We specialize in air bag replacement, air bag system repair and the installation of
manufacturer's On-Off key switches which allow you to legally disable your vehicles air bag. It is
our opinion that the vehicle manufacturers should have had the largest recall in history. “
impact air bags deploy at 200 miles per hour”, and should have been replaced with the ”
impact ” bag. These smart bags are specially designed to open at a lower speed if you are in
an accident. Smart bags and other consumer information on air bags are on the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.
We look forward to doing business in the future.
Are “HIGH” IMPACT air bags safe? Frequently Asked Questions About Airbag Disconnect
Q: My car was in an accident and the air bags opened. Can these be reused or must they be replaced?
A: Air bags are designed for one time use only and must be replaced after being engaged.
Q: Can the air bags be replaced with used units?
A: Because air bags are a vital part of your vehicles safety system, we highly recommend using only new units.
Q: Can I purchase new air bags and install them myself?
A: Air bag control systems are very sophisticated and have special sensors and micro processors which require very specialized diagnostic equipment and highly advanced training. Always have a very reliable, trained professional perform any work on your air bags.
Q: How do I know if a company has experience replacing air bags?
A: The National Highway Traffic Administration has a database of companies that offer air bag services. Although this is a good place to start, you should talk to the shop manager and ask for details on their experience and equipment and even ask local car dealers about their reputation. Air Bag Inc has been working on air bag systems for many years and has worked closely with local auto dealers and body shops.
Q: How do I know if my air bags are high speed or “units”?
A: You must check with your vehicle manufacturer.
Q: Can I have my high speed air bags replaced with smart units even if I have NOT been in an accident?
A: Yes - if your vehicle manufacturer has developed one.
Q: How do I know if my air bags need service?
A: Typically the air bag indicator light on your dashboard stays lit or is flashing. Please see your vehicles instruction manual for details or come to our shop and we will perform a complete system diagnostic test.
Q: How much will it cost to replace my air bags?
A: Because every vehicle is different, it is impossible to state a one-price-fits-all amount. If you can bring your vehicle to our facility in Auburn, NH (just east of Manchester), we will quote you a competitive rate for air bag service you need.
Q: How long will it take?
A: Generally, 1 day, but we will inform you at time of quote.
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbag Disconnect Switches
Q: Is it legal to disable my vehicles air bags?
A: In November of 1997, a federal law was passed allowing air bags to be disarmed using an On-Off key switch - which must must have an indicator light that is lit when the switch is in the OFF (disarmed) position. Vehicle owners must apply for permission to have this switch installed. Click here to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complete rule...
Q: Why would I want to disable the air bags?
A: You, the Customer, will now be legally able to decide under what conditions your air bags will be enabled or disabled. With this key switch, you can decide to disable the air bag when carrying small children, elderly passengers, or even short people in the front seat. Click here to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations Information brochure for On-Off Switches...
Q: What if I want the air bag re-enabled?
A: Unlike vehicle modifications which permanently disable the air bag system, you will still have the option to re-enable the air bag system when it is safe to do so, simply by turning the key.
Q: Can anyone have their air bags disabled?
A: A person meeting all of the requirements could obtain a government form allowing an On-Off switch to be installed in their vehicle.
NHTSA will authorize deactivation based upon the following justifications:
- A rear-facing infant restraint must be placed in front seat of a vehicle because there is no back seat in the vehicle or the back seat is too small for the child restraint (passenger air bag only).
- A child age 12 or under must ride in the front seat because the child has a medical condition that requires frequent monitoring in the front seat.
- The owner, or a driver or passenger of the owner's vehicle, has a medical condition that, in combination with an air bag, poses a special risk to the person with the condition, and that risk outweighs the increased risk that the person's head, neck or chest
will violently strike the steering wheel or dashboard during a crash if the air bag is turned off (driver and/or passenger air bag, as appropriate).
- Drivers who are extremely short-statured (i.e., 4 feet, 6 inches or less) (driver air bag only). Click here to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complete rule...
Q: Do I need a special permit?
A: Yes. An application must be filled out and signed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration before an On-Off switch may be installed in any vehicle. Click here to see the complete procedure.
Q: Where do I get the permit?
A: Affordable Mobility Inc has copies of the application and will help you fill it out. You may also click here to display the form from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations web site.
Q: Can I just purchase the switch?
A: Yes. For information please Contact Us
Q: Can I make my own switch or install it myself?
A: Because the On-Off switch is part of your vehicles safety equipment, it is very important to purchase the switch recommended by the vehicles manufacturer and have it installed by a mechanic who has the experience and the very specialized equipment.
These switches must be manufactured with a high degree of quality and be fully tested. Most vehicles have additional procedures:
some seat belts must be modified (kit included with switch from manufacturer); some air bag microprocessors must be reset, modified, tested and sometimes replaced!
Click here to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations web sites list of companies who install On-Off switches.
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Q: How do I know if a company has experience installing air bag disconnect switches?
A: Click here to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations web sites list of companies who install On-Off switches...
Affordable Mobility Inc. has the experience to install your air bag disconnect key switches.
We've been installing them since November of 1997!!!
Q: How do I inform a passenger (or another driver) in my vehicle that the air bag is disabled?
A: When you install an On-Off switch in your vehicle, the manufacturers are not required to have any decals placed on your dash. Wouldn’t you want to let your passengers or any other drivers of your vehicle know that your vehicle has a disconnect system? We will not install a switch without putting a decal on the dash and labels on the visors (this is included in quoted price if we install switch). If you currently have a key switch, and would like this added protection for your vehicle, we offer our decal and label kit for $15.00. These high quality labels are covered with a thick transparent poured polyurethane coating and are flexible to attach to slightly curved surfaces as a permanent attachment.
Q: Where is the key switch located?
A: The key switch will be mounted inside the driving compartment for easy access.
Q: Is there a key switch available for my vehicle?
A: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administrations (NHTSA) Air Bag web site has a list of vehicle manufacturers with On-Off key switches available. Air Bag, Inc can help find the correct switch for your vehicle. Please Contact Us with any questions.
Q: Is the NHTSA list of available key switch manufacturers up to date?
A: No. Each car manufacturer must be asked directly about availability for year make and model. We will be happy to inquire for you! Please Contact Us with any questions.
Q: If a key switch is not available for my vehicle, can the air bag be permanently deactivated?
A: Yes. Same rules apply... Click here to see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complete rule...
Q: If I have a key switch installed, do I need to have it removed when I sell the vehicle?
A: No. Most used vehicles are sold in "as is" condition.
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