Car Seat Expiry Date: What Every Parent Needs to Know in 2025
Did you know your child’s car seat has an expiry date? While it may seem like a marketing gimmick, the car seat expiry date is a crucial safety measure every parent should take seriously.
Why Do Car Seats Expire?
A car seat expiry date ensures that the seat continues to meet evolving safety standards and remains structurally sound. Manufacturers typically set expiry dates between 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture, depending on materials, technology, and crash-test data.
Here’s a quick summary of why they expire:
- Plastic degradation: Over time, heat, sunlight, and wear weaken plastic components
- Outdated safety standards: Safety regulations evolve. An expired seat may lack modern protections
- Missing parts or labels: Expired seats may lose critical safety labels or components
- Unverified crash history: Older, second-hand seats may have been involved in accidents
In short: Using an expired car seat could compromise your child’s safety in the event of a crash.
Where to Find the Expiry Date on a Car Seat?
Most car seats have a label with the expiry date stamped on the base or the underside. If not explicitly stated, check the date of manufacture and refer to the manufacturer’s manual or website. Never guess—verify.
What Happens If You Use an Expired Car Seat?
Although it’s not illegal in many countries to use expired seats, it’s strongly discouraged by road safety organisations. In crash simulations, expired seats have shown a reduced ability to protect a child due to brittle materials and outdated designs.
Additionally, insurance companies may reject claims if an expired safety seat was in use during an accident.
Can You Sell or Donate an Expired Car Seat?
No. Ethical and legal considerations aside, expired car seats should not be reused, sold, or donated. Instead, dismantle and dispose of them properly. Some recycling centres or car seat trade-in programs may accept them.
How to Keep Track of Car Seat Expiry Dates?
- Set calendar reminders a year before the seat expires
- Label the seat visibly with expiry details
- Register your product with the manufacturer for recall updates
- Avoid purchasing second-hand car seats without verifiable history and expiry data
The Bottom Line
The expiration date exists to protect your child—not to force repeat purchases. Replacing your seat in a timely manner ensures it meets current safety standards and performs reliably during a crash.
For a deeper dive into this topic, including how expiry dates are determined, read this guide for the car seat expiry date.
Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Check your car seat’s expiry date today and make the necessary changes if needed. Your child’s safety is worth it.
Looking for high-quality, safety-certified car seats in Malaysia? Explore our range designed with your child’s protection in mind.