RegulationPolicy

Trying To Disconnect Air Bags

Some motorists are angry over the costs and difficulties they are encountering in legally disconnecting potentially deadly air bags in their vehicles.

  • While the government has granted private citizens the right to disconnect the devices, car owners must obtain a permit from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as well as a note from their physician certifying that the bags pose a risk to the owner.

  • Even if permission is granted, the motorist must find a mechanic who will do the work and sign a form releasing the auto shop from liability.

  • But few repair shops are interested in doing the work under any circumstances -- fearing they may one day face a lawsuit.

  • Even if a willing mechanic is found, the cost of dismantling the system -- which originally added between $500 and $1,000 to the car's price -- can cost up to $1,000.

"I'm just disgusted by the whole thing," one car owner who faced these problems in having the device disconnected is quoted as saying. "The government makes us pay for these devices we don't want and that are dangerous, then expects us to pay through the nose to have them removed."

Source: Eric Peters, "Air Bag Disconnect Trauma," Washington Times, February 17, 1998.

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