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 Marathon (FF)

 

Britax Marathon (FF)

 

Manufacturer  /  Model NameBritax Marathon (FF)
Model Number  /  Manufacture DateE9L0627  /  Jul 30, 2007
Harness Type5-pt
Weight  /  Height20-65 lbs/ 18"to 49"
Evaluation of Labels1 stars
No illustration of a child in the restraint to visually indicate proper size range of child for use. Label does not specifically state with tether for the modes in which it can be used.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
Manual in storage is not accessible in this mode. Some additional sizing information is missing. Indication that the rear seat is the safest place for children is buried within text.
Securing the Child2 stars
Harness clip is not labeled to indicate its placement.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 Features4 stars
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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