When to replace your car seat

Car seats are designed to protect your child in a crash — but they don’t last forever. Over time, materials can weaken, standards evolve, and real-world damage can make a seat unsafe to use.

1. After a Crash

Always replace your seat after any collision, even a minor one. Hidden stress or cracks can compromise its structure, even if it looks fine. Some manufacturers allow reuse after very minor bumps (below 10mph), but when in doubt, replace it.

2. If It’s Damaged or Dropped

If the seat has been dropped from around one metre or higher, it should be replaced, even if no damage is visible. If dropped from a lower height, check carefully for cracks, broken parts, or loose fittings — if any are present, don’t use it.

Seats that have been stored in garages, lofts or sheds may also have been exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture or UV, all of which can degrade plastic and webbing and cause mould growth.

3. When It’s Outgrown

Car seats are not age-based — every seat has its own height and/or weight limits that must be followed exactly. Once your child exceeds either limit, the seat is no longer safe to use. All seats can also be outgrown before the stated weight and height limits based on other factors such as harness dipping more than 2cm below the shoulders (when rear-facing), shoulders no longer fitting under the headrest, or head exceeding the outer shell (infant carriers only).

4. When It’s Expired

Most seats last 7–10 years from the date of manufacture. Plastic, foam and harness materials naturally age. Check your seat’s shell for a date stamp and check your seat manual or contact the manufacturer for confirmation.

5. If It’s Second-Hand

Avoid second-hand seats unless you personally know their full history. A seat that’s been in a crash, dropped, or stored badly could be unsafe even if it looks perfect.

FAQ

Do car seats really expire?

Yes. Most last around 7–10 years depending on brand guidance and use.

Can I still use a seat after a minor bump?

Not recommended. Internal damage may not be visible but can affect protection.

Is it okay to buy second-hand?

Only if you know its full history and storage conditions; otherwise, replace it for peace of mind.