February 25, 2004

By: William Armstrong
Website: http://www.1st-in-cars.com

Consumer Reports Guides Parents to Safest Car-Seat Choices

Car seats have come a long way since Consumer Reports first crash-tested them for the magazine's August 1972 issue and rated 12 out of 15 of them Not Acceptable, saying the restraints "proved shockingly inadequate.

Results of CR's most recent tests of child seats, published in the May 2003 issue, show that parents now have excellent choices in all car-seat categories. But CR also found that some of the new LATCH seats, which have been redesigned with lower anchors and a top tether to make them easier to install-and thus more likely to be used correctly-had design flaws or were difficult to make fit securely.

CR evaluated 25 car seats, including 14 infant or convertible car seats and 11 booster seats, priced from $20 to $230, for their crash protection, ease of use, and fit to vehicle. The ratings and full report can be accessed free online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

CR's test results underscore the importance for parents of checking the fit of any car seat they are considering in their own car and to make sure that the seat is easy to use before committing to buying it. Conversely, if parents are buying a new car, they should take their child seats with them to make sure they fit properly. CR also recommends that parents look for local car-seat inspection sites to ensure their seats are installed correctly.

About The Author:

William Armstrong is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-cars.com.  Great car accessories and parts plus financing, insurance and leasing tips.