Test-fit the car seat in your vehicle before buying

Before purchasing a car seat, verify it fits securely in your specific vehicle. Not every car seat works well in every car -- back seat depth, seat belt routing, and LATCH anchor positions vary significantly between vehicles. A seat that cannot be installed tightly is not safe regardless of its crash test ratings.

How to Check Fit

1. Try before you buy: Many retailers (Buy Buy Baby, Target, some independent shops) allow you to test-install a floor model in your car. Ask at the customer service desk.
2. Check the inch test: Once installed, grab the car seat at the belt path and try to move it side-to-side and front-to-back. It should not move more than 1 inch in any direction.
3. Verify LATCH compatibility: Your vehicle's LATCH anchors have a combined weight limit (child plus seat). Check your vehicle owner's manual for the specific limit.
4. Test with other passengers: If you need to fit multiple car seats or have rear passengers, install the seat and check that everything fits together.

Tips

• Compact cars and sports cars may not accommodate larger convertible or all-in-one seats
• Some car seats fit better with the seat belt installation method rather than LATCH, or vice versa -- try both
• The NHTSA provides a car seat fit finder tool at nhtsa.gov to help match seats to vehicles
• If buying online, keep the receipt and packaging in case the seat does not fit and needs to be returned