Can You Fix a Car When the Airbags Go Off? Expert Guide

It’s a common worry after a car accident: “If the airbags deployed, is my car automatically totaled?” Many believe that airbag deployment signals the end for their vehicle, leading to costly replacements and potentially a totaled car. However, this isn’t always the case. While significant damage often accompanies airbag deployment, deeming a car a total loss, it’s crucial to understand that repairs are often possible. As automotive repair specialists at CARDIAGTECH, we’re here to clarify the situation and guide you through the repair process.

Understanding When a Car is Considered “Totaled”

The term “totaled” can be misleading. It doesn’t simply mean your car is beyond repair. Instead, insurance companies typically declare a vehicle a total loss when the cost of repairs exceeds a certain percentage of its actual cash value. A common benchmark is around 70%. For instance, if your car is valued at $6,000 and repair estimates reach $4,200 or more, it might be considered totaled.

This calculation encompasses all repair expenses – parts, labor, materials, paint, and crucially, airbag system repairs. While the airbag replacement cost itself may not single-handedly total your car, it significantly adds to the overall repair bill. This increase can push the total cost over the threshold, especially for older vehicles with lower market values.

Insurance coverage for airbag replacement usually applies if:

• Your car is deemed repairable (not totaled).
• You are not at fault for the accident (or fault is not a factor in your policy).
• You have collision coverage in your insurance policy, which covers accident damage regardless of fault.

Alt text: Car airbags deploying rapidly during a vehicle collision, illustrating a significant impact.

Airbag Replacement: Is it Always Necessary After Deployment?

Following a collision, airbag sensors are likely triggered, leading to airbag inflation. The extent of repair needed varies depending on your car model. In some cases, a simple airbag and sensor reset might suffice. However, complete airbag replacement is often necessary. Prompt repair is vital. Non-functional airbags in a subsequent accident dramatically increase the risk of severe injuries or fatalities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Airbag Repair and Resetting

Getting your airbags functioning again involves a structured process:

• Resetting the Airbag Warning Light: Even if airbags don’t deploy, sensor activation can trigger the airbag warning light. This light indicates a system issue. Whether your airbags deployed or the light is simply on, sensor resetting is crucial. Without it, airbags may not deploy correctly in future accidents.

• Airbag System Reset: Certain car models allow airbag resetting after deployment, provided the airbags aren’t damaged. This involves physically resetting the airbags within the airbag module and then resetting the warning light. However, many newer vehicles require full replacement as resetting deployed airbags isn’t an option.

• Complete Airbag Replacement: If airbags are damaged or resetting isn’t possible, replacement is necessary. This involves removing the entire airbag module and installing a new one. Steering wheel airbag replacement might also necessitate replacing the entire steering wheel and column. Post-installation, the airbag sensor must be reset to ensure the new system functions correctly.

Alt text: Automotive technician carefully inspecting and working on a car’s airbag module during a repair process.

Post-Accident Action: Contact CARDIAGTECH for Expert Assessment

Accidents are stressful, even with minor damage. Safety should always be paramount. If your car is repairable, investing in airbag reset or replacement is crucial for your safety, even if it seems like an added expense.

If you’ve been in an accident and your airbags have deployed, or your airbag warning light is illuminated, contact CARDIAGTECH. Our expert technicians can thoroughly assess the damage to your vehicle and determine whether airbag reset or replacement is required. Reach out to us today for a professional estimate and ensure your vehicle’s safety systems are fully functional. We’re committed to providing expert car repair and getting you safely back on the road.