LOS ANGELES, Oct. 30 (UPI) -- Airbags protect millions of people in the United States, but they are expensive to replace once they have been deployed.
Larry Gamache of Carfax.com warns that a growing number of scam artists are not replacing airbag compartments properly.
A double deployment of an air bag system -- driver and passenger -- can cost up to $1,500 or more, and a growing number of scam artists are not replacing the airbag compartments properly.
Victims of the fraud have found their airbags stuffed with everything from rags to old shoes.
"Airbag fraud can't be detected just by looking at the dashboard, but, there are a few things you can check for, to make sure that your airbag system is functioning correctly," said Gamache. "First, look for the airbag light, if it doesn't come on, or if it stays on, it indicates there could be a potential problem with the airbag system."
Gamache also advises to never buy a used car without having it thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic.
