I have a 1999 Miata that had a bad driver's side seat belt retractor about six months ago. I took it to a local garage, but they told me I would probably have to take it to the dealership because it is a safety issue. The dealership replaced the entire mechanism, and I think it cost about $450. Now, I am having the same problem with the passenger side seat belt.

I know nothing about cars, but I am wondering if this is something that only the dealership can work on? I was really hoping to get it replaced for less than $450 this time. If someone other than the dealership can do it, what type of place would I look for to do the work? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

Get a new retractor and bolt it into place. It's not that hard. make sure to properly lock-tite and torque the bolts and you'll be fine.