Yes, airbags can occasionally deploy without an impact, though this is a rare occurrence. Some reasons airbags may go off unexpectedly include:

1. Electrical or Sensor Malfunction: The airbag system relies on sensors to detect a collision. A malfunction in these sensors, wiring, or control module could falsely trigger airbag deployment.
2. Environmental Factors: Extreme heat, humidity, or water damage (e.g., flooding) can affect the sensors or the control module, causing unintentional deployment.
3. Previous Damage: A vehicle that has previously been in an accident and wasn’t properly repaired may have weakened or damaged airbag components that could lead to accidental deployment.
4. Faulty Manufacturing: Defective parts or faulty assembly during manufacturing could cause airbags to deploy at the wrong time, which is why vehicle recalls related to airbag systems sometimes occur.

If you suspect any issues with the airbag system, it’s important to get the vehicle inspected by a professional to ensure safety.

The deployment of airbags does not automatically mean that a car is totaled. Whether a car is considered “totaled” depends on the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs relative to the vehicle’s value. Here’s how it works:

1. Insurance Definition of Totaled: A car is considered “totaled” if the cost to repair it exceeds a certain percentage of the car’s actual cash value (ACV). This percentage varies by state and insurance company but is typically around 70-80%.
2. Cost of Airbag Replacement: Airbag replacement can be expensive, typically ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 or more, depending on the type and number of airbags deployed. This cost includes replacing the airbag modules, sensors, and other components.
3. Additional Damage: Airbag deployment often occurs alongside significant collision damage, and the total repair costs (bodywork, mechanical parts, etc.) must be considered. If the repair costs, including airbag replacement, exceed the car’s value, the insurance company may declare it a total loss.

In summary, while airbag deployment is a significant factor, whether the car is totaled depends on the total repair costs in comparison to the car’s value. If the car is relatively valuable and the damage is minor aside from the airbag deployment, it might still be repairable.