Chaperone install in cars?

[jsmom]

Has anyone installed a Chaperone seat in a Toyota Matrix or similar and had success? I really want an infant seat with head wings but im afraid this seat isnt going to fit! Im guessing it will have to go outboard because I also have my DD who will be in a Nautilus very soon. I searched and found threads suggesting other seats for small cars but im just wondering if anyone has been able to get one installed correctly. Thanks!

 

[wendytthomas]

Do you have a passenger in that car? If so, the Chaperone is HUGE and it's unlikely you'll have a comfortable passenger.

What is it about the wings you like? Keep in mind that most side impact protection comes from rear facing and a five point harness, both of which any infant seat have.

Wendy

 

[jsmom]

Yes, my husband and myself up front.

Really, im not sure what about the headwings appeals... I guess I just feel like its a little safer? Im having anxiety over the thought of both of the kids being next to the doors. The other seat I am thinking about is the KF, but I feel like the baby NEEDS something surrounding her head.

 

[wendytthomas]

Watch at about the 1:20 mark. There's a rear facing child back there getting hit on their side.

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C10hE5wrMVM"]Crash Test 2010 - 20** Suzuki Swift (Full Test) EuroNcap - YouTube[/ame]

For lack of a better term, it looks comfortable. Hardly as violent as the other occupants.

The backseat, with a properly installed and properly used restraint, is as safe as your child can get. Let's say 100%. You're talking about taking someone and if the wings do something, maybe making them 103% safe. Or in the center it may be as much as 130%. Would I try for the center? Sure. If it didn't work would I stress it? No, because my kids are still 100% safe. In fact, when my second was on her way I put my older daughter's Nautilus on the other side, put a True Fit behind me, and my younger daughter has ridden behind me since day one. Now I have a car with no center, so that choice is removed for me.

Wendy

 

[jsmom]

Thank you for your replies and reassurance. I know that my anxiety over all of this doesn't really make sense but the thought of an accident makes me so nervous. I guess its back to the KF and possibly BSafe. I wish I could see a BSafe in person.

 

[mama d]

I about the tallest person that could drive when my chaperone was behind me. I am 5'4" and that was in an Explorer.

 

[ktbug87]

We have a Chaperone in my Toyota Camry, middle installation. My husband is 6'0" and can drive, and I am 5'2" and fit comfortably in the passenger seat. The installation was checked today and is good!

We also have a Mazda 3. In that car, I will have to be sitting in the backseat, because it has to be installed behind the passenger seat.