How Long Are Car Seats Good For?

When do car seats expire, specifically baby car seats? Eventually, you’ll have to replace your child’s car seat, but how long can you expect it to last? Usually, most car seats will last anywhere from about 7-10 years before they need to be replaced. Learn how long baby seats are good for the parts team at Suntrup Automotive Group near St. Louis, and visit our parts store when you need to have your car seat replaced.

How to Know If Your Car Seat Has Expired

When do baby seats expire, and how can you tell? Unless the car seat is noticeably damaged, it can be hard to tell if it needs to be replaced. The most efficient way to see if your car seat has expired is to check the sticker on the seat that has the information on the manufacturer date, model number, serial number, and expiration date. Another spot where you can find this information is the plastic shell of the car seat.

What Causes Car Seats to Expire?

How long car seats are good for? It depends on several different things. Here are some of the things that can cause your car seat to expire earlier than expected:

• Plastic: Plastic deteriorates over time, and heat, cold, sunlight, humidity, and age can all make plastic wear down faster.
• Metal: Metal naturally rusts over time, so the more your seat is used, the more the metal will rust.
• Replacement Parts: Sometimes, seats can be discontinued, which can make it difficult to find the replacement parts that you need.
• Technology: With advancement in technology, manufacturers push to make sure that their products are meeting safety standards and other recommended practices.
• Lost Pieces: Small parts on car seats can get lost easily, which can lead to the seat wearing down faster.

If you’ve had your car seat for about 7-10 years, then you should probably check to see if it’s past the recommended expiration date. Otherwise, let our service team at Suntrup Automotive Group near St. Charles take a look at it to see if you need a new one.

Make Sure Your Car Seat Lasts in St. Louis

Now that you know how long car seats are good for, let the service team at Suntrup Automotive Group near Fenton see if you need to get your car seat replaced. Contact us to set up an appointment with our parts and service team, and let us be your go-to experts for more parts tips and information.