Seatbelt/Trunk problem

[disciple123]

I have a 1999 Camry with 53000 miles. This sounds crazy but every time I open the trunk I have trouble pulling out the drivers side seatbelt. I can pull it out a little and then let it retract. I have to do this 15-20 times before I can finally get it out enough to latch and then it will work fine untill the next time I open the trunk. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[TrailDust]

Has you car been involved in an accident?

[disciple123]

Yes, airbags and seat belts were replaced.

[TrailDust]

Interesting. Sounds like an impingement taking place since the belt won't retract while the trunk lid is open. Although not the same thing I had an Acura Legend once that was hit very hard in a parking lot which bent the frame enough so that the driver's door did not close properly or tightly, but if the other doors were opened the driver's door would close correctly. It's just a guess but it sounds like the hinge/support arm for the trunk is impinging on your seatbelt system due to movement associated with the accident or an improper install of the new seatbelt.

[disciple123]

Thanks for your reply. My first thought was that when the trunk light goes on it causes some sort of short or interference. Are the seat belts even part of the electrical system?

[ghettosled]

there arent any electrical components to the seatbelt on the 1996 camry. maybe there is on newer models like your 99?

there is a gravity/force thingie on the inside that locks the belt when in an accident (i know this because the return spring on my passenger belt popped so i took it all apart to see if i could fix it). there has to be something different on yours than mine. pop off the plastic trim and take off the seat belt and take a look. its pretty easy to do.