Does Airbag Deployment Affect Car Purchase?
4 Answers
Airbag deployment does not affect car purchase. The airbag is a one-time-use device and can be replaced promptly after deployment. Below is a detailed introduction about car airbags: 1. Function: In case of danger, the airbag can deploy to protect passengers. It effectively reduces the likelihood of injury to car passengers, especially facial injuries, by up to 80%. 2. Post-deployment measures: The airbag is a one-time-use device. Its deployment means that components such as the collision sensor, detonator, and sodium azide with oxidizer in the detonator are no longer usable. Therefore, the airbag should be replaced immediately after deployment.
As someone who frequently travels with children, I prioritize the safety of the car above all else. If an airbag has deployed, it must have been due to the impact of an accident—this is no joking matter, as it's a one-time-use safety device. Once deployed, the entire airbag module must be replaced, including the sensors and control unit, or it may fail to protect occupants in the next collision. I’ve heard some used car owners cut corners by installing old or substandard airbags to save money, only for them to malfunction in an actual emergency. Even worse, the car’s frame may have hidden damage, such as deformed suspension or structural beams, drastically reducing its safety rating. Insurance companies are also stricter with claims for such vehicles, and premiums may skyrocket. When buying a car, if I find out the airbags have deployed, I’d rather walk away—peace of mind is far more important than saving money. I advise buyers to check the vehicle history report, confirm the airbags are either original or properly replaced, and bring a knowledgeable friend for a thorough test drive to ensure all safety systems respond correctly. Remember, airbags aren’t just accessories—they’re lifesavers. Don’t gamble with the unknown.
During my student years, I bought a used car with deployed airbags, mainly because it was heavily discounted—about 20,000 to 30,000 yuan cheaper than the same model in good condition. Once the airbags deploy, the car immediately becomes classified as an accident vehicle, causing its value to plummet in the second-hand market due to safety concerns. The cost of replacing the airbags isn’t small, potentially around 5,000 to 6,000 yuan, including installation fees. But I did the math—if the car’s body was still in decent shape and could run for several more years, the investment was worth it. However, it’s crucial to note that the airbag system needs recalibration after repairs; otherwise, the warning light stays on. Holding onto such a car long-term makes resale even harder, with lower value and higher insurance costs. Buying this kind of car saves money, but you should always bring a technician to inspect it, ensuring the airbags are properly installed and wiring isn’t aged. I once checked online tutorials and reviewed the seller’s repair records for thoroughness—ease of operation affects the decision. You asked if it impacts the purchase? Absolutely, but it all comes down to how you balance budget and safety.
I've been in the auto repair business for over a decade and have seen many accident vehicles with deployed airbags. Airbags are precision devices - once deployed, they're rendered useless and require complete replacement of the module, including sensors and control units. Improper installation can cause issues like loose connections or false alarms. Body damage must also be repaired simultaneously, as frame deformation could affect driving stability. The impact on resale is obvious: accident history scares buyers away, and repairs are costly and time-consuming. However, vehicles with deployed airbags can be purchased cheaply, provided they've been properly replaced and tested by a reputable shop. I always advise friends to carefully check the VIN report, verify the airbag system powers on correctly, and take a test drive to check for abnormal vibrations.
