Chevrolet Prizm airbag failure during rear-end crash resulting in total loss of vehicle on Chevrolet Prizm

Submitted by Vehicle Owner · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Chevrolet Prizm owners report experiencing airbag failure during rear-end collisions, which can lead to a total loss of the vehicle. This issue may arise because airbags are typically designed to deploy in front-end crashes or rollovers, and may not activate in rear-end incidents, particularly if the sensors are positioned at the front of the vehicle. Additionally, airbag failure can stem from various factors, including defects in the airbag system, improper installation or maintenance, and sensor malfunctions. In low-speed rear-end collisions, some owners find that the airbags do not deploy, as the vehicle's design may absorb the impact without triggering the safety features. If an airbag fails to deploy in a crash that causes injuries, it is advised to report the incident to the NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation, taking into account the nature of the crash and the airbag system's design. In cases of total vehicle loss due to airbag failure, it is essential to evaluate the circumstances of the crash and any prior warnings regarding the airbag system, as there may be grounds for legal action against the manufacturer if defects or negligence are identified.

1 person reported this problem
0 comments
Schedule Repair

Chevrolet Prizm vehicles with this problem

0 model year affected

Search for another problem

RepairPal Car Genius

Ask our experts about your Chevrolet.

RepairPal Car Genius™ is a free resource for vehicle owners seeking advice on maintenance, auto repair, shop inquiries, estimates, and finding a trustworthy repair shop in your area.

 Auto Repair Expert Auto Repair Expert

Call us at 877-913-1554

Available 9am – 6pm ET Monday through Friday

Call Our Experts