5 Things You Should Know About The LATCH System When Buying A Used Car
Posted on: 1 July 2015
If you are thinking of purchasing a used vehicle and using the LATCH system in it, there are five things you should know before you begin shopping.
The LATCH System Became Common Around 2000 and Required in 2002
While top tethers in vehicles have been an extra option for decades, the complete LATCH system, which includes lower anchors as well as a top tether, only became popular in 2000. It became required for most vehicles and car seats on September 1, 2002, but there are still some seats or vehicles made after that date that are not required to include lower anchors.
If you are interested in using a LATCH system to secure your child's car seat, you should look for used vehicles newer than 2000, concentrating on vehicles made after 2002. If you are unsure whether a car you are interested in supports LATCH, you should consult the owners manual and find the lower anchors and tether at the dealership before you proceed with your purchase.
You should keep in mind that some lower anchors are wedged deep in the crack of the rear seat, which can make it difficult to determine whether a vehicle has LATCH by a quick glance. This deep positioning can also make it difficult to attach your lower anchors, depending on the size of your hands and your style of car seat.
Top Tethers Can Often Be Retrofitted While the Lower Anchors Cannot
If you are considering purchasing a vehicle without LATCH, you may be wondering whether you can install a similar system yourself. Top tethers can generally be retrofitted into vehicles made after 1989, which is important because it is the top tether that keeps your child's head from moving too much during an accident. You can either purchase a tether kit to install it yourself or take your car to a dealership or mechanic to have them install a tether.
The lower anchors are more difficult to install, and there are only a few models that allow retrofitting of lower anchors. However, it is important to note that a top tether can be used in combination with a traditional seat belt installation of a car seat to reduce the chances of injury.
Lower Anchors Can Be Damaged During a Crash or If They Are Misused
Some vehicles allow what is known as borrowing of the lower latches. This means that a seat positioned in the middle of the vehicle can use the anchors from the seats next to it. Other vehicles and car seats note that borrowing anchors can cause damage to the seat or the LATCH system.
Before purchasing a used vehicle, it is important to run the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through a VIN check to make sure the vehicle has not been listed as a salvage vehicle. You should also inspect the anchors visually and through touch for signs of rust or cracks.
Cars Rarely Have the LATCH System in Every Position
Even if a car has LATCH, it does not mean that it has it available in every seat, especially in cars with three rows of seats. You should check for lower anchors in the seat you plan to install your child's seat in before making a purchase.
Not Every LATCH System Works With Every Car Seat
If you already have a car seat that you have invested money in and your child likes, you will want to continue using it. Unfortunately, not every car seat fits easily into every vehicle. The spacing of the anchors, the shape of the seat in the vehicle and the shape of the base of the car seat all contribute to a snug fit and easy installation.
You should take your car seat with you to the dealership to test it in the vehicle you wish to purchase. If you have not purchased a car seat yet, you should purchase the vehicle first and then find an appropriate seat afterwards.
Keep this information in mind as you visit dealerships like Auto Max, and you'll be able to find the right option for your family's needs.
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