seat belt locking mechanism
 

i was driving and hit a bump rather hard and my seat belt locked, and then wouldnt unlock at all. i pulled off to the side of the road, took it off and fed the seat belt all way back up, as this usually solves the issues, but it just stayed locked. so, i dropped the car off at home and cant get out to look at it until tomorrow. but what exactly do i look for?

my lease ends may 1st so i need to get this taken care of pronto, cuz ive already started packing up stuff.

any help is appreciated,

Nick

sounds like you activated the crash mechanism inside the seat belt. Your probably going to have to replace it.

Not what i wanted to hear. I cannot afford a new one right now. My computer crapped out on me last night as well.

Im gonna look at it this afternoon. But i have to get this fixed. Can i just break the cogs or lock or something?

You don't want to do that, then your belt won't do anything for you if you get in an accident.

Junkyard?

I'm not certain that the 1st gens even have a one-shot 'crash mechanism' in the sense that newer cars do. It's been a very long time since I've had my belt tensioners out, but I seem to remember that it's just an inertial lock system.

Quite possibly, the mechanism is just gummed up/dirtied up from accumulated dirt and possibly a bit rusted from a water leak in the roof drains or rain-wetted belts. You may be able to solve it by careful cleaning.

You won't know til you have it out.

the FC is just an inertial ratcheting thing, its really simple.

Im pulling it out later this afternoon. I do hope its just dirty or stuck.

I tested the passengers belt, couldnt get it lock bo matter how hard or fast i gave it a tug. So. If i do ever crash i better be alone.