A car accident can happen in a second, and there’s often little you can do but hold on and wait until it’s over. In those crucial moments, your airbag system plays a primary role, and more often than not, it’s the only thing that can save your life.
Many people rely on airbags so much because their main purpose is to protect passengers and minimize injuries by cushioning them during a high-speed impact. However, airbag malfunctions can happen as well, and these are things you need to address before you need them.
In this post, we’ll look at the common reasons airbags don’t deploy as they should.
Airbag Deployment
When you get into a moderate to severe crash, it will send a signal to the electronic control unit of the airbag, which is responsible for inflating the airbag module. Next, the unit will send a signal to the igniter in the inflator. When this happens, it will start a chemical reaction and it is during this time when the system will produce harmless gas that makes split-second inflation possible.
Why Airbags Don’t Deploy As They Should
Airbags are designed to deploy when necessary. However, there are situations when deployment may not take place, such as the following:
Low Impact
The severity of the crash determines when your airbag system should kick in and when it should not. If you’re involved in a low-speed impact, the system might determine that seat belt protection is enough. It’s a case-to-case basis, but usually, front airbags deploy for unbelted passengers who experienced a crash with an impact equivalent to 10 to 12 mph.
Collision Location
The location of the impact also plays a role in your airbag’s performance. Why? The impact location determined the speed and damage of the vehicle. If the airbag doesn’t activate as it should, it’s probably because the collision didn’t strike the car’s assigned impact location. Usually, it happens when the impact is experienced on the rear or side of the vehicle.
Automatic Shut-Off Sensor
Airbag systems today know if a child is sitting on the front seat or if it’s occupied. If the weight limit is not reached or no one is in the seat, the sensor will automatically shut off to prevent inflation.
Defective Components
When a piece isn’t working correctly—whether the airbags themselves or the deployment mechanisms—the entirety of the system won’t work. That’s why regular inspection and replacement in the case of deployment is crucial.
Make Sure Your Airbag is Working Properly
Your airbag will save your life, but it can only do so if it’s in good condition. That’s why you need to have regular airbag inspections. By doing so, you can guarantee your system is up-to-date and will deploy properly when necessary.
Where to Get Your Airbag Checked & Repaired
Now that you know the reasons airbags don’t deploy as they should, you need to find a reliable airbag company to help you out. A reliable airbag repair service will deal with repair and replacement and help you with regular inspections to ensure your system is in good condition.
Safety Restore knows how to service airbag systems well. We are the best here in Westfield, MA. Contact us today!
