Front Seat Belt Retractor problems of the 1997 Saturn SL2

The front side passenger seat/shoulder belt system would not retract or release on my 1997 Saturn 4-door sedan. I was told by the dealer that the retractor had "frozen" & I needed a whole new seat belt replacement. Although there has been a recall of the '97 Saturn seat belts for retractor doing the same thing in the 2 dr coupe model; I was told my model was not covered in the recall. The car has never been in a major accident and rarely does the passenger front seat have an occupant. The seat belt will be replaced as we need it to ensure safety of passengers as well as comply with the IL state law.

Driver's side seat belt retractor failed.

Driver's seat belt lower retractor froze w/ seat belt in retracted position, rendering seat belt inoperable. Retractor is not in a location servicable by the owner, and is currently stuck fast for no apparant reason. Cost of repair not yet known. Car is a very low milage vehicle, formerly owned by an elderly man. Car had 10,200 miles on it in sept. 2000 when purchased directly from estate. Problem first appeared on 3/9/01 after I've driven the car about 9000 miles.

Driver's side seat belt stuck.

Seat belt retractor experiencing failure.

Front passenger's seat belt will not retract. Dealer has been notified.