3 Across Problems in '09 Lancer

3 Boys and a Husband · May 24, 2011

I have come over here a # of times to find info but I am STUCK!

We have and '09 Lancer and it says it has a 54" hip room but it is really closer to 50" (maybe less) due to the shape of the seats in the back...

Facts for you---
1. Son "T" (7 in June) 4'1" and 55 lbs in No Back Turbo Booster
2. Step Son "C" (4 in Sept) about 15 - 15.5" torso --
RIGHT at 2nd slot in Maestro -- about 33 lbs and not gaining fast at ALL!
3.Newborn "K" (EDD 7/19) with a OnBoard 35 Air

We have tried the following combinations (all w/seatbelt or LATCH)

1 -- OB (Pass) w/ and w/o base; Maestro (Drive) and Turbo middle but the Turbo won't fit in between.

2 -- OB (Pass) w/ and w/o base; Maestro (middle) and Turbo (Drive) but the OB and MA won't install tight separately

3 -- OB (Middle); MA (Pass) and Turbo (Drive) but we are unable to get a tight install with proper recline on the OB

We don't have a budget for more than maybe another 100 - 150 on another seat... we also own a Nautilus and Evenflo Big Kid booster.... and ideas or suggestions?

3 Boys and a Husband · May 25, 2011

Can Any one help me please????

canadiangie · May 26, 2011

Hi

I have an '08 Mitsu Lancer. Cute car, not so hot for 3 across, though.

I have to say that it's nearly impossible to get a good 3 across.

You're going to need a Sunshine Kids Radian, and your best bet will be having it in the middle, forward facing. You'll of course use the seatbelt to install, and remember to remove the head rest (seat will install better w/o it), and use the top tether strap.

From there, well, you're dealing with very little space on either side. It's the bolsters along the seatbacks and bottoms that eat up so much room. Getting a booster to sit flat on the seat is... tough. Try a Harmony Dreamtime or LiteRider. The LiteRider is especially small.

The infant seat you have is on the narrower side, but I think a Combi Shuttle might be narrower yet. Most likely you're going to have to do a baseless install. And honestly, I'm not sure it will work.

The Lancer just isn't good for 3 across. If there is any possible way you can trade it in for something else I absolutely would.

I've actually mostly given up on a 3 across in ours. I'm sorry I can't offer more suggestions.