This primary restraint system uses woven polyester webbing attached to the vehicle structure to keep passengers anchored during sudden deceleration. Most vehicles use a three-point design with an inertial reel that locks under high g-forces, preventing the occupant from hitting the dashboard or windshield. A pretensioner is often integrated to pull the webbing tight milliseconds before an impact.
The crash data shows the pretensioner fired, so we need to replace the entire seat belt assembly before releasing the car.
Never attempt to repair frayed seat belt webbing; the entire assembly must be replaced to guarantee it will hold during a crash.
Also heard as
- safety belt
- seatbelt
Related terms
Airbag
An inflatable safety device designed to cushion occupants during a collision.
SRS
The supplemental restraint system manages airbags and seatbelt pretensioners to protect occupants during a crash.
Lap belt
A safety restraint strap that secures only across the passenger's hips.
Shoulder belt
A safety restraint strap that crosses the upper torso diagonally.
Passive restraint
A vehicle safety device that operates automatically without any action required by the occupant.