Is the Car Scrapped After the Airbag Deploys?
2 Answers
When the car's airbag deploys, it is not the car that is scrapped, but the airbag itself. Introduction to Airbags: The electronic control safety airbag system is a passive safety protection system. When used in conjunction with seat belts, it provides effective collision protection for occupants. In the event of a car collision, airbags can reduce head injuries by 25% and facial injuries by approximately 80%. Protection Principle of Airbags: When a car experiences a certain level of collision force, the airbag system triggers a chemical reaction similar to a small explosive detonation. The hidden airbag inside the car inflates and deploys instantly, positioning itself in time before the occupant's body collides with interior components. Upon contact with the airbag, the airbag begins to deflate through the holes on its surface, cushioning the impact and ultimately reducing the severity of occupant injuries.
Last week my car's airbags deployed during a high-speed rear-end collision - scared me to death. The front end was completely smashed, and a cloud of dust burst out when the airbags inflated. I thought it was doomed and the car would be totaled. But after towing it to the repair shop, the mechanic said the chassis wasn't deformed and the engine was still fine - only the airbag system and sensors needed complete replacement. The repairs cost nearly 20,000 yuan, which was covered by insurance. It's been driving steadily for a year since then. Airbag deployment isn't necessarily the end - it mainly depends on whether it's a minor or moderate accident. If the airbags deploy accidentally in a minor scrape, repairs would be cheaper. My car was a three-year-old model worth over 200,000 yuan, so repairing made economic sense. For older cars that get smashed beyond recognition with frame deformation or broken components, repairs wouldn't be safe and insurers would recommend totaling it. So don't be too pessimistic - get a professional assessment first.
