Mercedes ML320 2001 - No Tethers

christophersmom

New member
I called the dealership and they said they cannot install a tether on this car, why would they not be able to?

(scatterbunny? suggested I post this in this thread)

Thanks
 
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Robert

CPST Instructor
They should be able to install a tether, however some mercedes involve some work to install the tether such as removing the rear window. I would try calling anothe dealer to see what they say.
 

flipper68

Senior Community Member
Just to clarify:

TETHER is for the strap behind the seat, reducing head excursion.

LATCH is the lower anchors in seat, used instead of the seatbelt to install a CR.

Many people confuse the two or use the terms interchangeably.

Dealers CAN install a TETHER. Only a very few makes, models, years can retrofit LATCH.
 

southpawboston

New member
Just to clarify:

TETHER is for the strap behind the seat, reducing head excursion.

LATCH is the lower anchors in seat, used instead of the seatbelt to install a CR.

Many people confuse the two or use the terms interchangeably.

Dealers CAN install a TETHER. Only a very few makes, models, years can retrofit LATCH.

not to nitpick, but... for the sake of clarification:

TETHER is the STRAP the runs from the top of the shell to the tether ANCHOR (TA). the tether comes already installed on the carseat, while the TA is the hook that is bolted to the car.

LATCH = Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren. it is an acronym for the carseat attachment system which includes both the lower anchors AND tether.

the dealer does not install a TETHER. they install the tether ANCHOR (TA). it is the lower anchors that can not be retrofitted on most cars.

and yes, the nomenclature is confusing. they really should have thought of something more systematic instead of something "cutesy". i mean, technically, the belt that 99% of us refer to as a "LATCH" belt should really be called the "lower anchor" belt, because it fastens to the lower anchors and is completely separate from the tether.

i hope that clears it up... confusing, INDEED!
 

Jeanum

Admin - CPS Technician Emeritus
Staff member
Christophersmom, I think I have some good news for you. :) According to info. in the LATCH manual* about the 2001 Mercedes M-class SUV, it already has factory equipped top tether anchors in the second row center and outboard seating positions. If yours has the optional two-seat third row, it also should have factory equipped top tether anchors in both third row seating positions. :thumbsup: All tether anchors in the M-class are metal rings on the floor of the cargo area according to the LATCH manual. I hope this helps. :)


*The LATCH manual is basically a master volume of top tether anchor and lower LATCH anchor information for most vehicles sold in the U.S. and part numbers for retrofitting older pre-2000 models with top tether anchors. It's published by the Safe Ride News.
 

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