The color differences on airbag panels, the visible gaps, and the flashing warning light on the instrument panel can signal that a vehicle’s passive safety system is functioning as intended. In some cases, models are installed to replace airbags in standard locations, a point highlighted by Alexey Ruzanov, the technical director of Fit Service, a global network of auto-service centers, during an interview with socialbites.ca.
Ruzanov explained that airbags are typically covered with plastic plugs bearing specific markings or the word Airbag. A careful inspection of each component is essential. If a part shows a color that does not match neighboring plastic, or if it has protrusions or noticeable gaps, it is highly probable that the airbags were damaged in an accident and replaced with simulators or dummies rather than original cushions.
Another indirect method to verify airbag deployment is to check the date stamped on the seat belts. The belt date should correspond to the vehicle’s manufacture date. If there is a mismatch, it suggests the car has been involved in an accident. The expert noted that during an impact, the belts lock into place and only later are they replaced. If belts have been swapped, it is a strong indication that the airbag cushions may also have been replaced with non-genuine parts.
A third indicator is the warning light on the instrument panel. When the ignition is turned on, the vehicle’s malfunction indicators illuminate. There is also a signal that reads Airbag.
Ruzanov added that if the air cushions are in good order, this icon should illuminate briefly and then go out within about five seconds after the other indicators. If the light behaves differently—for example, if it goes out at the same moment as the others—there is a possibility that the pillow is missing and electronics or other components are being relied upon instead, which should raise concern for potential tampering or improper maintenance.
According to the expert, installing counterfeit dummies in place of airbags after purchasing a car can lead to restoration costs running into tens of thousands of rubles. It is also crucial to fit the vehicle with original spare parts; low-cost substitutes often fail to perform properly or reliably, making genuine parts the safer choice in the long run.
In related remarks, Ruzanov had previously indicated to Gazeta.ru that a climate-control system that has not been properly maintained ahead of summer may struggle to cope with dust and debris on the road, further underscoring the importance of comprehensive vehicle upkeep and timely inspections to ensure all safety features operate as intended.