Airbags: What They Are and When to See a Mechanic
Your car’s airbags play a critical role in keeping you safe on the road. Since they deploy instantly during a crash, they protect your head, chest, and body from serious harm. When airbags function correctly, they can reduce injury and even save lives. Whether you’re navigating the streets of Richmond or taking a drive, to the science museum you need working airbags to stay safe.
At Meineke in Richmond, our ASE-certified mechanics inspect, diagnose, and repair airbag systems to ensure your safety equipment works when you need it most. So, in this post, the experts at Meineke explain what airbags do, how they work, why they matter, and when to visit a mechanic.
So, What Are Airbags and How Do They Work?
Airbags are safety devices built into your steering wheel, dashboard, doors, and sometimes the seats. When your vehicle detects a crash, sensors send a signal that causes the airbags to inflate within milliseconds. These airbags then act as a cushion between you and the hard surfaces inside your vehicle. Since they deploy so fast, they absorb the impact and help reduce injuries during collisions.
So, Why Are Airbags Important?
Because they activate instantly in a crash, airbags add a powerful layer of protection beyond your seatbelt.
- They absorb the impact to reduce the chance of hitting the dashboard or windshield.
- Airbags lower the risk of serious injuries to your head, neck, and chest.
- They work with your seatbelt to keep your body properly positioned during a crash.
- Airbags protect from multiple angles, especially in cars with both front and side airbags.
So, How Can You Maintain Your Airbag System?
Although airbags don’t need regular replacement, you should take steps to keep the system reliable.
- Pay attention to your dashboard. If the airbag light turns on, schedule a diagnostic right away.
- Protect the system from moisture. Water damage can harm sensors or wiring.
- Check your airbags after a collision, even if they didn’t deploy. Components can shift or become faulty.
- Ask for a scan during routine service. A quick system check helps catch issues before they become serious.
When Should You See a Mechanic About Your Airbags?
When the airbag system doesn’t work correctly, it puts you at serious risk in a crash. Visit Meineke in Richmond if you notice:
- A lit airbag warning light on your dashboard
- Recent accident damage, even if airbags didn’t deploy
- Signs of water damage inside the cabin or dashboard
- A manufacturer’s recall notice for your airbag system
So, Call Meineke Today for an Airbag System Check-Up
You rely on your airbags to keep you safe during a crash—so make sure they’re ready when it counts. If you’ve noticed a warning light, experienced an accident, or just want peace of mind, Meineke in Richmond has your back. Our ASE-certified mechanics will inspect your airbag system and ensure it works exactly as it should. So, don’t wait for an emergency—Call Meineke today for a quick and professional airbag check-up.
If the Meineke in Richmond is not convenient, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke locations in Virginia:
- Meineke Virginia Beach #197
6399 Indian River Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23464-3500
Call (844) 768-6004 - Meineke Virginia Beach #312
1837 Laskin Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23454-4504
Call (833) 696-8494 - Meineke Virginia Beach #2739
1321 Diamond Springs Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
Call (757) 687-0566 - Meineke Virginia Beach #2883
3700 Holland Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Call (757) 932-2952 - Meineke Charlottesville #342
1906 Emmet Street
Charlottesville, VA 22901-2815
Call (855) 747-2083 - Meineke Hampton #584
79 West Mercury Boulevard
Hampton, VA 23669-2508
Call (757) 690-7689 - Meineke Yorktown #851
4609 George Washington Memorial Highway
Yorktown, VA 23692-2766
Call (757) 847-9155 - Meineke Williamsburg #938
399 Second Street
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Call (757) 585-4492 - Meineke Denbigh #1088
415 Oriana Road
Newport News, VA 23608
Call (757) 814-2724 - Meineke Richmond #2514
5271 S Laburnum Avenue
Richmond, VA 23231
Call (804) 222-2862
Meineke Car Care in Richmond, VA
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