Air bags are an expensive accessory, after an accident or inflation, air bag replacement can range from $1,500.00 - $4,000.00 per air bag depending on the type of vehicle.

Test have shown that one (1) out of twenty five (25) vehicles on the road today is not equipped with an operative air bag. Instead of air bags, such items as cardboard, foam, and paper have been found in the air bag container. The reason for the deception is money, a fake air bag cover cost $75.00, the customer or the insurance company is charged for an air bag, which can cost $1,500 - $4,000. A nice profit margin for the repair shop which has an investment of less than $100.00. Air bags are also stolen from vehicles. A stolen air bag can bring from $500 - $2,500 depending on the type of vehicle. Air bags have become a hot item for thieves.

Before you purchase a vehicle, ask the dealer to furnish you with a CarFax record check. A CarFax report should be your first step to obtaining information concerning the vehicle. Although CarFax will give you information concerning the vehicle, it is only the first step.

Ask the dealer for a certificate in writing by an ASE certified mechanic that the air bags on the vehicle your are purchasing are in working order. If the dealer will not give you a written certificate that the air bags are in installed and in working order, find another dealership to purchase a vehicle.

If you are purchasing a used vehicle from an individual, ask them if they will have the vehicle air bags inspected and give you a written inspection by an ASE certified mechanic. If the seller will not pay for the inspection, have the vehicle inspected yourself or do not purchase the vehicle.