* Warranty: If the vehicle is still under the manufacturer's warranty, the manufacturer is obligated to repair or replace the malfunctioning seat belts. The length of the warranty varies.
* State Laws: Some states have lemon laws or similar consumer protection laws that might compel a manufacturer to repair safety-related defects, including seat belts, even outside the warranty period. These laws vary significantly by state.
* Safety Recalls: If a safety recall is issued for a specific seat belt defect in a particular vehicle model, the manufacturer is required to repair or replace the defective component, regardless of the vehicle's age or warranty status.
* Implied Warranty of Merchantability: Even outside of express warranties, there's generally an implied warranty that a product will function as intended for a reasonable time. However, proving a breach of this implied warranty for an older vehicle can be challenging.
In short, while there's no universal obligation, a manufacturer might be legally or ethically compelled to repair malfunctioning automatic seat belts depending on the circumstances. A consumer's best approach is to first contact the manufacturer and then, if necessary, consult with a consumer protection attorney or relevant state agency.
