The harness mechanism in the "G" series Britax convertibles is not unlike those found on many other brands and products. Other mechanisms vary in how easy it is for a child to release, some are easier, some are more difficult. The thing is, kids are pretty smart. If they really want out, the Houdinis are going to eventually learn how to do it. And if you make it so difficult that they can't possibly do it, then it's also likely going to be difficult for some parents, like you said.
This is not the first complaint of this type for these convertibles, and there have been similar complaints on other brands, too. It really all depends on the child. If you have a child who is prone to escaping or releasing the harness system, then it's definitely wise to try to choose one they can't release very easily. Some models position them differently. For example, the release on the Britax Frontier 90 model is recessed a bit more and more difficult for a child to release. Similarly, some parents complained it is hard for them to find as well.
If your child simply refuses to stop releasing the harness or escaping, you could also try an aftermarket product or custom solution. While some of these may not be recommended in general, like those made by a third party, you certainly have to weigh the risks and make a choice for your child's situation. For example:
http://carseatblog.com/27151/merrit...nd-of-the-line-for-the-carseat-escape-artist/. I know these particular ones don't solve your issue, but you might find a solution that does.
That Britax credited your purchase price to switch to another model seems like pretty good customer service to me. You basically got to try one model, found it didn't work for your child, and switch to another, even after any retailer money back period was over. This is the exact reason that advocates always recommend a good return policy. Even the most popular products that work great for most owners simply don't work well for some other vehicles, parents or children.
Also:
https://www.facebook.com/Britax/posts/10151095975888390
http://www.car-seat.org/showthread.php?t=95150
Google Search "Houdini" @ car-seat.org
Hello CPSDarren, thank you for taking the time to comment on my comments
I appreciate that you also included some links that help those who have issues with their child opening their buckles and chest clips. Thankfully, my son doesn't open his. He is just over 2.5years, I hope that is something I don't have to tackle in the future.
My issue is the lever in-between his legs that easily released the harness. On my particular Britax Boulevard 65 it was very easy to reach by my 2.5 year old son (even though he was tight in his chair). And, it was VERY easy to lift. I could lift it with my pinky finger.
The issues:
- If it was harder to lift (like some other seats) it may not have been an issue.
- If he was older than 2.5 he may listen and act more CONSISTENTLY to my instruction "don't touch it".
- If he was smaller/younger he wouldn't have the ABILITY to reach it.
The solution:
- The great thing about Britax is that (in my opinion) they have acknowledged that there is a problem, because they have fixed it with their "Click Tight" models. That is a credit to their design, innovation and manufacturing department. It shows they are thinking how to keep kids safe (IMO)
- With these car seats, the lever is now a button - that is in a plastic "tunnel". Sorry I'm not explaining that well. Basically, it means it's out of the child's reach, but can be accessed easily by parents/grandparents.
- It is great that I was allowed to purchase two of these "Click Tights" from ToysRUS on the basis that they refund me that money, and I send back the originals to them at their cost. For that I am grateful. If I had just my money back, I likely would have gone to a different brand, but to at least have the option to get rid of my original seats without incurring another huge cost - was at least helpful.
- I wish I could say it was great customer service. I did have to spend 1.5 hour on the phone in May 2015, and another hour-ish on the phone in August 2015 to get this to happen. They knew they had a car seat issue, they knew they fixed it with the "Britax Click Tights". I feel that this could have been told to me in the first 10 minutes.
Not all kids will have the issue we had. But for the parents that do find themselves with the "lever issue", a simple remedy should be offered up right away - SINCE THEY HAVE THE SOLUTION
.
My hope is that the next person who has an issue doesn't have to be on the phone as long as I had to be to get the situation solved. Maybe the next person will have a wonderful customer experience. My hope is that with all this awareness, perhaps the next customer will have an easier time.
So far (knock on wood), the Click Tights have solved the problem for us. He can't reach it, and can't release his harness.
http://triangleoffice.ca/2015/08/25/is-britax-avoiding-a-costly-car-seat-recall/
I just want others to be aware of the situation, and the potential remedy.
Thanks again for the forum. All discussion is good
.