Yes, Graco car seats do expire, typically after 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture. This is a standard safety practice across the child passenger safety industry, not a marketing ploy. The expiration date is calculated based on the expected lifespan of the materials used to construct the seat. Over time, factors like temperature fluctuations, sunlight exposure, and general wear and tear can degrade the plastic shell and weaken the energy-absorbing foam. This degradation can compromise the seat's ability to protect your child in a crash.
The expiration date is usually stamped directly on the plastic shell of the seat. Look for a label with text like "Do not use after [date]" or a manufacturer date that you add the expiration period to. The specific lifespan can vary by model. Here’s a sample of expiration periods for popular Graco seats:
| Graco Car Seat Model | Typical Expiration Period (from manufacture date) |
|---|
| SnugRide SnugLock Infant Car Seat | 7 years |
| Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat | 10 years |
| TrioGrow SnugLock LX 3-in-1 | 7 years |
| TurboBooster Highback Booster | 10 years |
| Contender Slim Convertible | 10 years |
Never use a car seat that is past its expiration date, has been in a moderate or severe crash, is missing parts, or has a recall that cannot be fixed. If you're unsure about your seat's history or condition, it's always safest to replace it. Many retailers offer trade-in events to help with proper disposal and provide discounts on new seats.
