectively. If you find yourself in a situation where your airbag has deployed or you suspect an issue with your airbag system, visiting a dealership is a wise choice. They can provide the expertise and quality parts necessary to ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a car drivable after airbags go off?
After deployment, the car's safety systems, including the airbags, may be compromised, making it unsafe to drive. Many regions require that vehicles be inspected and repaired before they can be legally driven again.
Is it illegal to drive with broken airbags?
There is no law preventing you from driving your car after airbags deploy, but this is not advisable. It is important for your safety to have your car checked for damage and your airbags replaced by an authorized service technician before driving the vehicle.
Does insurance cover airbag replacement?
Typically, insurance will cover airbag replacement if: Your car isn't totaled. You're not at fault for the accident. You have collision insurance, which pays for collision damage regardless of who's at fault.
How much does it cost to replace airbags in a car?
On average, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 to replace an airbag. But oftentimes it's much more expensive. If the accident is quite bad, the average cost goes up to about $3,000 to $5,000.
Do dealerships fix airbags for free?
Once your vehicle is included in a recall because of a defective airbag, you can take it to a dealership and have it fixed for free.
Do body shops replace airbags?
They can fix or replace your airbags, and perform any body repair work that needs to be done on the exterior.
Can I sue a dealership for airbags not deploying?
So, if you were injured in a car accident after your airbags failed to deploy, you could have a viable claim against the manufacturer. With the help of a Los Angeles personal injury attorney at Salamati Law, you can seek justice from the manufacturer responsible for your injuries.
Is a car totaled if the airbags come out?
No, if your airbags deployed, your car is not automatically considered totaled. Whether your car is totaled depends on how much it will cost to repair your vehicle. If the repairs, including replacing the airbag system, cost more than the vehicle is worth, it is typically considered totaled.
At what speed do airbags deploy?
Frontal air bags are generally designed to deploy in "moderate to severe" frontal or near-frontal crashes, which are defined as crashes that are equivalent to hitting a solid, fixed barrier at 8 to 14 mph or higher. (This would be equivalent to striking a parked car of similar size at about 16 to 28 mph or higher.)
Is it worth fixing a car with airbags deployed?
While airbag deployment does not necessarily mean a total loss, it does add to the grand total of repairing your car. Replacing airbags is not cheap. On average, airbag replacement can end up costing anywhere between $1,000 to $6,000. This cost has to be added on top of all the other damages your car sustained.
