The used car market has been on fire as of late. Partly due to a difficult credit market and a poor inventory levels of new cars. Americans are opting in to buying a quality used car. However, not all used cars are created equal. Rebuilding and reselling crashed cars is definitely a good way to recycle very important resources and used car dealerships play an important role in improving our environment. However, there are many dealers who shy away from getting into proper airbag replacement. Many dealers have opted out of the airbag replacement by having buyers sign a waiver eliminating them from any liability. Listen, I am no different from the next guy when it comes to saving a buck, especially during difficult economic times. So if you are planning on buying a used vehicle here are a few tips to look for prior to making a used car purchase. Airbag Replacement Tip # 1
When you turn on the ignition make sure the airbag light comes on for about six seconds then turns off. This is a good sign that the airbag module has gone through initialy inspected the airbag system and reported no faults.
Airbag Replacement Tip # 2
If the airbag light stays on, I suggest getting a car-fax report prior to completing your purchase so that you are well informed on any accidents the car has been through.
Airbag Replacement Tip # 3
If you are getting a good deal on the car and you want to tackle your own airbag replacement venture here are some things to consider.
On newer vehicle 1999 and up most cars come equipped with seat-belt pretensioners and in order to reset the SRS airbag system both seat-belts may need replacing. Most luxury models also have seat-belt pretensioners on the rear seats as well.
Pay close attention to the passenger side dash. Some airbags break through the dash and you must replace the entire upper dashboard assembly. This is usually a very costly replacement. This can add up to $1700 in parts and labor.
Consider having the car taken to a service center and have them run a diagnostic scan tool on the car. The scan tool can tell your whether the car has side airbags, curtain airbags or seat and knee bolster airbags that my have to be replaced. Again, the more airbags you need to replace the more expensive the repairs will cost you. A diagnostic scan can cost between $45.00 - $85.00 dollars a wise investment that will uncover a mirage of information about the vehicles airbag system. If the dealer refuses or gives you any excuses, it will be a warning to back out of the deal.
Lastly check for moisture and corrosion underneath the front seats. All you have to do is take a flash light and look underneath the front seats inspecting wire harness and cables. Look for corroded nuts and bolts. This vehicle could have all the airbags in working condition yet the airbag light reports a warning that the airbag module under the seat is damaged. Again, this is a warning that the car could have been a flood damaged vehicle and you may be opening a can of worms with this type of repair.
Buying a used car can be an excellent choice and experience if you become informed and do not buy on impulse. Have these airbag replacement tips written down on a check list and go through the car carefully. If you stick to this advise you will save time, money and will have made a good investment on a nice set of wheels.
About the Author: Joe Ace - 10 year specialist on airbag replacement.
Airbag Replacement
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