A performance failure means that the child restraint system tested failed at least one of the performance requirements specified in FMVSS No. 213. These requirements are included in section S5 of this standard. [Tony attached a pdf of the standard for me but as yet I have not had a chance to read it in detail.]
If the performance test failure for a particular child restraint system deals with key dynamic test results, this information is contained in the table of test results titled "CHILD SAFETY SEAT TEST DATA (DYNAMIC TESTS)". This table summaries the dynamic test results in the areas of Head Injury Criteria, Chest Acceleration, Head Excursion, Knee Excursion, and Seat Back Angle. [This table] contains several key dynamic test results but does not contain the results for all dynamic test requirements. Therefore, a noted performance failure in the combined (dyn
amic and component) table but not in the key dynamic test results table could be due to a failure for another dynamic test requirement or a component related failure. To differentiate, you can look at the test laboratory code. If the specified laboratory code is UST, then the failure would be component related.
To obtain more information on another type of performance test failure for a specific child restraint system, please feel free to contact Zack Fraser ((202)-366-5754) or myself.
Repeat tests are conducted for certain performance test failures on a case-by-case basis as deemed necessary.
After the company determines that it has manufactured a noncompliant product, the company is required by Title 49 U.S.C. 30118, 30119 and 30120 to promptly initiate a notification and remedy campaign (recall).