Do I have "locking" seatbelts?

[julia94115]

After reading numerous threads, I think there may be an easier way to get a good install with my Radian XT, that I am just about to give up on.

Does anyone know if either or both of these cars have the "locking" seatbelts? The kind if I pull them out all the way, they will automatically lock up/tighten?

I have a
2007 CRV
and
2004 (I think) Volvo XC90

I cannot get to my vehicles right now or I would go check them myself. I don't think I'll be able to sleep tonight not knowing the answer....

TIA!!

[Pixels]

Both vehicles will have belts that lock either at the retractor or at the latchplate. I'm 99% sure that the CRV has a switchable retractor (the kind you pull out all the way and then it locks). I'm pretty sure the Volvo will as well, though I can't really say with any certainty. That's just what I would guess.

Have you tried using a locking clip? I find that I'm able to get a tighter, more stable install with the belt locked at the latchplate or by using a locking clip than I am if it's locked at the retractor.

[julia94115]

No, I haven't used the locking clip yet as I wasn't all that familiar with them until reading up on this tonight. (Clip next to the buckle, etc, etc) I can't wait until daylight so I can go out and try all these options! I really, really hope this works. I LOVE this carseat! (I think). I have always been a Britax user and have loved their easy installs. If I can get this Radian in, I think I'll have a new favorite, or close to it.

So you think the locking clip will work better than locking the seatbelt? I'll give it a try!

WHEW! I think I may be able to sleep now! Thanks so, so much for responding!!!

[snowbird25ca]

Can I ask why you're not using LATCH to install? It would definitely be a super easy install if you used LATCH. ;)

[julia94115]

Yep- I get a super tight install with latch BUT I can only use latch in the Honda to 40 pounds. My daughter is already 33 pounds, and not even two (she's also 37 inches). I got the Radian hoping it would take her a while to grow out of it. I can use latch for now but need to be able to use the belt when it's time.

[TiaxMarie]

Using a locking clip should be your last resort, so try your seatbelts first. Most liklely, they do lock.

[Beckers]

For Foward facing, I wouldn't think a locking clip would really help any.

When you do try again, be sure to open up the velcro on the inside corner of the cover and pull the belt tight through there. You will get it so much tighter pulling from that angle!

[julia94115]

holy smokes! Ok so, no locking clip, and I pulled UP from the seat belt buckle end instead of trying to tighten it by pulling on the upper shoulder part of the belt. It seems to be TIGHT! I am too scared to try and wiggle it free though I will tomorrow when I don't have my daughter jumping around in the car with me. I do think I got it though. And then I was reading here something about reclining the Radian, not the vehicle seat itself, to get a tighter install. Does that sound like an option also?

[wendytthomas]

Sometimes putting the little forward facing foot (not using the recline boot) does help. It's all about angles, and changing the angle slightly may have a drastic impact on installation.

Wendy