Seat Belts

This section describes how to use the seat belts properly. It also describes some things that should not be done when using the seat belts.

Seat Belt Precautions

Always fasten your seat belt and make sure all passengers have fastened their seat belts before starting any trip. Airbags are designed to supplement the seat belt as an additional safety device, not replace it. Most countries require all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts.

WARNING

ALL occupants must use seat belts while the vehicle is moving. Observe the following precautions when adjusting and fastening seat belts:

• Children under the age of 13 must be properly secured in the rear seat.
• Never allow children to ride in the front passenger seat unless the airbag is deactivated. If a child is seated in the front passenger seat, move the seat as far back as possible and properly restrain them in the seat.
• NEVER allow an infant or child to be held on a passenger's lap.
• NEVER drive with the seatback reclined while the vehicle is moving.
• Do not allow children to sit on the same seat belt as another person.
• Do not wear the shoulder belt under the arm or behind the back.
• NEVER place the seat belt on fragile objects. In the event of a sudden stop or impact, the seat belt may damage them.
• Do not use a seat belt that is twisted. A twisted seat belt will not properly protect you in the event of an accident.
• Do not use a seat belt if the webbing or hardware is damaged.
• Do not fasten the seat belt buckle to the buckles of other seats.
• NEVER unfasten the seat belt while driving. This may cause loss of vehicle control, resulting in an accident.
• Make sure the buckle latch mechanism is not obstructed by the seat belt. This may prevent the seat belt from being securely fastened.
• No modifications or additions should be made by the user that would prevent the seat belt retractor from locking or prevent the seat belt assembly from being adjusted to remove slack.

WARNING

Damaged seat belts and seat belt assemblies will not function properly. Always replace:

• Webbing that is worn, dirty, or damaged.
• Damaged hardware.
• The entire seat belt assembly should be replaced after it has been involved in an accident, even if the webbing or assembly damage is not obvious.