What is the shelf life of seat belts?
2 Answers
Seat belts generally have a service life of 3 to 5 years, and should be scrapped in advance if any abnormalities are found. Here is more information about seat belts: 1. Brief description: Seat belts were first invented by aircraft designers and are known as life belts. When properly fastened, they will firmly "press" the person into the seat at the first moment of an accident. Then, after the peak impact force has passed or the airbag has deployed, the seat belt will appropriately loosen to complete the protection. 2. Precautions: Regularly check the seat belt for cuts, wear, looseness, etc. After a severe accident, the seat belt should be replaced. Do not use seat belt buckles for convenience when fastening the seat belt in the car, and use child safety seats for children.
As a car owner with over a decade of driving experience, I believe seat belts don't have a strict expiration date—they naturally wear out and degrade over time, just like old leather shoes. Daily usage and environmental factors play crucial roles: prolonged exposure to sunlight can make the webbing brittle and stiff, while frequent temperature fluctuations accelerate material aging. I recommend a basic inspection every 5 years, or having a professional technician check for signs of wear or looseness every 100,000 kilometers. After any collision, immediate replacement is mandatory since internal damage is invisible yet compromises functionality. Last year, my friend's 12-year-old seat belt failed during emergency braking—fortunately at low speed. Regular maintenance prevents risks, and don't neglect cleaning dust buildup. Safe driving starts with reliable equipment, especially in older vehicles. Remember: life is priceless; never compromise safety to save money.
