All of the Basics about Seat Belt Retractor Repairs

Some may consider the seat belt a mere supplement for their airbags, but it's also a device that provides immediate safety when the driver and passengers need it the most. When a seat belt doesn't work properly or is damaged in some way, it can allow serious injuries to happen when you're least expecting it. One of the crucial components for it to function properly is the retractor.

Basically, they are mechanisms built into your vehicle's components and hidden sections. They function as a form of automatic respooling device that locks your belt's webbing at a certain length during an accident, in turn keeping you and the other passengers safe.

Where Is It Usually Found?

The retractor is mainly located in the B-pillar of the car, but some newer models may also be affixed to the seat itself. The seat belt retractor consists of a special ratchet system that safely locks off the belt in a span of around 13 inches (some can even extend to 30 inches). To ensure that your vehicle is completely protected, most manufacturers make use of three basic systems:

• Reverse – Used only when the occupant is traveling rearwards.
• Emergency – Used only in emergencies.
• Fast – Used for everyday driving.

When it comes to seat belt retractors, malfunctions are very rare as most car manufacturers have already created preventive measures to avoid any errors during accidents.

Unfortunately, there are still cases where seemingly small malfunctions or minor failures from normal functionality can lead to significant occurrences and do some considerable damage.

One of the most basic problems that a seat belt retractor can have is if it does not lock when fastened. If you see that it doesn't work like it normally does, this is already a sign that something is wrong.

What to Do When Your Seat Belt Retractor Fails

If you notice that your seat belt is not retracting correctly, you have to have it immediately replaced. If you don't, you may get into an accident and suffer severe injuries that could have been prevented.

Why Is It Important to Replace Your Seat Belt Retractor?

It is all a matter of safety. If it fails, it can result in serious injury to you and your passengers, even if you're just driving at a mere 30 miles per hour.

The Possible Causes of Seat Belt Retractor Malfunction

Failed seat belt retractors can be attributed to many reasons, one of which may be the fact that someone has improperly used them recently.

One example of improper use is putting the seat belt in a manner wherein the belt's webbing was not fully retracted. It may get stuck in its current position, thus causing it to fail.

Another reason may be the seat belt's age. Most seat belts have a lifespan of six years, after which their safety performance is reduced.

Despite this, the good news is that they are commonly designed with failsafe mechanisms that indicate whether it is still in good working condition. 

If you suspect that your seat belt is not working as it should, you have no choice but to have it checked by a professional.

Conclusion

With all of that being said, the best way to avoid problems with your seat belt retractor is to make sure that it doesn't get worn out or damaged in the first place. For this reason, you have to make sure that the belt is always fastened tightly.

Inspect it from time to time and see to it that your passengers aren't misusing it in any way. Seat belts are literally our lifesavers in the occurrence of an accident, and it is our responsibility as car owners to check if their retractors are still in great shape.