How Long Are Car Seats Good For (And Why)?

Exact Answer: Between 6 and 10 years (Approximately)

Karl Benz, a German inventor, is known to have invented the first, true automobile. He patented a three-wheeled motor known as ‘Motorwagen’. The year 1886 is known as ‘the birth year of cars’. It was in the year 1886, that the Motorwagen was used for the first time. The seats should be comfortable enough to suit long journeys.

Nowadays, cars are been widely used. A large population has cars and find them safer and comfortable to use. Car seats are the first thing that comes to our minds when we think about the comfort level. Car seats do have an expiry period. It is true that car seats also expire after a fixed period from the manufacturing date. Though the car seats won’t start melting or be powdered but should be replaced after a particular period.

How Long Are Car Seats Good For?

In general, car seats are good for about six to ten years from the manufacturing date. So, if a person uses car seats for more than six years, then they should plan to replace their car seats. Car seats are made up of plastic, metal bits, and fabrics covering the seating area. The expiration date is a combination of technology, products integrity, the latest standards, and how used.

The duration of the seats also depends on the material used in making them. Some materials are more durable and can be used for some more time as compared to seats made with less durable materials. The design and the method of installation also affect the duration of the seats.

The easiest way to find when seats will expire is either to ask the manufacturer or to go through the manual provided that contains details about that serial number, manufacturing date, and expiry date. Replacing the seats is good for you, your family, and your safety.

Why Are Car Seats Good For So Long?

Once expired should not be used again or it could be dangerous. PLastics used in the manufacturing of the seats break down, degrade over time, which could be harmful. The metal used in making develops rust in unknown areas which can affect the proper functioning.

There are many reasons behind the expiring of the car seats. One of the reasons is wear and tear. How seats are used and how are they used is very important. If seats are well maintained and cleaned, then they can survive longer.

The temperature of the area where the car stands or is parked is also important because in extreme temperatures the plastic in seats gets tiny cracks that could not be seen but can be dangerous. Changing regulations and standards also affect the duration of the car seats. New rules and regulations are implemented to ensure safety and avoid injury.

Improved technology to increase safety. Manufacturers periodically update designs to improve the performance of their products. In case of an accident or any damage, the car seats should be replaced or repaired well, depending upon the level of the damage caused. The quality of the cars etas should be taken for granted if want safety. Recalls could also be a reason for the expiry of the car seats.

Conclusion

Nothing lasts forever and so are the car seats. The material used in the manufacturing of the seats should be checked while buying the seats or car. The parts used should also be checked to avoid any duplicate material. Good quality seats reduce the risks of injury during an accident.

Once expired, car seats should neither be reused nor should be donated but should be thrown away. Car seats could also be recycled by following proper procedures and methods. Usage of expired car seats increases the chances of getting hurt and reduces safety.

References

1. https://academic.oup.com/jpepsy/article-abstract/6/3/301/898102
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0891524587900952