Airbags: What They Are and When to See a Mechanic in Asheville
When it comes to vehicle safety, few features are more important than airbags. Since they deploy in a collision to cushion and protect you from serious injuries, airbags are one of your car’s most vital safety systems. Whether you’re commuting through Asheville or heading out on the road, properly working airbags give you peace of mind behind the wheel.
At Meineke on Fairview Road in Asheville, our experienced technicians provide airbag system diagnostics, inspections, and repairs to ensure your vehicle’s safety features are ready when you need them most. So, in this post, we’ll go over what airbags are, how they work, why they matter, how to maintain them, and when to visit a mechanic.
What Are Airbags and How Do They Work?
Airbags are soft, fast-inflating safety cushions designed to protect passengers during a collision. Since they are hidden behind panels in your steering wheel, dashboard, and sometimes side doors, they stay out of sight until needed. When a crash occurs, sensors in the vehicle detect rapid deceleration or impact. Then, the system sends a signal to ignite a small charge, which inflates the airbag in less than a second.
Because airbags work in tandem with seat belts, they help reduce the force of impact to your head, chest, and upper body during an accident.
Why Are Airbags So Important?
Even though you may never see them in action, airbags are life-saving devices.
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Protect passengers in a crash – If a collision happens, then airbags provide a cushion that helps prevent serious injury.
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Reduce impact on vital areas – If airbags deploy correctly, then they absorb energy that would otherwise hit your head or chest.
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Work with seat belts for full protection – If you are wearing a seat belt, then airbags add an extra layer of safety.
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Support side and rollover protection – If your car has curtain airbags, then they protect your head in side impacts.
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Lower the chance of fatal injuries – If airbags function properly, then they can greatly improve survival rates in crashes.
How to Maintain Your Airbag System
Although you cannot service an airbag yourself, proper care ensures the system stays ready to protect you.
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Watch for the airbag warning light – If this light comes on, then it means there may be a fault in the system.
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Have sensors and wiring inspected after any collision – If your car is hit, then the airbag system may need recalibration.
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Avoid tampering with steering or dashboard panels – If components are disturbed, then airbags may not deploy correctly.
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Replace deployed airbags immediately – If an airbag has been used, then it must be replaced for full protection.
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Schedule system checks during regular service – If your mechanic inspects the airbag system often, then hidden issues can be addressed early.
When to See a Mechanic in Asheville
A faulty airbag system can leave you unprotected when it matters most. Visit Meineke in Asheville if:
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The airbag warning light stays on or flashes
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Your vehicle has been in a crash but airbags did not deploy
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Your steering wheel, dash, or side panels show signs of tampering
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You purchased a used vehicle and want to confirm airbag function
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You hear unusual clicking or electrical sounds from the dashboard
So, Call Meineke in Asheville Today for an Airbag System Inspection
Since airbags are critical to your safety, keeping the system in top condition is essential. But if the warning light is on or you have any reason to doubt the system’s function, Meineke on Fairview Road in Asheville is here to help. Whether you need a diagnostic scan, sensor replacement, or full airbag system inspection, our skilled technicians will ensure everything works as it should. So, don’t risk driving without full protection—call Meineke in Asheville today for an airbag check-up.
If the Meineke on Fairview Road in Asheville is not a convenient location, also check out these other locally-owned Meineke North and South Carolina locations:
North Carolina
MEINEKE ASHEVILLE #1596
801 Fairview Road Suite 14
Asheville, NC 28803
Call (833) 720-9793
MEINEKE ASHEVILLE #2467
124 Patton Avenue
Asheville, NC 28801
Call (833) 243-0637
MEINEKE MOORESVILLE #1931
190 East Plaza Drive
Mooresville, NC 28115
Call (980) 444-0002
MEINEKE LINCOLNTON #2159
2009 East Main Street
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Call (704) 240-9839
MEINEKE WALKERTOWN #2394
5267 Neal Trail Drive
Walkertown, NC 27051
Call (877) 688-8804
MEINEKE ARDEN #2468
2137 Hendersonville Road
Arden, NC 28704
Call (844) 891-3628
MEINEKE HICKORY #2884
1052 11th Avenue Blvd SE
Hickory, NC 28602
Call (828) 270-7267
MEINEKE KILL DEVIL HILLS #2199
1800 S Croatan Highway
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Call (252) 564-7851
South Carolina
MEINEKE EASLEY #2983
6949 Calhoun Memorial Hwy
Easley, SC 29640
Call (864) 644-8872
MEINEKE ROCK HILL #1134
2366 Dave Lyle Boulevard
Rock Hill, SC 29730-8931
Call (803) 328-6677
Meineke Car Care in Asheville, North Carolina
