Got in a fender bender, airbags deployed so now car will be totaled

[bobbyd3]

So I unfortunately rear-ended someone today, it was a very low speed impact but I hit at just the right spot on a trailer hitch for the airbags to deploy, cracking the windshield in the process.

My car is only worth between 2k and 3.5k depending on where I look. And Im sure 2 airbags and a windshield cost that if not more, and the insurance company will call it totaled, throw me a check for 2k if im lucky and take the car.

I cant afford another car at the moment, so I had the thought of getting a new windshield out of pocket, stuffing the airbags back in, or cutting them out and not claiming it and just drive it.

Anyone care to share any insight on this subject. Im not really sure what to do, maybe tomorrow ill have a clear head, but im stressing right now

[denisond3]

Can you get a set of airbags and control module from ebay, and replace them yourself? I know some states laws and annual safety inspections make this difficult, but once the replacement air bags are installed ... will the inspector care about that? Here in VA they just insist the airbags look like they are there (I have never seen an inspector poke around the airbag assemblies), and that the check light on the dashboard lights up when the ign. is turned on. I got a set of air bags & control module for my daughters 97 Neon for $80 a year ago, including shipping - from ebay.

[dugan50]

Each state has different laws regarding airbag replacement. You will need to check with the Department of Motor Vehicles, Repair shop division, and ask them to look up the law. In NY (where we are located) once a car is totalled, it is 'branded' and cannot be registered until DMV inspects the car. This is a totally different inspection than the normal safety inspection done at repair shops and gas stations. This one is done by DMV cops in a private DMV facility. In NY, used bags are not allowed & if they remove a bag, check the production number (not the part number) and it does not match the manufacturer codes, they impound the car and charge the owner.
Check first!!!

If it's allowed, then by all means, used airbags and control units are fine. If you need to know exactly what to replace for your vehicle, check out our website for those answers and more.

Good luck