¿Why is it vital that seat covers are compatible with the side airbag?

When you install covers on the seats of your car, motorhome, van, or SUV, you are not only looking for aesthetics or protection against dirt: you are adding an additional element alongside the vehicle's safety system. In particular, the side airbags that deploy from the seat (not the curtain airbags) can be affected if the cover is not properly designed.

Our goal is for you to make informed decisions and be able to justify, to third parties (vehicle inspection, buyers, users), the safety of your covers.

What does “compatible with side airbag” mean?

A side airbag is integrated into the side of the seat and, in the event of a side collision, must deploy through the seat surface. For this to happen without obstruction:

• the cover must have seams or controlled break zones that can open under the pressure of the airbag
  

• the material must not be so rigid that it prevents the airbag from expanding
  

• the cover must not be stretched or overly secured in the areas where the airbag must deploy

When we say “compatible” we mean that the design and materials allow the airbag to function correctly, without significant obstacles.

The importance of independent testing and certifications

Saying a cover is compatible is not enough. The key is to demonstrate it through technical tests carried out by specialized laboratories, documented and reproducible.

At Glassy Europe we have collaborated with an automotive laboratory (Lukassiewicz Automotive Industry Institute) to certify that current covers allow the side airbag to deploy correctly. 

These certificates provide technical support for the proper functioning of the side airbag in our waterproof seat covers through a technical and visual document that certifies it.

Without certification, any claim remains a promise without verification.

Risks of using non-certified covers

Although many covers on the market claim to be “suitable for side airbag,” these risks may be present if they lack testing:

1. They interfere with deployment
   If the cover is too rigid or does not include designed break zones, the airbag may not deploy at the expected speed or shape, reducing its effectiveness.
   

2. Wear or deformation over time
   With prolonged use, the cover may stretch or deform, altering its original behavior on the seat.
   

3. Problems during inspections (vehicle inspection or other controls)
   Even if there is no clear regulation requiring certification, an inspector may require the cover to be removed if they doubt its compatibility.
   

4. Negative user perception
   If someone discovers the cover was not tested, they may accuse falsehood or lack of safety, affecting the brand’s reputation.
   
   

Situation with vehicle inspection in Spain

Here it is useful to separate the technical aspect from the regulatory aspect:

• The technical: if the cover is well designed and tested, it may not interfere with the side airbag.
  

• The regulatory / practical: the Vehicle Technical Inspection (ITV) in Spain does not officially recognize a certification of seat cover compatibility with side airbag. Glassy Europe

• Therefore, even if the cover has certification, the ITV may ask you to remove it to carry out the inspection properly. On your website you clearly mention: “we recommend passing the ITV without the covers installed.” Glassy Europe
  
  

Therefore, it is wise to inform the customer that, although the cover is technically safe, there may be a small risk of rejection during inspection if the inspector does not have a tool to officially verify its approval.

How to choose a safe side airbag cover: Checklist

Here is a list of criteria I would use if I were deciding:

With this guide, you will be more confident when comparing options on the market.