Child Restraint System (CRS) Selection

When selecting a child restraint system for your child, always:

• Make sure the child restraint system has a label confirming that it meets the applicable safety standards of your country. A child restraint system may only be installed if it has been approved in accordance with ECE-R44 or ECE-R129.
• Select a child restraint system based on your child's height and weight. The required label or instructions for use usually contain this information.
• Select a child restraint system that is suitable for the vehicle seating position where it will be used.
• Read and follow the warnings and installation instructions provided with the child restraint system.

Types of Child Restraint Systems

There are three main types of child restraint systems: rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster restraint systems.

They are classified according to the age, height and weight of the child.

Rear-Facing Child Restraint System

A rear-facing child restraint system provides restraint with the seat surface against the back of the child. The shell holds the child in place and, in an accident, acts to keep the child in the child restraint system and reduce the load on the fragile neck and spinal cord.

All children under one year old must always ride rear-facing in a child restraint system. There are different types of rear-facing child restraint systems: infant-only restraint systems may only be used rear-facing. Convertible and 3-in-1 child restraint systems usually have higher height and weight limits for the rear-facing position, which allows you to keep your child facing rearward for a longer period.

Continue to use rear-facing child restraint systems for as long as the child fits within the height and weight limits permitted by the child restraint system manufacturer.

Forward-Facing Child Restraint System

A forward-facing child restraint system secures the child's body with a harness. Keep children in a forward-facing child restraint system with the harness until they reach the maximum height or weight limit permitted by the child restraint system manufacturer.

Once your child outgrows the child restraint system, your child is ready for a booster seat.

Child Seats

A booster is a child restraint system designed to improve the fit of the vehicle's seat belt system. The booster seat positions the seat belt so that it correctly rests on the stronger parts of your child's body. Keep your children in boosters until they are large enough to wear the seat belt properly.

For the seat belt to fit properly, the lap belt must lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the abdomen. The shoulder belt must lie comfortably across the shoulder and chest, and not across the neck or face. Children under 13 years old must always be properly restrained to minimize the risk of injury in an accident, sudden stop, or sudden maneuver.