The range of child car seats constantly evolves. New models, features, and safety elements enter and exit the market. A constant is the child car seat test by the TCS, which this autumn scrutinised 17 models. It was particularly concerning that two models exhibited serious safety defects. Therefore, the TCS strongly advises against purchasing the Chipolino Olympus i-Size and Reecle 360 models and already issued a safety warning on October 1.
The TCS conducts the child seat test in conjunction with other European automobile clubs and consumer organisations. The tests focused on safety during front and side collisions, handling, cleaning, and craftsmanship, as well as the ergonomics and any potential toxins in the products.
High PFAS levels are particularly concerning. In addition to the models with safety issues mentioned initially, the Nomad Plus model from Maxi-Cosi also received a recommendation of 'not recommended'. The main reason is its high content of PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances). The Nomad Plus child car seat also showed shortcomings in a frontal crash.
The child car seat test naturally also yielded positive results. Of the 17 tested models, five child car seats received the 'highly recommended' rating. The test winner is the Kidfix Pro car seat from the manufacturer Britax Römer. In particular, the model performed very well in safety tests. For children from around four years of age, the child car seat is particularly well suited.
The latest child car seat test has once again shown that there are significant quality differences among the models and that not all meet the TCS requirements. Before purchasing a child car seat, it is important to research extensively and bring the child and the car seat to try different models during purchase. After purchase, it is advisable to familiarise oneself with how to handle the car seat. Pay particular attention to the car seat's operating instructions and the car manufacturer's model list.
Children should be properly secured during car rides:
- Adjust the child car seat to the current height of the child. - Position the child car seat on the back seat whenever possible. The safest entry and exit are from the side facing away from traffic. - Ensure that the child car seat is firmly connected to the vehicle. - Tighten the seatbelt so that it fits snugly against the child's body, with no slack. Open or remove thick winter jackets. - Booster seats with a backrest offer more safety and comfort than those without. - Adjust the belt path and headrest to the growing child. - Do not use rear-facing systems on the front passenger seat with active front airbags.
Press contact:
Marco Wölfli, Media Spokesperson TCS Tel. 058 827 34 03
marco.woelfli@tcs.ch