Does a deployed airbag indicate a major accident?
2 Answers
Deploying an airbag does indicate a major accident. Here is an introduction about car airbags: Concept: An airbag is a one-time-use active safety device. For an airbag to deploy, the collision sensor must be triggered, which requires a very strong impact. Composition: The car's airbag system consists of four parts: the impact sensor, the airbag ECU, the inflation system, and the airbag itself. After an accident, not only the deployed airbag needs to be replaced, but the airbag ECU must also be replaced. Conditions for airbag deployment: Experiments show that for the main airbag in the steering wheel to deploy, the car must collide at an angle of 60 degrees in front at a speed of at least 50 km/h, generating a reverse acceleration of over 40g, for the airbag to deploy normally.
Airbag deployment definitely counts as a major accident. I've been driving for over a decade and encountered several similar situations. Airbags only deploy during severe collisions, which indicates extremely strong impact forces and potentially serious structural damage to the vehicle. Such accidents usually involve high-speed or frontal collisions, making repairs particularly troublesome as they require replacing the entire airbag system and sensors. Insurance companies directly classify these as major accident records, causing significant depreciation in resale value. My advice is to immediately file an insurance claim and conduct thorough inspections for potential chassis or frame deformations - safety comes first. Don't underestimate this issue, as it could lead to numerous hidden dangers later. During routine maintenance, always consult mechanics about airbag conditions. The deployment thresholds are designed to be extremely strict - minor scratches or bumps would never trigger them.
