Ensure Seat Belt Safety before Buying Your First Used Car

These days, every vehicle is required by law to have seat belts. However, this was not the norm when the first automobiles were built. Prior to 1968, seatbelt enforcement was left to each state. In January of the same year, by virtue of a federal law, all vehicles, except buses were required to have seat belts. In 1984, New York was the first state to pass a seatbelt law.

In the 1930s, doctors were the first users of seat belts in the US. The main reason for this was they were aware that vehicular accidents kill an estimated 30,000 people in a year. Some doctors then decided to install lap restraints on their own vehicles.

Before you purchase your first used car, make sure that all seatbelts are functioning properly. Seat belts are designed to bear tremendous force but any damages to it need to be repaired or replaced. Here is a guide to help you check if the seat belts of the used car you plan to buy are in top condition.

Inspect the entire length of each seat belt for any fraying. Fraying are the breaks in the weave of the seat belt fabric. Look out for strands that have come apart. These tell you that the weave is starting to break apart. A good Buick dealer Indiana buyers visit will allow you to inspect the inner workings of the vehicle. Let them know that you want to inspect all seat belts for your own protection.

Watch out for any deformation in the fabric. Deformation or warping in seat belts is caused by excessive exposure to heat or sunlight. Seat belts are usually made of nylon, which is very susceptible to heat. However, recent advances in nylon technology have allowed newer seat belt models to withstand intense heat. If you’re planning to buy a used car from the various auto dealerships in Indianapolis the seatbelts may not have the new nylon material if the car is an older model.

Check that all seatbelt parts are good condition. Examine the spring mechanisms and knurled grips, and look out for any moisture that can cause the mechanisms to corrode. If any of these parts are damaged, replace them or install new seatbelts instead.

When you have completed the seatbelt check, you have done at least one important step in ensuring the safety of the vehicle you choose to purchase from any auto dealers in Indianapolis.

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