How much does it cost to replace an airbag system?

Expect to pay roughly $1,500 to $5,000 to repair a typical post-deployment airbag system on a mainstream vehicle, with costs rising to $7,500–$15,000 or more if multiple airbags and related safety components need replacement—especially on luxury models. Replacing a single driver airbag can be $300–$1,700; a passenger airbag commonly runs $800–$3,000 due to dashboard removal. Below is a clear breakdown of what “airbag system replacement” actually involves, the price drivers can anticipate, and how to get an accurate estimate.

What “replacing an airbag system” really means

An airbag system is more than just the cushion that deploys. After a crash, several parts may have to be replaced or reprogrammed to restore the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) to factory safety standards.

• Deployed airbags (driver, passenger, side-curtain, seat, knee)
• Seat belt pretensioners that fired during the event
• Impact/crash sensors and wiring as specified by the automaker
• SRS control module (replaced or crash data cleared per manufacturer guidance)
• Clock spring in the steering column (often replaced if the driver airbag deployed)
• Interior trim: dash panel, steering wheel cover, headliner, seat covers/foam where airbags burst through
• Calibration tasks: passenger seat occupancy sensor, steering angle (if disturbed), and SRS system programming

Because multiple components can be affected in a single deployment, “full airbag replacement” often becomes a comprehensive SRS restoration with parts, programming, and interior repair labor all contributing to the final bill.

Typical cost ranges

Per-component estimates (parts + labor)

These typical 2024–2025 retail ranges reflect OEM parts on common vehicles at independent or dealer labor rates. Actual numbers vary by brand, model year, and region.

• Driver airbag: $300–$1,700
• Passenger airbag (dash removal common): $800–$3,000
• Side-curtain airbag (each): $500–$2,400
• Seat-mounted airbag (each): $550–$2,200 (may include new seat cover/foam)
• Knee airbag: $350–$1,500
• Seat belt pretensioner (each): $250–$650 (rebuild services can be $60–$120, where permitted)
• Impact/crash sensor (each): $150–$600
• Clock spring: $200–$700
• SRS module: $300–$1,150 (new module + programming); $60–$200 if crash data reset is allowed and the module is otherwise undamaged
• Interior trim from deployment (dash panel, headliner, steering wheel cover, seat covers/foam): $300–$3,500+
• Labor rates: generally $100–$200 per hour in the U.S., higher in some metro/luxury markets

If only one or two items are involved, costs stay on the lower end; larger deployments quickly add up due to multiple airbags, trim replacement, and programming time.

Common post-crash scenarios and total costs

Real-world estimates tend to cluster around the type and extent of deployment.

• Single driver airbag only: $300–$1,700
• Driver + passenger airbags: $1,500–$5,000 (dash removal and SRS programming add time and cost)
• Side-impact with curtain and seat airbags (one side): $2,000–$6,500 (airbags, headliner, trim, seat repairs)
• Multi-airbag deployment (front + side + pretensioners) on a mainstream vehicle: $5,000–$10,000+
• Luxury/flagship models or newer EVs with extensive deployment: $10,000–$20,000+ (premium parts, higher labor rates, complex interiors)

At higher totals—especially on older cars—insurers may declare the vehicle a total loss because airbag and interior restoration can outstrip market value.

Key factors that swing the price

Several variables drive the final bill beyond the number of airbags.

• Make/model and parts pricing: luxury brands and newer models use costlier components
• How many devices deployed: every additional airbag and pretensioner compounds parts and labor
• Interior access: passenger airbags and curtain airbags require extensive disassembly
• Programming and calibration: SRS module programming and occupant sensor recalibration add shop time
• Trim and collateral damage: dash panels, headliners, and seat materials often need replacement
• Labor rates and shop type: dealer vs. independent, and regional rate differences
• Parts sourcing: OEM new is standard; used or “rebuilt” components may be restricted or inadvisable for safety and legal reasons

A thorough teardown and scan is often necessary before a shop can confirm the full scope and produce a reliable estimate.

Insurance, recalls, and legality

Coverage and compliance can materially change your out-of-pocket cost.

• Insurance: Collision/comprehensive typically covers airbag replacement after a covered event, minus your deductible.
• Recalls: If your airbags are under a safety recall (e.g., inflator recalls), repair is performed at no charge by a franchised dealer.
• Counterfeit/used airbags: U.S. safety authorities warn against counterfeit airbags; some states restrict or regulate used airbags. Disabling the SRS light or selling a car with inoperative airbags without disclosure may violate state or federal laws.
• OEM guidance: Many manufacturers require OEM parts and specific procedures; deviating can affect safety and insurance outcomes.

Check your policy and local laws, and confirm the shop follows OEM repair procedures to ensure safety compliance and proper claim handling.

How to get an accurate estimate

Because every deployment is different, a methodical approach produces a more precise number and avoids surprises.

1. Have a qualified shop perform a full SRS scan and visual inspection.
2. Ask for a line-item estimate listing each airbag, pretensioner, sensor, module, and trim piece.
3. Confirm OEM parts, programming steps, and any required calibrations (e.g., occupancy sensor).
4. Discuss legality and insurer acceptance before considering any rebuilt or used components.
5. Request timelines and parts availability; some airbags and dashboards have lead times.
6. Verify warranties on parts and labor, and whether ADAS or steering-angle recalibration will be needed.
7. If insured, submit the shop’s detailed estimate to your carrier and clarify your deductible.

Following these steps ensures you understand the full scope, from safety-critical parts to interior restoration and electronics programming.

Time to repair

Simple single-airbag jobs can be completed same day or within 4–8 labor hours. Passenger and curtain airbags, or multi-airbag events, often take 1–3 business days due to interior disassembly, parts lead times, and required programming or calibrations. Extensive interior replacement can stretch into a week on busy schedules or when parts are back-ordered.

Summary

Replacing an airbag system typically costs $1,500–$5,000 for a standard two-airbag deployment and can exceed $10,000 when multiple airbags, pretensioners, and interior panels must be replaced—especially on luxury vehicles. Single airbags range from roughly $300 to $3,000 depending on location and complexity. Insurance often covers these repairs after a crash, while recall-related replacements are free at dealers. For an accurate figure, get a detailed, OEM-procedure estimate from a qualified shop, including programming and calibration steps.

How long does it take to replace an airbag system?

1 to 2 hours
On average, a mechanic may take 1 to 2 hours to replace an airbag. Now, the actual time an airbag replacement takes will depend on the model of your vehicle and the type of airbag (passenger airbag, curtain airbag, knee airbags, or frontal airbags) the mechanic is replacing.

Can you still drive a car with a blown airbag?

No, you cannot, and should not, drive a car once the airbags have deployed because the vehicle is no longer safe. The impact required to deploy airbags often causes significant, unseen damage to critical systems, and the airbag system itself will not function again until it’s professionally repaired. Driving a car with deployed airbags is a severe safety risk due to lack of protection in another collision and can also have legal and insurance consequences. 
Why you shouldn’t drive the car

• Compromised Safety Systems: Airbag deployment indicates a serious collision, and underlying structural or mechanical damage can make the car unsafe. 
• Disabled Airbags: Deployed airbags cannot be used again and will not provide protection in a future crash until the entire system is replaced. 
• Visibility and Comfort: Deployed airbags can obstruct your view and make it difficult or impossible to operate the vehicle comfortably. 
• Potential Legal Issues: It may be illegal to drive a vehicle with deployed airbags, and your insurance coverage could be voided if you continue to operate it. 

What to do instead

1. Do not drive the vehicle. Opens in new tabArrange for it to be towed to a certified collision center for inspection and repair. 
2. Have the entire vehicle inspected Opens in new tabfor underlying damage to mechanical components, the frame, and other safety systems. 
3. Contact your insurance provider Opens in new tabto discuss coverage for the repairs, especially if the car is not deemed a total loss. 

How much does it cost to get an airbag system fixed?

The cost to replace airbags can vary widely depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the number of airbags deployed, and whether other components like sensors, seat belts, or the airbag control module also need replacement. On average, replacing a single airbag can cost between $1,000 and $2,000.

Is it worth fixing a car with airbags deployed?

Whether it’s worth fixing a car with deployed airbags depends on the vehicle’s overall value versus the total repair costs, which include the expensive replacement of airbags, sensors, and the control module, as well as any other body or mechanical damage. Airbag deployment is often a strong indicator that the vehicle is a total loss, especially for older cars, because the repair costs can quickly exceed the car’s actual cash value. 
Factors determining if it’s worth fixing

• Car’s Actual Cash Value (ACV): Opens in new tabThe higher the car’s pre-accident value, the more likely it is worth repairing. 
• Cost of Repairs: Opens in new tabAirbag replacement is expensive, potentially costing thousands of dollars, according to Toyota of Clermont. 
• Extent of Damage: Opens in new tabAirbags deploying suggests a significant impact, which often leads to other damage, such as to the frame or engine, further increasing repair costs. 
• California’s Total Loss Threshold: Opens in new tabIn California, a vehicle is typically considered totaled if the repair costs reach 75% or more of its pre-accident value. 

Why it’s often not worth fixing

• High Replacement Costs: The cost of the airbag itself, plus the associated sensors and control module, is significant. 
• History of Damage: A vehicle that has had its airbags deploy can be considered a total loss due to the potential for hidden structural damage. 
• Lower Resale Value: Even after repairs, a car with a history of deployed airbags may have a lower resale value. 

When it might be worth fixing

• Newer, High-Value Vehicles: Opens in new tabIf the car is relatively new and has a high pre-accident value, the insurance company may cover the extensive repairs, including the airbags. 
• Minimal Other Damage: Opens in new tabIf the impact that triggered the airbags was minor and there is little to no other significant damage to the vehicle, it may be worth repairing.