Ask an expert

My Toyota Caldina has just failed a WoF due to the mechanism in the driver's seat belt supposedly not being up to standard.

Is it OK to get a second hand seat belt fitted (as long as it's the same model and in good nick) rather than buying a brand new one?

Rebecca

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 6 November 2009

There are no laws to stop you fitting a second hand seat belt however I do strongly suggest some caution.

Many cars are now fitted with what are called pre-tensioner seat belts which worked in tandem with the cars airbags (if fitted) in the event of an accident. If the airbags were to deploy, the pre-tensioner seat belt is designed to lock and retract slightly to pull the driver / passenger back into the seat to help reduce injury.

If your car is fitted with such seatbelts I would not recommend fitting second hand parts as there are no guarantees they will operate properly in the event of an accident.

I suggest you visit your regular garage or franchise holder for the make and model you own, and seek their advice once they have looked at your particular seatbelt design.

It's not the sort of equipment that compromises should be made regardless of the design. Make sure you make your safety the first priority.