Keeping your family safe on the road is one of the most important responsibilities of being a parent. From regular vehicle maintenance to buckling up your kids for every ride, safety is always the top priority, especially when it comes to young children. While today’s vehicles are built with advanced protection systems, nothing replaces the proper use of a child safety seat.
At Placentia Super Service, we’ve been helping families stay road-safe since 1978. We understand the unique needs of parents in our community, and we’re here to support you with clear, trustworthy advice to make every drive a safe one, starting with your child’s car seat.
Start with the Basics: Why Car Seat Safety Matters
Whether you're commuting through Placentia, picking up the kids in Fullerton, or road-tripping out of Orange County, your child’s car seat is their first line of defense in an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a properly used car seat can reduce fatal injury risk by up to 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers in passenger cars.
Yet studies show nearly half of all car seats are either installed incorrectly or used improperly, making your child more vulnerable in the event of a crash. That’s why it’s essential to follow best practices from the beginning.
Choose the Right Car Seat for Their Age and Size
All car seats are not created equal, and using the right one for your child’s stage of development is key:
Rear-facing car Seats are for infants and young toddlers. Children should stay rear-facing as long as possible, usually until age 2 or until they outgrow the height/weight limits listed by the seat manufacturer.
Forward-Facing Car Seats with a Harness come next. These are designed for children who have outgrown rear-facing seats but still need the extra security of a five-point harness system.
Booster Seats are for older kids who are not quite ready for a standard seatbelt. Boosters position the seatbelt correctly across your child’s chest and hips to provide full protection.
Seat Belts Alone are appropriate once your child is at least 4'9" and can sit with their back against the seat and knees bent over the edge without slouching—typically between ages 8–12.
Not sure if your current car seat is the best fit? Our team is happy to take a look when you bring your vehicle in for service.
Make Sure It’s Installed Properly
Even the best car seat won’t protect your child if it isn’t installed correctly. Follow both your car seat’s instruction manual and your vehicle’s owner’s manual for proper placement and secure attachment. Here’s what to double-check:
The seat should not move more than an inch side-to-side or front-to-back when pulled at the base.
Harness straps should be snug and lie flat, with the chest clip positioned at armpit level.
Use either the LATCH system or seatbelt for installation—but not both, unless the manufacturer allows it.
Still not confident? Fire departments and local safety organizations often offer free car seat inspections definitely worth taking advantage of.
Keep an Eye on Expiry Dates and Safety Recalls
Yes, car seats expire! Plastics degrade over time, and evolving safety standards mean older models may not provide the same protection. Most seats have an expiration date printed on the back or bottom, so check it and register the seat online to stay up-to-date on recalls.
Also, avoid using seats that have been in a moderate or severe accident, even if there’s no visible damage.
Don’t Forget About Everyday Safety Habits
Avoid bulky clothing in the car seat. Thick jackets can compress in a crash, making the harness less effective. Instead, buckle the child snugly and cover them with a blanket if needed.
Set a good example. Buckle up every time you get in the car. Kids are always watching and learning.
In fact, with local CarMax teams currently backed up, we’re helping lots of families right now with overflow warranty service. We’ll coordinate directly with your provider and handle the paperwork, so you can focus on your family, not your car repair.
Trust Placentia Super Service with Your Family’s Safety
We’re more than just your neighborhood mechanic; we’re part of your community. Whether you're stopping by for an oil change or asking us to check your car seat setup, you can count on our ASE-certified team to treat you like family.
Since 1978, Placentia Super Service has proudly served the families of Placentia, Yorba Linda, Fullerton, Brea, and beyond. When you choose us, you’re choosing a shop that values honesty, transparency, and your peace of mind.
Schedule your next service today at www.placentiasuperservice.com or call (714) 984-0948.
We’re here to keep your whole family rolling safely one ride at a time.