When you’re preparing to bring a new baby into the world, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is what type of car seat to buy. Choosing the right car seat can be a daunting task, but thankfully, Graco has made it easy for parents with its wide variety of 2012 car seats. In this blog post, we will explore when your 2012 Graco car seat expires and what to do if you need to replace it. From safety features to expiration dates, read on to learn everything you need to know about car seats and when they expire.
When is a Graco Car Seat Expiration Date?
Graco car seats have expiration dates that vary by model. The Graco SnugRide 30 rear-facing infant car seat has a six-month expiration date from the manufacturing date. The Graco Click Connect 25 front-facing infant car seat has a one-year expiration date from the manufacturing date. The Graco MyWay 35 rear-facing and forward-facing convertible car seats have a six-month, one-year, or two-year expiration date from the manufacturing date, depending on the configuration.
How to Check the Expiration Date on a Graco Car Seat
The expiration date on a Graco car seat should be checked at least annually, but more often if the child is in a high-risk category. To check the expiration date, locate the car seat’s manufacture date and ensure that it falls within the current year or next year. Car seats that are 8 years old or newer will have a 7 year expiration date printed on them. Older car seats may have an expiry date of 6, 5 or 4 years depending on when they were manufactured. If your Graco car seat has an expired sticker, do not use it. Replace it with a new one.
What Happens If I Don’t Use My Graco Car Seat by the Expiration Date?
If you do not use your Graco car seat by the expiration date, it will no longer be effective and could present a safety risk. The Graco car seat should be used until it is no longer in date to ensure that your child is as safe as possible. The expiration date typically appears on the bottom of the car seat. If you have any questions about when your car seat’s expiration date is, do not hesitate to call the manufacturer or visit their website.
How Can I Extend the Life of My Graco Car Seat?
Unlike some other types of car seats that have a limited life span, Graco car seats typically have a lifespan of about 10 years. There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your Graco car seat beyond the average lifespan.
One thing you can do is to make sure that your Graco car seat is properly installed and secured in your vehicle. Improper installation can cause the car seat to become unstable and increase the risk of it becoming damaged or even stolen. Additionally, make sure to keep your Graco car seat clean and free of debris. This will help to ensure that it remains in good condition and lasts longer.
Additionally, be sure to test your Graco car seat annually for proper fit by using the manufacturer’s instructions. Car seats may need to be re-adjusted as they age, which could result in a safer ride for your child as well as increased longevity.
Conclusion
A 2012 Graco car seat should be replaced by a new one when the expiration date printed on the side of the seat appears. New car seats are required to have a five-year expiration date, and Graco is one of the leading brands in making child safety products. Afterward, it is recommended that parents keep their child restraints in good condition by regularly checking for tears or cracks, as well as cleaning them with a mild soap and water solution.