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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Service & Repair Manual: Checking inertia reel (locking mechanism)

The Volkswagen Golf Mk7 inertia reel has two separate locking functions — this page gives both test procedures, triggered by jerking the belt (belt extension) — and the clear instruction to renew the complete belt and buckle if either test fails.

The inertia reel has two locking functions.
  The first locking function is triggered by the belt being jerked out of the reel (belt extension acceleration).
Test 1
–  Pull belt out of inertia reel with firm jerk.
  Will not lock - renew seat belt complete with buckle.
  If difficulties are experienced when belt is extended or retracted, first check whether position of inertia reel has been altered.
  The second locking function is triggered by a change in vehicle speed (vehicle-dependent locking function).
Test 2
  WARNING
For safety reasons, the road test should be carried out on a traffic-free stretch to ensure that other road users are not endangered.
–  Put on seat belt.
–  Accelerate vehicle to 20 km/h and then carry out emergency braking with foot brake.
  If seat belt is not locked by locking mechanism during braking procedure, renew seat belt complete with buckle.
   

Visually inspecting belt buckle

Inspect belt buckle for cracks and chips.
  If damage is determined, renew seat belt complete with belt buckle.

    Questions & answers

    Checking inertia reel (locking mechanism) — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    How do I check the Golf Mk7 belt retractor?
    Test both locking functions: jerking the belt should lock it (belt-sensitive), and tilting the reel should lock it (vehicle-sensitive). If either fails, replace the assembly.
    Checking belt webbing
    Procedure –  Pull belt completely out of inertia reel or lap belt adjustment plate. –  Check belt we ...

    Checking operation of belt buckle
    Checking belt buckle –  Push latch plate into belt buckle until it engages audibly. Check whether locking mechanism is properly engaged ...