Bad Car Seats?

[Whitney]

What's a bad car seat to own? I know that Britax is probably the best but if you can't afford one... what is a good one to get that's affordable?

Is it bad to use previously owned car seats, that have never been in an accident?

[Jennifer]

Bad car seats are expired car seats. I personally wouldnt trust a seat that has had a previous owner.
The Cosco Scenera has really good ratings, and it is not expensive.

I am a Britax Marathon snob though. ;)

[Whitney]

How much does a Britax typically go for? Are they infant seats? The only ones I've seen look like they are the bigger seats.

[MunkyCrazy]

We just got a Scenera since our EFTA was in an accident and we needed a cheap one. I don't like it, the only thing I do like is the size. It fits RF in our car. It feels and looks so much crappier than the EFTA did. I know it probably is as safe but it just doesn't seem sturdy. I want another EFTA or Britax Boulevard when we get the money.

[Jennifer]

I have seen them on sale for $180- and regular price $280. In fact albeebaby.com has the ashley floral marathon on sale right now for $180! They do make an infant seat as well, but I always preferred the graco snugride. My babies only used the infant seat for 6mths max anyway.

[Marissa]

Whit all seats are safe, except expired ones and the ones in accidents.....however there are recommended seats over others, but I agree with Jennifer I would not trust a pre-owned seat given to me unless I trusted that person with my childs life...

Are you trying to get a seat for your new baby? If you want to get an infant seat taht will last at least to a year old or even more is the Graco SafeSeat 1 or the New Graco Snugride 32 now you can always get a cheaper infant seat that will last less time based on height and weight.

All Britax seats (not including the infant seat) are not very suitable for newborns, althought they say you can use them at 5 pounds.......the harness straps over their shoulder are usually a little to high so its not the safest to use at the time.

The Cosco Scenera is a a very affordable seat, we have this one as an extra in DH's truck and the rear facing installation can be tricky sometimes, we use pool noodles to get a good angle but its doable. However for a newborn a bucket infant seat might be more convenient for transporting them in and out or like when you go out to eat and things like that.