- Airbags must be replaced after deployment to restore safety.
- Replacement costs vary by type: driver 600-2000 lei; passenger 1500-3000 lei.
- Curtain airbag 600-2000 lei; knee airbag 1500-3000 lei.
- Total cost for all deployed airbags: 3000-10000 lei; control unit may be required.
Airbags are one of the most important passive safety systems in modern vehicles, designed to work in tandem with seat belts to provide maximum protection in a crash. Once deployed, these systems require a full replacement, a process that involves significant costs that vary by the type and position of the airbag.
Airbags are among the first safety features added to vehicles. They should not replace seat belts, but rather work in conjunction with them.
How the Airbag System Works
If your vehicle is involved in an accident, airbags will inflate quickly to prevent the upper body from hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. Many vehicles today have up to 12 airbags.
Some newer models have side airbags (curtain airbags) and knee airbags. Curtain airbags (side curtain airbags) are designed to inflate along the upper part of the front side doors and are helpful in crashes that damage the vehicle’s side.
Regarding knee airbags, they provide extra protection in a frontal crash, so the upper body is protected along with the lower body.
Why Airbags Must Be Replaced After Deployment
Airbags are widely deployed. However, modern automakers do not typically require inspection or replacement. This assessment is simply an analysis and confirmation that everything is functioning properly.
When there is an issue, the airbag warning light will illuminate.
After airbags deploy once, they must be replaced. Otherwise, you’ll be left with a car that has no airbags. The insurance company may penalize you for not having airbags, so it’s better to replace them.
Average Replacement Costs for an Airbag
The average cost to replace airbags depends on the make and model of the car, the number of airbags being replaced, and the locations of the airbags.
Below we present average replacement costs you should know:
Prices by Airbag Type
- Driver airbag — average replacement costs range between 600 and 2000 lei for each airbag.
- Passenger airbag — average costs between 1500 lei and 3000 lei.
- Curtain airbag (side curtain) — average costs between 600 and 2000 lei.
- Knee airbag — average replacement costs between 1500 lei and 3000 lei.
Factors Influencing Total Costs
Remember that a severe crash can deploy all airbags in the car, so you will need to replace all of them. A total cost would be between 3000 lei and 10000 lei, depending on the car model and the number of airbags present, but there are also other factors to consider.
Additional Components That Require Replacement
New vehicles have what is called the “airbag control unit” which acts as the computer for the airbags. If the airbags deploy, you should replace all components of the airbag system. This means additional cost for parts and labor.
Recommendations to Save on Costs
To minimize replacement costs, it is important to:
- Check whether the insurance covers these costs
- Look for authorized service centers that offer warranty for workmanship
- Request multiple quotes to compare prices
- Ensure that OEM/original parts are used for maximum safety
Photo source: my-procar.com, youtube.com