Convertible Car Seat Information

Safety experts often recommend infant car seats for babies less than 20 pounds because they are built to better accommodate a smaller body and offer a slightly reclined position (which better supports an infant's head). Infant seats usually also double as carriers, so you won't have to wake a sleeping baby every time you leave the car. Infant car seats are addressed in a separate ConsumerSearch report.

Toddler booster seats are designed for older children who have outgrown car seats but are still too small to use adult safety belts. Toddler booster seats are also addressed in a separate ConsumerSearch report.

Experts say that four out of five car seats are improperly installed, so it's a great idea to have your seat checked by professionals. Many fire and police stations offer free inspections; the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website has a list of participating stations.

Hospitals and some Babies "R" Us stores also provide free checks. Some DaimlerChryser dealerships also offer free checks, and you don't have to own a Chrysler to participate. To find additional free check sites, call 1-866-SEAT-CHECK or visit SeatCheck.org.

Several consumer organizations are excellent resources for recall information, including the Consumer Product Safety Commission and National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. Manufacturers generally step up to the plate when a model has been recalled, providing toll-free numbers for repair kits or replacements.

CarSeat.org offers information on types of car seats, fit, features, recalls and frequently asked questions.

CarSeatData.org offers a compatibility chart matching up makes and models of cars to better-fitting seats, as well as other car seat information.

Car-Safety.org offers detailed information and pictures on LATCH and tether use with car seats.

Manufacturers' websites offer detailed specs, recall information and accessory lists for available models:

Britax

Evenflo

Graco

Cosco

Sunshine Kids