GMC Jimmy seat belts are more than just some nylon webbing. Comprised of a system of mount points, clips, and sensors, there is a remarkable amount of engineering that goes into a seat belt. Every shoulder belt is mounted at three points: above the shoulder, below the hips across the lap, and at the buckle.
In the newest models, weight sensors warn the driver if he or she neglect to buckle up. The actual belt is engineered to not be a rigid restraint; instead, the fiber has a certain amount of stretch that will absorb some of the energy of the accident to slow the acceleration of the internal organs against the internal walls of the body.
The actual buckle is comprised of a number of components, such as the hard plastic cover, springs, and levers. The importance of the seat belt to the safety of a vehicle cannot be underestimated. Unfortunately, increased sophistication and complexity means an increased probability of a breakdown somewhere in the system. Over the course of its production life, GMC Jimmy seat belts have been the subject of several recalls. In one case, for example, the rear seat belt buckles of 1991 model vehicles were prevented from latching because of movement of the buckle assembly within the cover. In 2001 models, 150,000 GMC vehicles, including the Jimmy, were recalled due to improperly heat treated buckles which failed to pass load requirements. While manufacturers try to ensure the safety of their customers, the possibility always exists for a breakdown in every system, even one as seemingly simple as a seat belt.GMC Jimmy seat belts are extensively tested, and when properly used, can save a life in a crash.