Functional Test I (Buckle and Tongue)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The safety belt buckle and tongue assembly must operate freely during the latching and unlatching function.

Fasten the safety belt by inserting the tongue (male portion) into the buckle (female portion).

Verify the following during the latching sequence:
- The safety belt buckles on the 60/40 seat must pivot up and down freely.
- Tongue insertion is not hindered by excessive effort.
- A "click" is heard when the buckle latches the tongue.
Verify the system integrity by forcefully pulling on the belt webbing.
Unlatch the belt by fully depressing the buckle release button, and allowing the belt to release and retract.
Verify the following during the unlatching process:
- Push-button depression does not require excessive effort.
- Tongue can be removed easily from the buckle.
- Repeat the above steps three times.
If the inspection reveals an obvious concern(s) that can be readily identified, install a new safety belt buckle or safety belt retractor assembly as required. Do not attempt to carry out any repair on the buckle and tongue assembly. If a concern still exists with either component, a new safety belt buckle or safety belt retractor assembly must also be installed.