Car seat bases typically expire 6 to 10 years from their date of manufacture. This expiration date is not a suggestion but a critical safety guideline. The primary reason is the degradation of materials, especially the plastics, which can become brittle and less effective in absorbing crash forces over time. Using an expired base significantly compromises its ability to protect your child in a collision.
You can find the manufacture date on a sticker on the base itself, often located on the bottom or the back. The label will state the exact date or use a code that you can reference with the manufacturer. The expiration date is usually also printed there or can be calculated by adding the recommended service life (e.g., 7 years) to the manufacture date.
Beyond the simple age of the base, other factors necessitate replacement. You must replace the base immediately if it has been in a moderate or severe car accident. Even a minor fender-bender can cause hidden stress cracks. Furthermore, if the base shows any visible signs of wear like cracks, fading, or broken parts, or if the manufacturer has issued a recall for your model, it should no longer be used.
Here is a general guideline for the expiration periods of major brands (always check your specific model's manual):
| Brand | Typical Expiration Period | Key Factor |
|---|
| Graco | 10 years | Model-specific; some are 7 years |
| Chicco | 6 to 8 years | Varies by model; check label |
| Britax | 6 to 10 years | Often 10 years for newer models |
| Evenflo | 6 to 8 years | Standard industry practice |
| Maxi-Cosi | 7 to 10 years | Depends on materials used |
| Safety 1st | 6 years | Commonly a 6-year lifespan |
| Clek | 7 to 9 years | Based on rigorous testing |
Always register your car seat base with the manufacturer after purchase. This is the only way to be notified directly if a safety recall is issued.
