Seat Belt: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Toyota Prius. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: Replace the seat belt assembly (outer belt, inner belt, bolts, nuts or sill-bar) if it has been used in a severe impact. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious.

Running test (in safe area)
1. Fasten the front seat belts.
2. Drive the car at 10 mph (16 km/h) and slam on the brakes. Check that the belt locks and cannot be extended at this time.
NOTE: Conduct this test in a safe area. If the belt does not lock, remove the belt mechanism assembly and conduct the following static check. Also, whenever installing a new belt assembly, verify the proper operation before installation.
Driver's seat belt (ELR)
STATIC TEST
1. Make sure that the belt locks when pulled out quickly.
2. Remove the locking retractor assembly.
3. Tilt the retractor slowly.
4. Make sure that belt can be pulled out at a tilt of 15 degrees or less, and cannot be pulled out over 45 degrees of tilt.
  
  Fig 1: Identifying Self Locking Mechanism Operation Angles
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
If a problem is found, replace the assembly.
Except driver's seat belt (ALR/ELR)
STATIC TEST
1. Make sure that the belt locks when pulled out quickly.
2. Remove the locking retractor assembly.
3. Pull out the whole belt and measure the length of the whole belt.
  Then retract the belt slightly and pull it out again.
4. Make sure that the belt cannot be extended further.
  If a problem is found, replace the assembly.
5. Retract whole belt, then pull out the belt until 200 mm (7.87 in.) of belt remains retracted.
  
  Fig 2: Preparing Seat Belt For Self Locking Mechanism Test
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
6. Tilt the retractor slowly.
7. Make sure that the belt can be pulled out at a tilt of 15 degrees or less, and cannot be pulled out at over 45 degrees of tilt.
If problem is found, replace the assembly.