DIY Network

Installing an Infant Car Seat From "Ask DIY" episode ADI-713

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

Q: I'm a new mother and I want to keep my baby safe in the car. Could you show me the proper way to install a car seat?
A: (Trisha Hessinger) That's a good question, especially since most car seats are improperly installed. In fact, it's become such a problem that the federal government has passed a new mandate called the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) System; all new vehicles must have this system, as must all new car seats.

The styles of infant car seats can vary widely. Here are a few you might want to consider:

• The seat shown in figure A can accommodate an infant from birth to 20 pounds, then be used as a toddler seat (up to 40 pounds) and a booster seat (up to 80 pounds).
  
• Figure B shows a seat that can be used for a toddler up to 40 pounds, but with its tall back it can also become a booster.
  
• The seat in figure C works well for a newborn, as it can double as a carrier when it's unsnapped from its base.

Whatever style of seat you choose, be aware that all of them come with manuals, in most cases stored somewhere on the seat itself. After you refer to the manual, always put it back where you got it so you can find it the next time you need it. Also, check your car's owner's manual for specifications on installing a car seat.

In general, this is how the LATCH System works:

• In the back seat , between the seat and the seat back, you'll find two metal anchors (figure D) to which the seat snaps securely. The latch portion of the system involves a strap that securely fastens to the base of the seat (figure E) to keep the infant seat from wiggling.

These are the basic steps for installing the base of an infant seat:

1. Attach the latch (figure F) to the anchor, then tighten the seat belt to remove all the slack (it helps to kneel on the seat when you tighten the belt).

2. On a rear-facing infant carrier, you won't use the tether straps. On a toddler seat, however, you will need to attach them. Simply Attach the anchor as in the previous step, then let the tether strap fall behind the seat and hook it at the base of the seat back.

Remember: These are only general instructions! You must refer to the manual that came with your infant seat in order to get the complete instructions for that model!

For valuable information on infant car seats, call 1-866-SEAT-CHECK, or go to www.seatcheck.org.

Some minivans feature booster seats (figure G) so that they can accommodate toddlers as well as full-size adults in the van's seat.

Tips: Never place children in the front seat unless the airbag is disabled. Most cars have an airbag-off switch for just such a situation.

Register your car seat with the manufacturer. This is essential in the event of a problem or a recall.

Q: With all the different types of brake fluids, how do I know what's right for my car?
A: The best way to find out is to look in the owner's manual. If you don't have an owner's manual, call and ask the local dealership.

Q: Does rain repellent really work on windshields? I have a motorcycle.
A: They actually do work quite well. The secret is to start with a perfectly clean windshield -- any built-up grease can impair the repellent.

Q: How often do I need to flush my brake lines?
A: It's a good idea to do it once a year, especially if you drive a lot or live in a humid area. Brake fluid absorbs moisture and becomes less effective as a result.

RESOURCES :

The Complete Guide to Personal and Home Safety: What You Need to Know
Model: 0738207861
Author: Captain Robert L. Snow
Fisher Books, LLC / Perseus Book Group
Website: www.fisherbooks.com