Q&A for How to Adjust Your Seat Belt

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Sometimes my seatbelt gets stuck, what's the problem here?

Frank Hernandez
Auto Technician
Frank Hernandez is an ASE Master Certified Technician based in La Palma, CA. With over 7 years of experience, Frank is certified in collision, maintenance and light, and undercar repair. He is currently an Automotive Technology Instructor teaching on-board diagnostics, maintenance & repair, and customer service. Frank has an Associate of Science degree in Automotive Engineering Technology from Cypress College.

Frank Hernandez

Auto Technician

Expert Answer

This might be due to the seatbelt safety mechanism. Seatbelts are designed with a built-in safety mechanism that is meant to lock up when it is being pulled too fast or during rapid movements that holds you tightly in place during an accident, crash, or a sudden stop. So, if you pull the seatbelt too quickly when putting it on or adjusting it, it might get stuck and stop extending. To avoid this, try pulling the seatbelt out slowly and steadily. If it’s still getting stuck, there might be an issue with the retractor mechanism inside, such as dirt buildup or wear and tear. In that case, cleaning or a professional inspection may be needed to ensure it works smoothly.

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Question

Could I use a clip to hold the seat belt away from my neck?

Community Answer

This is probably not a good idea. A safety belt works best when it is properly adjusted. Also, the impact force of a crash would probably rip the clip off.

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Question

Which car has the best seat belt for a 5’1” driver/passenger? I feel like my neck will be cut in a crash.

Community Answer

Three possibilities: the Lexus NX lineup, a Hyundai and the Mazda Miata.

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Question

How can you adjust a backseat seatbelt so it’s not across your neck?

Community Answer

If that is a problem for you, sit on something like a pillow or pass the belt under your arm.

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Question

I have a convertible and I'm quite tall. I can't adjust the height of the seat belt, so I always get shoulder pain when I'm driving. Is there a solution for this?

Ottok4

Community Answer

In some vehicles, you can lower the seat to accommodate different driver sizes. Check alongside the driver's seat for controls to adjust the seating position.

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How can I adjust the seat belt strap so it doesn't cut into my neck?

Ottok4

Community Answer

In most vehicles, you can adjust the height of the seat belt by depressing a small button near the top of the door jam where the seat belt retracts. This will allow you to raise or lower the seat belt to a more comfortable position.

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Question

How can I adjust the driver's side seat belt so it doesn't rub my neck? I've tried using clips on the belt across my stomach.

Ottok4

Community Answer

There is usually a small button where the seatbelt emerges from the vehicle. You can push this button to adjust the height of the seatbelt.

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