One of the 35 child car seats analysed in the child restraint systems report earns five stars

Once again, RACE has published its 2019 child restraint systems (CRS) evaluation report. Only 1 of the 35 analysed has earned five stars.

As every year, RACE has published its 2019 child restraint systems (CRS) evaluation report. This report tests the different child seat models available on the market, with the aim of giving parents additional information about the safety of these devices.

The tests were carried out at the laboratory of ADAC, Germany’s RACE equivalent, in Landsberg. It is worth noting that only one of the 35 child seats analysed achieved the highest score.

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First Child Restraint Systems Report 2019

This first report presents the results of the year’s first tests. 35 child seats were analysed and, overall, the results can be described as fairly satisfactory. The best CRS analysed was the Bebé Confort Jade + 3wayFix, the only one to earn the coveted five stars.

It is important to highlight the change in nomenclature in this report: all the seats are type-approved and suitable for use under European Union regulations. The report now rates CRS using stars, from one to five.

Which child seats achieved the lowest scores?

After analysing the 35 child seats, only four of them obtained a lower score. These are the Babystyle Oyster Carapace Infant + Duofix i-Size Base, the Chicco Oasys i-Size Bebecare + i-Size Base, the Giordani Galaxy 012 and the Maxi-Cosi TobiFix.

Babystyle Oyster Carapace Infant + Duofix i-Size Base

During the analysis of this model, the baby carrier detached from the Isofix base. Specifically, in the frontal impact test, the child dummies were thrown forward with almost no restraint.

Chicco Oasys i-Size Bebecare + i-Size Base

During the frontal impact test, this child restraint system’s integrated harness came loose and the dummy was ejected. It earned just one star in this test, which lowered its average score.

Giordani Galaxy 012

This child seat failed the frontal impact test and the harness is very difficult to fasten. It earned one star on both criteria, which affects the system’s recommendation.

Maxi-Cosi TobiFix

During the analyses these child restraint systems undergo, it was discovered that this child seat contains TCPP flame retardant in the fabric cover at a level exceeding the limits set by Regulation 2014/79/EU.

Report on the 35 child seats analysed

In addition, RACE advises going to the shop with the child to test the seat properly. Even if the report rates a seat as suitable, the child’s physical characteristics, such as weight and height, will determine which seat is most appropriate.

It is also worth noting that the seat belts must be taut and free of creases, and you should also check that the retractors wind up properly.