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Is it illegal to sell a car that the air bags have been removed or have already deployed?

Is it illegal to sell a car that the air bags have been removed or have already deployed?

Q: Is it legal to sell a car with deployed airbags?

No, it is not legal to sell a car with deployed airbags in North Carolina. Airbags are critical safety features, and selling a vehicle without them can violate state safety regulations. Dealers are prohibited from disabling or removing airbags without proper exemptions.

Q: What are the airbag laws in NC?

In North Carolina, it is illegal for dealers to disable or remove airbags from vehicles. Frontal airbags have been required in passenger vehicles since 1998. Any exceptions must be granted on a case-by-case basis by the appropriate agency to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Q: Can you buy a car with no airbags?

While it may be possible to buy a car without airbags, it is not advisable. In North Carolina, selling such a vehicle is illegal for dealers. Buyers should be cautious, as driving a car without airbags poses significant safety risks.

Q: Is it illegal to sell a car without airbags in North Carolina?

Yes, it is illegal for dealers to sell cars without functioning airbags in North Carolina. Airbags are essential safety features, and their removal or disabling without proper exemptions violates state laws regarding vehicle safety.

Full question:

In the state of NC, if you purchase a car, and the air bags have either been deployed or simply removed, is it illegal for a car lot to sell that car?

Category: Automobiles
Date: 04/07/2025
State: North Carolina

Answer:

Frontal air bags, either 1st or 2nd generation, also known as "depowered" air bags, have been standard equipment in all passenger cars since model year 1998 and all SUVs, pickup trucks and vans since model year 1999. Until such time when the new rules to allow dealers and repair businesses to disable air bags become effective, the agency may on a case by case basis exempt persons from the prohibition against disabling air bags if it makes a determination that the exemption is consistent with safety.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is it illegal to sell a car that is unsafe?

Yes, it is illegal to sell a car that is deemed unsafe. In North Carolina, dealers must ensure that vehicles meet safety standards before selling them. Selling a car without functioning airbags may be considered unsafe, potentially leading to legal consequences for the seller.