* Motor failure: The small electric motor responsible for retracting the belt has likely failed. This is the most common cause. The motor may be burned out, seized, or have a broken gear.
* Electrical problem: This is less likely, but possible. The problem could be a blown fuse, a faulty wiring connection (corroded or broken wires), a malfunctioning switch, or a problem within the seatbelt control unit itself.
Troubleshooting steps (in order of likelihood):
1. Check the fuse: Consult your owner's manual to locate the fuse for the seatbelts. Check if it's blown. Replace it if necessary.
2. Check the wiring: Carefully inspect the wiring harness connected to the seatbelt retractor mechanism. Look for any broken, frayed, or corroded wires. Pay close attention to the connections at both ends of the harness. If you find any damage, repair it.
3. Manually try to retract the belt: With the ignition OFF, *carefully* try to manually pull the belt out to its full length, and then try to smoothly feed it back in. If it's difficult or impossible, the motor is probably the culprit. (Be careful not to injure yourself). This will not fix the problem but can indicate whether the issue is the motor or something electrical preventing the motor from operating.
4. Test the motor (advanced): This requires some electrical knowledge and tools. You would need to disconnect the wiring harness from the motor and test it directly with a 12V power source (carefully!). If the motor doesn't run, it's likely the problem.
If you're not comfortable working with car electrics, it's best to take the car to a qualified mechanic. Replacing the motor or repairing the wiring can be tricky, and improperly handling car electrics could be dangerous.
