fits make: Chevy, Buick, Olds.

( Brand: Gm ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 20136051 ), ( Seat Type: Bucket Seat ), ( Headrest Type: Integrated ), ( Color: Gray Repainted Tan ), ( Features: Seatbelt Guide ), ( Material: Plastic ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Right, Front )
The **FC-13 Headrest Seatbelt Seat for 2013 Chevrolet, Buick, and Oldsmobile Models (78-88 gm)** is a meticulously engineered aftermarket replacement part designed to restore both functionality and comfort to your vehicle s front passenger seat. Crafted to meet or exceed OEM specifications, this high-quality seatbelt seatbelt assembly features a durable, reinforced headrest that provides optimal support and safety during travel, reducing neck strain and enhancing overall riding comfort. The headrest is securely integrated into the seatbelt mechanism, ensuring smooth operation and proper alignment with the seat s frame, which is particularly critical for vehicles in the 78-88 gross vehicle weight range. Constructed from premium materials, including a sturdy metal frame and resilient padding, this seatbelt assembly is built to withstand daily wear and tear while maintaining a sleek, factory-like appearance. Whether you re restoring a classic vehicle or upgrading an older model, this FC-13 part offers a seamless fit, reducing the risk of misalignment or improper function that can compromise safety. Its compatibility with a wide range of 2013 GM platforms ensures that drivers and passengers can enjoy a secure and comfortable seating experience without compromising on quality or performance. Ideal for both DIY enthusiasts and professional installers, this seatbelt seatbelt assembly is a reliable choice for maintaining the integrity and safety of your vehicle s interior.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a 2013-2015 78-88 GM (Chevy/Buick/Olds) Headrest Seatbelt Seat (FC-13)**
#### **Overview**
The **FC-13** is a headrest-equipped seatbelt assembly designed for General Motors vehicles from the 2013-2015 model years, covering platforms like the **Chevy Impala, Malibu, Cruze, Equinox, Buick Regal, LaCrosse, and Oldsmobile Alpha**. These seatbelts feature a **headrest mechanism** that deploys in a crash to reduce whiplash injuries. Below is a detailed breakdown of their advantages and drawbacks.
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### **Pros**
1. **Enhanced Safety in Crashes**
- The **integrated headrest** helps prevent whiplash by limiting forward head movement during a rear-end collision, which is a common injury in such accidents.
- GM s **passive restraint system** is designed to engage automatically, reducing the risk of neck strain compared to standard seatbelts.
2. **Compatibility with GM s Vehicle Lineup**
- The FC-13 is **OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) compatible**, meaning it fits seamlessly into GM vehicles from the specified years without modification.
- Available for **front and rear seats** in many models, making it a versatile replacement part.
3. **Durability and Reliability**
- GM s seatbelt systems are built to last, with **high-quality materials** that resist wear and tear over time.
- The **retractor mechanism** is designed to handle repeated use without jamming, though proper maintenance is still required.
4. **Aftermarket and OEM Availability**
- Widely available through **GM dealers, auto parts stores (AutoZone, RockAuto, O Reilly), and online retailers (eBay, Amazon, RockAuto)**.
- Often sold as a **complete assembly**, including the seatbelt buckle, retractor, and headrest, simplifying installation.
5. **Cost-Effective Replacement**
- Replacing a damaged or worn-out seatbelt with an FC-13 is **far cheaper** than buying a new vehicle or repairing extensive crash damage.
- Prices typically range from **$50 to $150**, depending on whether it s a **new or used/rebuilt unit**.
6. **Easy Installation (For Mechanically Inclined)**
- Many FC-13 seatbelts are **plug-and-play replacements**, requiring only unclipping the old belt, routing the new one through the same path, and securing it.
- Some models may require **minor adjustments** (e.g., adjusting the retractor tension), but no major welding or frame work is needed.
7. **Prevents Further Damage in Accidents**
- A failing seatbelt (e.g., a broken retractor or frayed webbing) can **fail to deploy properly**, increasing injury risk. Replacing it ensures the system works as intended.
8. **Long-Term Value**
- Since seatbelts are **wear-and-tear items**, replacing them proactively can **extend the life of the vehicle** and avoid sudden failures during a crash.
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### **Cons**
1. **Potential for Counterfeit or Low-Quality Parts**
- Some **aftermarket FC-13 seatbelts** may be **cheaply made**, leading to:- **Premature wear** (fraying webbing, stiff retractors).
- **Inconsistent deployment** (headrest may not activate properly).
- **Poor fit** (if not an exact OEM match).
- **Solution:** Purchase from **reputable sellers** (GM dealers, RockAuto, or verified eBay/Amazon vendors) and check for **OEM part numbers**.
2. **Installation Challenges in Some Vehicles**
- While most FC-13 seatbelts are straightforward, **older GM vehicles or heavily modified cars** may require:- **Additional routing adjustments** (e.g., if the seat position has been altered).
- **Electrical connections** (if the retractor is sensor-equipped).
- **DIYers with limited experience** may struggle, leading to improper installation.
3. **Limited Lifespan (Like All Seatbelts)**
- Even OEM seatbelts **wear out over time**, especially if:- The vehicle is **frequently driven in rough conditions** (off-roading, frequent short trips).
- The belt has been **exposed to extreme heat, cold, or chemicals** (gasoline, brake fluid).
- **Replacement interval:** Every **5-10 years** or if **visible damage** (cracks, stretching) is present.
4. **Cost of Professional Installation**
- While many can install the FC-13 themselves, **some dealerships or mechanics** charge **$50-$150 for labor**, making the total cost higher.
- **Solution:** Only pay for professional help if the installation is **complex** (e.g., electrical issues, frame damage).
5. **Headrest Mechanism May Fail Over Time**
- The **passive headrest** relies on **springs and latches**, which can:- **Stick or not deploy** if not maintained.
- **Require lubrication** to function smoothly.
- **Solution:** Periodically check the headrest s **movement and engagement** after installation.
6. **Not All GM Vehicles Are Covered**
- The FC-13 is **specific to certain GM models** (e.g., **not all 2013-2015 trucks or SUVs** may use this part).
- **Mismatched part numbers** can lead to **poor fit or non-functionality**.
- **Solution:** Verify the **exact part number** for your vehicle before purchasing.
7. **Potential for Theft or Loss During Shipping**
- Since seatbelts are **small but valuable parts**, they can be **lost or stolen** during shipping, especially from online retailers.
- **Solution:** Buy from **reputable sellers with tracking** or pick up in person.
8. **Environmental Concerns (If Disposing of Old Belt)**
- Seatbelts contain **plastic and metal components** that should be **recycled properly**.
- **Solution:** Check local **auto recycling centers** or **GM recycling programs** for disposal options.
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### **Conclusion**
The **2013-2015 GM FC-13 headrest seatbelt** is a **practical and cost-effective upgrade** for vehicles in that range, offering **enhanced safety** in crashes while being **widely available and relatively easy to install**. However, **quality varies by supplier**, and **proper maintenance is essential** to ensure long-term reliability.
For **most DIYers**, replacing a failing seatbelt with an FC-13 is a **smart investment** it s **cheaper than a new vehicle**, improves safety, and can be done with **basic tools**. That said, **buying from a trusted source** and **following installation guidelines** are critical to avoiding counterfeit or poorly made parts.
If you re **unsure about installation**, consulting a **GM dealership or auto repair shop** can prevent mistakes. Otherwise, the FC-13 is a **solid aftermarket or OEM replacement** that extends the life and safety of your vehicle.
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### **Final Recommendation**
**Buy the FC-13 if:**- Your GM vehicle (2013-2015) has a **damaged, frayed, or non-deploying seatbelt**.
- You want **better whiplash protection** in rear-end collisions.
- You re comfortable with **basic auto repairs** or can afford **professional installation**.
- You purchase from a **reputable seller** (GM dealer, RockAuto, or verified online retailer).
**Avoid or research further if:**- You can t **confirm the exact part number** matches your vehicle.
- The seller offers a **significantly cheaper price** (may indicate a counterfeit).
- You re **not confident in installation** and can t afford labor costs.
- The seatbelt has **visible signs of extreme wear** (beyond just age).
**Best Approach:**1. **Verify the exact part number** for your vehicle (check GM s service manual or a trusted parts site).
2. **Compare prices** from multiple sellers (GM dealer, RockAuto, eBay).
3. **Inspect the new belt** for quality before installation (check webbing, retractor smoothness, headrest mechanism).
4. **Follow installation instructions carefully** refer to a **GM repair manual** if needed.
5. **Test the belt** after installation to ensure proper retraction and headrest deployment.
**Final Verdict:** The FC-13 is a **worthwhile upgrade** for GM vehicles in its range, balancing **cost, safety, and availability** but **quality and proper installation are key**.
Has scuffs and scratches due to age, wear storage, 78-88 GM CHEVY BUICK OLDS HEAD REST SEATBELT BUCKET SEAT GUIDE.Has storage.