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Using Multi-Mode Car Seats

Updated

Some car seats can be used in more than one mode as your child grows. Each mode has its own rules for installation, harness use, and seat belt positioning. A car seat must always be used in one fully configured mode at a time according to the instruction manual.

Always Follow the Current Mode: Your car seat may have multiple modes, but you should only follow the instructions for the mode it is currently set to. Never combine rules from different modes. If the seat is in rear-facing, forward-facing, or booster mode, only that mode’s instructions apply.

Rear-Facing Harness Mode

In rear-facing mode:

  • The car seat is installed facing the rear of the vehicle.
  • The harness system is used to secure the child.
  • The child must remain within rear-facing height and weight limits.

Rear-facing mode provides early-stage protection and must only be used within the limits listed in the instruction manual.

Forward-Facing Harness Mode

In forward-facing harness mode:

  • The car seat is installed facing the front of the vehicle.
  • The 5-point harness is used to secure the child.
  • Harness straps must be positioned at or above the child’s shoulders.

Forward-facing use begins only after rear-facing limits are exceeded.

Booster Mode (Seat Belt Use)

In booster mode:

  • The vehicle seat belt is used to secure the child.
  • The car seat positions the seat belt across the child’s body.
  • The harness is not used in this mode.

The seat belt must fit properly across the shoulder and lap as described in the instruction manual.

Important Safety Rule for All Modes

Car seats must never be used in a mixed or partial configuration.

Examples of incorrect use:

  • Using harness parts in booster mode
  • Mixing installation methods between modes
  • Using rear-facing rules on a forward-facing setup

Always fully reconfigure the seat when changing modes.

Understanding Your Seat

Different models may include different combinations of these modes, such as:

  • Rear-facing to forward-facing to booster systems
  • Forward-facing harness to booster systems
  • Extended rear-facing and forward-facing systems

Always check your instruction manual to confirm which modes apply to your specific car seat.

If You Need Help

If you are unsure which mode your car seat is currently in, or how it should be configured, refer to your instruction manual first.

If additional help is needed, contact Customer Care for guidance based on your specific model.

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