Inspecting Seat Belts

Inspect front and rear belt webbing, and replace belts with broken or pulled threads, cut loops at the belt edge, bowed webbing, faded areas, or cuts. Pull the belt out fully and let it retract. If it does not move smoothly in either direction, check for dirt, grease, or gum on the webbing. If the belt cannot be cleaned using only a mild soap solution recommended for cleaning upholstery or carpet, replace the belt.

Replace the belt if the buckle cover is cracked, if the push button is loose, or if the buckle does not lock securely. Check all mounting points. The mounting bolts must be tight, yet allow the hardware to swivel freely. Clean any corrosion away from the anchoring points, and replace any corroded hardware.

On three-point front seat belts, check the belt lock-up mechanism by grasping the webbing near the retractor and tugging quickly. Replace any belt that does not lock up.

On two-point seat belts, perform a road test to check the belt lock-up mechanism. Drive in an open area away from other cars. At approximately 5 to 15 mph, with the belt securely fastened, quickly stop the car. Replace any belt that does not lock up.