Can tether hooks be installed by manufacturers or otherwise after market?

Laura A

New member
This may be a completely goofy question, but when my kids DO turn forward facing, I'll need them to be in seats that actually have the tether hooks. In my 2013 Sienna, there are only 3 LATCH seats (both second row captain's chairs and center back seat). I prefer using seat belt install, so I didn't really think it through, but soon enough we'll likely have more children. I assume we'll have several children needing that top tether hook all at the same time. So I'm wondering: is there a way to have more top tether hooks installed? I know cargo hooks can't work, so I am thinking the answer is no, but it's worth asking. I want all my kids safe all the time. :)

Thanks!
 
ADS

carseatcoach

Carseat Crankypants
No, vehicles that come with tether anchors cannot have more installed (except in very rare cases, like Honda Odysseys of a certain few years).
 

tjham

New member
If it eases your mind any, I've heard that installing with seat belt with shoulder belt is considered almost as good as using a top tether, if top tether is not available.

What do you techs say?
 

TechnoGranola

Forum Ambassador
If it eases your mind any, I've heard that installing with seat belt with shoulder belt is considered almost as good as using a top tether, if top tether is not available.

What do you techs say?

We've had mandatory top tethering here in Canada for a long time, well before LATCH was ever introduced. So top tethering has been proven via crash tests to be better than a seatbelt alone for a long time here.
 

LISmama810

Admin - CPS Technician
If it eases your mind any, I've heard that installing with seat belt with shoulder belt is considered almost as good as using a top tether, if top tether is not available. What do you techs say?

There are certain seats that route the shoulder belt sort of along the side of the seat, which might provide some additional limiting of head excursion, as a top tether does. There are also seats that don't route like that, and therefore wouldn't provide any additional benefit.

Generally, a lap-shoulder belt should not be considered "as good as" tethering, because it's not. Tethering should always be used, when available and possible. (Disclaimer: SafeKids says to stop tethering at 40 lbs unless the vehicle explicitly allows it beyond that point. Until they provide some proof that it's detrimental after that point, I will continue to tether.)

If there is no tether available and one can't be retrofitted, certain seats might provide some additional protection based on the shoulder belt routing.
 

Car-Seat.Org Facebook Group

Forum statistics

Threads
219,655
Messages
2,196,895
Members
13,530
Latest member
onehitko860

You must read your carseat and vehicle owner’s manual and understand any relevant state laws. These are the rules you must follow to restrain your children safely. All opinions at Car-Seat.Org are those of the individual author for informational purposes only, and do not necessarily reflect any policy or position of Carseat Media LLC. Car-Seat.Org makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis. If you are unsure about information provided to you, please visit a local certified technician. Before posting or using our website you must read and agree to our TERMS.

Graco is a Proud Sponsor of Car-Seat.Org! Britax is a Proud Sponsor of Car-Seat.Org! Nuna Baby is a Proud Sponsor of Car-Seat.Org!

Please  Support Car-Seat.Org  with your purchases of infant, convertible, combination and boosters seats from our premier sponsors above.
Shop travel systems, strollers and baby gear from Britax, Chicco, Clek, Combi, Evenflo, First Years, Graco, Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, Safety 1st, Diono & more! ©2001-2022 Carseat Media LLC

Top