A second-hand car seat, chosen well, is good for both your budget and the planet. But when your baby’s safety is at stake, a few things must always be checked.
1. Check the production date
Car seats have a service life; plastic wears out over time. The production date is usually on the label under or behind the seat, and the service life is in the manual. Ask the seller for a photo of the label.
2. Ask about accident history
A seat involved in a crash may have lost its protective qualities even if it looks fine. Everyone selling a car seat on Büyüdü must declare it has not been in an accident.
3. Check the approval label
The seat must carry an ECE R44/04 or R129 (i-Size) approval label. If there is no label or it is unreadable, do not buy it.
4. Test the belts and buckles
Belts should not be frayed and buckles should lock and release in one move. Always ask whether the harness adjuster slides smoothly.
5. No missing parts
The newborn insert, Isofix connectors and manual should all be there. A lost manual can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s website.
6. Check the recall list
Search the manufacturer’s website for recalls with the model number. Büyüdü does not publish listings for recalled models anyway.