How air bags work | Correct seat adjustment | Air bags & children | Air bag injuries | Deactivating air bags | Used cars with air bags
Deactivating an air bag actually means installing a switch that allows the air bag for the driver or passenger (or both) to be turned on and off. When the air bag is turned off, a warning light will come on, reminding drivers and passengers it's off. For example, pickups that only have front seats are manufactured with an on/off switch, to protect infants in rear-facing infant seats.
You must meet certain criteria (set out by Transport Canada) to be able to apply for air bag deactivation.
The vast majority of people don't need an on/off switch and ICBC and Transport Canada do not recommend a wholesale disconnection of air bags. However, there are a few select cases where installing an on/off switch may be appropriate. Transport Canada has announced that Canadians may seek to have driver or passenger air bags deactivated.
If you're considering buying a new or late model vehicle, there are some that come with factory installed air bag on-off switches:
