FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTOR LOCK-UP

MODELS AFFECTED: 1988 BUICK REGALS BUILT PRIOR TO VIN J1416464

Front seat belt assemblies used on some early production 1988 Buick Regals may have retractors in which the internal "block-out" mechanism does not function consistently. As a result, the door may be prevented from opening fully after a hard slam or when the door is opened quickly. Note that normal operation of the seat belt system may result in occasional occurrences of this condition e.g., (when the door is slammed with excessive force), as described in the vehicle Owner's Manual. The effectiveness of the restraint system and/or the ability of the occupant to exit the vehicle at will is not affected by this condition. The door can be opened fully by simply unlatching the seat belt buckle or by closing the door and then slowly opening it.

This condition can be corrected by replacing seat belt assemblies. All seat belt assemblies available from GMSPO have the revised retractor. Production vehicles built after the VIN breakpoint have the revised retractor design. Complete removal and installation procedures are in the 1988 Service Manual, Section 9.

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Labor Operation Number: C9040 Right C9041 Left

Labor Time: 0.6 Hours per side Trouble Code: 92

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.