For new parents, child car seat information can be overwhelming. Don’t worry, Koopers is here to explain in the simplest form in regards to the technical and safety information. With this guidance, you will be able to select the best child seat for your little one.
In Malaysia, every car seat should conform and pass the Europe regulations before sold in the market. There are two types, namely, ECE R44/04 and ECE R129. What are the differences?
ECE R44/04 is based on child’s weight while ECE R129 is based on child’s height. Under ECE R44/04, each child seat model is tested and classified under different weight class (also known as Group). The weight for each Group is fixed across all ECE R44/04 car seats:
| ECE | Group | Child’s Weight |
R44/04 | 0+ | Between 0-13kg |
| I | Between 9-18kg | Between 9-18kg |
| II | Between 15-25kg | Between 15-25kg |
| III | Between 22-36kg | Between 22-36kg |
Select a child car seat that is most suitable for your child’s weight. Never use a child car seat that does not support your child’s weight.
Fun fact!Parents often choose Group 0+, I, II, III child car seat that is able to support from newborn up to 12 years for longer usage.
INSTALLATION METHOD
Once you have narrowed down the options based on the weight class, next is to look at the child seat installation method(s). A correct installation will reduce the risk of injury during a collision. Similarly, a poor or inaccurate installation will lead to a bigger risk of injury.
Based on ECE R44/04 regulations, there are two ways to secure the child seat in a vehicle, either BELT or ISOFIX. ISOFIX comes with either top-tether or support leg option. Please take note that no matter what type of installation method, all child car seats should be secured by a 3-point installation.
Refer graphic for better understanding:
EASIER & FASTER INSTALLATION
What is ISOFIX?
ISOFIX comes with top tether or support leg option. If your vehicle is equipped with ISOFIX anchorage points, you can install an ISOFIX car seat by simply attach the child car seat ISOFIX connectors onto the vehicle’s anchorage points. Once locked, attach and tighten the top tether hook onto the compartment stated. If you opt for an ISOFIX with load leg, lengthen the leg until it touches the ground of the vehicle firmly. With ISOFIX, there is no need to utilise the vehicle seat belt.
TOP TETHER vs LOAG LEG
What is a top tether?
A top tether is attached to the child seat and usually found behind the child seat. Top tether should be placed over the backrest of the vehicle seat and attached to the top tether anchorage point. The purpose of the top tether is to help prevent roll over of the child car seat in the event of an impact, and thus, reducing the risk of injury.
What is a load leg?
A load leg is a support which extends from the base of a child car seat to the floor/ground of the vehicle. The purpose of the load leg is to absorb impact and prevents roll over during a collision.
Select a child car seat that has a compatible installation method with your vehicle. Do check the availability in your vehicle before you purchase the child car seat. You are not allowed to modify the seat to fit the vehicle. Do not buy an ISOFIX car seat if your vehicle doesn’t have ISOFIX system.
Fun fact! Choose child car seat that has dual-fix installation method, which mean it can be installed using belt or ISOFIX methods.