Replacing seatbelts (no crash)

laurenrachey

New member
Is there a stated number of years you should use seatbelts? Or what is the general consensus of X year old belts should be replaced? The car is a Ford Explorer, never been in a crash but it is old. Does anyone know how much this type of thing would cost?
 
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BW1426

Well-known member
Seatbelts are supposed to be replaced every 10 years. I'd call your Ford dealer, they should be able to give you a quote.
 

BookMama

Senior Community Member
Seatbelts are supposed to be replaced every 10 years. I'd call your Ford dealer, they should be able to give you a quote.

I know it's a good idea to replace seatbelts in old cars, and certainly after a crash, but you're the only person I've ever seen specifically say after 10 years. (I don't consider 10 years an "old" car necessarily.) Where did you learn that seatbelts should be replaced every 10 years? :confused:
 

Defrost

Moderator - CPSTI Emeritus
I'm not sure of the exact answer, but I do know that 10 years is the "warranty" period for seat belts for Ford, at least. Honda's have a lifetime replacement policy, but I don't know when they suggest getting new ones.

We just had one replaced in our VW Golf and it's slightly different than the old ones. Not sure if it's just a difference in style or an upgrade, but it's different.
 

singingpond

New member
I know it's a good idea to replace seatbelts in old cars, and certainly after a crash, but you're the only person I've ever seen specifically say after 10 years. (I don't consider 10 years an "old" car necessarily.) Where did you learn that seatbelts should be replaced every 10 years? :confused:

Yes, I'm wondering about this also ?? Our vehicles range in age from 12 to 20 years old, all with original seat belts -- is there some evidence that we should be replacing all of our seat belts for safety? That would be an expensive undertaking.

Katrin
 

skaterbabs

Well-known member
Seatbelts, like all other parts of your vehicle, should be periodically inspected for wear and tear. Worn or damaged belts should be replaced regardless of age, and belts that are hard or brittle (like very old belts tend to get) should be replaced as well. I am not personally aware of specific dates after which they should be replaced, but I'm not certain I'd want to trust a 20 yr old belt.
 

azgirl71

CPST Instructor
Seatbelts, like all other parts of your vehicle, should be periodically inspected for wear and tear. Worn or damaged belts should be replaced regardless of age, and belts that are hard or brittle (like very old belts tend to get) should be replaced as well. I am not personally aware of specific dates after which they should be replaced, but I'm not certain I'd want to trust a 20 yr old belt.

:yeahthat:
 

AKMom

New member
I realize this is a VERY old thread, but have been wondering the same RE: old seatbelts.

DH bought a late '90s van that has sticky belts in the rear so I won't let the kids ride in it. The front belts just make me nervous and I was hoping to find something concrete to show him regarding replacement. He wants to road trip, I want to be safe.

Thanks!
 

ketchupqueen

CPST and ketchup snob
Staff member
I've been told by reliable mechanics I trust that seatbelts should be inspected carefully at 10 years, 15 years, and every year thereafter. If they are stiff, fraying, damaged, or discolored they should be replaced. And at 20 years they should probably be replaced regardless.
 

erind

Member
Do you think new aftermarket belts or original belts are better? BF drives a 1992 Cadillac. It has original belts. I called the dealership and the seat belts that it needs are discontinued. I called a few dealerships to confirm. I can get after market ones, but reviews say they work but don't fit perfectly. What would I do in this case? He does not transport kids super often, but he does need to be able to do it.
 

ketchupqueen

CPST and ketchup snob
Staff member
I'm not a mechanic so consult with one you trust. but do check online to see if others have found a compatible solution.
 

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