Installing a child car seat: 3 common mistakes to avoid

When travelling by car with a young child, it’s important to provide them with a suitable car seat and, above all, to install it correctly. Many people make the dangerous mistake of overlooking key precautions. In this blog post, the experts at M 360 Mechanic share three common mistakes to avoid.
 
1.    Choosing the wrong model
Car seats are designed for a specific size and weight. Choosing a model that corresponds to your child’s developmental stage is crucial to their safety. Their age is generally a helpful indicator for identifying suitable products. If the seat is too big or too small, the child won’t be properly protected in the event of a collision. This step is one of the most important.
 
2.    Installing a forward-facing seat too early
When installing the child’s seat in the back seat of your vehicle, you might be tempted to have it face forward to get a better view of your child. However, a child under two years old should never be in this position. Before this age, children are at a much higher risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.
 
For maximum safety, keep the seat facing the rear for as long as possible. If necessary, use a mirror designed to help you monitor your little one. This accessory attaches to the back seat and aligns with your rearview mirror’s line of sight.
 
Also note that a child under 12 years old should never sit in the front seat unless it’s the only possible option.
 
3.    Not properly securing the base
The base to which an infant car seat or convertible seat attaches must be securely installed. It must not move forward, and you shouldn’t be able to slide it more than 2.5 centimetres from side to side. This often-overlooked step is essential for preventing injuries.
 
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