Safety while driving is of the utmost priority, and airbags are an essential vehicle component that cannot be ignored. If your car’s airbag has been deployed, then it will need to be fully replaced as soon as possible to guarantee your safety.
If you purchased a used car, you should be thorough in your inspection to make sure that it has functioning airbags. One possible indicator is the airbag warning light
on the driver’s side dash. If this light stays on while driving, then it's a sign that there's a problem with your airbag, and it won’t deploy in the event of a crash. Airbags are controlled by a computer system, so there could be an issue with the computer operation of your airbag, even if the airbag is still intact and unused. Here's a guide by Jerry
on how to get a mechanic to evaluate the situation, compare prices, and see the installation through. Can I install airbags in my car?
No, you cannot install airbags by yourself. Airbags are very technical. They are designed to go in a specific direction and deploy based off of a certain level of force. If you try to install them yourself, they might not work at all. And if they do trigger, they might not work properly.
You could cause injury or death by trying to install the airbags yourself, so get a professional to do it instead.
MORE: The top 5 causes of car accidents
Where to get airbags installed
If you need airbags installed, call your mechanic. If you know your car doesn't have a functioning airbag or the warning light is lit up, it's time to get professional help.
From here you can schedule an appointment to have your car looked at, or you might get some tips over the phone.
Once you have an appointment, take your car in to be evaluated by the mechanic.
Because airbags are controlled by a computer system, the problem could just be a sensor that needs to be reset. Your mechanic will be able to let you know what the underlying cause is.
Complete the installation and service
With issues of safety, it’s best not to wait on repairs. As soon as you find a mechanic you can trust, schedule the repairs and get the job done. The manufacturer may also be able to complete repairs.
Ask any questions ahead of time and get back on the road in a vehicle that is equipped with the right safety features.
Some car maintenance issues can wait, but airbags aren’t one of them. While it is always a good idea to comparison shop and compare rates, it isn’t a good idea to postpone the repair. Take care of an airbag installation as quickly as possible because your safety on the road depends on it.