Stupid seat belt indicator light issue

[captaincorolla]

As I am aware, this is a very common problem for this generation of Corolla. I have a 2000 Corolla and even when the seat belt is fully buckled, the indicator light is still on. My understanding is that the sensor installed at the factory is worn out.

I could care less if the actual light works or not.

I am concerned from a safety perspective. Does the car thinking my seat belt is not buckled in any way effect it's performance in a crash? My understanding is no. But I'd really like to see what everyone else thinks. I don't mind paying Toyota whatever it costs, to get it fixed. But if it's purely cosmetic, I don't care. My understanding is that the seat belt is a purely mechanical mechanism and would still function.

Really appreciate any input.

[Buurin]

From my factory diagram, this light is just cosmetic. If you are buckled properly, the pretensioner should still work in a collision. Otherwise, the belt is, as you understood correctly, mechanical.

And you should also already be aware that I have a permanent fix posted here.

[Kiwi-Corolla]

You should just be able to change the buckle with one from a junkyard. Although before doing that, check that the electrical connector under the driver's seat hasn't become disconnected or partially disconnected.

[Buurin]

Originally Posted by Kiwi-Corolla

You should just be able to change the buckle with one from a junkyard. Although before doing that, check that the electrical connector under the driver's seat hasn't become disconnected or partially disconnected.

7th gen has that connector, 8th gen after the 2001 facelift has it, 9th gen has it... 8th gen before that facelift doesn't. His and mine are one of those without it... until I modded one in.

[Bingo]

I had the same problem.... the cheapest easiest thing to do is remove bulb. Pull cluster, find tiny bulb and remove..... Seriously, who gives a crap if the light comes on or off as long as you remember to buckle up.