How to Properly Install a Car Seat

A properly installed car seat is one of the most important aspects of car safety. However, statistically nearly 7 out of 10 car seats are installed incorrectly. Below we’ve listed out several tips on how to properly install your child’s car seat to ensure your whole family is safe and protected this summer.

Read Your Manual

All Nissan cars come with a driver’s manual that shows how and what kind of car seat should be installed in that particular model. If you are driving a newer model Nissan car - or any newer model car for that matter - your backseat most likely comes with a LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system that can be used to secure the seat. If your car does not have a LATCH system, you can use your car’s seatbelt.

There are three types of car seats: rear-facing, front-facing (a.k.a. convertible) and booster. For infants, it’s important to always use a rear-facing seat, while older children can use front-facing seats and finally booster seats as they get older. Tip #1: Check the weight limit on all seats to ensure your child is using the correct seat for their size.

Put the Kids in the Back

The backseat is by far the safest place for a child. In fact, all children under 12 should be belted into the backseat, as airbags can cause serious harm to small children. For a car seat, the best position is usually the middle seat, but the side seats work well also.

Don’t Move an Inch

The secret to proper car seat installation is tightness. The seatbelt, or LATCH anchors, must be very tight, so that the seat does not move more than an inch when pulled. The seatbelt - or anchor straps - should be threaded through the slots on the seat then connected using either the LATCH anchors or by buckling the safety belt, which is then pulled for tightness. Tip #2: Make sure none of the belts are twisted and that the buckle is positioned correctly.

 

It’s All About the Angle

Another big thing to consider is the angle of a rear-facing seat. Babies’ heads are heavy and their necks are not able to hold that weight in the beginning. That’s why it’s important to make sure the car seat is at a 30- to 45-degree angle, so the child is comfortable and his/her airway is not impeded. Tip #3: Most car seats now come with angle indicators, so you know how and when to adjust.

Securing Your Child

Finally, it’s time to bring the baby into the picture and that means making sure he or she is properly secured in the seat. First, make sure the child has their back and bottom completely flat against the seat. Second, make sure the harnesses and straps are tight, with the harness clip even with the child’s armpits or shoulders. You should be able to fit no more than 1 finger between your child and the seat’s straps. Tip #4: Tuck a rolled up wash cloth or diaper at the lower portion of the seat to provide more security.

Car seat safety is tremendously important. For more information about Nissan’s child restraint systems, take a look at their Snug Kids program. If you feel you need more help in installing your child’s seat properly, click here to find a local “fitting station” near you.