Well, the tensioner doesn't pull the belt back like it used to. Belt needs to be helped to it's position or it'll just hang down and get caught between door and body. That sucks...

I thought that maybe if I removed some trim, cleaned and oiled the tensioner, it would spring back in life? Is it possible? If it is, I need some guidance on how to remove plastics without breaking them.

Thanks

Thats not the tensioner, thats elsewhere. What you are seeing is common as cars with retractable belts age. The roller mechanism is getting clogged with dust/fluff and dirt picked up from the belt. You can remove the B trim cover to get access to the mechanism and clean it up. DO NOT oil the mechanism as the ratchet mechanism will never be the same again.

Thank you for quick reply.

Should I just get busy with a wide screwdriver and pry off the B trim or do I need to know anything more specific?

I think the B trim should just pull off, shouldnt need a screwdriver. Go gently otherwise the clips may break.

Before you take it apart - try simply cleaning the belt loop at the shoulder and adjusting the height. That sorted mine out a treat....

And the other thing is. Door leaks, the seatbelts absorb some of the moisture. Had my doors sealed a while back and the retraction is much improved.

HTH

Had the same trouble on mine. Pulled the belt out completely and cleaned it off. Then sprayed a cloth with a silicone spray that is used for making ironing easier !! and wiped the belt with this as it retracted back in. Ran as smooth as silk afterwords and yes it still locks up o.k.

My car hasn't had any problems with door leaks. I've inspected the seals, they look all good and healthy and there's no water in my car. But I have noticed that on damp/rainy days the retraction is much worse than on dry and sunny days. I'll try cleaning the belt and I'll also try to use that spray.

Thank you all for quick help.