Indian School: (623) 848-1970
Cave Creek Rd: (602) 888-2277

Car Seat Safety Tips

Car seats play an essential role in child safety on the road. However, these products can’t protect your child if they are not used properly. To achieve the maximum benefit of car seats, use the following tips from your local provider of auto repair in Phoenix, AZ.

If you’d like additional vehicle safety tips, don’t hesitate to contact your mechanic. With extensive knowledge of vehicle maintenance and repairs, your local auto repair shop has a wealth of information on automotive safety. Don’t be afraid to tap this invaluable resource to increase your safety on the road:

  • Choose the right seat: Children should remain in rear-facing car seats until they are two years of age or when they reach the appropriate weight and height for a front-facing seat. Do not choose the seat based on age alone. Keep them in the best seat for their size. Rear-facing seats are usually much more effective at preventing injuries in children younger than 24 months. Additionally, keep in mind that not every car seat will work properly in your vehicle. Some seats only work in some types of cars. Make sure you choose the right seat for both your child and your car.
  • Use the seat properly: Car seats feature several straps, snaps and clips that can easily be misused. When buckled in, your child should fit snugly in the seat. Make sure straps are tight enough to prevent a baby from slumping over. Ensure chest clips are in the appropriate position at the armpit level. If your child is wearing a puffy jacket, this can make adjustments difficult. It’s best to remove their jacket before buckling them into the seat to ensure a good, safe fit.
  • Install the seat appropriately: Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions carefully. You should LATCH it properly. (This stands for “lower anchors and tethers for children.”) The lower attachments provided by the car seat should connect to your seat’s lower anchor bars or top tether bars for forward-facing seats. Once you believe you have it installed correctly, check for movement. If you can slide the car seat from side to side more than an inch, it is not installed appropriately.
  • Know when to grow: When is it time to ditch the seats altogether and place your child in the car without a booster? Do this only when the car’s seat belts fit your child properly. The lap belt should stretch across their upper thighs, and the shoulder belt should go across their chest. If the belt touches their neck or stomach, they are still too small. Keep in mind that most children need a booster seat until they are at least eight years old.

For additional car seat safety tips or other advice on vehicle safety, contact the team at S & J Auto Repair & Rental. As the go-to source for auto repair in Phoenix, AZ, we’ve been providing top-level service for clients throughout the area since 1990. Reach out to us today with any questions or to schedule an appointment for your next auto repair. We look forward to becoming your auto safety partner for life.

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Indian School Location:
(623) 848-1970
Scottsdale Location:
(480) 590-4397
32nd Location:
(602) 935-3551
Glendale Location:
(602) 888-2277
Cave Creek Rd Location:
(602) 888-2277
7th Street Location:
(480) 686-8125