Child car seats

Despite best intentions, over 50% of child car seats in the UK are incorrectly fitted or used 1. These errors can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the seat in a crash. Here are the most frequent mistakes — and how to fix them.

Incorrect installation

Problem: The seat isn’t compatible with the car or hasn’t been fitted securely.

Fix: Always check compatibility with your vehicle and follow both the car seat and vehicle manuals. Use ISOFIX if available.

Loose harness straps

Problem: Straps allow too much movement.

Fix: Perform the pinch test — if you can pinch the strap at the shoulder, it’s too loose.

Switching to forward-facing too early

Problem: Many parents turn seats forward at 15 months or earlier.

Fix: Keep children rear-facing as long as possible — ideally until age 4 — for better head, neck, and spine protection.

Bulky clothing

Problem: Coats and padded clothing prevent harnesses from fitting snugly.

Fix: Remove bulky layers before strapping in. Use blankets over the harness if needed.

Using the wrong seat for age/size

Problem: Children outgrow seats or are placed in boosters too soon.

Fix: Regularly check your child’s weight and height against the seat’s limits. Upgrade only when they’ve truly outgrown it .

Harness twisting

Problem: Twisted straps reduce effectiveness.

Fix: Straighten straps every time before securing your child.

Not using the top tether

Problem: Many forward-facing seats include a top tether to prevent the seat from tipping forward in a crash — but it’s often left unused.

Fix: Always attach the top tether to the correct anchor point in your car. It significantly reduces head movement during a collision.

Incorrect shoulder strap position

Problem: Harness straps are often placed too high or too low

Fix:

• For rear-facing seats: straps should be at or just below the child’s shoulders.
• For forward-facing seats: straps should be at or just above the shoulders.

Seat not resting properly on the vehicle seat

Problem: Some car seats don’t sit flush against the car’s seat, especially in vehicles with deep bucket seats.

Fix: Check the seat’s compatibility with your car model. Use a rolled towel or pool noodle (if allowed by the manufacturer) to adjust the angle.

Buckle crunch

Problem: The seat belt buckle sits against the car seat’s frame, which can cause it to fail in a crash.

Fix: Reposition the seat or use a different seating position in the car to avoid buckle crunch.

Using a seat after a crash

Problem: Even minor accidents can compromise a seat’s integrity.

Fix: Replace the seat after any crash, unless the manufacturer explicitly states it’s safe to reuse.

Using second-hand or expired seats

Problem: Older seats may not meet current safety standards or could be damaged.

Fix: Avoid second-hand seats unless you know the full history. Always check the expiration date (usually 6 to 10 years from manufacture).

Child escaping the harness

Problem: Some children wriggle out of the harness or undo the buckle.

Fix: Ensure the harness is snug and correctly positioned. Avoid aftermarket clips or accessories unless approved by the seat manufacturer.

Incorrect use of booster cushions

Problem: Backless booster cushions offer less side-impact protection and are often used too early.

Fix: Use a high-backed booster until the child is tall enough to sit safely with just a seatbelt.