How to remove child car seat

Car Seats: Information for Families

​One of the most important jobs you have as a parent is keeping your child safe when your child is riding in a vehicle.

Each year, thousands of young children are killed or injured in car crashes. Proper use of car safety seats helps keep children safe. But, because so many different seats are on the market, many parents find this overwhelming. If you are expectant parents, consider working with a certified passenger safety technician (CPST or CPS technician), before your baby is born, to ensure a safe ride home from the hospital.

The type of seat your child needs depends on several things, including your child's age, size, and developmental needs. Here is more information from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) about choosing the most appropriate car safety seat for your child.

Visit here for a listing of car seats & car seat manufacturers.

Types of car seats at a glance:

This chart is a quick guide on where to start your search. It's important to continue your research to learn about each seat you use.

Car safety seats may be installed with either the vehicle's seat belt or its LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system. LATCH is an attachment system for car safety seats. Lower anchors can be used instead of the seat belt to install the seat, and many parents find them easier to use in some cars. The top tether should always be used with a forward-facing seat, whether you use the seat belt or lower anchors to secure it. The seat belt and LATCH systems are equally safe, so caregivers should use one or the other, whichever works best for them, for their car safety seat, and their vehicle. In general, caregivers should only use 1 of the 2 options unless the car safety seat and vehicle manufacturers say it is OK to use 2 systems at the same time.

Vehicles with the LATCH system have lower anchors located in the back seat, where the seat cushions meet. Tether anchors are located behind the seat, either on the panel behind the seat (in sedans) or on the back of the seat, ceiling, or floor (in most minivans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and pickup trucks). All forward-facing car safety seats have tethers or tether connectors that fasten to these anchors. Nearly all passenger vehicles and all car safety seats made on or after September 1, 2002, are equipped to use LATCH. See vehicle owner's manual for highest weight of child allowed to use top tether.

All lower anchors are rated for a maximum weight of 65 pounds (total weight includes car safety seat and child). Parents should check the car safety seat manufacturer's recommendations for maximum weight a child can be to use lower anchors. New car safety seats have the maximum weight printed on their label.

NOTE: Seat belts—If you install a car safety seat by using your vehicle's seat belt, you must make sure the seat belt locks to hold the seat tightly. In most newer cars, you can lock the seat belt by pulling it all the way out and then allowing it to retract to keep the seat belt tight around the car safety seat. In addition, many car safety seats have built-in lock-offs so you can lock the belt without having to lock the seat belt separately as well. Refer to the vehicle owner's manual for details about how your seat belt locks.

Middle of the back seat—The safest place to ride for all children younger than 13 years is the back seat. If possible, it may be best for the child to ride in the middle of the back seat. However, it is sometimes difficult to install a car safety seat tightly in the middle if the vehicle seat is narrow or uneven. Also, many vehicles do not have lower anchors for the middle seating position. It is safest to put the car safety seat in a position where you can install it tightly with either the lower anchor system or the seat belt; in some cases, this position may be on either side of the back seat rather than in the middle. A child passenger safety technician (CPST or CPS technician) can help you decide which place is best to install your child's car safety seat in your vehicle.

The AAP recommends that all infants ride rear facing starting with their first ride home from the hospital. All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing seat as long as possible until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their car safety seat manufacturer. Most convertible seats have limits that will allow children to ride rear facing for 2 years or more. When infants outgrow their rear-facing–only seat, a convertible seat installed rear facing is needed. All parents can benefit from getting installation help from a CPST to ensure that their child's seat is properly installed.

Types of rear-facing seats

Three types of rear-facing seats are available: rear-facing–only, convertible, and all-in-one. When children reach the highest weight or length allowed by the manufacturer of their rear-facing–only seat, they should continue to ride rear facing in a convertible or all-in-one seat.

Rear-facing–only seats

• Are used for infants up to 22 to 35 pounds and 26 to 35 inches, depending on the model.

• Are small and have carrying handles.

• Usually come with a base that can be left in the car. The seat clicks into and out of the base so you don't have to install the seat each time you use it. Parents can buy more than one base for additional vehicles.

• Should be used only for a child's travel (not sleeping, feeding, or any other use outside the vehicle).

Convertible seats (used rear facing)

• Can be used rear facing and, later, "converted" to forward facing for older children when they outgrow either the weight limit or the length limit for rear facing. This means the seat can be used longer by your child. Convertible seats are bulkier than infant seats, however, and they do not come with carrying handles or separate bases and are designed to stay in the car.

• Many have higher limits in rear-facing weight (up to 40–50 pounds) and height than those of rear-facing– only seats, a feature that makes convertible seats ideal for bigger babies and toddlers.

• Have a 5-point harness that attaches at the shoulders, at the hips, and between the legs.

• Should be used only for a child's travel (not sleeping, feeding, or any other use outside the vehicle).

All-in-one seats (used rear facing)

• Can be used rear facing, forward facing, or as a belt- positioning booster. This means the seat may be used longer by your child as your child grows.

• Are often bigger in size, so it is important to check that they fit in the vehicle while they are rear facing.

• Do not have the convenience of a carrying handle or separate base; however, they may have higher limits in rear-facing weight (up to 40–50 pounds) and height than those of rear-facing–only seats, a feature that makes all-in-one seats ideal for bigger babies and toddlers.

Installation tips for rear-facing seats

Always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat.

When using a rear-facing seat, keep the following tips in mind:

• Place the harnesses in your rear-facing seat in slots that are at or below your child's shoulders.

• Ensure that the harness is snug (you cannot pinch any slack between your fingers when testing the harness straps over the child's shoulders) and that the chest clip is placed at the center of the chest, even with your child's armpits.

• Make sure the car safety seat is installed tightly in the vehicle with either lower anchors or a locked seat belt. Many car safety seats have an integrated lock-off system to keep the seat belt locked. If your seat has one, follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how to use it. If you can move the seat at the belt path more than an inch side to side or front to back, it's not tight enough.

• Never place a rear-facing seat in the front seat of a vehicle that has an active front passenger airbag. If the airbag inflates, it will hit the back of the car safety seat, right against your child's head, and could cause serious injury or death.

• If you are using a convertible or all-in-one seat in the rear-facing position, make sure the seat belt or lower anchor webbing is routed through the correct belt path. Check the instructions that came with the car safety seat to be sure.

• Make sure the seat is at the correct angle so your child's head does not flop forward. Check the instructions to find out the correct angle for your seat and how to adjust the angle if needed. All rear-facing seats have built-in recline indicators.

• Check the car safety seat instructions and vehicle owner's manual about whether the car safety seat may contact the back of the vehicle seat in front of it.

• Still having trouble? Check with a certified CPST in your area who can help.
  

Common questions

What if my child's feet touch the back of the vehicle seat?

What do I do if my child slouches down or to the side in the car seat?

• You can try placing a tightly rolled receiving blanket on both sides of your child. Many manufacturers allow the use of a tightly rolled small diaper or cloth between the crotch strap and your child, if necessary, to prevent slouching. Do not place padding under or behind your child or use any sort of car safety seat insert unless it came with the seat or was made by the manufacturer for use with that specific seat.
  

Why should I dress my child in thinner layers of clothing before strapping them into a car safety seat?

• Bulky clothing, including winter coats and snowsuits, can compress in a crash and leave the straps too loose to restrain your child, leading to increased risk of injury. Ideally, dress your baby in thinner layers and wrap a coat or blanket around your baby over the buckled harness straps if needed. See Winter Car Seat Safety Tips from the AAP.

Do preemies need a special car seat?

A car safety seat should be approved for a baby's weight. Very small babies who can sit safely in a semi-reclined position usually fit better in rear-facing–only seats. Babies born preterm should be screened while still in the hospital to make sure they can sit safely in a semi-reclined position. Babies who need to lie flat during travel may be able to ride in a car bed that meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213. They should be screened again while in the hospital to make sure they can lie safely in the car bed.

Always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat.

Any child who has outgrown the rear-facing weight or height limit for her convertible seat should use a forward- facing seat with a harness for as long as possible, up to the highest weight or height allowed by her car safety seat manufacturer. It is best for children to ride in a seat with a harness as long as possible, at least to 4 years of age. If your child outgrows a seat before reaching 4 years of age, consider using a seat with a harness approved for higher weights and heights.

Types of Forward-Facing Car Seat Restraints

Four types of car safety restraints can be used forward facing:

• Convertible seats: Seats can "convert" from rear facing to forward facing. These include all-in-one seats.

• Combination seats with harness: Seats can be used forward facing with a harness for children who weigh up to 40 to 65 pounds (depending on the model) or without the harness as a booster (up to 100–120 pounds, depending on the model).

• Integrated seats: Some vehicles come with built-in forward-facing seats. Weight and height limits vary. Do not use a built-in seat until your child has reached the highest weight or height allowed for your rear-facing convertible car safety seat. Read your vehicle owner's manual for details about how to use these seats.

• Travel vests: Vests can be worn by children 22 to 168 pounds and can be an option to traditional forward- facing seats. They are useful for when a vehicle has lap-only seat belts in the rear, for children with certain special needs, or for children whose weight has exceeded that allowed by car safety seats. These vests usually require use of a top tether.

Installation tips for forward-facing seats

Always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat.

It is important that the car safety seat is installed tightly in the vehicle and that the harness fits your child snugly.

To switch a convertible or all-in-one seat from rear-facing to forward-facing:

• Move the harness shoulder straps to the slots or position that is at or just above your child's shoulders. Check the instructions that came with the seat to be sure you are positioning the shoulder straps correctly.

• You may have to adjust the recline angle of the seat so that it sits more upright in your vehicle. Check the instructions to be sure.

• If using a seat belt, make sure it runs through the forward-facing belt path (be sure to follow car safety seat instructions) and that the seat belt is locked and tightened. Many car safety seats have an integrated lock-off to keep the seat belt locked. If your seat has one, follow the manufacturer's recommendations on how to use it.
  

• If using the lower anchors, make sure that the weight of your child plus the weight of the seat does not exceed 65 pounds. Most seats now state in the manual and on the stickers on the side the maximum child weight to use the anchors. If the child weighs too much, caregivers must use the seat belt to install.

• Always use the tether when you can. A tether is a strap that is attached to the top part of a car safety seat and holds the seat tightly by connecting to an anchor point in your vehicle (often on the seat back or rear shelf; see your vehicle owner's manual to find where tether anchors are in your vehicle). Tethers give important extra protection by keeping the car safety seat and your child's head from moving too far forward in a crash or sudden stop. All new cars, minivans, and light trucks are required to have tether anchors as of September 2000. Forward-facing seats come with tether straps. A tether should always be used as long as your child has not reached the top weight limit for the tether anchor. Check the car safety seat instructions and vehicle owner's manual for information about the top weight limit and locations of tether anchors.

• Watch the Video: How to Install a Forward-Facing Car Seat

Common question

What if I drive more children than those who can be buckled safely in the back seat?

• It's best to avoid this, especially if your vehicle has airbags in the front seat. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat. If absolutely necessary, a child in a forward-facing seat with a harness may be the best choice to ride in front. Just be sure the vehicle seat is moved as far back away from the dashboard (and airbag) as possible.
  

Booster seats are for older children who have outgrown their forward-facing seats. All children whose weight or height exceeds the forward-facing limit for their car safety seat should use a belt-positioning booster seat until the vehicle seat belt fits properly, typically when they have reached 4 feet 9 inches in height and are 8 to 12 years of age. Most children will not fit in most vehicle seat belts without a booster until 10 to 12 years of age. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat. Instructions that come with your car safety seat will tell you the height and weight limits for the seat. As a general guideline, a child has outgrown a forward-facing seat when any of the following situations is true:

• They reach the top weight or height allowed for his seat with a harness. (These limits are listed on the seat and in the instruction manual.)

• Their shoulders are above the top harness slots.

• The tops of their ears have reached the top of the seat.

Types of booster seats

High-back and backless are 2 standard types of booster seats. They do not come with a harness but are used with lap and shoulder seat belts in your vehicle, the same way an adult rides. They are designed to raise a child up so that lap and shoulder seat belts fit properly over the strongest parts of the child's body.

Most booster seats are not secured to the vehicle seat with the seat belt or lower anchors and tether but simply rest on the vehicle seat and are held in place once the seat belt is fastened over a child. However, some models of booster seats can be secured to the vehicle seat and kept in place by using the lower anchors and tether along with lap and shoulder belts. (Currently, only a few vehicle manufacturers offer integrated booster seats.)

Installation tips for booster seats

When using a booster seat, always read the vehicle owner's manual and the car safety seat manual before installing the seat. Booster seats often have a plastic clip or guide to correctly position vehicle lap and shoulder belts. See the booster seat instruction manual for directions on how to use the clip or guide. Booster seats must be used with lap and shoulder belts. When using a booster seat, make sure:

• The lap belt lies low and snug across your child's upper thighs.

• The shoulder belt crosses the middle of your child's chest and shoulder and is off the neck.

• Watch the video: How to Use a Booster Seat

If your booster seat has lower anchors or tether attachments, check its manual for installation instructions.

Common questions about booster seats

What if my car has only lap belts in the back seat?

Lap belts work fine with rear-facing–only, convertible, and forward-facing seats that h av e a harness but can never be used with a booster seat. If your car has only lap belts, use a forward-facing seat that has a harness and higher weight limits. You could also

• Check to see if shoulder belts can be installed in your vehicle.

• Use a travel vest (check the manufacturer's instructions about the use of lap belts only and about the use of lap and shoulder belts).

• Consider buying another car with lap and shoulder belts in the back seat.

What is the difference between high-back boosters and backless boosters?

• Both types of boosters are designed to raise your child so seat belts fit properly, and both will reduce your child's risk of injury in a crash. High-back boosters should be used in vehicles without headrests or with low seat backs. Many seats that look like high-back boosters are actually combination seats. They come with harnesses that can be used for smaller children and, later, removed for older children. Backless boosters are usually less expensive and are easier to move from one vehicle to another. Backless boosters can be used safely in vehicles with headrests and high seat backs.
  

Seat belts are made for adults. Children should stay in a booster seat until adult seat belts fit correctly, typically when children reach about 4 feet 9 inches in height and are 8 to 12 years of age. Most children will not fit in a seat belt alone until 10 to 12 years of age. When children are old enough and large enough to use the vehicle seat belt alone, they should always use lap and shoulder seat belts for the best protection. All children younger than 13 years should ride in the back seat.

Using a seat belt:

An adult seat belt fits correctly when:

• The shoulder belt lies across the middle of the chest and shoulder, not the neck or throat.

• The lap belt is low and snug across the upper thighs, not the belly.

• Your child is tall enough to sit against the vehicle seat back with her knees bent over the edge of the seat without slouching and can comfortably stay in this position throughout the trip.

Other points to keep in mind when using seat belts include:

• Make sure your child does not tuck the shoulder belt under her arm or behind her back. This leaves the upper body unprotected and adds extra slack to the seat belt system, putting your child at risk of severe injury in a crash or with sudden braking.

• Never allow anyone to "share" seat belts. All passengers must have their own car safety seats or seat belts.

Common question

I've seen products that say they can help make the seat belt fit better. Should we get one of these?

• No, these products are unapproved and should not be used. They may actually interfere with proper seat belt fit by causing the lap belt to ride too high on the stomach or making the shoulder belt too loose. They can even damage the seat belt. This rule applies to car safety seats too; do not use extra products unless they came with the seat or are specifically approved by the seat manufacturer. These products are not covered by any federal safety standards, and the AAP does not recommend they be used. As long as children are riding in the correct restraint for their size, they should not need to use additional devices.
  

When shopping for a car seat, keep the following tips in mind:

• No one seat is the "best" or "safest. " The best seat is the one that fits your child's size, is correctly installed, fits well in your vehicle, and is used properly every time you drive.

• Don't decide by price alone. A higher price does not mean the seat is safer or easier to use.

• Avoid used seats if you don't know the seat's history.

• Watch the Video: What to Look For When Purchasing a Car Seat

Never use a car seat that:

• Is too old. Look on the label for the date the seat was made. Check with the manufacturer to find out how long it recommends using the seat.

• Has any visible cracks on it.
  

• Does not have a label with the date of manufacture and model number. Without these, you cannot check to see if the seat has been recalled.

• Does not come with instructions. You need them to know how to use the seat. Instructions can be found on manufacturer websites or by contacting the manufacturer.

• Is missing parts. Used car safety seats often come without important parts. Check with the manufacturer to make sure you can get the right parts.

• Was recalled. You can find out by calling the manufacturer or contacting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888/327-4236. You can also visit the NHTSA Website.

• Do not use seats that have been in a moderate or severe crash. Seats that were in a minor crash may still be safe to use, but some car safety seat manufacturers recommend replacing the seat after any crash, even a minor one. The NHTSA considers a crash minor if all the following situations are true:

• The vehicle could be driven away from the crash.

• The vehicle door closest to the car safety seat was not damaged.

• No one in the vehicle was injured.

• The airbags did not go off.

• You can't see any damage to the car safety seat.

• If you have specific questions about the car seat, contact the manufacturer.

Front airbags are installed in all new cars. When used with seat belts, airbags work well to protect teenagers and adults; however, airbags can be very dangerous to children, particularly to those riding in rear-facing seats and to preschoolers and young school-aged children who are not properly restrained. If your vehicle has a front passenger airbag, infants in rear-facing seats must ride in the back seat. Even in a relatively low-speed crash, the airbag can inflate, strike the car safety seat, and cause serious brain injury and death.

Vehicles with no back seat or a back seat that is not made for passengers are not the best choice for traveling with small children; however, the airbag can be turned off in some of these vehicles if the front seat is needed for a child passenger. See your vehicle owner's manual for more information.

Side airbags are available in most new cars. Side airbags improve safety for adults in side-impact crashes. Read your vehicle owner's manual for more information about the airbags in your vehicle. Read your car safety seat instructions and the vehicle owner's manual for guidance on placing the seat next to a side airbag.

About carpooling

If your child is being driven by someone else, make sure:

• The car safety seat your child will be using fits properly in the vehicle used for transport.

• The car safety seat being used is appropriate for the age and size of your child.

• The person in charge of transporting your child knows how to install and use the car safety seat correctly.

Child care programs and schools should have written guidelines for transporting children, including

• All drivers must have a valid driver's license. In some states, school bus drivers need to have a special type of license.

• Staff to child ratios for transport should meet or exceed those required for the classroom.

• Every child should be supervised during transport, either by school staff or a parent volunteer, so the driver can focus on driving.

• School staff, teachers, and drivers should know what to do in an emergency, know how to properly use car safety seats and seat belts, and be aware of other safety requirements.

About car safety seats on airplanes

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the AAP recommend that children less than 40 pounds be securely fastened in certified child restraints when flying. This will help keep them safe during takeoff and landing or in case of turbulence. Most rear-facing, convertible, and forward-facing seats can be used on airplanes , but booster seats and travel vests cannot.

Read your seat's instruction manual and look for a label on the car safety seat that says, "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft. " You can also consider using a restraint made only for use on airplanes and approved by the FAA. Larger children may use the airplane seat belt or continue to use their car safety seat on the airplane as long as it is labeled for use on aircraft and the child has not exceeded the seat's weight or height limit. Remember that your child will need an appropriate car safety seat to use at your destination. For more information, visit the FAA Website or the CARES (Airplane Safety Harness for Children) Website.

If you need installation help

If you have questions or need help with installing your car safety seat, find a certified child passenger safety technician (CPST or CPS technician). Lists of certified CPSTs and child seat–fitting stations are available on the following websites:

• National Child Passenger Safety Certification (Click on "Find a Tech" or call 877-366-8154.) – Includes list of CPSTs fluent in Spanish and other languages or with extra training in transportation of children with special needs.

• NHTSA Parents & Caregivers

Important reminders

Be a good role model. Make sure you always wear your seat belt. This will help your child form a lifelong habit of buckling up.

Make sure that everyone who transports your child uses the correct car safety seat or seat belt on every trip, every time. Being consistent with car safety seat use is good parenting, reduces fussing and complaints, and is safest for your child.

Never leave your child alone in or around cars, and lock your vehicle when it is not in use. Any of the following situations can happen when a child is left alone in or around a vehicle. A child can

• Die of heatstroke because temperatures can reach deadly levels in minutes.

• Be strangled by power windows, retracting seat belts, sunroofs, or accessories.

• Knock the vehicle into gear, setting it into motion.

• Be backed over when the vehicle backs up.

• Become trapped in the trunk of the vehicle.

Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your car safety seat. If you do not have those, write or call the company's customer service department. Staff will ask you for the model number, name of seat, and date of manufacture. The manufacturer's address and phone number are on a label on the seat. Also, be sure to follow the instructions in your vehicle owner's manual about using car safety seats. Some manufacturers' instructions may be available on their websites.

Remember to fill out and mail in the registration card that comes with the car safety seat. You can also register your seat on the manufacturer's website. It will be important in case the seat is recalled.

Follow manufacturer directions for cleaning car seats. Cleaning but not disinfecting is usually permitted. That's because disinfectant products may decrease the protection provided by the seat and harness.

More information

• Ask the Pediatrician: Is it safe for my baby to travel in a car seat a few hours at a time?
  
• Car Seats: Product Listing
• Car Seat Checkup
• Car Seats and Obese Children: Suggestions for Parents
• Prevent Child Deaths in Hot Cars
• Travel Safety During COVID-1 9

_{Although the AAP is not a testing or standard-setting organization, this article sets forth the AAP recommendations based on the peer-reviewed literature available at the time of its publication and sets forth some of the factors that parents should consider before selecting and using a car seat.}

_{Figure 1 adapted from US Department of Transportation, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). LATCH Makes Child Safety Seat Installation as Easy as 1-2-3. Washington, DC: NHTSA; 2011. DOT HS publication 809 489.}

_{Figure 4 from Bull MJ, Engle WA; American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention and Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Safe transportation of preterm and low birth weight infants at hospital discharge. Pediatrics. 2009;123(5):1424–1429.}

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

How to remove Isofix car seat and base from a car

Isofix makes it quick and easy to install your child's car seat and ensure your little one is as safe as can be on every journey. However, many parents find it difficult to remove Isofix seats when they're ready to replace them or they need to use them in a different vehicle. We're going to show you how to remove Isofix car seat connectors and give you a few tips on why the connectors might appear to be stuck.

How to remove Isofix car seat

Here's how to remove Isofix seat from your car. First, extend the car seat's fixing points to take the pressure off it. When they're installed, child and baby seats should be adjusted so that they're pushed right up flush to the back of the seat of the car. This ensures the seat remains securely in place and won't move around, but it does mean that the seat can be difficult to remove unless it is first pulled away from the back of the seat of the car. By extending the fixing points out, you can release the pressure and it's easier to detach the Isofix connectors. If your car seat has a top tether point - not all of them do - make sure this is also released.

You'll notice the fixing points on each side of the car seat have a green indicator to show they are firmly and correctly attached to the vehicle's Isofix points. There are buttons on the front of these points and sliding levers above the green indicator. On each side, first, press the button and then squeeze the lever. The connection will be released. The indicator will turn red to show that the seat is no longer connected to the Isofix points.

It's usually easy once you know how to remove Isofix car seat connectors but if you are still having trouble getting the seat out, check to see if it has shifted over to one side. This could bend the Isofix points and make the release lever stick. Simply shift the seat so that it is positioned centrally on the Isofix fixing and try to release it again.

How to remove Isofix base

Isofix car seats are often used with bases that clip into the Isofix points in the car so that the seat itself can easily be moved in and out of the vehicle. These are removed in much the same way as car seats which clip directly into the Isofix points. Simply extend the fixing points of the base, usually via a button at the front of the base. Then press the buttons and squeeze the levers on each side of the fixing points and the base should release.

Is Isofix better than using seatbelts?

Isofix is deemed to be the safest method of securing a car seat in a vehicle. In the event of an accident, there should be minimal movement of the car seat when it is fixed via Isofix. However, with a seatbelt, there is room for the car seat to slide around which could put the child at greater risk of injury.

Since 2014 it has been a requirement that all four-seater cars sold in Europe are fitted with at least two Isofix points. Many older cars, particularly those manufactured from 2006 onward, have Isofix fittings. It stands to reason that most family cars driven in the UK today have Isofix, so it shouldn't be difficult to choose the safer Isofix option rather than using seatbelts.

How often should you replace your child's car seat?

Children should use car seats right up until the age of 12 or until they reach 135cm tall (4ft5), whichever comes first. However, you'll require several different car seats throughout those 12 years to ensure your child is safe as they grow. Furthermore, all car seats have expiration dates which should be stipulated on the label or in the instruction manual, so be sure to check for this and do not use a seat that is past its expiration date.

When it comes to selecting the right size car seat, bear in mind that there are two sizing systems used in the UK - weight-based and height-based, with the latter commonly known as i-Size. You must choose a seat that is suitable for your child's height or weight, and that you monitor their size carefully to ensure you don't use a seat that is too small. While a child could continue to physically fit into a seat that is technically too small for them, the seat may not be strong enough to protect them properly should your car be involved in an accident.

If your car is in an accident - even a minor one - it is always recommended to replace your child car seats. Sometimes seats look perfectly fine after a bump, but they could have sustained invisible damage that leaves them unsafe should they be involved in another accident. It is always safer to replace the seat, and some car insurance providers will cover the cost of a new seat if your vehicle has been in an accident.

Finally, if you ever get a new car you might need to replace your child seats so that they fit correctly. Car seats are not universal in size and some are bulkier than others. If your new car's seats aren't deep or wide enough to adequately fit your child's car seat, you must replace it.

Shop our range of high quality car seats

Here at For Your Little One we have a wide variety of car seats available in a range of sizes, including those suitable for newborns and those big enough for 12-year-olds. We also have a collection of i-Size seats available, and a collection of car seat accessories to ensure your little one has a safe and comfortable journey.

How to remove an isofix child seat: simple instructions

Any car owner knows that children can only be transported with special restraints. One of the main parameters on which their safety depends is the reliability of fixation. The Isofix mounting system, developed back in the 90s, is considered the most optimal. In addition, it is also easy to operate. However, if there has not yet been experience of use, then questions may arise about fixing and removing the chair with such a mounting system. To begin with, it is worth understanding its device.

What is the Isofix car seat mount

The mechanism that modern cars are equipped with consists of two rigid brackets with latches. The distance between them is 280 mm. The latches are located in the place between the base of the rear seats and their back. Reliability of connection of the system with the car body is ensured by steel brackets. On most new cars, the locking mechanism is a part of the body that is mounted to the power frame during the assembly process.

Car seat fastening is carried out automatically, removal - by pressing the button located at the base of the bracket. The fact of installation is accompanied by a characteristic click. In addition, at the moment of fixing, the color in the indicator window changes from red to green.

Help. All cars of foreign and domestic brands that left the assembly line after 2011 should be equipped with this type of fixation.

In car seats, the fastening elements with the system in question can be located on different sides. Before buying, you need to find out how it will be located in the cabin.

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Features of using Isofix: how to remove the car seat

It has already been mentioned that the operation of such a system is not difficult. Attaching and removing the retaining structure does not take much time. In order to understand how to remove the car seat, you need to remember the fixing process. If the design is with a removable base, then the mounting procedure is as follows:

• release the locking mechanism in the car from the plugs;
• guide the fold-out legs of the base to the Isofix loops;
• press until it clicks;
• fix the support leg;
• put the chair on the base;
• after the latch is released, turn the lever, which also serves to transfer the cradle - the moment of fixation will be confirmed by the green indicator.

Removal of such a holding device begins by turning the handle and releasing the latch. The crib can then be easily removed. The base is detached by pressing a button on the auto Isofix mechanism.

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Help. Isofix brackets are popularly called "crocodiles". Each of them has a lock-latch, which prevents spontaneous jumping out of the mount. After pressing the release button, the guides easily come out of the grooves.

Armchair without base, usually fitted with a Top tether. This is an additional installation item. When a car seat with such a structural detail is located in the car, the belt is fixed after the guides are attached to the brackets. When removing, the Top tether is first unfastened, and then pressing the levers releases the Isofix locks. If the seat is retractable, then the alligators should be closed with special caps and folded. The grooves, in order to avoid clogging, are plugged.

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Peg-Perego Viaggio 1-2-3 Via Car Seat Manual

Thank you for choosing Peg-Perego!

Content

1 The main warnings
2 Chair components
3 Installation with ISOFIX and Top Tether
4 options for TOP TETHER
5 Facing the child
60086 7 Transformation of group 1 in group 2-3
8 Installation (group 2-3)
9 Faste the child
10 Adjustment of the seat and headrest
11 Removal of the case
12 Undem
13
14 Accessories store them in a special compartment for future use. If the car seat installation instructions are not followed carefully, your child's safety may be compromised.

Peg-Perego Viaggio 1-2-3 Via Car Seat Manual

The Viaggio 1-2-3 Via Car Seat must be assembled and installed by an adult. During assembly and installation operations, the child should not be in the seat.

• When traveling by car, never hold a child in your arms or put him anywhere other than a car seat. In the event of sudden braking, even at low speed, the child can easily be thrown forward
• Do not insert your fingers into the mechanisms
• Pay special attention to the placement of luggage and other items in the passenger compartment that, in the event of an accident, could harm the child in the car seat
• Do not use installation methods other than those described here, otherwise there is a risk of the car seat becoming detached
• Never leave your child unattended in a car seat: watch him even when he is sleeping
• Never take your child out of the car seat while the car is in motion
• Make sure that the car seat is not blocked by moving parts of the seat or the car door
• Adjust the height and tension of the straps so that they are close to the child's body, but not too tight; make sure that the seat belt is not twisted and that the child cannot unfasten it by himself
• This car seat is not designed for a child to sleep in it for long periods of time
• Do not leave the child seat in a car in the sun: some parts of the seat may become hot and damage your child's sensitive skin. Before seating the child, check the chair for heating
• Do not use the car seat without a fabric cover; use only covers recommended by the manufacturer, as they are part of the car seat and safety system
• Do not use the car seat without the shoulder straps (shoulder pads) because they are part of the car seat and safety system
• Do not remove or replace the white polystyrene elements under the head restraint and under the side panels as they are part of the safety system
• Do not remove stickers and patches: without them, the device will be considered non-compliant
• Do not use a child car seat if it is broken or missing parts, if it has been previously used, if it has been subjected to severe impact in an accident, because in these cases the seat may have extremely dangerous structural damage
• Do not modify car seat
• This product has its serial number indicated on the certification label, which is placed on the back of the back (Fig. 51)

• If in doubt, contact the manufacturer or retailer of this car seat
• For repairs, replacement parts and information about the device, please contact the after-sales service department. Contact information can be found on the last page of this manual
• The car seat in the car must always be fixed, even if there is no child in it. Otherwise, in case of sudden braking, it may harm people in the car
• Do not use the car seat if more than 12 years have passed since the date of manufacture (indicated on the body, fig. 50): due to the natural aging of materials, the device no longer meets safety standards

• Do not use attachments unless they have been approved by the manufacturer or competent authorities

"Universal" isofix and Top Tether Group 1

ECE R44/04 certified for children weighing 9up to 18 kg (age approx. 1 to 4 years)

• Compatible with most car seats, but not all
• The car seat can be properly installed if the car's Owner's and Maintenance Manual states compatibility with "Universal" anchorage systems group 1 isofix class B1 with Top Tether. For a more detailed description of the use of the Top Tether, see the following section
• Compared to previous models without a certification label, this child car seat is certified as "universal" according to the most stringent criteria

Important

The Viaggio 1-2-3 Via seat must always be installed in the direction of travel and only on seats equipped with isofix and Top Tether anchorages.

• Do not use the seat without the Top Tether. The Top Tether is essential to guarantee complete safety.
• The Viaggio 1-2-3 Via seat must not be installed on seats that are turned against or perpendicular to the normal direction of the vehicle.
• It is recommended to install a child seat in the rear seat, on the side opposite the driver's seat.
• If the car seat is installed on the front seat, we advise you to move it as far as possible from the dashboard.
• The product is produced with continuous sequential numbering.
• If it is difficult to install the Viaggio 1 2 3 Via into the car, raise or remove the headrest of the car.

Important: Top Tether

For the correct use of the new Peg-Perego car seat, you must carefully read the following section: Viaggio 1-2-3 Via.

Viaggio 1-2-3 Via is Peg-Perego's new car seat for children weighing between 9 and 18 kg, certified to European standard R44/04. Viaggio 1-2-3 Via uses the isofix anchorage system with Top Tether in accordance with the latest update of European standards, which guarantees maximum safety and reliability. of the vehicle and the Top Tether anchor strap. Usually it is located on the trunk shelf behind the rear seats in sedan-type cars (photo A)

either behind the back seat in vans (photo B),

or in the trunk of minivans or SUVs (photo C).

To avoid the use of a tie that is not intended for this purpose or other than the Top Tether (TT), the TT anchor is usually marked on the vehicle with a label with the following logo:

and maintenance of your vehicle. Make sure the seat is securely fastened with the Top Tether. This guarantees not only maximum safety in the event of an impact or collision, but also maximum stability for the child during normal use.
i isofix release lever
l seat tilt lever
m manual instruction compartment door

Car seat ready to use: no assembly required.

Installation with isofix and top tether

Pull the yellow lever located on the front of the seat base 1 to fully extend the isofix 2

Open the rear door and unhook the Top Tether hook.

Extend the Top Tether to suit your vehicle.

Insert the isofix fasteners into the slots until they click into place; a red/green signal light located on the sides of the base will show if the mount is properly connected.

Pull the yellow lever 1 and at the same time press the car seat 2 firmly against the vehicle seat.

Top tether mounting options

Important: There are three main types of Top Tether fastening.

Type A Raise the head restraint and pass the belts through the center. Hook the hook of the TT belts to the hook of the vehicle in a prominent position, as shown in the illustration. Tension the belt and check for correct tension.

Type B: Raise the headrest and pass the belts through the center. Hook the hook of the TT belts to the hook of the vehicle located on the back of the seat at the rear as shown in the illustration. Tension the belt and check the correct tension of the device (indicated in green).

Type C: Raise the head restraint and pass the belts through the center. Hook the hook of the TT belts to the hook of the car located in the trunk. It is usually denoted by the Top Tether symbol, as shown in the picture. Lift the cover and engage

Important: To ensure a good fit, the belts must be tensioned with force .

The different types of fastening are described in the owner's manual for your vehicle.

To remove the car seat from the car seat, unhook the Top Tether 1; then move the car seat away from the seat by pulling the lever 2 and at the same time the seat 3 until the yellow side levers appear.

When the side arms appear, unhook the seat as shown in the illustration and remove it.

Fastening the child

Before putting the child in the seat, unhook the seat belts by pressing the red button on the buckle of the belt that goes between the legs.

Raise the seat belts to make room for the child.

Seat your child and place the seat belts around their shoulders and waist as shown.

Fasten the seat belts by overlapping the tongues 1 and inserting them into the buckle of the belt between the legs 2 until it clicks.

The child is seated correctly, the seat belts are properly fastened.

Finally tighten the child's seat belts by pulling the center adjustment belt towards you as shown in the illustration. Be careful not to overtighten the straps on your child.

Important: leave a small gap (thickness of a finger) between the belt and the child's chest.

To loosen the seat belts, press the button located in the center of the car seat 1 , under the fabric cover, and at the same time loosen the belt tension 2

as shown, under the shoulder belt pads figure.

The seat is equipped with an inlay cushion, which is only used for small children (up to 12 kg) and when the seat belts are located at the lower levels. To remove the pillow insert, you need to unfasten the buttons located on its sides 1 and then remove it from the side belts 2 .

Seat and headrest adjustment

As the child grows, the headrest should be adjusted to match the height of the child. There are several provisions.

To move from a lower to a higher position, pull up on the lever located at the top center of the head restraint 1 ; the head restraint will raise with it 2 . To move from a high position to a lower position, pull up the lever located at the top center of the head restraint and at the same time press the head restraint to the desired position. After the operation is completed, try moving the head restraint to see if it is fixed

Correct harness position: child's shoulders slightly below the point where the straps come out of the backrest.

Important: The exit point of the belts must not be too high or too low in relation to the child's shoulders.

The Viaggio 1-2-3 Via car seat can be adjusted to several positions with different angles of inclination. To tilt the chair, pull the lever located under the seat 1 and move the chair to the desired position 2 .

Converting group 1 to group 2-3

Raise the headrest 1 and remove the shoulder pad fasteners 2 located at the back of the backrest under the belt as shown in the illustration.

Open the Velcro and, at the front, remove the shoulder pads from the straps.

Save shoulder pads for later use.

Lift up the headrest cover and pull the straps through the slots in the plastic structure.

Remove the extra cushion; then unfasten the buttons on the seat, lift the fabric and open the panel underneath.

Pull the crotch strap out of the seat fabric, then fasten the straps and close the panel, making sure the straps slide freely through the side slots.

Raise the backrest one position to make it easier to pull the car seat belt.

The vehicle seat belt must pass freely under the side of the seat.

The chair has been correctly converted to a group 2-3 device.

"Semi-universal" harness with isofix, group 2-3

• Certified to European standard ECE R44/04 for children weighing 15 to 36 kg (approximately 3 to 102 years) 9028
• This seat is certified for use in the "semi-universal" category and is designed to be mounted on the seats of vehicles listed in the list attached to this information sheet
• The car seat may only be used on approved vehicles equipped with a three-point static belt or rewinder certified to ECE R16 or equivalent. In addition, the car seat must be equipped with isofix
mounts.

Important: Do not use a two-point harness or lap belt.

• Viaggio seat 1-2-3 Via must always be installed in the direction of travel and only on seats equipped with isofix 9 connectors0028
• The seat Viaggio 1-2-3 Via cannot be installed on the seats turned against the direction or perpendicular to the normal direction of the vehicle
• It is recommended to install a child seat in the rear seat, on the side opposite the driver's seat
• If the car seat is installed on the front seat, we advise you to move it as far as possible from the dashboard
• The product is issued with continuous serial numbering
• If it is difficult to install the Viaggio 1 2 3 Via into the car, raise or remove the car's headrest

Installation (Group 2-3)

Pull the yellow lever located on the front of the seat base 1 to fully extend the isofix 2 .

Insert the isofix fasteners into the slots until they click into place; a red/green signal light located on the sides of the base will show if the mount is properly connected.

Pull the yellow lever 1 and at the same time press down firmly on the car seat 2 to the car seat.

Fastening the child

Sit the child comfortably a and position the car's three-point seat belt as shown in the illustration b .

Fasten the vehicle seat belt until it clicks. Position the two branches of the belt as shown in the illustration.

To complete the fastening in the car, pass the belt through the shoulder loops located on the headrest: to do this, insert the belt between the loop and the headrest 1 and it will easily slip into the pass loop 2 .

Important: if the belt is loose, pull it over the loop (3). Attention: the belt must always be tensioned without twisting

To remove the belt, remove it from the loop 1 and move it between the loop and the headrest 2 until it is completely removed.

Seat and headrest adjustment

Important: correct position of the belts: the child's shoulders are slightly below the exit point of the belts from the backrest, as shown in the illustration.

For the correct size, adjust the head restraint to the desired position using the rear lever.

Adjust the seat belt to fit your child as they get older to ensure proper fit. To further increase the height, raise the backrest to the desired position using the side buttons.

Further adjustment is possible by spreading the side inserts as shown.

The Viaggio 1-2-3 Via armchair is adjustable. Make sure the belt is routed correctly throughout. If the car is equipped with an adjustable backrest, you can tilt it to reach the maximum seat angle Viaggio 1-2-3 Via a . If the backrest cannot be adjusted because the headrest of the car seat interferes with the headrest of the car seat, remove the seat headrest b .

To remove the car seat from the car seat, move the car seat away from the seat by pulling the lever 1 and simultaneously the car seat 2 until the yellow side levers appear. If a Top Tether is used, unhook it.

When the side arms appear, unhook the seat as shown in the illustration and remove it.

How to remove the fabric cover

The fabric upholstery of the Viaggio 1-2-3 Via can be removed for cleaning.

Follow the washing instructions on the seat packaging.

Remove the headrest cover.

Remove the headrest cover first from the bottom and then from the top

Remove the backrest cover

0297 b . To facilitate this operation, raise the head restraint.

Remove the seat cover:

Unhook the two rings from the buttons located on the sides of the seat. Remove the cover towards the front

Care and cleaning

Brush the fabric parts to remove dust.

• Follow the washing instructions on the label sewn into the upholstery of the chair (Fig. 45)

• Do not use chlorine bleach
• Do not iron
• Do not dry clean
• Do not remove stains with solvents
• Do not tumble dry

Accessories

Practical travel bag helps keep the car seat clean and protected

Serial numbers

Under the seat of the Viaggio 1-2-3 Via is the following information: device name, date of manufacture and serial number .

Viaggio 1-2-3 Via has a certification plate behind the backrest.

Cleaning the product

• This product requires minimal maintenance
• Only adults should clean and maintain the product
• It is recommended to keep all moving parts clean
• Periodically clean the plastic parts with a damp cloth. Do not use solvents or similar substances
• Clean the fabric parts with a brush to remove dust, or clean according to the instructions in the appropriate section
• Do not clean polystyrene parts with solvents or similar products
• Protect the product from exposure to the elements such as moisture, rain or snow. Prolonged exposure to sunlight may cause discolouration of many materials
• Store the product in a dry place

Certification

• This paragraph explains how to interpret the certification information label (orange label)
• The plate is double because this car seat is approved for two types of installation in the car:
• SUREFIX attachment system (SEMIUNIVERSAL mark (semi-universal) indicates that the car seat is isofix compatible)
• 3-point static seat belt anchorage system or retractor (UNIVERSAL marking indicates that the car seat is suitable for vehicles with this type of seat belt)
• At the top of the label is the manufacturer's trademark and product name
• The letter E in a circle indicates that the product is certified in Europe, and the number indicates the country that granted the standard product certification (1: Germany, 2: France, 3: Italy, 4: Netherlands, 11: UK, 24: Ireland)
• Standard Certification Number: If the number begins with 04, this indicates compliance with the fourth amendment (currently in force) of R44
• Reference standard: ECE R44/04
• Manufacturer's serial number: according to the conditions of standard certification, each car seat has an individual number

PEG-PEREGO S.

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