Seat Belt Webbing, Checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

After every accident the seat belt system must be inspected systematically! If damage is determined when inspecting the check points, customer must be informed regarding necessity of changing belts.

-- Pull belt webbing completely off automatic belt retractor.

-- Check belt webbing for soiling, wash with mild soap solution if necessary.

If one of the types of damage (point 1 or 2) shown in the following is detected on a vehicle which has been in an accident - seat belt must be replaced completely with seat belt latch and belt height adjuster.
If one kind of damage under points 1, 2, 3 or 4 is detected on a vehicle which has not been in an accident, only the damaged seat belt needs to be replaced.
Belt webbing cut, torn or chafed.

Fig 1: Identifying Belt Webbing Cut, Torn Or Chafed
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.
Webbing loops on belt edge torn.

Fig 2: Checking Belt Webbing - Webbing Loops On Belt Edge Torn
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.
Burn marks from cigarettes or similar.

Fig 3: Identifying Burn Marks From Cigarettes Or Similar
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.
One side of belt edge deformed or area of belt edge is wavy.

Fig 4: Identifying Belt Edge Deformed On One Side And/Or Belt Edge Area Is Wavy
Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.