Did your airbag inflate in an accident? If so, how old was your Cruiser? (1 Viewer)

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I don't think it's unreasonable to wonder if your airbags will deploy on a 20 year old vehicle, regardless of the make or model. And while the Prius may be a 5-star crash rated vehicle, there is just something about the build quality of the "prehistoric Japanese automobiles" that is hard to beat. I'm glad to know that the build quality of the SRS system matches the rest of the vehicle.

Run an 80 into a Prius, see who walks away. :)
 
DKW: Here's a link to a previous discussion for turning off the SRS light:

 
Correct, it is in the console.
So any sufficiently sudden stop from speed should trigger airbag, regardless of whether bumper has been replaced or removed, correct?

Also, is that somehow dependent on the seat or seat belt to go live?
 
So any sufficiently sudden stop from speed should trigger airbag, regardless of whether bumper has been replaced or removed, correct?

Correct, but, it is set to go off at a level of impact. Modifications that change how the front crushes (like a stronger bumper) will change when it goes off.

Also, is that somehow dependent on the seat or seat belt to go live?

IIRC, this system is not tied to the seat belts.
 
Below is a copy of an article about air bags from Auto trader magazine. The article does point out that the igniter used in early to mid 90's airbags may fail to work correctly, so if safety is your top priority that's something to keep in mind.
Quote"
If you're interested in car safety, you're probably interested in airbags, which have had a huge impact on improving automotive safety for the last 20 years. Since many parts in your car eventually wear out, should you worry about your airbag wearing out, too? If so, does it require a costly replacement? We've rounded up everything you need to know.
Don't Worry
Generally speaking, your airbag won't wear out or require replacement, no matter how long you own the vehicle. While many automakers once placed labels in vehicles insisting airbags had to be replaced after 15 (or even 10) years, that's no longer the case. Today's models are designed for the airbag to last the life of the vehicle, much like other important parts, such as large powertrain components, door latches and other items not expected to have expiration dates.
How Is It Possible?
Given what an airbag does (namely, lay dormant for years or decades before potentially used), how is it possible that one could last so long without replacement?



Automotive airbags now incorporate design features, specifically in their igniters, using the most robust technology possible to last as long as possible. While it's likely a few of these igniters will fail every once in a while -- and it's even more likely they'll fail as the car grows older -- the majority should keep you safe for years to come.
Exceptions
Admittedly, there are a few exceptions, but they primarily relate to older cars with airbags dating to the mid-1990s and earlier.
Older vehicles used different materials in the airbag igniter, which may wear faster over time than the material used in modern cars. This results in some older cars requiring airbag replacements after a decade or 15 years to ensure the airbag is working properly. Unfortunately, this replacement can be pricey, so most owners don't bother with it. We'd be suspicious of the airbags in some older cars if safety was a top priority.

Otherwise, our suggestion is to not worry. If your car is manufactured in the mid- to late-1990s or later, we suspect your airbags will continue to keep you safe and last longer than most other components of your vehicle.
"End quote
 

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