How to Restore the Tension on an Auto Seat Belt

Keeping the tension on the seat belts in your car is vital to the safety of you and your passengers. It is important to regularly check the function and tension of all the seat belts in each of your family's vehicles and adjust as necessary.

Instructions

1

Understand how a seat belt works. It is designed to react during the impact of an accident by depressing the latch through a series of tabs. Once this happens repeatedly or in an extreme accident, the cushion and tension are compromised on the seat belt.

2

Take the plastic casing off the ends of the seat belt. This will allow you to see the seat belt in its entirely. Check for tangles, knots, damage or other things that could be causing the seat belt to sit loosely or not function properly. Correct any tangles or knots.

3

Replace any seat belts that have damage or cuts in them. The safety and function of them have been compromised and it is not legal, nor safe to leave them as is. It is best to have a professional mechanic install the new seat belts, so that all legal issues are met.

4

Have the seat belts checked by an automotive professional who knows the safety laws and recommendations. This is important in order to make sure everything is up to current safety standards, especially if you have an older vehicle. If you do have a classic vehicle, consider having lap belts installed for your safety.