Why does the middle seatbelt use a different clasp?

[ElFenix]

every japanese car i've ever been in uses a different clasp/buckle for the middle rear seatbelt than for the outer two (never been in an american car that did). i simply can't fathom why this is the case. they have to stock different parts for this to happen, and usually companies go out of their way to avoid stocking extra parts, especially when they already have a part that works just fine (the other seatbelt buckles). anyone with an explanation?

 

[mithrandir2001]

This was true when the middle rear seat had a lap belt only. Now that you see 3-point belts for all 3 seats in the back, all 3 buckles are the same.

 

[glenn1]

<< Why does the middle seatbelt use a different clasp? >>



Likely for a couple of very simple and practical reasons. First, to make it easier for Joe Consumer to figure out which belt goes where. Secondly, so that the right belt goes to the right clasp.... a seatbelt designed for the right/left side of the rear seat would probably be much less effective in providing protection for the middle seat passenger, if one had to stretch it halfway across the cabin.

 

[ElFenix]

hmmm... that is quite possible, haven't been in a new japanese car with a middle seat. still trying to figure out why they ever did that though.

 

[ElFenix]

well if its on the left then the clasps were right next to each other and i don't know how many times i've fumbled in the dark for the proper clasp. does the inch really matter? as for the other side... i guess you could stretch the belt all the way across, though i'm not sure it would reach.

 

[dethman]

yeah i'm pretty sure it's so the right buckles go into the right thingy.

otherwise, the two belts next to one another would be criss crossed, and that would probably have an adverse affect on the locking mechanism that keeps you in place...

 

[ElFenix]

those reasonings would still be sound today if they were ever applicable. but apparently new japanese cars have the same buckle on all 3.