Putting a rear facing child seat into the 3rd row

fatherof3 · Dec 28, 2009

is this possible when you have bench seats in the 2nd row. I am considering the Ford Flex and Chevy traverse. According to Consumer Reports with a bench "rear facing child seats can be secured in the second row but might not fit in the third. With captain's chairs its possible to secure a rear facing seat in the center third row." This was in the review for the Traverse.

I am considering both the traverse and flex. this may sound odd but i am considering putting 4 seats in the car for 3 kids. For the most part for short trips all 3 kids will sit in the 2nd row. 1 forward facing and 2 rear facing. For longer trips mom and the infant will stay in the 3rd row.

any ideas helpful. I just do not want to buy the car and not have it work.

JerseyGirl'sMama · Dec 28, 2009

Child restraints can be installed in rear-facing in third row seating. What infant seat do you have? I would recommend one where the handle can be left in the upright position, since it will leave more room front to back. The only way to know if a particular seat will fit is to take it to the dealer and try out the install. Many of us do this, as it can be a deal breaker on buying a vehicle.

Have you had a test drive? If not, take it with you when you go and try it out. If you have already, I'd still take it down there and ask to try it. They should be more than willing to accomodate you.

Guest · Dec 28, 2009

Err, and I would highly advise AGAINST using Consumer Reports to research cars, electronics, and a few other categories that are escaping me at the moment. Oh, car seats is another one. Consumer Reports has a long history of erroneous results. It's likely intentional in order to generate ratings but they have yet to admit to it. Basically, for cars and car seats, their history shows they are about as reliable as the National Enquirer. I used to have an electronic subscription, but I cancelled it because I really don't buy that many appliances. They're useless in pretty much everything else that the subscription isn't worth it.