Auto Parts: seat belt latch failure f explorer, latch assembly, salvage yards

Question
The latch( drivers side) will not lock to the anchored  part. It seems the spring in the holder is gone or broken, latch slides in and will not engage.

Answer
    This is not an unusual failure.  The latch assembly can be disassembled and repaired.  If anything is broken, though, there is no source for parts.  This is a safety-related component and the manufacturer is not keen on having it repaired in someone's driveway.  The best solution is to buy a new belt assembly from the dealer and replace the whole thing.  Salvage yards will sometimes sell belt assemblies, although they are leery of the same liability issues as the dealers.  Also, a belt from a wrecked car may no longer have its full strength.  Regardless of cost, a new one is the best thing to buy.  Get a T60 Torx bit and a wrench with a long handle; replacing the belt is very simple.