Is there a way to legally deactivate the driver's side airbag? When I bought my car, the dealership told me that deactivating an airbag is against federal law. Does anyone know more about this issue?
2007-03-20 18:13:43 · 4 answers · asked by BlackSea 4 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Safety
Someone here asks why I'd consider deactivation for my driver's side air bag. The reason is I'm on the short side and usually sit close to the steering wheel--closer than the recommended 10+ inches. Wouldn't do it if it causes problems with my insurance, though. Was just curious.
2007-03-22 03:03:03 · update #1
You can remove the airbag, but if you get in an accident your insurance company will cancel your policy on the spot and won't cover the accident. You will instantly void your cars warranty. Also depending on the make of your car, it may not start without the airbags in working order, in place. Alot of newer cars will not run if the airbag is removed or deployed. If you are going to take it out anyways, be very careful with it. Treat them like a grenade.
2007-03-21 08:26:30 · answer #1 · answered by fireguyjay01 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I do not think that deactivation of an airbag is against federal law but I do not knwo why you would want to do such a thing. If you are wearing your seatbelt and you get into a crash the seatbelt locks around your shoulders and your pelvis making sure significant harm is done to your body. The airbag makes sure your head will not go through the windsheild or get ejected from the car and possibly die. There are some models of cars that you can turn off the airbag with a key or by flipping a switch but that is generally for when small children twelve and under ride in the front since airbags can kill them since they are so little. If you really wish to take your airbag out of comission you can pry the compartment open with a screwdriver or stab it with a knife, both ways are strongly not recommended reason being that your insurance will skyrocket and your safety will be thrown into jeopardy whenever you drive your car. You did not really elaborate on your questsion though. Why exactly do you want to deactivate your airbag?
2007-03-22 00:28:32 · answer #2 · answered by leged56 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I remotely recall something about someone having some medical condition and they could have it turned off. Sorry I can't remember more about it but I hope it gives you some direction.
Legal or not, you could always remove it and when you want to sell the car replace the airbag.
2007-03-21 05:02:15 · answer #3 · answered by Fordman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. There is a completely legal way to deactivate an airbag.
Drive into a brick wall at 60mph. After the airbag deploys, it will be deactivated. No tools required.
2007-03-21 01:17:54 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋