- Airbags are single-use and must be replaced after deployment.
- Romania has no law prohibiting driving with deployed airbags, but it’s not safe.
- Do not drive with deployed airbags; risk of another crash and system failures.
- After deployment: stop safely, call for help, tow if damage or fuel smell.
An automobile accident is a traumatic experience, especially when the impact is severe enough to deploy the vehicle’s airbags. While these safety systems protect us at the moment of collision, what follows after the crash raises important questions about the safety of continuing to drive. After repairing the vehicle, many drivers wonder whether it is still safe to drive a car that has had its airbags deployed. The answer can be crucial for your safety and that of other road users.
How airbag systems work
Today, all passenger cars built in the last 20 years are equipped with airbag systems, the only difference being the number of bags, their placement, and the method of deployment. The electronic system computes with precision the speed and timing of airbag deployment to provide optimal protection without causing additional injuries.
Types of airbags and how they deploy
- Frontal airbag: Activates in strong frontal impacts
- Side airbags: Protect in lateral impacts
- Curtain airbags: Protect the head in a rollover
- Knee airbag: Reduces the risk of injury to the lower limbs
Each type of airbag deploys depending on the direction and intensity of the impact detected by the vehicle sensors. These components are single-use and must be replaced after deployment.
The legal aspect of driving with deployed airbags
From a legal standpoint, in Romania there are no specific provisions that prohibit driving a passenger car with deployed airbags. Traffic legislation does not explicitly mention this situation as a crime or offense.
However, the absence of a legal prohibition does not mean the practice is safe or recommended. Responsibility for your own safety and for other road users remains with the driver.
Why you should not drive with deployed airbags
Major safety risks
Our unequivocal answer is NO — you should not drive a vehicle with deployed airbags, not even for a few minutes. The reasons are multiple and serious:
1. Lack of protection in the event of another crash
- Deployed airbags provide no protection anymore
- A new impact can become fatal
- Injuries will be far more severe without the safety systems
2. Associated mechanical problems
- A vehicle with deployed airbags has sustained a significant impact
- The body structure may be compromised
- Other safety systems may be affected
3. Defective electronic system
- The airbag control module may be damaged
- Impact sensors can malfunction
- The system wiring may be affected
Effects on other systems
An impact strong enough to deploy the airbags can also affect:
- Braking systems (ABS, ESP)
- Steering system
- Vehicle rigidity structure
- Fuel system
What to do after airbags deploy
Immediate steps
- Stop the vehicle safely and check your and your passengers’ condition
- Call emergency services if there are injuries
- Do not start the engine if you notice visible damage or smell fuel
- Call a tow company for transporting the vehicle
Professional assessment
Before considering repair, the vehicle must be evaluated by:
- An authorized auto service
- A vehicle damage assessment expert
- A specialist in automotive safety systems
Repair costs
Replacing airbags involves significant costs:
- New original airbags: €500-€2000 each
- Specialized labor: €200-€500
- Reprogramming the electronic module: €100-€300
- Checking and replacing sensors: €50-€200 per sensor
When it is worth repairing the vehicle
Factors to consider
Vehicle value vs. repair cost
- If the cost exceeds 60-70% of the car’s value, repair is not economically justified
- Newer vehicles (under 5 years) are usually worth repairing
- Premium cars hold value better after repair
Extent of damage
- Minor frontal impacts: repair may be possible
- Major structural damage: risk of permanently compromised safety
- Multiple airbag deployments: requires very careful assessment
Alternatives to repair
If costs are too high or safety is compromised:
Sell for parts
- The engine and transmission may have value
- Undamaged body components are in demand
- Functional electronic systems can be monetized
Vehicle scrapping
- The Rabla program offers bonuses for scrapping
- Responsible recycling protects the environment
- Avoid the risks of an incomplete repair
Safety recommendations
Do not compromise
- Do not use second-hand or refurbished airbags
- Ensure all systems are tested after repair
- Request a warranty for the work performed
Post-repair verification
- Comprehensive safety systems test
- Check for error codes
- Test sensor operation
- Calibrate electronic systems
Driving a vehicle with deployed airbags poses an unacceptable risk to your safety and that of others. Even if the law does not explicitly ban this practice, moral responsibility and the duty not to endanger lives should prevail. Investing in a complete, professional repair or choosing to replace the vehicle are the only responsible options after the airbags have deployed.
