1998 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 58
1998 Ford Escort Manual
Page 58 highlights
Seating and safety restraints equipped), shoulder belt height adjusters (if equipped), child safety seat tether bracket assemblies (if equipped), and attaching hardware, should be inspected after a collision. Ford recommends that all safety belt assemblies used in vehicles involved in a collision be replaced. However, if the collision was minor and a qualified technician finds that the belts do not show damage and continue to operate properly, they do not need to be replaced. Safety belt assemblies not in use during a collision should also be inspected and replaced if either damage or improper operation is noted. Failure to replace the safety belt assembly under the above conditions could result in severe personal injuries in the event of a collision. Refer to Cleaning and maintaining the safety belts in the Maintenance and care section. AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) 58