What Are the Reasons Why the Airbag Did Not Deploy?
2 Answers
There are several reasons why an airbag may not deploy, including faults in the airbag system itself, failure to meet the deployment threshold, and incorrect collision angles. Below is a detailed explanation of these causes: Faults in the airbag system itself: It is possible for the airbag system to have inherent faults, which is a relatively common issue. For instance, many vehicle owners neglect to inspect the airbag during routine maintenance, which can lead to the system failing to function in critical moments. Failure to meet the deployment threshold: Different car manufacturers have varying criteria for airbag deployment. If the collision does not meet the predetermined threshold, the airbag will not deploy. Incorrect collision angle: Airbag deployment requires the activation of collision sensors. Typically, severe frontal collisions will trigger the airbag. However, if the collision occurs at an incorrect angle, such as in the headlight or front wheel area, the airbag may not deploy.
I've only been driving for a few years and have encountered a situation where the airbag didn't deploy. After that minor accident, I looked up some information and found there could be many possible reasons. If the sensor is misaligned or the impact isn't strong enough, it might not detect the crash; if the airbag control computer malfunctions, it won't trigger the signal; wiring short circuits or breaks are also common, especially with aging wires; a blown fuse can cut off the current directly; airbags themselves can fail over time, typically needing replacement after ten years; a dead battery might also put the system to sleep. More detailed issues include aftermarket audio modifications affecting the electronic controls. Remember, this is a matter of life and death—don't take it lightly. If there's any problem, go to a professional shop to scan the ECU for error codes. My own experience is to get regular maintenance, checking the airbag system every time I change the oil, just to be safe.
