Abstract: A retractor assembly for a seat belt system includes a magnetically actuated locking mechanism to selectively prevent extension of the seat belt. The retractor assembly includes a spring loaded spindle about which the seat belt may be wrapped and selectively extended. A ratchet wheel having a plurality of ratchet teeth is secured to the spindle for rotational movement therewith to control the rotation of the spindle and, thus, the extension of the belt from the retractor assembly. A locking mechanism is provided for controlling the rotation of the ratchet wheel for this purpose. The locking mechanism includes a pawl which is selectively movable between an engaged position, wherein rotation of the ratchet wheel in the extension direction is prevented, and a disengaged position, wherein rotation of the ratchet wheel in the belt extension direction is permitted. The locking mechanism further includes a magnetic actuator for controlling the movement of the pawl between the engaged and disengaged positions.