EFTA in a Mercedes GL450

[cancron]

We are flying to see Grandma in 3 days and found out they have a new car that we will be using while there. It is a Mercedes GL450 - they are clueless about LATCH or anything else about installing a car seat in that car. Anyone ever put a EFTA RF'ing in one of these? I tried calling my local dealer to ask about installing in a GL450 - they were abolutely no HELP! I think I saw LATCH connectors in the passenger outboard position, but just can't remember. DD just turned 2 1/2 and I would like to keep her RF in this car so I don't have to fight it when we return! :) And would like to have some clue how to install before we get there so the airport security guys aren't having a fit at how long we are parked trying to install!!! :whistle:

Any advice would be helpful. I hope I didn't leave anything out - too early right now!
Thanks!!!!

[BW1426]

I wouldn't think you'd have any installation issues, but if the seats are contoured reaching the knobs may be a challenge. I'd try to make sure the harness is where you need it if it looks like that might be an issue.

[Pixels]

That vehicle does have LATCH. You cannot use LATCH in the center position, so either use the seatbelt or install the seat outboard.

You might be able to talk your local dealership into letting you try installing it in one of their vehicles so that you can practice ahead of time.

Good job keeping her RFing so long :thumbsup:

[cancron]

Thanks for the info...:) Is there preference as to whether to install center with the seatbelt or outboard with the LATCH? Other than ease of use or who has to ride in the center? Grandma will probably want to sit closest! :D We do have a Scenera that we use as a backup in DH's truck...Would this be a better choice for traveling.. I thought the EFTA would be better due to a 1 1/2 hour drive after arriving. Didn't think about that this morning (too early :eek:) - the EFTA is the one she is used to... or am I'm just making it too confusing on myself?
Thanks again...

[Pixels]

The Scenera is a much easier seat to travel with, since it is so much lighter. You will likely need a chunk of pool noodle or a tightly rolled towel to get the proper recline, so just be prepared for that0

As for who sits where, safety-wise--Is there a shoulder belt for the center seat? If not, and you think Grandma will want to sit next to baby, put baby in the middle so that Grandma can have the shoulder belt. A proper seatbelt install is no more nor less safe than a proper LATCH install. LATCH was just supposed to make things easier, that's all.

[CTPDMom]

And would like to have some clue how to install before we get there so the airport security guys aren't having a fit at how long we are parked trying to install!!! :whistle:

I think you should take the Scenera also. I just had to travel by ferry with an EFTA and it was awful, it's SO heavy and bulky! (Love the seat when it's in my car, though!)

I love the advice to stop by a dealer and see if they've got that model they'd let you check out. Read the manual so you're familiar with where the LATCH anchors are, place the car seat in the vehicle seat and see how it fits. They might not let you climb in and actually install (for fear of damage or whatever) but even just seeing the car might make you more comfortable.

And I don't know where you're flying into but do NOT attempt to do an install in the no standing, pickup/dropoff zone at the airport! Have your parents park, walk in and wait for you at baggage claim. Then when you're all out in the parking lot you can take your time and get the seat in right.

Have a great trip!