Replacing Restraint System Parts; After a Crash; A crash can damage the restraint systems in your- Page 88

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Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash

CAUTION:

A crash can damage the restraint systems in your
vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not
properly protect the person using it, resulting in
serious injury or even death in a crash. To help
make sure your restraint systems are working
properly after a crash, have them inspected 
and any necessary replacements made as soon 
as possible.

If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts or LATCH
system parts?

After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.
But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn
during a more severe crash, then you need new parts.

If the LATCH system was being used during a more
severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts.

If you ever see a label on the driver’s or right front
passenger’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be
sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help
protect you in a collision. You would see this label on
the belt near the door opening.

If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage 
also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety
belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs 
may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system wasn’t 
being used at the time of the collision.

If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag
system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in
this section.