Published July 9, 2025
Child Car Seat Recalls: How to Check and What to Do
Child car seats are one of the most critical safety devices in any vehicle, and recalls on car seats require immediate attention. NHTSA issues dozens of car seat recalls each year for defects ranging from harness buckle failures to base attachment problems. Here is how to check your car seat and what to do if it is recalled.
Why Car Seat Recalls Matter
A child car seat is designed to protect a child in a crash by keeping them restrained in the correct position. When a defect compromises the seat's ability to restrain or protect the child, the consequences can be severe. NHTSA considers car seat safety a top priority and investigates every report of a car seat failure.
Common car seat defects include harness buckle mechanisms that do not latch or release properly, base attachment systems that can loosen during a crash, harness webbing that can tear, recline mechanisms that fail, and labeling errors that lead to incorrect installation.
How to Check for Car Seat Recalls
The most reliable way to check is through the NHTSA car seat recall page. You will need the manufacturer name and model number, which are printed on the label attached to the seat. Do not rely solely on the retailer or the seat's packaging — always verify directly with NHTSA.
You should also register your car seat with the manufacturer. Federal law requires car seat manufacturers to include a registration card with every new seat. Registering ensures that you receive recall notices directly from the manufacturer. Many manufacturers now offer online registration.
What to Do If Your Car Seat Is Recalled
First, read the recall notice carefully to understand the specific defect and risk level. Some recalls require immediate action — stop using the seat and contact the manufacturer for a replacement. Others may involve less urgent issues where you can continue using the seat while awaiting a repair kit.
Contact the manufacturer using the phone number or website listed in the recall notice. They will send you a free repair kit, replacement part, or entirely new seat depending on the nature of the defect. Never attempt to repair a recalled car seat yourself unless the recall specifically instructs you to install a manufacturer-provided repair kit.
Buying Used Car Seats: Recall Risks
The Consumer Reports and NHTSA both advise caution when buying used car seats. Used seats may have been involved in a crash (which compromises their structural integrity), may be past their expiration date, or may be subject to an unrepaired recall. If you do buy a used seat, always check the recall status and manufacture date before using it.
Car Seat Safety Beyond Recalls
Even if your car seat is not recalled, proper installation and use are essential. NHTSA estimates that nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly. Many fire stations, hospitals, and police departments offer free car seat inspection and installation assistance. Visit SaferCar.gov to find a car seat inspection station near you.
As with vehicle recalls, staying informed is the best protection. Check your car seat recall status at least once a year, and whenever NHTSA announces a major car seat recall campaign. You can also check your vehicle for open vehicle recalls at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit NHTSA.gov/equipment/car-seats-and-booster-seats and use the recall lookup tool. You can search by manufacturer and model number, which is found on the label on the side or bottom of the seat. You can also register your car seat with the manufacturer to receive recall notices directly.
It depends on the recall. Some recalls involve defects that pose an immediate risk (like harness buckle failures), while others address less urgent issues. Read the specific recall notice carefully — it will state whether you should stop using the seat immediately or can continue using it while awaiting the repair kit.
Yes. Manufacturers must provide a free remedy for recalled car seats, which may include a repair kit, replacement part, or a completely new car seat. Contact the manufacturer directly using the information in the recall notice.
Most car seat manufacturers recommend replacing seats after 6-10 years from the manufacture date, depending on the model. The expiration date is printed on the seat label. Expired seats may not perform correctly in a crash due to material degradation, regardless of recall status.