buit in carseats

[ProudMomof5]

I have a question about built in carseats in vans. I did a search and found that it's fairly safe, except for SIP. What I am wondering, though, is if the straps are too high (like at the top of the ears) is that unsafe?
My sister has her 2 1/2 year old in their built in and she said the straps at the top of her ears. She is wondering if that is okay. Also, do these seats expire?

 

[ketchupqueen]

As long as the straps are above the shoulders, the child meets the weight requirements, and the straps can be properly tightened, and the child does not use the extra space to "escape" it is okay. Many built-ins do expire, they should check the vehicle manual. Also, they are a one-time use item. They should not be re-used after a crash without replacement, and if the history is unknown they should probably not be used.

At 2 1/2, her child would be much safer rear-facing, however. If you'd like some information to send her on that let us know and we can give you some.

 

[Pixels]

As long as the child meets all the criteria to fit in the seat (height, age, and weight limits), it doesn't matter if the straps are very high. There really isn't a "too high" when it comes to forward facing seats.

 

[ProudMomof5]

Thanks!
i'll let her know.
She knows about ERF, but her little one is already 34lbs. So, pushing it. She does have her 19 month old RF though.

 

[ketchupqueen]

Okay, that's good! There are now seats that go to 40 and 45 lbs. RF, but that's not always feasible.

 

[mylittlet]

Dhs minivan has builtins. We love them, since we only have one set of seats. I have a suburban and minivan and move seats depending on what I want to drive. Kids only go with dh about once a week. We have a 3.5y, 45#,43" and 2.5y,37#,38". Approximately. They have rode in them as backups for a while. Ours go to 50#. Dhs minivan has been in the family for years. My parents bought it when I was in college and they had no grandkids. Our older kids rode in them 2. I like them as backups, but not as long trip seats.