When did Chevy start using airbags?

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, began incorporating airbags as standard safety features in some of its vehicles in the late 1970s, making it one of the first automakers to do so. The widespread adoption of airbags in Chevy models occurred throughout the 1980s and 1990s as the technology became more advanced and mandatory safety regulations were introduced.

The Early Years of Airbags in Chevrolet Vehicles

Chevrolet's first foray into airbag technology came in 1973 when it offered an optional driver's side airbag on the Chevrolet Impala and Chevrolet Caprice. This was a pioneering move, as airbags were still a relatively new and experimental safety feature at the time. However, the high cost and limited availability of these early airbag systems meant they were not widely adopted by consumers.

It wasn't until the late 1970s that Chevrolet began offering airbags as standard equipment on select models. In 1980, the Chevrolet Citation became the first Chevy model to have driver's side airbags as a standard feature. This was followed by the introduction of passenger-side airbags in some Chevrolet models in the mid-1980s.

Widespread Adoption of Airbags in Chevrolet Vehicles

The 1990s saw a significant increase in the use of airbags across the Chevrolet lineup. In 1993, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandated that all new passenger vehicles sold in the United States be equipped with driver's and passenger's side airbags. Chevrolet quickly complied with this regulation, making airbags standard on most of its models by the mid-1990s.

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, Chevrolet had expanded its airbag offerings to include side-impact airbags and curtain airbags, further enhancing the safety of its vehicles. Today, airbags are a standard feature on all new Chevrolet models, with advanced systems that include front, side, and knee airbags to provide comprehensive protection for occupants in the event of a collision.

The Importance of Airbags in Chevrolet Vehicles

Airbags have played a crucial role in improving the safety of Chevrolet vehicles and reducing the severity of injuries in car accidents. According to the NHTSA, airbags have saved over 50,000 lives since their introduction, and they continue to be an essential component of modern vehicle safety systems.

Chevrolet's early adoption and continued commitment to airbag technology have been instrumental in making its vehicles safer for drivers and passengers alike. As the company continues to innovate and improve its safety features, airbags will remain a vital part of Chevrolet's ongoing efforts to protect its customers on the road.

What year to avoid Chevy Silverado 1500?

Years to avoid on the Chevy Silverado 1500 include 2014, 2015, and 2017, which are noted for electrical issues, transmission problems, and air conditioning failures. Other models to be cautious of are 2007-2011 due to engine issues like oil consumption from the AFM system, and 2019-2021 for lifter failures and engine bearing problems. 
This video discusses the worst and best years for Chevy Silverado trucks: 59sCar ExpertlyYouTube · Jun 4, 2025
Specific model years to avoid

• 2007–2011: The early versions of this generation (GMT900) are prone to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system causing oil consumption, lifter noise, and potential engine damage. 
• 2012–2013: Owners reported significant issues with engines and transmissions, along with interior accessory malfunctions. 
• 2014: Considered one of the worst model years due to the highest number of recalls and complaints, especially regarding the new 8-speed transmission, electrical problems, and airbag failures. 
• 2015: Frequently cited as a model year to avoid due to transmission issues and electrical problems. 
• 2017: Had numerous complaints about a faulty transmission, leading to poor shifting and other malfunctions. 
• 2019–2021: The first few years of the T1XX generation saw a rise in problems like Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) lifter failures and engine bearing issues, resulting in recalls. 

You can also watch this video to learn about the best and worst years for Chevy Silverado: 57sCar Lensy YouTube · Sep 11, 2025
Reasons for avoidance

• Engine Problems: Oil consumption, lifter failures, and other issues were common in the early AFM/DFM years (2007–2011, 2019–2021). 
• Transmission Issues: Rough shifting and failures were prevalent in the early third-generation trucks, particularly in 2014 and 2017. 
• Electrical and Air Conditioning Problems: Electrical systems, including the AC, were a frequent source of complaints in the 2014 model year, which also had airbag issues. 

When did airbags become standard in Chevy trucks?

Chevy began adding airbags to its 1500 (half ton) models in 1995 with the driver's side airbag and in 1997 with the passenger side airbag. These airbags may have been optional in 2500 models, but 3500s and 3500HDs did not come with them. Airbags didn't start til 95.

What year are the bubble eyes Chevy?

The "bubble eye" Chevy refers to the first-generation Silverado and similar trucks, primarily the model years 1999–2002. This styling was replaced by the "Cat Eye" design, which featured more slanted headlights, in 2003.
 
You can watch this video to see a tour of a 2001 Chevy Silverado: 1mMatt's ShopYouTube · Jun 27, 2025

• Bubble Eye: The 1999–2002 model years, known for a distinct round headlight design. 
• Transition: The "bubble eye" design was used for the first three years of the first-generation Silverado. 
• Cat Eye: The updated "Cat Eye" design was introduced for the 2003 model year and continued through 2006. 

What year did they make Chevy airbags?

1973
In the early 1970s, General Motors began offering cars equipped with airbags, initially in government fleet-purchased 1973 Chevrolet Impala sedans.