Everything You Need To Know About ISOFIX Car Seats
Everything You Need To Know About ISOFIX Car Seats
As a parent, your number one priority is your child’s safety. This is especially true when it comes to travelling in the car. Enter the ISOFIX system – a godsend for parents everywhere. Since 2013, this system has been a legal requirement in new cars with more than two seats, and for good reason. It securely attaches child seats to the car, giving you peace of mind knowing that your child is safe and secure while travelling.
What is ISOFIX?
So, what exactly is ISOFIX? It stands for International Standards Organisation Fix, and it’s a standard used throughout Europe to ensure that child seats are attached to cars in a safe and secure manner. Simply put, ISOFIX consists of two metal hoops – found between the seat cushion and back – that are welded to the car’s lower mounting points. The connectors on the base of a child seat click into these hoops, with some seats also featuring an adjustable leg for extra stability.
Does My Car Have ISOFIX?
If your car was manufactured after February 2013 and has more than two seats, then the answer is yes. However, you may need to do a little digging to find the connectors. Look for a label between the base and back of the seats or remove plastic caps with the ISOFIX logo to uncover the connectors.
Benefits of ISOFIX
One of the greatest advantages of ISOFIX is its simplicity. You can easily see that the child seat is safely connected to your car, reducing the risk of it moving around during travel. But it’s important to note that not all ISOFIX seats are created equal. There are three main types: Vehicle Specific Approval, Semi-universal Approval, and Universal Approval. The type you choose will depend on your child’s age and the type of car you have.
When it comes to choosing the right ISOFIX seat, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Your car’s user manual or the seat manufacturer’s website should provide all the information you need. Make sure to choose a weight-based car seat with a label that features a capital E in a circle and ECE R44 to ensure it’s been EU-approved for use in the UK.
For those interested in the latest innovation, there’s the I-Size child seat. This newer system is all ISOFIX-compatible and complies with the latest European standards for child car seats. I-Size seats are sized according to height, offering more support for children’s heads and necks. Keep in mind that only EU-approved I-Size child seats can be used in the UK, so be sure to check for the capital E in a circle and R129 on the label.
With the ISOFIX system, you can ensure your child is safe and secure while travelling. And with a little research, you can find the perfect seat for your child and car. Happy travels!
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