Nowadays, all the best new cars have features designed to keep people safe. This includes airbags, lane departure warning, and blind spot detection. However, seat belts are among the most critical safety features in a car. Still, there is a degree of confusion surrounding this aspect of cars that has been standard since the late 1960s. Most notably, many assume seat beats are good forever. Luckily, auto mechanics can also provide insight into individual cases.

How long do car seat belts last?

As mentioned, many drivers believe that car seat belts last forever. After all, why would these safety straps need to be switched out for new models? Sadly, this isn’t the case, as they can become worn out over time. According to Safety Restore, most seat belts should be replaced within 10 to 15 years in order to assure optimal safety. 

As mentioned, auto mechanics can inspect seat belts to measure their effectiveness. However, there are things car owners can do to decide if their seat belts have become too worn out. For starters, any sign of damage is a red flag. This includes fraying on the belt, rips, or difficulty latching the buckle. Faded fabric on seat belts is also a sign you need to ones. 

Of course, this isn’t as much of an issue for people who buy the best new cars. However, this could concern used car buyers, who may not know how long the seat belts have been in the pre-owned vehicle. 

Is replacing them expensive?

Car maintenance is expensive, so some car owners may be apprehensive about replacing seat belts. Still, these devices save lives and shouldn’t be used beyond their expiration dates. As with most repairs, the cost of replacement depends on the circumstance. However, CarParts.com says the parts could cost between $20 and $85 per seat belt. Of course, this does not include labor costs. 

Some buyers may decide to invest in used car seat belts. While this may be okay in some situations, car owners should avoid this practice for optimal safety. This is the case because it might be challenging to determine how old the belts are and if they may have been involved in a car accident. Additionally, buying used belts means that you have fewer years with them. If possible, it’s best to fork over the cash for new seat belts instead of going with older ones. 

For more reading on car safety, check out this recent article on three things to check before driving a used car.