Airbags: Keeping You Safe in the Worst Case Scenarios

What Your Airbags Do and Why They Matter at Meineke in Seattle

In Seattle, safety on the road is a top priority—especially with the city’s busy traffic, rainy weather, and winding hills. Because airbags play a critical role in protecting you during an accident, they must always be in working order. Whether you’re commuting on I-5 or driving through Capitol Hill, your airbags are there as a last line of defense.

At Meineke in Seattle, we’re committed to keeping your vehicle safe from the inside out. So, this post explains how airbags work, why they’re important, how to maintain them, and when to visit us for expert service. Also, click here to check out the great deals and coupons available at Meineke Seattle.

How Airbags Work

To begin, airbags are part of your vehicle’s Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). When your car detects a collision—usually through crash sensors—it sends a signal to deploy the airbags. Then, a chemical reaction fills the bags with gas almost instantly, cushioning your body from hitting hard surfaces like the steering wheel or dashboard.

Because they deploy in milliseconds, airbags must be perfectly timed and properly installed. Although you may never see them in action, they’re always on standby to protect you.

Why Airbags Are Important

Even though seatbelts are your first safety measure, airbags provide crucial extra protection. Since they reduce the force of impact, they lower your risk of serious injury.

• First, they cushion your head and upper body in a crash.

• Next, they work with seatbelts to reduce whiplash and spinal injuries.

• Also, they help keep you inside the vehicle instead of being thrown forward.

• In addition, side airbags protect you from side impacts and window shattering.

• Finally, airbags improve overall survival rates in both minor and major collisions.

Because accidents happen without warning, your airbags must always be ready to deploy.

How to Maintain Your Airbags

Although airbags don’t require everyday attention, they still need proper care over time. So, use these simple steps to make sure your system stays ready:

• Pay attention to the airbag warning light—if it stays on, something’s wrong.

• Get your SRS system scanned during regular check-ups at Meineke in Seattle.

• Avoid water damage, which can interfere with sensors and wiring.

• Replace airbags after a deployment, even if the vehicle seems fine.

• Check your owner’s manual for airbag inspection intervals, especially for older cars.

Because your airbag system relies on electronics and sensors, small issues can stop it from working when you need it most.

When to See a Mechanic at Meineke in Seattle

Sometimes, airbag problems are easy to miss until a light flashes or a test fails. So, bring your vehicle to Meineke in Seattle if:

• The airbag or SRS light stays on or blinks while driving

• You’ve been in an accident, even if the airbags didn’t deploy

• You notice dashboard damage, especially near the passenger airbag

• You bought a used car and want to verify airbag safety

• The horn, cruise control, or steering wheel buttons don’t work—it could be a faulty clock spring affecting the airbag circuit

Because airbag system issues can affect deployment, having it checked early ensures it works when it matters most.

So, Call Meineke in Seattle Today for a Full Airbag Safety Inspection

Since airbags are a critical safety system, keeping them in perfect shape helps protect you and your passengers. At Meineke in Seattle, our ASE-certified technicians can scan, inspect, and repair your airbag system with precision—so you drive with confidence every day. Whether you’ve noticed a warning light or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help.

So, call Meineke in Seattle today and schedule your airbag system check—because your safety should never be left to chance.