Parents know that a car seat is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment they can buy for their children. But what happens if you need to replace the car seat base? Do you just replace it with the same model or do you go for something more durable? In this article, we will explore how long a Graco car seat base is good for and which models are more durable. We will also provide some tips on how to prolong the life of your car seat base.
Why Are Graco Car Seat Bases Good?
Graco car seat bases are typically good for around 6 years. This means that the base will still be usable after the child reaches the height and weight limits for their car seat. Additionally, many Graco car seat bases have a built-in harness system that can be used with more than one child.
How to Replace a Graco Car Seat Base
If your car seat base is showing signs of wear and tear, it’s time to replace it. Car seat bases are usually good for about five years. However, if your car seat has been in a crash or taken a lot of abuse, the base may need to be replaced sooner.
To replace the car seat base:
1) Remove the child safety belt from the child’s body and unbuckle the LATCH connectors (if applicable).
2) Remove the old car seat base by unscrewing the four bolts that hold it in place. Be sure to keep track of which bolt goes where – you’ll need it to re-assemble the new base.
3) Clean off any dirt, debris, or grease on the plastic surface of the new car seat base. If there is damage on the surface, do not use this base. Instead, find a replacement base that is compatible with your vehicle.
4) Place the new car seat base on an elevated surface so that you can see if it fits properly. Check to make sure that all four bolts are inserted into their holes correctly and that there is no space between the bottom of the base and the vehicle flooring. If there is space, try tightening one of the bolts until it makes contact with the flooring.
5) Reinstall LATCH connectors if applicable and reinstall child safety belt on child’s body.
When Should You Replace a Graco Car Seat Base?
There are a few factors you’ll want to consider when deciding when it’s time to replace your Graco car seat base. The first is whether or not the base is still in good condition. If it’s showing signs of wear and tear, like cracks or rust, it’s probably time to replace it.
Another factor to consider is how old your child is. While most Graco car seat bases are designed for use between 6 and 18 months, if your child has outgrown the base, you’ll need to buy a new one. Finally, make sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines for how long their bases are supposed to last. Some may last for up to five years while others only last for around two years.
How to Tell if a Graco Car Seat Base is Bad
If your graco car seat base is not making a clicking or rattling sound when you move the seat, it may be time to replace it. The base can last anywhere from 6-12 months, depending on how often it is used and how often it is cleaned. If the base begins to make noise or becomes unstable, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Graco car seat bases are a great investment if you have children. They provide safety and comfort for the child in the car, as well as peace of mind when you’re not there to watch them. The bases typically last around 6-12 months, but it’s always best to check with Graco to make sure they are compatible with your car model and seating position.