If seatbelts aren't automatically locking

triscuitsmom · Apr 18, 2007

Is a locking clip always necessary?

I have always used one, but now I'm reading use only if necessary. I understand it does nothing in a crash, that it is only a precrash positioner... so what constitutes absolutely necessary?

Thanks y'all

thepeach80 · Apr 18, 2007

If your seatbelt doesn't lock at all, then yes, you need a locking clip, but all seatbelts since 97 I think it is are required to lock in some way.

SPJ&E · Apr 18, 2007

Some belts have a locking shoulder belt (you pull it out and it locks when it retracts) and other have a locking latchplate (the part you buckle in) and some have both. If your seatbelts have neither one, yes, you always need a locking clip.

A locking clip holds the belt in place to keep the seat tight until the seatbelts locking mechanism kicks in in a crash.

UlrikeDG · Apr 18, 2007

1) Never, ever, ever use a locking clip on a seatbelt that is a lap-only belt (no shoulder belt).

2) Generally speaking, a locking clip is more complicated to use than a locking seatbelt. For that reason, if the locking clip isn't necessary, we don't recommend using one. It is extremely rare to see a parent-installed locking clip properly used at seat checks, IME.

If seatbelts aren't automatically locking

triscuitsmom

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