In a recent evaluation of infant car seats, Consumer Reports uncovered significant structural issues with two popular models during their enhanced crash tests. Although these seats meet federal safety standards and have no reported incidents, the findings raise concerns for parents seeking the safest options for their children. This report highlights the importance of stringent testing and offers recommendations for safer alternatives.

Rigorous Testing Reveals Structural Weaknesses in Two Infant Car Seats

In the heart of autumn, as families prepare for journeys, Consumer Reports conducted an extensive round of child car seat evaluations. The organization discovered notable structural weaknesses in two infant car seats: the Diono LiteClik30 XT and the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35 Urban Mobility baseless model. While both seats adhere to federal safety regulations and have no documented incidents, they exhibited significant damage during CR's more rigorous crash simulations.

Consumer Reports' tests simulate crashes at speeds higher than the government-mandated 30 mph, opting for a 35 mph impact. Additionally, the tests use real vehicle components to better mimic actual crash conditions. Unlike standard tests, which only assess single impacts, CR’s protocol considers the possibility of multiple impacts in real-world scenarios. Both Diono and Peg Perego showed considerable structural damage after just one impact, highlighting potential risks.

Diono responded by affirming its commitment to passenger safety and is investigating the findings. Peg Perego, on the other hand, stated that further tests using CR’s protocol did not reveal any structural issues. Neither manufacturer has issued a recall, but concerned parents can reach out for more information.

For parents seeking safer options, CR recommends the Clek Liing, which features a "load leg" support for added protection, and the reasonably priced Chicco KeyFit, known for its ease of installation and top safety ratings. Parents can also utilize Consumer Reports' free infant car seat finder tool to make informed choices.

From a reader's perspective, this report underscores the critical need for comprehensive and independent testing of products that safeguard our most vulnerable passengers. It serves as a reminder that while meeting basic safety standards is essential, exceeding them ensures the highest level of protection. Parents should remain vigilant and seek out the latest safety data when making purchasing decisions.