How to install a rear facing child seat in an SUV with and without ISOFIX
Installing a rear-facing child seat correctly is crucial for your child’s safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing a 0–4 convertible child seat in rear facing mode in an SUV like the Nissan Qashqai.In this video, carsales contributor Tace Clifford, Founder of Babydrive.com.au will be walking through the steps of how to install a rear-facing child seat with ISOFIX as well as without ISOFIX if you have a car that does not have that option.
All child seats are different so be sure to read your manual first, before installing. If you’re still unsure, you can always utilise the expertise of a local child seat fitter to ensure the seat is correctly installed and your child is safe.
Thanks to Hayden Edwards from Kelvin Edward’s Baby Car Seat Fitting for assisting us in installing the child seat.
Step 1: Understand Your Child Seat and Vehicle
- Read the Manual: Always refer to the child seat and vehicle manuals. Each has specific instructions.
- Know the Modes: The 0–4 convertible seat can be used in rear-facing or forward-facing modes. This guide covers rear facing mode for young children from birth to around 2–4 years old, depending on their size.
Step 2: Use the Top Tether and ISOFIX or Seatbelt
Position the Seat
- Place the child seat on the vehicle seat, facing backwards.
- Ensure it sits flat and even to prevent tilting. Check the recommended recline angle in the manual—most RF seats are set between 40–45 degrees to reduce head flopping for infants
Connect ISOFIX (if available)
- Locate the ISOFIX points in your car.
- Attach the ISOFIX connectors from the child seat to the points.
- Tighten the ISOFix straps while pressing down on the child seat base. Confirm the connectors show green indicators on both sides to ensure proper installation.
Install with a Seatbelt (if ISOFIX is unavailable)
- Locate the blue seatbelt path markers for rear facing mode.
- Thread the seatbelt through the designated path and buckle it in.
- Press down on the seat base and pull the belt tight. Use a red clip or gated buckle to secure the seatbelt firmly.
Step 3: Secure the Top Tether
In the Nissan Qashqai, the Top Tether anchor points are:
- On the back of the seat for the outer seats.
- In the ceiling for the central seat (common in SUVs).
Attach and Tighten
- Pass the Top Tether strap around the sides of the child seat, ensuring it is flat and untwisted.
- Bring the strap over the seatback and clip it to the anchor point.
- Tighten the strap to remove all slack without lifting the child seat off the vehicle seat.
Tidy the Excess Strap
- Roll up and secure the excess Top Tether strap to prevent it from becoming a choking hazard or hitting the child.
Step 4: Double-Check Everything
- Ensure the ISOFIX connectors or seatbelt are secure.
- Confirm the Top Tether strap is tight and untwisted.
- Verify the child seat is stable and doesn’t move excessively.
By following these steps, you can ensure your child seat is installed securely and safely. For additional tips and video tutorials, explore more resources provided by professionals.
Related: I’m having a baby so do I need an SUV?
Related: Which family cars are best for child seats?
Related: Choosing the right type of child car seat
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Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au
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