When you’re out shopping for a new car seat, it can be tough to know when your old one expires. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision: -First and foremost, always read the label. Every car seat has a specific expiration date, and that date is usually printed right on the product. -If your car seat still has its original safety straps, it should still be usable until the date on the label. However, if your car seat has been replaced with a new safety harness or an infant-only harness, the date on the label may no longer apply. If you have any doubts about whether or not your car seat is still safe to use, always consult with a carseat expert. -If you don’t have the original label but you still want to know when your car seat expires, there are a few ways to figure it out. One way is to look at the manufacture’s code number. Many car seats now come with a unique code number that can indicate when the product was made. Another option is to search online for consumer reviews that mention when their particular model of car seat expired. -Finally, if none of those methods work for you
What’s expiration date on a car seat?
A car seat should have a separate expiration date to avoid any problems. The earliest the car seat can expire is six years from the manufacturing date. Car seats with an expiration date of 2020 can still be used until 2024, but after 2024 they will not be able to meet safety standards.
What happens if you don’t use a car seat until it expires?
When does a car seat expire?
A car seat should be used until it expires. A car seat that is more than five years old may not meet current safety standards, and could result in serious injury in the event of a crash.
How to check the expiration date on a car seat
When purchasing a car seat, it is important to check the expiration date to ensure that the seat is still safe to use. Car seats typically have a five-year expiration date and should be replaced if the date has passed. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends replacing car seats every five years even if their dates have not expired. If a car seat has been in use for more than five years and shows any signs of wear or deterioration, it should be replaced.
The NHTSA also offers a guide to checking the expiration date on car seats. This guide includes taking into account the age of the child, type of seat, and manufacturing year. You can also check your car seat’s manufacturer’s website or contact customer service for assistance.
What to do if your car seat is expired
If your car seat is expired, it may no longer meet current safety standards and could pose a hazard to your child. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your car seat is still safe:
-Check the expiration date on the car seat sticker or label.
-Clean the car seat with a mild soap and water.
-Test the car seat’s installation by trying to fit it into the vehicle’s rear-facing position. If it doesn’t fit, there may be an issue with the harness or straps.
-Replace any worn or damaged parts of the car seat.
-Make sure your child is using a properly installed and certified carseat.
How to replace a car seat that is expired
Replacing a car seat that is expired is a simple process. First, check the expiration date on the car seat packaging. Many car seats have a six-month expiration date, while others have a one-year expiration date. Second, take the car seat to the store where you bought it or to another authorized retailer and have it inspected. Third, if the car seat has an expiration date within six months of when you bought it, replace it with a new one. If the car seat has an expiration date more than six months after you bought it, contact the manufacturer or retailer for replacement instructions. Finally, put the old car seat in your trash bin and recycle it if possible.