2008 Child Safety Seat Ease of Use Ratings

 

Are All Seats Safe?
All car seats rated by NHTSA meet Federal Safety Standards & strict crash performance standards. While all rated seats are safe, they do differ in their ease of use in four basic catagories:

 

Evaluation of Instructions

Vehicle Installation Features

Evaluation of Labels

Securing the Child

 

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Britax Decathlon (RF)

 

Britax Decathlon (RF)

 

Manufacturer  /  Model NameBritax Decathlon (RF)
Model Number  /  Manufacture DateE9L47J3  /  Aug 18, 2007
Harness Type5-pt
Weight  /  Height5-33lbs/up to 49"
Evaluation of Labels2 stars
No illustration of a child in the restraint to visually indicate proper size range of child for use. No additional sizing information on labeling.Label is unclear as to which harness slots are appropriate for this mode. Labels do not sufficiently explain use of LATCH.
Evaluation of Instructions5 stars
Manual in storage is not accessible in this mode. Some additional sizing information is missing. Must read text to properly install LATCH and/or tether for this mode.
Securing the Child3 stars
Harness clip is not labeled to indicate its placement.Headrest or other object in the way of harness slots. Must re-thread harness to adjust. Must read manual to convert to other mode(s).Loose mandatory pieces exist if seat is disassembled for cleaning.
Installation Features1 stars
Hand does not fit easily or is uncomfortable in seatbelt routing path. Possible contact between seat belt/LATCH belt and harness/crotch strap. Must read manual for guidance on use of belt positioning device.Less than three levels of recline present.Lower attachments do not need to be twisted to remove from vehicle, but may require some other action from the user.
Overall Ease of Use Rating2 stars

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