1996 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 48

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. 1 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you've had a crash, do you need newbelts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if w m during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean youwill need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn't being usedat the time of the collision. If an air baginflates, you'll need to replace a r bag i system parts. See thepart on the air bag system earlier in this section. But if a safety belt isn't long enough to fasten,, your dealer will order you an extender. It's free. When you go in to orderit, takethe heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will 'bejust for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don't let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made tofit. To wear it, justattach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems NOW then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safetybelt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn 01'frayed, get anew one right away. A h look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) i 1-41