The UPPAbaby Mesa car seat can typically be used for 6 to 7 years from its date of manufacture. This lifespan is determined by two key factors: the seat's expiration date and the child's growth. The expiration date, usually stamped on the bottom or back of the seat shell, is non-negotiable for safety, as plastic and other materials degrade over time.
Your child will likely outgrow the seat by height or weight long before it expires. The Mesa is designed for infants from 4 to 35 pounds and up to 32 inches tall. Most children reach the height limit before the weight limit, often around 12 to 18 months of age, signaling it's time to transition to a rear-facing convertible seat.
| Factor | Specification | Details |
|---|
| Standard Expiration | 7 years | Found on a sticker/embossed on the seat. |
| Weight Limit (Rear-Facing) | 4 - 35 lbs | Minimum weight often requires an infant insert. |
| Height Limit | Up to 32" | Child's head must be at least 1" below the shell's top. |
| Average Use Duration | 9 - 18 months | Based on child's growth rate, not the seat's expiration. |
| Key Growth Indicator | Height | Most children outgrow by height first. |
Always register your car seat with UPPAbaby to receive direct notifications about any safety recalls. The most important rule is to stop using the seat immediately if it has been in a moderate or severe crash, as its structural integrity may be compromised. Regularly check for recalls on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
