My passenger seat belt jammed yesterday so that it can no longer be pulled out. I found one posting describing how to work with the retractor when it is NOT installed. Is there any way to access this part without removing the entire plastic covering?

 

Welcome to e site. Most of the time a retractor gets stuck is because the seat belt gets twisted then jams up the retractor. You need to get it to retract some so it will release. Most of the time it requires removing the trim panel an turning the spool or drum that the belt winds up on. You can try pushing some of the belt down into the trim panel the moving it back and forth you may get lucky

 

There is very little play in the belt - no twists. I think it got pulled too hard at the beginning of the "play out" and locked as if the passenger had been thrown forward. Does anyone know of a tutorial or other post which has a photo of what is under the plastic panel? Looks like it could be a real bear to pull off. I'm thinking I might be able to do something with the ratchet by making a small hole in the plastic panel.

 

No, don't go making holes - take the trim off properly and go from there.

 

A quick search using the SEARCH TOOL (cough cough )at the top of the page found this reference from ChevyMgr (thread:https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/show...t=p2138&page=4 posting 38)

It maybe relevant.



09-09-40-002


Document ID: 2246377
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#: Information on Unblocking Front Passenger Seat Belt Retractor When Webbing Is Seized/Will Not Release - (Mar 12, 2009)


Subject: Information on Unblocking Front Passenger Seat Belt Retractor When Webbing Is Seized/Won't Release


Models: 2008-2009 Chevrolet HHR

Built Between April 1, 2008 and December 8, 2008

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The seat belt automatic locking retractor (ALR) is activated when the seat belt webbing is fully extracted. If this occurs in combination with the shoulder belt height adjuster being placed at the uppermost position, the retractor may become blocked. The customer will be able to return the seat belt webbing to its original position but will not be able to pull the webbing out again.

If this blocked condition is found, DO NOT replace the seat belt assembly.

Name: 2242122.jpg Views: 1401 Size: 13.5 KB (go to the above link to see the picture)


In order to unblock the retractor, push down on the release button (1) and slide the shoulder belt height adjuster towards its lowest position, until the ALR is unblocked. Pull out the webbing to verify that the retractor is releasing and working properly.

The customer should be instructed on the proper operation of the seat belts and how to unblock the retractor. You may wish to give the customer a copy of this bulletin for future reference.

 

Seatbelts are designed as a non serviceable item.(safety reasons) But, if you want to try to take it apart that's your choice.
A couple of weeks ago I tried to fix one on a Ford pickup truck at work. After a couple of hours of messing with it, I gave up and had our shop order a new one. A whole lot easier.
A funnier story. I pulled the drivers side seat belt all the way out on my Dodge truck to clean off years of grime. Left it hanging out the door to dry.
(truck was parked in driveway) A couple hours later, went to retract it back in. Nothing! Belt would not retract. Tried everything. Nothing! The Dodge has the retractors built in the seat back. Figured I would have to pull the seat back off to take a look,so I was going to pull it in my shop. As soon as I turned the ignition key on the seatbelt released and retracted! WTH.

 

If that does not help, a new one will cost you about $115 at gmpartsoutlet.net. They are very easy to replace, but you need a large Torx wrench.

 

http://parts.nalleygmc.com/images/pa...051T14-016.JPG

Here is a picture of the stuff. The trim pieces on the door sills just pop off, be carful when re installing them. No screws or bolts involved with the plastic parts.


When you do anything with the restraints system you MUST disconnect the negative battery post, then wait 15 minutes before you touch any electrical connection!!!!!!!!!!!

 

donbrew -- Thanks for the graphic. Gives me a much better idea of what I'm up against.

 

Actually, whopper wins the prize on this one. Never even knew that there was a shoulder belt height adjuster and release button. Thanks everyone.