Seatbelt maintenance and checks

Just quick seat belt information:

Seatbelts, like any other part of the car, require regular inspections  and is simply a matter of visual inspection and a check of the belt’s operation. 

• Seatbelts should be kept clean, as dirt and grit will cause internal damage to the fibres that make up the webbing. Use only mild soap and lukewarm water to clean the webbing. 
• The webbing should not be frayed, damaged. 
• The belt should be flat throughout its entire length. Warping indicates that it is stretched and should be replaced immediately. 
• The tongue and buckle assemblies should securely latch and eject freely when released. 
• Plastic and metal components should have no signs of cracks, warps, deformation, or other damage. 
• All anchorage points should be securely fastened and be free of corrosion and damage. 
• The retracting mechanism should be tested by grasping the webbing and pulling it out suddenly. The belt should lock and then freely retract when released.

Should any danger signs be present, or there is any doubt about a belt’s safety there is no option but to replace the assembly. Your life and those of your passengers depend on it. If you are unsure of the condition of the belt consult your local mechanic. 

Approved non-genuine belts are available for many vehicles. You should never buy used belts from a wrecking yard, as their history is unknown.

Want to see how seat belts save lives (click here)