Ensuring the safety of young passengers is a top priority for every parent and caregiver. One of the most critical safety measures for children riding in vehicles is the correct use of child safety seats. Despite their importance, many seats are used improperly, leading to increased risks in the event of an accident. Ford dealerships across the country prioritize family safety and are consistently involved in educating the public on best practices regarding child passenger protection. If you’re looking for reliable advice and personalized service, Ford dealers Albuquerque are known for their hands-on approach and dedication to community safety. In this article, we’ll explore five valuable tips from Ford dealerships on how to properly choose, install, and use child safety seats to keep your most precious cargo safe.
Choose the Right Car Seat for Your Child’s Age and Size
One of the first things Ford dealerships emphasize is the importance of selecting the appropriate child safety seat based on your child’s age, weight, and height. Different stages of a child’s development require different types of seats:
- Rear-facing seats are ideal for newborns and infants up to age 2 or until they exceed the height or weight limits specified by the seat’s manufacturer.
- Forward-facing seats with a harness are the next step for toddlers who outgrow rear-facing models, typically used for children aged 2 to 5 years.
- Booster seats are recommended for older children who have outgrown forward-facing seats but are not yet large enough to use the vehicle’s seatbelt alone, usually between ages 5 to 12.
- Seat belts only should only be used when the child is large enough for the belt to fit properly—usually when they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall.
Ford dealerships often provide in-store guidance and printed materials to help parents determine the right type of seat for their children. Choosing the correct seat is the first step to ensuring maximum protection.
Proper Installation Is Key to Effectiveness
According to Ford dealership technicians, even the most expensive or well-designed car seat will fail to provide adequate protection if it’s not installed correctly. Studies have shown that up to 59% of car seats are installed improperly. Ford dealerships typically offer free car seat installation checks during community events or upon request in service departments.
Installation tips from Ford professionals include:
- Use the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) if available in your vehicle, as it simplifies the process and provides a secure connection.
- Ensure the seat does not move more than an inch side-to-side or front-to-back at the belt path.
- Position the seat at the correct angle, especially for rear-facing seats, to protect your baby’s head and neck.
- Always refer to both the vehicle owner’s manual and the car seat manual to follow the proper installation guidelines.
Many Ford models are designed with family-friendly features that make car seat installation more intuitive, including clearly marked anchors and spacious rear seating.
Understand the Importance of the Tether System
Another crucial piece of advice from Ford dealerships is the correct use of the tether strap for forward-facing seats. The tether strap secures the top of the car seat to an anchor point in the vehicle, significantly reducing forward head movement in a crash. Unfortunately, it’s often one of the most overlooked safety components.
Here’s what Ford technicians suggest:
- Always attach the tether when using a forward-facing seat with a harness.
- Locate the tether anchor points in your vehicle—Ford vehicles clearly mark these for easy identification.
- Make sure the tether is tight and flat against the seat back to reduce slack during sudden stops or crashes.
Proper use of the tether system can reduce head movement by up to 6 inches in a crash, which could be the difference between a serious injury and a safe outcome.
Keep Children Rear-Facing for as Long as Possible
One of the most repeated pieces of advice you’ll hear at Ford dealerships is to keep children in rear-facing seats for as long as they meet the seat’s height and weight requirements. Rear-facing seats offer superior protection for the head, neck, and spine in the event of a collision.
Here’s why it matters:
- During a crash, the seat absorbs most of the force, cradling the child’s body and distributing impact evenly.
- It reduces the risk of spinal cord injuries, especially in frontal collisions, which are the most common.
- Most rear-facing seats now accommodate children up to 40 pounds or more, allowing extended rear-facing use.
Parents often worry that their child’s legs appear cramped in a rear-facing seat, but this discomfort is not a safety concern. Ford professionals assure that children are both safe and adaptable in these positions, and comfort shouldn’t override safety.
Never Use Expired or Second-Hand Car Seats
Another key point from Ford dealers is the danger of using old, expired, or second-hand car seats. These seats may no longer meet current safety standards or could have unseen damage from past accidents.
Important tips to keep in mind include:
- Check the expiration date, typically found on a sticker or molded into the plastic of the car seat. Most seats expire 6 to 10 years after manufacture.
- Avoid used seats unless you know the full history, including whether it’s been in a crash, has all original parts, and comes with the instruction manual.
- Inspect the seat for signs of wear, missing components, or damage to the harness system.
Ford dealerships frequently work with local safety organizations to host recycling events where expired car seats can be properly disposed of, ensuring they don’t end up being reused by unsuspecting families.
Conclusion
Child safety in vehicles is not something to take lightly, and Ford dealerships across the country. From choosing the right car seat to installing it correctly and understanding the importance of tethers and seat expiration dates, these tips can dramatically improve child passenger safety. The next time you visit a Ford dealership, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance or guidance—they’re more than happy to help you keep your family safe on the road. When it comes to transporting your children, peace of mind starts with preparation, education, and a commitment to doing things the right way.
