How to Retract a Stuck Seat Belt

Seat belts can reduce the risk of injuries during a collision by 50%, so you’re more likely to survive a crash if you buckle up during your trip.

Knowing how important seat belts are, you must always ensure they’re in good condition. Check them regularly because, like other car mechanisms, they can malfunction. For example, as your vehicle ages, you might notice that it’s hard to retract your seat belts.

What to Do When Your Seat Belt Won’t Retract At All

If your seat belt won’t retract, no matter how hard you try, don’t worry. It’s a common issue. Below are some steps on how to fix a seat belt that won’t retract. However, before proceeding, it’ll help if you familiarize yourself first with the different parts of a seat belt and how they function.

Try to Feed the Seat Belt Backward

Unbuckle the seat belt to free the webbing, allowing it to go slack. Then, try to retract the belt by 1 to 2 inches.

Pull Your Seat Belt Outward Until It’s Fully Extended

If it still doesn’t retract, try pulling the webbing out to clear any twist that’s preventing your seat belt from retracting. If you feel any resistance while you’re doing this, chances are your webbing is really twisted.

Inspect the Seat Belt for Any Signs of Twisting

Once you’ve completely pulled out the belt, check it for twists that could be keeping it from retracting. Inspect the area that’s usually hidden behind the seat belt’s trim paneling.

Remove the Cover

If you still don’t see your seat belt retracting, remove your pillar trim to expose the retracting mechanism.

Look for the seat belt’s retractor, which is a mechanism that spools the unnecessary webbing into a hidden compartment when the seat belt is not in use. It’s also in charge of stopping the spool from unwinding during a collision, keeping the passenger safe.

Check for any signs of jamming or damage in the retractor. Clean the area around the mechanism. After that, pull the seat belt outward and try to retract it again.

If none of these steps work, contact a professional for a more thorough diagnosis.

Fixing a Slow-Retracting Seat Belt

If your seat belt retracts slower than usual, try cleaning the belt. The oil from our skin and dirt from our clothes can accumulate on the belt’s surface over time and slow down retraction.

First, pull the seat belt out. Find any clip that you can use to keep the belt from retracting. Then, you can clean the belt using a spray cleaner that’s safe for your car seats. Avoid using cleaners with bleach because they can stain or discolor the belt.

You can also clean the pillar loop using sandpaper to remove any dirt that’s stuck there.

When to Replace a Seat Belt Retractor

Your seat belt retractor is durable, but if you’ve recently been involved in a collision, you might need to replace it. The impact might have damaged the mechanism. To be sure, you can always ask a trusted professional.

When Should I Replace the Whole Seat Belt Assembly?

It would be best to replace your seat belts after a car accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) treats seat belts as single-use items. Like airbags, you can’t reuse them after a collision because the accident might have damaged the seat belt retractors and pretensioners.

Also, you should replace worn-out seat belts as soon as possible. Experts recommend inspecting your whole seat belt assembly every 10 to 15 years.

As your vehicle ages, your ride’s seat belts can get loose, frayed, or damaged. The mechanism can also malfunction. Once this happens, these belts won’t effectively hold you in place in case of an accident.

Seat Belt Warranties 

Several vehicle manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on seat belts, so you might want to check that out first before getting a replacement. In some cases, they may also extend these warranties on air bags. Some manufacturers have stipulations that include requirements like regular vehicle maintenance. Nevertheless, they still offer lifetime warranty.

Several vehicle manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on seat belts, so you might want to check that out first before getting a replacement.

–Anthony Harlin, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

How Much Does Replacing a Seat Belt Cost?

The cost of a seat belt replacement depends on many factors, like your vehicle and the part’s brand. But if you’re looking for a ballpark figure, expect to shell out between $200 and $600 for a seat belt replacement.

Other Common Seat Belt Issues to Watch Out for

Aside from issues retracting your seat belt, here are other seat belt issues that you must address immediately.

Locking Problem

It’s common to have issues with the seat belt’s locking mechanism. If you find it difficult to lock or unlock your seat belt, take your vehicle to a professional and have a mechanism check it to determine whether it needs repair or replacement.

Worn-Out Webbing

If the webbing is frayed or damaged in any way, consider having your seat belts replaced. It might no longer be sturdy enough to keep you safely in place during a collision.

A faulty seat belt can cost you your life, so don’t think twice about fixing your seat belts or replacing them once you find any faults. It’s better to shell out money now than compromise your safety while on the road.

Where to Get A New Seat Belt Your Vehicle

Driving around with a damaged seat belt is never a good idea. An issue like this should be dealt with right away because it can put you at risk during hard stops and accidents. The great news is that CarParts.com knows exactly how to help you.

Thanks to our strategically located warehouses across the US, you can get your new seat belt delivered straight to your doorstep in as fast as two business days. Replace your damaged seat belt as soon as possible, and waste no time in ensuring your safety on the road.

Find a compatible seat belt for your ride by entering its year, make, and model into our vehicle selector. This will narrow down the catalog to direct-fit seat belts for your ride. You can also use the search filters to find a seat belt according to your preferred brand, price range, quantity, and more.

Here at CarParts.com, we like to ensure you get the most value for your money, which is why all our products come with a low-price and lifetime replacement guarantee. Buy what you need without going over budget or breaking the bank.

Don’t miss out on the best deals on the market, and shop for a top-notch seat belt replacement right here at CarParts.com today!