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 Diplomat (RF)

 

Britax Diplomat (RF)

 

Manufacturer  /  Model NameBritax Diplomat (RF)
Model Number  /  Manufacture DateE9L6669  /  Sep 18, 2007
Harness Type5-pt
Weight  /  Height5-35 lbs/22"-33"
Evaluation of Labels2 stars
No illustration of a child in the restraint to visually indicate proper size range of child for use. Sizing information is separate from illustration of child in restraint. Label is unclear as to which harness slots are appropriate for this mode. Labels do not sufficiently explain use of LATCH.
Evaluation of Instructions4 stars
No dedicated storage system for manual/manual hangs on stringIncorrect or no illustration of proper child in restraint and installed in rear vehicle seat. Must read text to properly install LATCH and/or tether for this mode. One or more labels does not match information in the instruction manual.
Securing the Child4 stars
Harness clip is not labeled to indicate its placement.Must read manual to convert to other mode(s).Loose mandatory pieces exist if seat is disassembled for cleaning.
Installation Features2 stars
Possible contact between seat belt/LATCH belt and harness/crotch strap. Must read manual for guidance on use of belt positioning device.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 Rating3 stars

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