How Long are Car Seats Good for?

Although you might find it surprising, car seats do actually have an expiration date. It makes sense the more you think about it; baby seats go through a lot of wear and tear. So, on that note, how long are car seats good for? When do car seats expire? You can only use a car seat safely for a certain amount of time, which is usually about 7-10 years. Have a car seat for your little one, or planning to purchase one soon for your new ? Below, you can learn more about baby seats and how long they last. 

How Can You Tell if a Baby Seat is Expired? 

Unless a car seat is visibly damaged, it’s probably not immediately apparent that it’s out of date. The best way to tell if a car seat is expired is to search for a sticker that provides information on the manufacture date, model and serial number, and expiration date. You might also be able to find this information imprinted onto the car seat’s plastic shell. 

Why Do Car Seats Expire?

Car seats are mostly made of hard plastic, so it’ll take a beating as you commute around Toms River. There are several reasons why car seats expire, including: 

• Hard plastic deteriorates over time. External influences like heat, cold, sunlight, humidity, and age can make hard plastic more brittle. 
• In addition to hard plastics, car seats are also made up of metal parts, which can begin to rust over time. 
• Baby seats can become discontinued over time, making it extremely difficult to find replacement parts. 
• Advancements in technology. Thanks to a focus on research and development, technological breakthroughs happen at a rapid clip these days, and manufacturers want to make sure their products meet updated safety standards and best practice recommendations.
• Sometimes, car seats fall out of favor because of advancements in technology. Technologies and safety standards evolve, leading to models that are safer and easier to use. 
• Over time, baby seats may lose pieces; the seat pads are washed repeatedly, and the belts are rotated over and over again. Car seats are hard to use if they don’t have all of their parts or working parts. 

Get More Car Care Tips from Automotive Avenues! 

If you have any more questions about how long baby seats last, reach out to the experts at Automotive Avenues near Trenton and Howell Township. While you’re here, be sure to check out our car-buying tips hub, so you can get even more information on how to care for your vehicle. Don’t hesitate to contact us online or call us at 856-539-0105 to learn more about How Much it is to Ceramic Coat a Car or Creating a Winter Emergency Kit for Your Vehicle.