Re: OT. airbag question on cavalier

Posted by Brian in NY on September 27, 2006 at 13:06:15 from (12.149.100.21):

In Reply to: OT. airbag question on cavalier posted by Playfarmer on September 27, 2006 at 09:37:02:

Well, since I am a claims adjuster, I feel the need to chime in here.
First things first...yes you can replace the airbags with used bags. Not legal for a body shop or insurance company to use in many states, but a private party can do it. You could also buy
airbag panel replacements which are just rubber..no bag inside but looks like one.
If it were me, I would treat the car as if it had no airbags from there on out however, as I have seen mixed results with used bags.
Be very careful though if you ever go to sell the car. You'll want to be sure you fully disclose the airbag situation and probably should get the buyer to sign a notarized acknowledgement stating he knows what is up with the car.
In a typical airbag replacement you will need whatever bags were deployed and the clockspring or SIR coil(only on the driver's side bag).
You should not need a PCM (computer) unless damaged in collision.
You only need to replace the impact sensors if they are damaged. You will need to follow manufacturers recommended repair practices to avoid popping off one of the new bags upon installation. You'll also need to reset the airbag system, which you'll need to have a body shop do for you.
Seatbelts may or may not need to be replaced.
Look for signs of stretching, and if you see any, the belt needs to be replaced. The 98 Cavalier did not have pyrotechnic seatbelt pretensioners, so no concern there.
On Cavaliers, when the passenger side bag deploys, the cover (part of the dash) pops up at high speed and smacks the windshield. You might need a dash and a windshield if not already replaced. Also be aware that on these Cavaliers the air bag deployment can actually blow the side windows out a bit, causing some irritating wind noise at highway speeds that can't be fixed easily.
I hope that longwinded answer is helpful.

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