The safest place to install a car seat depends on both your vehicle and your specific car seat model. While the rear center seat is often considered the preferred location when a proper installation can be achieved, it is not the best or safest choice in every vehicle.
Always follow both your vehicle owner's manual and your car seat instruction manual to determine which seating positions are approved for installation.
A correct harness fit and a correct installation location must both be achieved for safe use.
General Seating Recommendations
When choosing where to install your car seat:
- Install the car seat in the back seat whenever possible.
- Use only seating positions approved by both your vehicle manufacturer and your car seat manufacturer.
- Make sure the car seat moves no more than 1 inch from side to side or front to back when checked at the belt path.
- Never use a seating position that is prohibited by your vehicle owner's manual.
A correctly installed car seat in an approved seating position provides the best protection for your child.
Rear Center vs. Outboard Seating
The rear center seat may offer additional protection in some vehicles because it is farther from potential side impacts. However, not every vehicle or car seat allows for a safe installation in the center position.
If a secure installation cannot be achieved in the rear center seat, install the car seat in another approved rear seating position where it can be installed correctly.
A properly installed car seat in an approved outboard seating position is safer than an improperly installed car seat in the center seat.
Installing with LATCH or the Vehicle Seat Belt
Depending on your vehicle and car seat, you may install the car seat using either the LATCH system or the vehicle seat belt.
Not all seating positions support LATCH installation, and both the vehicle and the car seat may have specific limits for LATCH use.
LATCH should only be used within the weight limits listed in your vehicle owner’s manual and your car seat instruction manual. Once those limits are reached, the car seat must be installed using the vehicle seat belt instead.
Always follow both instruction manuals to determine the correct installation method for your seating position.
Need Help?
If you have questions about which seating position to use or whether your car seat is installed correctly, refer to your vehicle owner's manual and your car seat instruction manual first.
If you still need assistance, contact Customer Care. Our team can help guide you through your car seat's installation instructions and proper use based on your product documentation.