If you’ve been in an auto collision and your life-saving airbags have deployed, you’re probably eternally grateful for their invention—these unique safety features have been around since the early 1950s, protecting passengers from injuries. Keep them functional by knowing how long they last, how they work, and when to get them inspected. Here are four answers to commonly asked questions about these devices so you can keep them in top shape.

4 Questions Commonly Asked About Airbags

How Do They Work?

Front and side airbags deploy in a moderate to severe crash. The vehicle senses the collision and alerts the bags to inflate. A spark from an igniter creates a chemical reaction that makes a gas inflate the bag faster than a fraction of a second. Side airbags go off even quicker because they have less distance to travel between the vehicle doors and the driver.

When will They Go Off?

For airbags to deploy, the vehicle must be in an auto collision that involves hitting something solid. Each vehicle manufacturer has different parameters for deployment, but most go off if the car hits something solid when driving between 8 and 14 mph. 

Do They Go Bad? 

Airbags do not have an expiration date. However, have a certified mechanic inspect them every ten years to ensure they’ll go off if a crash occurs. Additionally, some airbags are recalled due to premature explosions. Subscribe to recall information from your car manufacturer to ensure you’re aware of this issue if it’s relevant to your vehicle.

What Happens to Them After Collisions?

After an auto collision, you cannot repair the airbag. Instead, bring the car to an auto shop. They will replace the airbag module and test the sensors, so the airbags will go off if another crash happens.

Vehicle owners experiencing airbag issues from collisions should contact Mike Smith’s Automotive Collision Center in Dothan, AL. The expert team features full-time mechanics and I-Car® certified technicians who are ready to repair your vehicle, so it and operates safely. Call the Houston County-area company at (334) 792-0446, or visit the website for information on their body panel work, non-DRP facility repairs, alignment services and more.