Changing the front seatbelt fastener: how to do it?
When you're on the road, it's crucial to have peace of mind, knowing your car is equipped with practical and reliable safety systems. Some of these systems are located around the wheels, while others are located inside the vehicle. Among the essential features inside your car is the seatbelt. However, there may be instances when the buckle becomes unfastened. Thankfully, there are practical techniques to reattach it. If the part is too worn to function correctly, you should consider purchasing a replacement, preferably a second-hand one from an automotive used part producer like GPA26.
Why Are Car Seatbelts So Important?
Whether you're the driver or a passenger seated in the front or rear of your car, wearing a seatbelt is mandatory. This device is designed to reduce the impact of collisions during road accidents. By fastening your seatbelt, your protection is enhanced through the three anchorage points present in the system. This ensures your body is securely restrained, preventing it from being propelled forward onto the dashboard or windshield. Without a seatbelt, a collision at just 50 km/h can be fatal, but with it, injuries are typically minor.
How Does a Seatbelt Work? Understanding the Seatbelt Mechanism
A car's seatbelt, whether front or rear, consists of several components. These include the fabric belt that supports the passenger, the retractor box housing the spool and spring, the fastening buckle, and the metal latch. Generally, there are two types of seatbelts: the pretensioner and the retractable types.
In a pretensioner seatbelt, the mechanism relies on sensors installed throughout the device. These sensors measure speed and impact intensity to provide appropriate tension to restrain the passenger. In a collision, this type of seatbelt might cause fractures, burns, or neck pain.
The retractable seatbelt operates on a mechanical spring system. In the event of a collision or a rollover, it automatically locks to protect the passenger.
What to Do If Your Seatbelt Won't Fasten
Whether you have a pretensioner or retractable seatbelt, it's possible it might not fasten at times. If the device can't be securely fastened, your safety is compromised. To ensure your safety at all times, it's crucial to quickly identify the problem and resolve it promptly.
Here’s what to do:
- Start by checking that no objects are obstructing the metal latch from being inserted into the buckle. If not, clean the inside of the buckle using a vacuum or a needle.
- After cleaning, test if the seatbelt can be buckled. If it still doesn’t work, you may need to take apart the buckle for further inspection.
How to Replace a Twisted or Jammed Seatbelt
If the jammed seatbelt can't be repaired, you will need to replace it. Installing a new seatbelt involves several critical steps. You'll need a toolbox and a new or second-hand seatbelt from an auto salvage yard to replace the faulty one.
Here are the steps to replace a worn seatbelt:
- Disassemble the old seatbelt, including removing the screw cover and noting the order of the washers.
- Remove the retractor by extracting the plastic part, the screw, the retractor, and the upper part of the seatbelt.
- Install the replacement seatbelt.
- Reassemble the parts mentioned above.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Car Seatbelt?
Replacing a faulty front or rear seatbelt is a task that should be performed promptly. Generally, the cost of replacing a seatbelt isn't too high. However, you can save time and money by approaching the task strategically.
Where to Get a Faulty Seatbelt Replaced
The steps to replace a faulty seatbelt are straightforward, and you can do it yourself if you have some DIY skills. Otherwise, it’s wise to have the job done by a professional in the automotive field.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Broken Seatbelt?
To replace a broken seatbelt, expect to pay around €100 for a new part. This price can vary depending on the model and brand of the seatbelt you need, as well as the model of your vehicle.
In addition to the cost of the seatbelt, you’ll also need to factor in labor costs if the replacement is carried out by a professional. The average total cost for replacing a seatbelt, including the new part, is about €200.
To save money on your seatbelt replacement, consider purchasing a second-hand part from our onlline car scarpyard, GPA26. Our used parts are fully functional and high-quality, designed to last. In fact, our seatbelts and other used interior parts come with a 2-year warranty.
