Let’s face it—being in a car accident is never a fun experience. Even if it’s a minor fender-bender, it can leave you shaken and wondering what kind of damage your car might have sustained. One of the biggest safety concerns after any crash is your vehicle’s airbags. They’re designed to protect you during a collision, but what happens after they’ve done their job? Do they need replacing? And how can you tell?
Let’s break it down in plain, simple terms.
What Happens to Airbags During a Crash?
Airbags deploy within milliseconds of a significant impact. They’re single-use safety devices, meaning once they go off, they can’t be reused. If your airbags have deployed, they’ll need to be replaced. But sometimes, even if they don’t deploy, they might still be compromised.
That’s why it’s crucial to check them out after any kind of crash.
Signs Your Airbags May Need Replacing
Here are a few things to look for:
1. The Airbag Light Is On
If your airbag warning light on the dashboard is glowing, flashing, or won’t turn off after the crash, it’s a sign something’s wrong with the system. It could mean a sensor is damaged, the airbag control module needs resetting, or there’s a wiring issue. Either way, don’t ignore that little light—it’s your first clue.
2. The Airbags Deployed
This one’s a no-brainer. Once airbags deploy, they can’t be “put back.” They must be replaced entirely. And it’s not just the airbag itself—sometimes the entire airbag module or even parts of the steering wheel or dash need replacing.
3. Visible Damage Around Airbag Areas
If your steering wheel, dashboard, side panels, or seats show damage—especially dents, cracks, or tears—there’s a chance the airbags or their housing were affected. This is common even if the bags didn’t actually deploy during the crash.
4. Seatbelts Locked or Not Recoiling
Airbags and seatbelt tensioners work hand-in-hand. If your seatbelt locked up during the crash and now won’t retract properly, it could indicate that the crash sensors were triggered. This often means the airbag system was involved in some way, and further inspection is needed.
5. Strange Noises or Alerts When Starting the Car
If you hear strange clicking sounds, constant beeping, or if the dashboard flashes any kind of airbag-related warning when starting your vehicle—don’t brush it off. These are your vehicle’s way of saying, “Something’s not right.”
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Airbag Issues
Your airbags are one of the most critical safety features in your car. If they’re not working properly, you and your passengers are at a much higher risk of injury in another crash. Plus, ignoring airbag issues can affect your car’s resale value and even make it illegal to drive in some cases.
Let the Pros Handle It
Even if everything looks fine, airbag systems are complex and sensitive. Sometimes the damage is internal or electronic and not something you can spot with the naked eye.
At Davis Paint & Auto Collision Center here in Oklahoma, we have the tools and expertise to thoroughly inspect your airbag system after an accident. Whether your airbags deployed or not, we’ll run diagnostics, check your crash sensors, and make sure your vehicle is truly safe to drive.
Conclusion: Let’s Take a Look
If you’ve recently been in an accident and aren’t sure whether your airbags need replacing, don’t leave it to guesswork. Swing by Davis Paint & Auto Collision Center or give us a call. Our experienced team will take a close look at your vehicle and let you know exactly what needs to be done—so you can get back on the road safely and with confidence.
Call us today or stop by for a free inspection. Your safety is always our top priority.
