Top Ten Car Seat Misuses

Protecting our little ones on the road is a responsibility we all take seriously. Yet even the most well-intentioned caregivers can face challenges when it comes to proper car seat installation and use. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), close to half (46%) of all car seats in the U.S. have been installed incorrectly, even though most parents are confident in their installation. Taking a little extra time to learn about car seat safety and installation can go a long way toward helping you protect your child.

Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to use your car seat confidently and correctly so that your child can benefit from the maximum protection a car seat can offer during every ride. Here’s a list of 10 common car seat misuses – and tips on how you can avoid them.

1. Switching to Forward-Facing too Soon

Britax strongly recommends that children continue to ride in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the specified weight or height limits. This position offers enhanced protection for your child's head, neck, and spine in the event of a frontal collision.

Height and weight limits can vary by brand and model, so always refer to the specifications provided in your car seat’s user guide. If your baby has outgrown their infant seat, you may be able to keep them riding rear-facing longer by transitioning to a convertible or all-in-one car seat with an extended rear-facing capacity, like the Britax Poplar™ or Poplar S.

2. Loose Harness

A snug car seat harness is crucial for effective protection. Remove bulky coats and jackets before securing your child in the harness, and ensure that the harness lies flat and tight against their body.

The Pinch Test can help you determine if the harness is tight enough. Try to pinch the harness strap at your child’s collar bone. If you’re able to pinch the webbing between your fingers, it’s too loose.

3. Improper Harness Strap Height

Children grow fast, so it’s important to check and adjust the harness straps regularly to ensure the right fit. Refer to your car seat user guide for instructions on how to properly position the straps.

4. Incorrect Chest Clip Placement

The chest clip's role is to help keep the harness straps properly positioned on your child's shoulders. Be sure that it is placed at armpit level across the chest for optimal safety.

5. Improper Car Seat Installation

When a car seat is installed correctly and securely, it should move no more than 1 inch in any direction at the belt path. If you're struggling to achieve a secure installation, try a different seating position in your vehicle or a different installation method. You can also consult the car seat manufacturer or a certified child passenger safety technician for guidance.

6. Not Adhering to LATCH Weight Limits

The LATCH system, while convenient for car seat installation, has weight limits. Always consult your car seat's user guide and your vehicle's manual to ensure compliance. Switch to the vehicle seat belt installation method when necessary.

7. Improper Top Tether Usage

Designed to help provide stability in the event of a collision, the top tether is a critical component of forward-facing seats. Refer to your vehicle’s user manual to identify the tether anchor points and LATCH weight capacity in your car and follow the installation instructions provided in your car seat user guide, making top tether usage a non-negotiable part of your installation process.

8. Incorrect Rear-Facing Angle

Rear-facing seats must be installed at the proper angle in order to help support your baby’s head and neck while keeping their airway clear. Always follow the instructions in your car seat’s user guide or the labels on the seat regarding angle positioning.

9. Not Checking Pre-Owned Car Seats

Reusing car seats can be economical, but it’s important to make sure that your hand-me-down seat is safe. Car seats that have been in a crash should not be reused. You should also check to make sure that the seat hasn’t been recalled. Don’t reuse a seat unless it comes with the original user guide, the original labels, and all necessary parts.

10. Failing to Replace Expired Car Seats

Another issue with hand-me-down seats is that they may have passed their expiration date. Always check the expiration date provided on the serial label or in the user guide to help ensure that your child's safety isn't compromised. Once a car seat has expired, be sure to remove the serial label, cut the webbing, and clearly mark the seat with the words, “Expired, Do Not Use.”

By taking the time to address these common car seat misuses, you can take significant steps toward keeping your child safe on every trip.