South Carolina Car Accident Attorneys

Questions and answers about car accidents and insurance

How much does it cost to fix a deployed airbag?


On average, expect around $1,000 to $1,500 per airbag that needs to be replaced. That doesn’t take into consideration other parts that need to be changed; just the airbags themselves. Airbag module replacement will run another $600 and up.

Is my car totaled if airbags deployed?

Many people believe, and have likely been told, that if the airbags go off after a crash, the vehicle is automatically considered a total loss. This is not true. While a crash that is severe enough to set off the airbags will usually cause enough damage to total the car, it doesn’t always.

Can a car be repaired if the airbags deploy?

The airbag of a car cannot be fixed after an accident. Even though it can be costly, you must have it replaced. Manufacturers design modern airbags for a single use. When they were first introduced, mechanics could reset some airbags.

At what speed do airbags deploy?

Air Bag Deployment

An igniter in the inflator starts a chemical reaction that produces a harmless gas, which inflates the air bag within the blink of an eye – or less than 1/20th of a second.

How much does it cost to fix a deployed airbag? – Related Questions

How much does it cost to replace all airbags?

After a significant accident, expect the total cost of replacing your air bags to range from $1,000 to $6,000, with most bills averaging $3,000 to $5,000. The average driver-side air bag can cost $250 to $800 in parts alone, depending on the type of vehicle you drive.

What needs to be replaced when airbags deploy?

What Needs To Be Replaced After Airbags Have Deployed? If your airbags have deployed during an accident, your airbags will need to be replaced, and your airbag control module will need to be replaced or reprogrammed.

Are airbags covered under insurance?

Yes, your comprehensive car insurance policy covers airbags, however, it is not fully covered as the depreciation rate is applicable in this car component.

What happens when airbags deploy?

Shortly after it’s deployed, the airbag will deflate, leaving behind various chemicals that can result in an unpleasant smell and irritation in the eyes and on the skin. Since 1998, all passenger vehicles are required to have frontal airbags in place.

What damage can an airbag do?

The speed at which the airbag deploys can cause abrasions or burns. The chemicals released upon deployment can irritate the lungs and airways, and might even trigger an asthma attack. Airbags can cause severe eye injury.

Why does insurance ask if airbag deployed?

Many insurance companies use claims software to calculate how much they think a personal injury claim is worth. One of the questions that this software asks if the airbags deployed in the crash. If the answer is yes, this increases the full value of the pain and suffering component of the injured person’s case.

How does it feel to get hit by an airbag?

It can feel like being kicked in the face and chest by a very strong but fluffy bunny. Airbags are meant to keep you from hitting the hardest parts of your car, like the steering wheel, dashboard, glass windows, or metal doors.

What triggers airbag deployment?

Typically, a front airbag will deploy for unbelted occupants when the crash is the equivalent of an impact into a rigid wall at 10-12 mph. Most airbags will deploy at a higher threshold — about 16 mph — for belted occupants because the belts alone are likely to provide adequate protection up to these moderate speeds.

How much does a airbag cost?

The cost of replacing an airbag outright can be several hundred dollars, although it once again depends partially upon the exact make and model of the car that you’re working with. Expect to pay on the order of $1000 to $1500 per airbag to be replaced.

Can I drive without airbags?

Currently, no state and federal laws state that it is illegal to drive a car and any motor vehicle with no airbag, which is similar to driving with a hitch and driving with one arm in a sling. But it is not recommended to drive a car without this safety equipment.

Can I cut out deployed airbags?

In general, you should not attempt to cut out your deployed airbags or remove them by any other means yourself. The best and safest solution in this situation is to have your vehicle towed to a certified mechanic for repairs.

What does a deployed airbag smell like?

The airbag deploys so suddenly that it can almost feel like your initial collision. It makes a loud pop and emits a very distinct smell of burnt rubber or fabric. It is common to sustain minor burns from airbags as well.

How long does it take to heal from airbag injuries?

Follow-up care. Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised. Most skin wounds heal within 10 days. But you make get an infection even with proper treatment.

Is airbag residue toxic?

Is it harmful? There is no detectable amount of sodium azide residue present in the passenger compartment after an air bag deployment. Sodium azide, a component of the air bag inflator propellent, converts the nitrogen gas used to inflate the air bag. Sodium azide in its solid state is toxic.

How loud is an airbag deployment?

That’s where your ears come in. An airbag can generate a sound pressure of 178 decibels, which is over 20% higher than the level that can cause permanent hearing loss. And, more than 90% of individuals will be at risk for hearing disorders when airbags deploy.

Can airbags cause ear damage?

Otologic injuries reported to be induced by air bag deployment include tympanic membrane perforation, conductive hearing loss, tinnitus, disequilibrium, and sensorineural hearing loss [9, 10]. Sensorineural hearing loss has been reported in the frequency range of mid- to high-tones in the majority.


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