When To Buy A New Car Seat May 2026

Switch to a booster when their shoulders are above the highest harness slot or their ears reach the top of the seat headrest. 2. The Expiration Date

Buying a new car seat is a major milestone, but it’s often driven by safety requirements rather than just "sizing up." 1. The "Inch" Rule (Outgrowing the Current Seat) when to buy a new car seat

You may not need to replace it after a "minor" crash if: The vehicle was driven away from the crash. The door nearest the car seat was undamaged. No occupants were injured. The airbags did not deploy. There is no visible damage to the car seat. Pro-Tip: The "Hand-Me-Down" Check Switch to a booster when their shoulders are