Car Seat Expiration — Safety Doesn’t Have a Shelf Life
Did You Know?
Approximately 46% of car seats and booster seats are used incorrectly, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. [2] Many parents don’t realize that car seats also come with an expiration date — and using an expired seat can put a child at serious risk.
STAY INFORMED
- We all know not to feed expired food to children — yet expired car seats are still commonly used without realizing the danger.
- Car seats are a vital part of vehicle safety, specifically engineered to protect infants and children in the event of a crash.
- When car seats expire, they may no longer meet current safety standards or be structurally sound. [1]
- Materials degrade over time due to wear and tear, temperature extremes, and sun exposure. Plus, evolving crash test data can make older models outdated.
HELPFUL TIPS
1. Check the Expiration Date
- Look for a sticker on the bottom or back of the seat. If no expiration date is listed, assume it expires 6 years from the manufacture date. [1]
2. When in Doubt, Contact the Manufacturer
- If you can’t locate the date or have questions, call the seat manufacturer or visit their website for details. [1]
3. Discard Damaged or Compromised Seats
- Even if the expiration date hasn’t passed, do not use a seat that has been in a crash, shows visible damage, or is missing parts.
4. Look for Trade-In Programs
- Some major retailers offer car seat trade-in events where you can recycle an old seat and receive a discount on a new one. [1]
CAR SEAT SAFETY REMINDER
Car seats are life-saving devices — but only when they’re in good condition and up-to-date. Check your child’s seat today to ensure it’s safe, not expired, and properly installed. When it comes to child passenger safety, there’s no room for “good enough.”