Warning about your Scenera

[PixieEMT]

Ahhhh yes! So today I went to reinstall the Scenera into my husband's car. I had taken it out on Monday to take it to the "ABC's of baby care" class at the local hospital.

So, the locking latch plate was stuck on the crotch strap. I pulled back the cover on the left side of the seat to get my hand in and to my suprise this is what I saw!!!!!!!!
DOM of 12/12/07 purchased in Feb 2008
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/DSC03308.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/06052008046.jpg

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/06052008042.jpg
:eek:

It was on the left side the part of the harness that extends up by his hip!
I took the seat out and flipped it over to find this:
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/06052008045.jpg
and this
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/06052008042.jpg

So, I took the Scenera and literally threw it onto my front porch...adding some blepp *bleep* *%!@* :hitselfonhead::soapbox:! My husband standing there just staring at me! "This what you get when you buy Dorel s*it!" I screamed! "We're going to buy an EFTA right now! Husband did not argue on bit...he was actually pissed too!

Bought the EFTA didn't like it so we returned it. The EPP foam that is next to the rear facing belt slots was a turn off. I can kind of imagine over time it chipping, from installing and reinstalling the seat. Maybe not...I don't want to chance it.

Called Dorel! Only to get a half a@@ answer! The customer service lady was a real witch.
CS: "Well mama, cut the harness off and send it to us in a prepaid envelope and we will ship you a new "puncture proof" harness."
Me: Ummmmm NO, I'm a CPST...I can clearly see this jagged edge that will continue to shred my harness and I don't want your replacement parts, replacement seat, I want my money BACK!
CS: Mama don't cut me off or I will disconnect you and don't interupt me when I' m speaking!
:whistle: Oh really sweet heart!!!
ME: Why all of the sudden do you have "puncture proof" harnesses??? Do you know that your having this problem with the jagged plastic piece underneath!??!?!
CS: No we aren't having problems, we are making all our seats now with "Puncture proof harnesses." :rolleyes:
YAAAAAA RIGHT LADY :blah blah blah:

ME: I have a credit card statment with the purchase on it.
CS: We need the original receipt of purchase from the store, that's what my superivisor said. If you buy our product , we refund you up to $49.99 and ask you to send us the destroyed seat parts. Fax us the receipt.
ME: FINE!

SO RETURNED MY EFTA to Kmart and bought a Scenera....which I plan on returning after I copy my receipt and fax it to them!!!! and look what the new seat with a DOM of 5/2008 looks like!!!!

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/DSC03306.jpg
compared to this and the display model is an older 2007 in Kmart the same way!
http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/saratrooper/DSC03305.jpg
Can we say Touriva notches everyone??? :whistle: We all know about that! DOREL IS A JOKE I WILL NEVER BUY A SINGLE PRODUCT MADE BY THEM AGAIN!
I'm sending an email with pictures tonight to them and calling back and requesting a supervisor tomorrow!
I filed a complaint with NHTSA ...btw!!!!!!!! :evil grin:
Sara

[Dillipop]

Unfortunately, I've heard of this problem before. Almost had it happen on mine, but since I knew to make sure the straps were not touching those spikes before installing the seat rfing, I haven't had any problems. It sucks though for those who don't know to be careful and move the straps out of the way and get punctures like that.

I wonder how they made puncture proof harnesses anyway??

[Qarin]

Interesting. My Scenera, which happens to be sitting here next to me, has the same pointy bits, but the strap isn't frayed or damaged at all. DOM 12/19/06.

[cheerbop]

Well, this doesn't make me happy. We were getting ready to buy one for Grandma's car for our RF 18m old.
hmmmmmm

[Heather and Alex]

we had that same problem! dorel replaced my seat for me.. i noticed the harness wasnt tightening well and kept getting hung up when i uninstalled it thats what i found

[cryswilkins]

I am glad our Scenera was crashed......

[PixieEMT]

Ya, I'm glad we're looking into a Britax, Recaro, or Radian. Haven't decided. It just makes me mad thinking how sneaky Dorel can be.

[mimieliza]

We need a secondary seat and I've considered just buying a Scenera, but I haven't been able to get over the Touriva notches fiasco. And Evenflo has also had some serious problems with their infant seats that makes me wary of that company as well. :(

For now, I have a Roundabout that my DD has outgrown RFing (so we're not currently using it). It kind of sucks to not have many options for convertibles under $150.

[Simplysomething]

Yeah, the little pointy things on the end of the scenera poked holes in our harness.

Here (http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=5923)is the thread where I posted about it, in May 2006. I'm sure, if I hadn't noticed them at that time, I would
have the same issue you had (that is...long jagged--and not...pokes)

The pics I posted back then:
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/th_8bbbre2.jpg (http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/8bbbre2.jpg)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/th_c549re2.jpg (http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/c549re2.jpg)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/th_e9c4re2.jpg (http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/e9c4re2.jpg)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/th_e1bcre2.jpg (http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/e1bcre2.jpg)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/th_2c83re2.jpg (http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/2c83re2.jpg)
http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/th_7fd8re2.jpg (http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e388/simplyperson/carseat%20stuff/7fd8re2.jpg)


THAT seat had a DOM of Jan 2006, I called Dorel and they replaced the harness with no issues--though, they did ...remind me...to make sure I kept the receipts for any future car-seat purchases. Which was annoying--but yeah, this is not a "new" issue, since I had it in 2006. Once I was aware of the little puncture points at the bottom, I made sure that I never loosened the harness too much while it was installed--lest it slipped beyond those points, and I never had any other holes. But still it's stupid!

ETA: I no longer have a scenera. I ended up only using that seat for about a year, before I replaced it with the FPSVD.

[Stretchy Glue]

Don't call Dorel, call NHTSA. We have a gal on our team that is working with NHTSA right now on this exact problem. She got a box of the straps because we give this seat away and she said they are much tougher, thicker and more puncture resistant. NHTSA needs to know though, because Dorel is minimizing the problem.

[PixieEMT]

Don't call Dorel, call NHTSA. We have a gal on our team that is working with NHTSA right now on this exact problem. She got a box of the straps because we give this seat away and she said they are much tougher, thicker and more puncture resistant. NHTSA needs to know though, because Dorel is minimizing the problem.


I fried that fish this afternoon! heeeee :evil grin:
I only wish I could have sent pictures with it!

I just got done emailing DOREL corp direct. Not Dorel Juvenile because they had one of those crappy email us from their website click the boxes..and I wanted pics to go with it.

[PixieEMT]

Yeah, the little pointy things on the end of the scenera poked holes in our harness.

Here (http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=5923)is the thread where I posted about it, in May 2006. I'm sure, if I hadn't noticed them at that time, I would
have the same issue you had (that is...long jagged--and not...pokes)



THAT seat had a DOM of Jan 2006, I called Dorel and they replaced the harness with no issues--though, they did ...remind me...to make sure I kept the receipts for any future car-seat purchases. Which was annoying--but yeah, this is not a "new" issue, since I had it in 2006. Once I was aware of the little puncture points at the bottom, I made sure that I never loosened the harness too much while it was installed--lest it slipped beyond those points, and I never had any other holes. But still it's stupid!

ETA: I no longer have a scenera. I ended up only using that seat for about a year, before I replaced it with the FPSVD.


On the loosening the harness too much. Yes, because even if forward facing if you loosened the harness up then gave it a pull it could catch on the spikes. They know they have/had a problem.......they are just sneaky rats.:whistle:

[Mommy2Marcus]

Great! I own a Scenera & now I am going to have to check it! I am unfortunatly nowhere near it right now, as in 3 hours away from it! Hehe! So hopefully I can remember in a week to check it!

[UlrikeDG]

Files a NHTSA complaint (http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/).

[SusanMae]

I've got a Scenera from Target, DOM 1-31-2008. It's got the spikes.

Should I report to NHTSA as well?

Susan

[lynsgirl]

I just got a Scenera a few weeks ago for ds3 to use in dh's car. I have a Touriva, but it has the notches and I don't wish to mess with that, thankyouverymuch. I will have to check on this when dh gets home. Ugh.

[Simplysomething]

I've got a Scenera from Target, DOM 1-31-2008. It's got the spikes.

Should I report to NHTSA as well?

Susan

Don't ALL the Sceneras have the spikes?

[Stretchy Glue]

Supposedly they "fixed" the spikes, but since the fix, there seems to be more problems. If I had aScenera in use right now, I might put tape on the spike to make it more blunt. Not so much as to interfere, but just enough to make the ends not so sharp.

[BookMama]

Mine has a DOM of 11-07 and has spikes. I haven't had a problem, but that's probably because I've only used the seat about 5 times. I will report it to NHTSA when I have a chance.

I also looked at the (pink) Scenera on display at Meijer when we were grocery shopping this morning. DOM 3-08, with spikes. :thumbsdown:

[celtic1885]

Great! I own a Scenera & now I am going to have to check it! I am unfortunatly nowhere near it right now, as in 3 hours away from it! Hehe! So hopefully I can remember in a week to check it!

Right there with you! Going to have to check it tomorrow when I get home, Argh! Everytime I think I've got the carseat situation all sorted out something else happens!

[snowbird25ca]

Holy cow, that's scary! :eek:

(FWIW, the EPP foam has compressed at the belt path on my EFTA, but no chips at all and it's been reinstalled with seatbelt a few times and had the LATCH belt moved between ff'ing and rf'ing belt path a few times as well. It's normally installed with LATCH rf'ing.)

I've got a Scenera from Target, DOM 1-31-2008. It's got the spikes.

Should I report to NHTSA as well?

Susan

I would think that reporting to NHTSA should be done only in the case of an observed problem - ie the strap on your seat having a snag in it from the spikes on the shell. I think just the presence of the spikes on the shell isn't reportable unless they've caused problems with the specific seat you have seeing as those spikes themselves aren't a new thing that could be considered a defect in the absence of damage to the harness.

Just my opinion anyways seeing as the spikes are part of the design so all scenera's up to a certain date are going to have them. People with harnesses damaged by them though should definitely be reporting the damaged harness though so that there's a measure of how common the problem is. (I'm just thinking about the people sorting through getting a much better picture of the # of people experiencing problems if they only are sorting through the actual problem and not the source of the problem that's existed on the shell for years.)

[MomToEliEm]

From looking at the NHTSA Complaint database (where you can look at complaints filed), it didn't list anything for the Cosco Scenera, though maybe it is filed under touriva or something else.

Here is the complaint database. You have to select "Child Restraint" to select the manufacturer name and other search criteria.

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints/complaintsearch.cfm

[Simplysomething]

Supposedly they "fixed" the spikes, but since the fix, there seems to be more problems. If I had aScenera in use right now, I might put tape on the spike to make it more blunt. Not so much as to interfere, but just enough to make the ends not so sharp.

I was thinking--some moleskin or something...but never did anything like that.

[Stretchy Glue]

I was thinking--some moleskin or something...but never did anything like that.

I would never advocate anything that would interfere with function, but as long as it was just make it a bit more blunt, I don't see the harm in it.

[BW1426]

I called to order new harnesses for our 3 in 1s today and after waiting on hold for at least 25 minutes the woman was so rude. I gave her the model number and asked for two harnesses and she said they could send two of the same part...:confused: And then she put me on hold for forever and came back with a total and was a complete jerk. Then she tried to convince me that my other seat must be recalled. I told her we sent the cards in and she still was trying to convince me that is was surely recalled...so much for the registration cards (and my updated recall list) then :shrug-shoulders: I have a hard time believing that that the same seat with the exact same day of manufacture would have one recalled and one not and use different harnesses :bangheadagainstwall: And, I told her I was a child passenger safety technician and had all my bases covered she just scoffed at me.

And she told me that they have very few problems with any of their harnesses and this was a very uncommon complaint...:rolleyes:

I f'in hate Dorel.

[RJB78]

I never noticed this problem until today at my distribution site. I've installed tons of Sceneras, so I guess I need to pay closer attention.

Today, the harness was looser on one side than the other, so we took the seat out again to check. Discovered that it was caught up on the spikes. Ripped through. I picked a different Scenera - without spikes.

[PixieEMT]

I called to order new harnesses for our 3 in 1s today and after waiting on hold for at least 25 minutes the woman was so rude. I gave her the model number and asked for two harnesses and she said they could send two of the same part...:confused: And then she put me on hold for forever and came back with a total and was a complete jerk. Then she tried to convince me that my other seat must be recalled. I told her we sent the cards in and she still was trying to convince me that is was surely recalled...so much for the registration cards (and my updated recall list) then :shrug-shoulders: I have a hard time believing that that the same seat with the exact same day of manufacture would have one recalled and one not and use different harnesses :bangheadagainstwall: And, I told her I was a child passenger safety technician and had all my bases covered she just scoffed at me.

And she told me that they have very few problems with any of their harnesses and this was a very uncommon complaint...:rolleyes:

I f'in hate Dorel.

Email DOREL company direct. I went to the main company page, not Dorel Juvenile to file a complaint. I attached pictures with images.

Their customer service sucks. Yes, IF I could have reached through my phone and knocked her teeth down her throat I would have!
:)

[Simplysomething]

Today, the harness was looser on one side than the other, so we took the seat out again to check. Discovered that it was caught up on the spikes. Ripped through. I picked a different Scenera - without spikes.

If you ever think of it, and have a camera when you're around a spikeless Scenera, can you take a photo?

[PixieEMT]

If you ever think of it, and have a camera when you're around a spikeless Scenera, can you take a photo?

I posted the last two pictures on my original post show the difference between the "spike" seat and the new Scenera DOM 5/2008. ;)

[Stretchy Glue]

I posted the last two pictures on my original post show the difference between the "spike" seat and the new Scenera DOM 5/2008. ;)

So it looks like the don't want to admit that there was a problem but they fixed it anyway. How nice of them. At least the new ones don't have the spikes.

[RJB78]

Forgot to add that my Sceneras are a mix of Feb/Mar DOMs. Some with spikes, some without.

[BW1426]

It seems so sneaky to me when they say there isn't a problem when they flat out know there is. I love Britax all around, even though I really love my Radian (the SKJP cs leaves a bit to be desired) and I haven't had to call Graco yet. My experience with Recaro cs hasn't been awesome either :thumbsdown: I really think it can make or break a company.

[tjham]

So I wonder what the purpose of the spikes was in the first place :confused: ?

[Dillipop]

I think they are there to keep the straps from moving back on the seat. I don't think it's needed, but I think that may have been the original purpose.

[UlrikeDG]

So it looks like the don't want to admit that there was a problem but they fixed it anyway.

That doesn't sound like Cosco at all. /sarcasm

[tumblebug]

Wow thanks for the information, I will have to go check DNi's scenera now.

[Simplysomething]

That doesn't sound like Cosco at all. /sarcasm


Can you make a report even if you don't have the seat anymore? I notice they want model numbers and stuff, and obviously, I no longer have them.

[Patriot201]

I need to go take the one out of my car and look at the harness. I sure hope it is still intact.:rolleyes:



ETA: I just checked. The harness appears to be fine, which SHOCKS me since those spikes are SHARP! I now have a lovely scratch across my finger from where it brushed up against my finger. :mad:

[Mattkarn]

The harness on mine is doing the same thing, the DOM is Setember 07. I'm done with this seat.

[Kat_Momof3]

I had a scenera... never had that problem, but only because I was careful to keep the strap above those spikes... in fairness, I think they are there to try to keep the harness strap where it should be, but it could definitely pose a problem.

Dorel CS is stupid... of course people are having the problem, they either think it's fine to keep using or they don't notice it.

[happyfrog]

freaky!

and scary! esp since I have my 2 1/2 yr old in one right now (well, not LITERALLY right now, he's in bed, lol) but yeesh!

I am so totally getting on the phone first thing in the am and ordering new car seats - whether or not I get reimbursed from insurance company! I am not liking that at all - that my kid is in a seat that might not be safe. .. sigh. . .

wonder where i can buy a safe seat one? that way i can get my newborn out of the radian, too, and give it to the 2 1/2 yr old (it's his seat anyway). . .

man am i glad i got my credit card limit increased this weekend!

bettyann

[MomToGupCPST]

Well. . .I pulled mine out of DH's car yesterday, and sure enough, it's snagged. UGH!!! It's DOM of 3/29/08 I think. . .I'm pretty peeved, and I'll have to check my mom's car too.

I'm filing with NHTSA tomorrow. This is completely unacceptable!

[Simplysomething]

Not recommending ANYONE do this--but do you think that it would harm the seat to file down the spikes?

(ETA: Remember, I no longer have a Scenera, so I won't be tempted to do this)

[MomToGupCPST]

My DH (who happens to work at a component crash test facility, but in no way is an expert on child restraints) said we should just file it down. I do agree that it SHOULDN'T affect the seat, although I think that I would be more comfortable putting tape over it or something. I told him not to do anything until we hear back from Dorel (yeah right!) and NHTSA. I would hate to alter the seat and then hear that one of them wants to see the problem.

[christineka]

I checked dd's seat. It is dom april 08. The harness has a 1 inch snag line thing. What do I do? Is the harness still safe? Do I call dorel??? Will they give me another seat or am I out of luck? I bought the seat because I could afford it.

Christine

[MomToGupCPST]

Dorel is closed today due to flooding. They're in Indiana.

I personally do not feel safe using our seat, because we have a 1 inch snag too. I'm worried that it will get completely torn. However, we have the SafeSeat 1 that my son still fits into, so that's back in rotation for the time being.

If you afford another seat, I would try to get one, but if you can't, I would recommend continuing to use the seat. This is one of those tough choices, but I would think a snagged harness is better than no seat at all. I would recommend NOT loosening and tightening the harness very much if at all to avoid any further snagging issues.

To the people who have the problem, are your Sceneras forward facing or rear facing? Mine is RFing and I'm wondering if it's happening to ffing seats too.

[Stretchy Glue]

I think rf would affect it more because of the angle.

[MomToGupCPST]

That's what I'm thinking too. I think (but not 100% sure) that FFing the harness wouldn't move forward towards the owie bits. . .

[christineka]

Mine is rfing.

I have an evenflo titan in dh's car that dd can use for a little while. Dd weighs 27 pounds. The seat has a short shell too. I'll switch seats when dh comes home. He'll think I'm nuts. Oh, wait, he already thinks that. I'll call dorel when they are open again. (Please let me know!)

Christine

[Simplysomething]

When I had my issue with my harness--they told me that it was absolutely NOT safe to continue using the seat until I replaced the harness.

Granted I had HOLES in my harness--but I'm think snags would be just as bad.

[PixieEMT]

My son's seat was always rear facing from February until last Thursday when I noticed the damage.

I'm thinking it *might* still be an issue with FF seats too......b/c if you loosened your harness system (since it is a continuous loop) to remove your child and it was sagging under the restraint then you pulled it tight it *may* snag? :shrug-shoulders:

[MomToGupCPST]

I'm on the phone with Dorel right now. They are NOT issuing a recall at this time, however they are having the problem investigated by their "Quality Department"

I'll post back with more info.
But they are open today and everyone who is experiencing the problem should call!!

[MomToGupCPST]

They are sending me a new harness, and a prepaid envelope to send back the old strap. They said that all seats made after 3/24/08 were issued with the new harness which is a completely different material, and is stronger. . .

I still think I'm going to file with NHTSA because I'm not sure how many people will notice the problem until it's too late. . .know what I mean?

[ZephyrBlue]

When we got rid of our 2 back-up Sceneras and Apex, DH said, "I wonder what's wrong with the Scenera that people don't know about that Dorel IS aware of." Guess now we know :mad: :thumbsdown:

I hope that everyone w/a seat that has spikes files a complaint w/NHTSA. It wasn't until those of us w/Recaro Comos filed that a recall was issued for the non-locking clip issue.

[MissKatie]

Has Dorel or NHTSA stated that the snagged harnesses are not safe to use? Should I post this over at my other parenting board? Several people there have sceneras.

[christineka]

I brought my scenera in last night. I got mixed up about the dom. I bought it in April, but the dom is jan 4th 08. I tried calling dorel this morning and was told they were not open. I didn't do my math though, so not sure if it was lunch break for them.

Christine

[PixieEMT]

They are sending me a new harness, and a prepaid envelope to send back the old strap. They said that all seats made after 3/24/08 were issued with the new harness which is a completely different material, and is stronger. . .

I still think I'm going to file with NHTSA because I'm not sure how many people will notice the problem until it's too late. . .know what I mean?

Dorel is full of BS about the new seats.........because they DELETED the spikes on the new models!

I just spoke to rep from NHTSA today about the Scencera issue and I answered some additional questions for him....like: How old was/is the child using the seat? Was my seat forward or rear facing? etc.. Then I emailed pictures of the damage to him. I offered to send my seat to him, just incase they want to analyze it.

I called Dorel today.....again. I told the CS rep that I spoke and filed a complaint with NHTSA about my problem. I have to fax a copy of my receipt to show I purchased a new Cosco product. They will only refund the $ when they get piece of my old seat to verify it was destroyed. Piece include the DOM sitcker, Harness and 3" patch of material! Because I can really see how a 3" swatch of material will destroy a seat and "prove" it was destroyed! :rolleyes:
I told her that I *might* need to send my seat to NHTSA if they request it. Ahhhhhhhhhh , magically the CS rep put me through to an engineer and I told her "I can't send pieces of my seat to you, because NHTSA might want them." The engineer said they would refund me without the proof, because the cooperated with NHTSA fully. That's right Dorel bow down to your master NHTSA! :bow::bow:
hehehehehehheh

[PixieEMT]

Has Dorel or NHTSA stated that the snagged harnesses are not safe to use? Should I post this over at my other parenting board? Several people there have sceneras.

You can use my pictures to post on your parenting board too.

I would have them check their seats. I'm not sure 100% but it seems like older seats 4/2008 and older have the spikes on the bottom. If they have damage report it to NHTSA and stop using the seat. Call Dorel and they can get the new harness. But, my personal advise would be to puchase a new restraint all together. Which Dorel will refund them the $ if they buy a new one. I would tell them to purchase a DOM of 5/2008 or newer.

If they have NO damage and spikes to watch their seats closely for damage.

[christineka]

I called today and they are sending me a new, stronger harness. We'll see if it is any different.

[MissKatie]

According to my search at ODI, NHTSA has been investigating the scenera since at least february. If they're true to the 'all complaints will be resolved within four months' then we should be hearing something soon. If NHTSA feels it's a recall issue, what do they do? And if they decide it's not, do they make any kind of announcement?

Forgot link: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ I looked at the monthly defect reports.

[all together ooky]

Dang, just checked mine and it has the spikes. No harness damage though. Thanks for the heads up. I'll be extra careful when using it as our spare. Ugh.

[Qarin]

Should this thread, or one with the information, go somewhere that everyone (non-registerd) can see it?

[ZephyrBlue]

Should this thread, or one with the information, go somewhere that everyone (non-registerd) can see it

I think it should.

[Mama!]

yes, please. I have friends who own this seat who want to read, but aren't registered.

[PixieEMT]

I guess one of the moderators can move it right?

[racesmom]

Should this thread, or one with the information, go somewhere that everyone (non-registerd) can see it?

Please, can a mod move this? I have several that need this info and can't view it. Thanks!!

[BookMama]

Why doesn't someone just start a new thread in another forum (car seat chat?) with the relevant information? That way others don't have to week thorugh three pages of posts to get the info they need. :twocents:

[Jeanum]

I'll move this thread to Carseat Chat in a moment so it will be visible for all. I just happened to notice the new posts in the thread asking to have it moved while doing a quick skim of threads this morning. :) If you really want to get mod's attention to request moving something, you can always report the thread and ask that it be moved. :thumbsup:

[featherhead]

Hmmm, I just got my nephew's Scenera replaced because of this problem, and the new seat they sent me (which the guy on the phone said the problem was "fixed") still had the spikes. I think it was Feb 08 DOM. Oh, and the seat was never used RF, and it had about 4-6" snag line. So, should I file down the spikes on the new seat? They sent me a shipping label for the old seat, but what would they do if I didn't return the seat? If I got a new harness strap for it, it could be used(if I did something about the spikes anyway).

[dd9736]

JUst a thought, for those who have a scenera as their only seat, and have this problem, I would personally take the seat back to where you bought it, as defective,

I don't have a scenera, but if you need a seat, and can't wait for dorel to get new harness straps to you, it's a thought.

[fyrfightermomma]

I just bought a new Scenera this morning for my oldest from Target (they have a really nice blue pattern now). No spikes at all but definately has a different harness material than my other spare. DOM is 5/30/08.

Also, did they change the buckle recently?? Different than the pink one I got a while back.

[carseatcrazy]

I just brought mine in to wash the cover and check for spikes. Manufacture date
is March 13 2008 and it has the spikes and snag marks in the harness. It's one of the darker pink ones from Walmart.:mad:

Brandy
Tech in Canada

[*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*]

Ok, I am unistalling my scenera today and seeing how mine looks. I am having a hard time tightening it lately. I bet you anything it is snagging. If this is the truth! I am calling them and I hate Dorel! ;-)
I just got the scenera so I could rear face my then 26 month old who was 25 pounds. Now he is almost outgrown it as well as my daycare boy. I wonder if they would just give me my money back :whistle: so I can get another seat. :whistle:

[PixieEMT]

The people that are reporting that they have damage--------File a complaint with NHTSA asap! Try and take pictures too of your damage! I do have the email for the lead investigator from NHTSA, if you PM me I will give you his direct email. I'm sure he would love to see more pics of damage.

*I would not file the spikes down
*I would call Dorel and tell them about the problem. *Also tell Dorel that you are filing a complaint with NHTSA

* It is your choice if you would like to accept the new "puncture proof" harness they are offering.

My advice would be tell dorel you are buying a new seat. They will refund you up to $49.99 for your Scenera IF you purchase another Dorel product. Copy the reciept and fax it to them with a short cover letter. They will send you a packet to cut your old harness , remove the DOM stick and a 3" patch of material to send back to them.
I returned my Scenera though to the store after copying the receipt. I'm putting the $ toward a Britax. I'm done with Dorel.

[ZephyrBlue]

The people that are reporting that they have damage--------File a complaint with NHTSA asap! Try and take pictures too of your damage! I do have the email for the lead investigator from NHTSA, if you PM me I will give you his direct email. I'm sure he would love to see more pics of damage.

*I would not file the spikes down
*I would call Dorel and tell them about the problem. *Also tell Dorel that you are filing a complaint with NHTSA

* It is your choice if you would like to accept the new "puncture proof" harness they are offering.

My advice would be tell dorel you are buying a new seat. They will refund you up to $49.99 for your Scenera IF you purchase another Dorel product. Copy the reciept and fax it to them with a short cover letter. They will send you a packet to cut your old harness , remove the DOM stick and a 3" patch of material to send back to them.
I returned my Scenera though to the store after copying the receipt. I'm putting the $ toward a Britax. I'm done with Dorel.

This is excellent advice, IMO

[*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*]

Ok, mine has no damage *YET*---I looked and saw none. I found out why it wasn't tightening, though, so that is fixed. But.... Date of Manufacture is 2/07---

Mine does have the jagged edges! UGHHH!!!!

Now, what should I do? Call anyways? I don't feel safe using this seat now! My kids still have a good 6 months in it I think.

[Stretchy Glue]

Ok, mine has no damage *YET*---I looked and saw none. I found out why it wasn't tightening, though, so that is fixed. But.... Date of Manufacture is 2/07---

Mine does have the jagged edges! UGHHH!!!!

Now, what should I do? Call anyways? I don't feel safe using this seat now! My kids still have a good 6 months in it I think.

I would at least put some tape on the spikes to keep them from snagging. It shouldn't alter the way it works, just prevent it from getting stuck.

[Synchro246]

. . .The harness appears to be fine, which SHOCKS me since those spikes are SHARP! I now have a lovely scratch across my finger from where it brushed up against my finger. :mad:
Not to be glib, but is this reportable? Ow! :mad:

Supposedly they "fixed" the spikes, but since the fix, there seems to be more problems. If I had aScenera in use right now, I might put tape on the spike to make it more blunt. Not so much as to interfere, but just enough to make the ends not so sharp.

What are the "more problems"?

[Stretchy Glue]

Not to be glib, but is this reportable? Ow! :mad:



What are the "more problems"?

Well, in December my friend had a problem with her seat that was 1 year old, she called Dorel and got a new one and they had "different" spikes. The 2nd type of spike actually tore the harness more than the first type. That's what I meant by different. Maybe that was the wrong word.

[PixieEMT]

Ok, mine has no damage *YET*---I looked and saw none. I found out why it wasn't tightening, though, so that is fixed. But.... Date of Manufacture is 2/07---

Mine does have the jagged edges! UGHHH!!!!

Now, what should I do? Call anyways? I don't feel safe using this seat now! My kids still have a good 6 months in it I think.

Call Dorel, explain the problem. Tell them flat out you DO NOT want a new puncture proof harness, you would rather go buy a replacement seat......they will refund you up to 49.99 to purchase a new seat. You have to fax it to them, they will mail you an evenlope telling you to send them the harness, DOM sticker and 3" patch of material.

What you do with the 49.99 you get back is up to you. Keep the Scenera or buy something different (Graco, Britax, Evenflo...etc.) I returned my "new" seat and will put it toward our new Boulevard. :cool:

HTH

[*Spoiledinmyhouseofblue*]

Call Dorel, explain the problem. Tell them flat out you DO NOT want a new puncture proof harness, you would rather go buy a replacement seat......they will refund you up to 49.99 to purchase a new seat. You have to fax it to them, they will mail you an evenlope telling you to send them the harness, DOM sticker and 3" patch of material.

What you do with the 49.99 you get back is up to you. Keep the Scenera or buy something different (Graco, Britax, Evenflo...etc.) I returned my "new" seat and will put it toward our new Boulevard. :cool:

HTH

Mabey that is what I will do. I will call tomorrow. I am now hating my scenera! LOL!

Seriously! What a piece of crap! Those jagged edges sure could cut someone. Right now it is sitting next to my computer, I am afraid to use it. But, I have to use it on Monday when daycare boy is here.

[Dragoness]

OMG I just saw all of this! I have another seat I can move my son into (move all the kids up a seat, lol) and tonight before I go shopping I am pulling that seat and checking under it! I cleaned it about a month ago and didn't notice anything, but I am checking to be sure! Thanks for posting this!

[An Aurora]

We have given out tons of these seats, all with the spikes. We just gave out 10 seats yesterday, with DOMs ranging from Feb 2007-December 2007 and they all had the spikes. Talk about a massive problem if this does get recalled :eek:

[PixieEMT]

Well, hopefully the more people file complaints with NHTSA the faster they will wrap up their investigation. I'm sweating it out right now just waiting for a *possible* recall. I can't imagine how many harnesses might be out there damaged, b/c the parents aren't as obsessive like all of us around here. :p

All I know is: *If* there is a recall I'm contacting my local news station to see if they will run a story on my seat with the damage and the announced recall. Hopefully it will get the word around. It is a very popular seat in my area (and alot of place) due to the price.
~ How many parents just toss out the recall cards or move alot? Too many! ~ How many parents take the time to read the recall bulletin boards at Walmart/Kmart etc.? Probably not many!

[Dragoness]

I wanted to let everyone know that I checked our seat last night and it does indeed have the spikes, but it does not have any damage. I don't loosen the straps every time I pull my son out though, he knows how to pull his arms in after he is unbuckled. The only time we have frequent adjusting is during winter when we wear heavy clothing and semi-heavy clothing.

[ProudMomof5]

Do you have to uninstall the seat in order to see the spikes? I haven't pulled mine out of the car yet - I was really hoping to not have to... but I think I do.

[Dragoness]

Yes you have to uninstall. I had to anyway to make room for an extra adult last night so I took that oppurtunity to take a peek.

[Bumblb77]

Call Dorel, explain the problem. Tell them flat out you DO NOT want a new puncture proof harness, you would rather go buy a replacement seat......they will refund you up to 49.99 to purchase a new seat. You have to fax it to them, they will mail you an evenlope telling you to send them the harness, DOM sticker and 3" patch of material.

What you do with the 49.99 you get back is up to you. Keep the Scenera or buy something different (Graco, Britax, Evenflo...etc.) I returned my "new" seat and will put it toward our new Boulevard. :cool:

HTH

Which number are you guys calling? Is there a specific customer service rep that you've found to be helpful?

[PixieEMT]

Not really. I just called the number in the manual and website. The same telephone #s.

The 1st time I called the CS was rude and horrible. :mad:

The last time I called about getting my money refunded and not being able to send the parts from my old seat to "prove" I destroyed it. I told the CS rep that NHTSA *might* want my seat to examine it for a possible recall and I magically was put in contact with an engineer supervisor from Dorel! Then they were all nice and sweet with me! :p

I also sent an email about their poor customer service to Dorel Juvenile Corp. and Dorel Corp. Headquarters and never heard a word back......two weeks later. :rolleyes:
Shocking! not

[christineka]

I just talked to to a lady whose first language was definately not English. She put me on hold and when she came back told me they would send me a new harness.

[Bumblb77]

I just called, as well, and spoke to a similar woman who is sending me the new harness.

[Tammyfh]

I'm a little confused and have a few questions....

I bought one for my son as a second seat in april. It has spike.... they cut me this morning :P I don't have any harness damage... The leg that folds when rf keeps the harness away from the spikes.... At least on mine. Even when loose I couldn't get the harness to them. Is this a RF or FF problem???? I could see how it could get caught FF if the harness was loose enough.


Someone had mentioned that the newer one had different problems??? Anything more specific??? This seat really does meet our needs and ds seems to really like it. I don't want anything that would put him in danger. We're planning on taking this one back today (still have a month to return it) and getting the new one without the spikes.

If someone knows why this would be a reallly bad idea please let me know!

[PixieEMT]

I'm a little confused and have a few questions....

I bought one for my son as a second seat in april. It has spike.... they cut me this morning :P I don't have any harness damage... The leg that folds when rf keeps the harness away from the spikes.... At least on mine. Even when loose I couldn't get the harness to them. Is this a RF or FF problem???? I could see how it could get caught FF if the harness was loose enough.


Someone had mentioned that the newer one had different problems??? Anything more specific??? This seat really does meet our needs and ds seems to really like it. I don't want anything that would put him in danger. We're planning on taking this one back today (still have a month to return it) and getting the new one without the spikes.

If someone knows why this would be a reallly bad idea please let me know!

The spikes seem to be mostly FF from what I gathered from NHTSA. My seat was only RF ever. It might have gotten pinched under my seat when re-installing it into our mini van. The kick stand flips out easily and maybe I pinched it. In my opinion the spikes are still a hazard no matter if the seat is FF or RF.

The newer ones are spikeless. I would call Dorel and either A) Request a "puncture proof" harness from them or B) Tell Dorel you want to buy a new Dorel seat and recieve a refund. I faxed my receipt in about a week ago to them. I bought a new Scenera , copied the receipt and returned it to the store. I bought a new Boulevard instead.
HTH

[Tammyfh]

The spikes seem to be mostly FF from what I gathered from NHTSA. My seat was only RF ever. It might have gotten pinched under my seat when re-installing it into our mini van. The kick stand flips out easily and maybe I pinched it. In my opinion the spikes are still a hazard no matter if the seat is FF or RF.

The newer ones are spikeless. I would call Dorel and either A) Request a "puncture proof" harness from them or B) Tell Dorel you want to buy a new Dorel seat and recieve a refund. I faxed my receipt in about a week ago to them. I bought a new Scenera , copied the receipt and returned it to the store. I bought a new Boulevard instead.
HTH

We're not keeping the one with spikes. i just was trying to figure out how this was happening and couldn't get my mind wrapped around it when I thought it was a RF problem

I've already talked to Target and I can exchange it for a new one (new straps and spikeless) so I'm avoiding the hassle with Dorel.

[MissKatie]

So today at work I buckled a child into a scenera with the spikes. It took me a minute to figure out why the harness was so tight on one side and loose on the other! I can definitely see now how one of those could get snagged... FAST. She seemed to have some decent straps on it though, I wonder if they had a replacement harness? It didn't feel like the other Dorel harnesses.

[Stretchy Glue]

The spikes seem to be mostly FF from what I gathered from NHTSA. My seat was only RF ever. It might have gotten pinched under my seat when re-installing it into our mini van. The kick stand flips out easily and maybe I pinched it. In my opinion the spikes are still a hazard no matter if the seat is FF or RF.


HTH

I think Dorel might be mistaken:eek:. The tech on our team has only had her seat rf, and she's had 2 with torn straps. She probably started the ball rolling in February since that's when she reported it the first time.

[PixieEMT]

I think Dorel might be mistaken:eek:. The tech on our team has only had her seat rf, and she's had 2 with torn straps. She probably started the ball rolling in February since that's when she reported it the first time.

What did she do with her seat? Do you know? Thanks for that info.

Apparently Dorel was claiming it was a FF only problem to NHTSA. The man investigating the complaint was very happy to hear my seat was only ever used RF too. ;)

The spikes are a hazard period, ff or rf! :twocents:

[Stretchy Glue]

The first seat she sent back to Dorel and got a replacement, the 2nd seat she sent to NHSTA. Since her son is just over a year, and she believed whole-heartedly in ERF, I guarantee she only had the seat rf.

[Mommy2Marcus]

I just wrote to NHTSA to tell them of the problem with my seat! I hope that the more people write them, the closer they come to making Dorel recall this seat. I cringe to think that there are children riding in these seats with damaged harnesses without their parents knowing anything b/c Dorel has not recalled the seat! Hopefully they recall it soon!

[MissKatie]

What kills me is that most manufacturers recall for issues far minor to this, and Dorel neither makes a recall for this issue or for the Touriva notches that killed children?! Seems to me that if any other company found that something on their seat was causing dangerous snags to their harnesses, the first thing they would do is issue a voluntary recall.

[Mommy2Marcus]

What notches are you referring to on the Touriva? I have heard several other people refer to them, but have NO clue what they are. Does anyone have a picture of said notches they would care to share?

[featherhead]

Yeah, I'd like to know what the Touriva notches are all about.

[MissKatie]

BTW here is a link to ODI's description of the Scenera issue: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/defect/results.cfm

The touriva notches - The same shell was used for the touriva with and without the OHS, and notches - small recessed spaces in the shell - were created to mount the OHS. In seats without the OHS, since the notches were still present, children's heads were striking them in collisions causing head injuries which resulted in deaths. I have never actually seen said notches but this is how it was explained to me at a seat check. I believe there are pictures posted of the notches if you search 'touriva notches picture' or something like that.

[MissKatie]

Here is a pic of an OHS with the notches. They were also present on non OHS models, so all of them were dangerous. http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=16638&highlight=touriva+notch+picture&page=2

[Tammyfh]

We got the new one without the spikes today. Target was no problem with the exchange and I was able to show the manager the problem and what the new ones are. The seat the had on display was snagged!! He actually seemed genuinely concerned, but that may be because he has a toddler currently using the seat.

[PixieEMT]

Ooooooooooohhh! I just got a Touriva w/ notches today for FREE!! How weird is that! I opened this thread was reading it, then pulled up the old Notches thread.
We responded to a call in a near by neighborhood, they are holding their community yard sale day. I spotted it on the side walk for FREE. An older man was sitting on his porch, I told him car seats expire he said "Oh, I didn't know that." He was nice about it. I told him I was going to cut it up.
NO LABELS, 2001, NO instructions.
I'll post pics maybe later, when I get home from work.

[2angels2love]

Ugh, I switched my son to FF this morning and noticed that the harness was torn. :( I was trying to be careful about it since I was aware of the problem, but it still happened. :mad: I called Dorel and they are sending me a new harness, but now I'm thinking I should have just told them I was going to buy a new seat. I did tell the rep that this was his only seat and that I wanted to know if I could get a refund and she very bluntly said no. I should have read through this thread before I called, or while I was on hold for forever. :thumbsdown: Now I'm not sure what to do, is it okay for me to keep using the seat?

[startrace96]

WOW!! I thought about getting the scenera for an extra seat for my mom's car. but not now. What is an EFTA? I need a seat for my 02 accord, and I'm trying to get advice on what kind of seat will fit in it. I've been looking at a maxi cosi, and I'm not sure who its made by, its not Dorel is it?:confused:

[fyrfightermomma]

Here is a pic of an OHS with the notches. They were also present on non OHS models, so all of them were dangerous. http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=16638&highlight=touriva+notch+picture&page=2



So are the Touriva's actually recalled for the notches??

We have two in our ambulances circa 2001 I believe (yes expired). I looked them up on my recall list but couldn't find a date range that matched but it definately has the notches.

[BudgieStew]

I was in Walmart today and flipped over a Scenera but saw no obvious area where it would tear the harness. DOM 05\2008.


I owned a 2004 Touriva that did NOT have the notches, perhaps the difference was that it was a Canadian seat.

[Jeanum]

So are the Touriva's actually recalled for the notches??

We have two in our ambulances circa 2001 I believe (yes expired). I looked them up on my recall list but couldn't find a date range that matched but it definately has the notches.

No, seats weren't recalled due to the notches. :(

[destinmamma]

My dumb Scenera won't let me tighten the staps tight enough. :(

[PixieEMT]

Here's the link http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/defects/results.cfm. Search for the Scenera investigation. The investigation is closed , no recall will be issued. What a bummer.


As soon as I get my $ back from Dorel.......I have some plans for our old Scenera that included a sawzall and dumpster.

[Ice Princess]

Are you kidding?!?!:mad: why the heck are they not issuing a recall? Is it going to take a precious child losing their life before it happens?

[Simplysomething]

Are you kidding?!?!:mad: why the heck are they not issuing a recall? Is it going to take a precious child losing their life before it happens?

Pretty much.

[Mom2ManyBlessings]

Will they replace the seats? Has anyone had a result from this? I just checked my seats and DD's seat has the notches, I can't believe how shap they are an likely to catch the harness! (Her's was man 9/2007) but DS's seat was totally rounded like they fixed the problem, but his seat we just got with date of 5/2008...I would MUCH rather not chance it and get DD a new Scerena with the rounded edges...(we can't afford to replace it with more expensive ones..) so anyone who had a result of ANY kid, even a refund but didn't have a broken strap, let me know!! :) This used to be her backup seat but is now her main seat so I'm nervous!

[featherhead]

Will they replace the seats? Has anyone had a result from this? I just checked my seats and DD's seat has the notches, I can't believe how shap they are an likely to catch the harness! (Her's was man 9/2007) but DS's seat was totally rounded like they fixed the problem, but his seat we just got with date of 5/2008...I would MUCH rather not chance it and get DD a new Scerena with the rounded edges...(we can't afford to replace it with more expensive ones..) so anyone who had a result of ANY kid, even a refund but didn't have a broken strap, let me know!! :) This used to be her backup seat but is now her main seat so I'm nervous!

They replaced my first Scenera, where the strap was damaged, but the new seat they sent still has the spikes. I emailed and asked for a refund. They won't do a refund, but they offered to replace it with a different seat. If you specifically ask for a seat without spikes, that might help. I guess in my case they were still trying to get rid of the one with spikes.

[My Sweet Blessings]

wow, i can't believe there wont be a recall! :eek: That's so incredibly dangerous! Remind me to never buy from Dorel!

[jessclear]

Just FYI, I was in Kmart yesterday and they had several of their girly print Scenera in stock. None of the ones I checked had the spikes. They all looked smooth.