Caution: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.

If you have had a crash, do you need new belts or LATCH system parts?

After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new parts. This includes safety belts used to secure infant carriers, child restrains, and booster seats.

If the LATCH system was being used during a more severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. If the frontal air bags inflate, you'll also need to replace the driver's and right-front passenger's safety belt and buckle assembly. Then the new safety belt assembly will be there to help protect you in a collision.

Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system wasn't being used at the time of the collision.

If your seat adjuster won't work after a crash, inspect it for damage, and replace if necessary. If an air bag inflates, you'll need to replace air bag system parts and covers.

For more details, refer to Airbag Systems .