I'm having a difficult time getting the seat belts in the back seat tighten enough so that my son's car seat is secure. Feedback?
I had my infant seat in the middle without any problems but when my daughter turned 20lbs I had to get her the next seat and it is still rear facing and the angling was difficult but we did ok when we used tethers that connected to the front passenger track on the floor. Maybe your seat is not the best one for our Prius. I had the Britax Companion and now have the Britax Roundabout. There are a few people who have posted that have 3 car seats in the back row. They might be able to help you, too. Good luck. Dawn
Try and try again.... I literally sat on the seat, pulled the strap tight, buckled it and pulled it tighter yet. Also, are you using the seat belt or the LATCH system? LATCH is easier to get secure IMO.
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(efusco @ Jun 2 2007, 10:15 AM) [snapback]453864[/snapback]</div> +1 The LATCH system is the preferred option.
Just make sure if you are using the LATCH anchors that you install the seat behind either the passenger or driver's seat. The LATCH anchors are not meant to be used with the carseat in the center position. It is OK to install a carseat in the center position using the seatbelt - the locking clip that came with your carseat should help to keep the belt tight. Just check your carseat manual for installation instructions. PS. Once your child reaches 40 lbs, the carseat should be restrained with the seatbelts rather than the LATCH anchors. PPS. Also, don't try to use the LATCH and seatbelt restraints in combination. One or the other - never both together!
Phred has good points. I would use the latch up until 40# though - I feel like to utilize the seatbelts I'd need the assistance of a Fireman to get it right (ours do free carseat assists at the station) - I just don't want to get it wrong!
You might try this: Pull the seat belt to the maxiumn length to engage the locking system, then put all of your weight on the seat, then pull the seat belt as tight as possible. When you take your weight off it will then be secure. Nathan
Your local fire depts will install your seat for you, there is acually certified personell in fire depts. in case you do want to fool with it....
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Phred @ Jun 2 2007, 11:29 AM) [snapback]454001[/snapback]</div> Phred - I wonder if you would mind posting your references to this information? This info had me in a tailspin after I read it because much of it was the opposite of the installation I had done. I subsequently spent a lot of time researching these claims in both the Prius and Britax manuals, as well as several related websites. Based on my reading, in the end I decided to keep my 45# daughter's Britax Regent in the center position, with no locking clip, using the seat/lap belt, the LATCH's and the rear tether. Same config for my wife's Lexus.
I have a question on the same topic. Is there sufficient space in the Prius to install an infant carseat (Graco SnugRide) and keep the front seats in a comfortable position. I currently have a 05 Corolla and it is tight - the front passenger seat needs to be nearly the front-most position. Will the Prius have the space I need so that everyone can sit comfortably? thanks for any advice/info.
