Installation of Car Seats

Every car seat installation is different, but these are some basic installation tips to remember when installing your car seat.

young child in grocery store picking out vegetables to put in shopping cart

Contact 4-Safety

For more information about car safety seats and other ways to keep kids safe, please contact us:

Phone: 401-444-2208

Email: [email protected]

Before You Install a Car Seat

Select an appropriate car seat for the height, weight, and age of your child.
Fill out and send in the registration card that comes with your seat so you will be notified of any recalls.
Make sure your seat is not expired by checking the manufacture date of the seat. Most car seats have an expiration date of year 6 years from the date of manufacture, but some may be used longer. If it is unclear, call the manufacturer.
Lower anchors are designed to hold up to 65 pounds. Make sure the weight of your child plus the weight of the car seat does not equal more than 65 pounds. If they do, use the seat belt to install.
Always check your car seat and vehicle manuals before installing your car seat.

While You are Installing the Car Seat

Car seats should be installed using the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tether for Children) or the vehicle seat belt. NOTE: Vehicles manufactured after 2002 are required to have the LATCH system in at least two seating positions.
For rear-facing car seats, do not prop or wedge the car seat against the front passenger or driver seat.
For forward-facing car seats, always use the top tether.
Whether using the LATCH system or the vehicle seat belt to install, make sure the installation is tight (the car seat does not move more than 1 inch when testing from the belt path.
Be sure to check your car seat and vehicle owners’ manuals for installation instructions.

Not sure your seat is installed correctly? Give us a call at 401-444-2208 to set up a free car seat check appointment.

Installation Videos

The US Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides these videos to help safely install and use car seats and seat belts for young passengers.

Installing a Rear-Facing Infant Seat with the Seat Belt: English | Spanish
Installing a Rear-Facing Infant Seat with LATCH: English | Spanish
Installing a Rear-Facing Convertible Seat with the Seat Belt: English | Spanish
Installing a Rear-Facing Convertible Seat with LATCH: English | Spanish
Installing a Forward-Facing Seat with the Seat Belt and Top Tether: English | Spanish
Using a Highback Booster Seat: English | Spanish
Using a Backless Booster Seat: English | Spanish
Beyond Boosters: Proper Seat Belt Fit: English | Spanish

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