Car seats with Isofix: features and varieties

Car seats have long been a must-have item on parents' shopping lists. They provide not only the safety of the child, but also his convenience while moving in the car. Since 2011, in Europe, the Isofix system with metal fasteners has become a mandatory element, which is fixed more reliably and quickly to the car body than the seats fastened with an ordinary seat belt.

In this article, we will take a closer look at what the Isofix system is, its pros and cons, how to properly install such chairs, what to look for when buying, and we will also review popular models.

What is it and what is it for?

According to the legislation of the Russian Federation, children under 12 years old should be transported exclusively in car seats that ensure safety while driving and in the event of an accident. A car seat with Isofix has long been used in Europe, and some time ago, similar devices appeared on the Russian market. A distinctive feature of seats with such an attachment is a firm fixation to the car itself, without the need for conventional seat belts.

The system is constructed in two parts: hinges located behind the back of the seat and metal brackets with locks. The first part is built into the car body, the second snaps into place and is attached to these hinges. Thus, the child car seat is held firmly and does not move while driving.

Pros and cons of the system

Like many items, Isofix car seats have both advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage of the design is its reliability, durability and exclusion of incorrect installation. The authors have designed the system in such a way that the chair can be installed either correctly or not. The installation process is as fast and accurate as possible.

The presence of such an attachment completely eliminates the rollover, tilt or displacement of the car seat during sudden braking or turning.

Each seat has a built-in five-point harness that secures the child securely to the seat. Some models are equipped with a removable front or rear mount, which increases the stability of the car seat in the event of a sudden stop. The structure itself, with a metal frame, is very sturdy and durable.

Among the disadvantages, one should highlight the high price for such car seats, as well as the large weight due to the metal frame. The rigidity of the structure gives a stronger transmission of impact to the child, which can adversely affect the body, this disadvantage can be eliminated by adding a front leg. A good spring system of the car seat and five-point belts also solve this problem.

Unfortunately, Isofix is not compatible with all vehicles, so before purchasing such a system, it is recommended to make sure that there are metal hinges.

What does it look like?

The system consists of two U-shaped metal arms and locks that match them in shape and size. The strong adhesion of these pairs creates a strong fixation of the car seat. The design assumes the location of the hinges on the main frame of the car, and locks for them are installed on the seats themselves.

As a rule, cars are already initially equipped with a structure for installing Isofix, and according to European standards, the presence of metal hinges in the basic configuration is mandatory for the model to be released for sale.

The Isofix system provides only two attachment points on one axis, but it is recommended to add another one for greater reliability.

The third point is of two types.

First type is a retractable footrest that fits into the base of the car seat and rests against the floor. It provides stability and prevents rotation. Another advantage of the retractable leg is the reduced load on the hinges.
Second type Additional support is the Top tether, which works on the principle of anchoring. The belt is inserted into a special hole at the very top of the car seat and is fixed with a carabiner for a special hook located either in the trunk floor or behind the headrest of the passenger seat. This type easily copes with the tilt of a child seat and does not allow it to rotate, it is considered universal, so most of the cars produced are produced with a place already reserved for Top tether.

The Isofix structure is subjected to a very strong load during an impact, for this reason, following the European safety certificate ECE R44 / 04, the manufacturer is not allowed to manufacture seats weighing more than 15 kilograms, and it can only be used for children weighing up to 18 kg.

Kinds

There are several types of car seats for different age groups, however, it should be noted that the Isofix system is used exclusively in groups 0+ and 1, which corresponds to children weighing 0-18 kilograms. Let's take a look at each age group separately.

Group 0+

This group implies the use of a chair for children up to 13 kilograms, however, Isofix is installed here in a special base, which comes with a carry cot with the ability to set a sleeping position. If necessary, the carrier can be easily removed, and the baby can not be disturbed if he is sleeping. You can put the cradle back with the same ease.

The only drawback of this design is the high cost of components, as well as the fact that the base is suitable only for this age group.

Group 1

This group assumes the use of children weighing 9-18 kilograms. The brackets in such models are already located on the bottom of the car seat body. Some brands offer models that fit the base from category 0+.

Group 0 + / 1

This category is a combination of the previous two. In such models, the Isofix is built into the seat itself, and the cocoon can be placed either in the direction of travel or against the direction of the car. Some 0 + / 1 designs have a 180 and 360 degree swivel mechanism for more comfortable getting on and off the baby. Such models are convenient for their versatility and the possibility of longer use.

Group 2-3

This group is designed for children 4 and more years old weighing from 15 to 36 kg. However, as mentioned above, these chairs are not "real" Isofix, as it is designed only for children weighing up to 18 kilograms. Despite the fact that modern stores offer a wide selection of child seats of group 2-3, they have only a system similar in installation method, that is, they practically do not have a protective function. However, such car seats prevent side impact movement and seat rotation.

Among the advantages are the absence of the need to fasten the system with a belt, good stability and ease of getting in and out of the child.

Group 1-2-3

This group includes convertible car seats designed for children weighing 9-25 kilograms and 9-36 kg, depending on the selected model. Recently, such models are found more and more often due to the convenience and versatility of use. These child seats have small tables for safety instead of belts.

However, it should be borne in mind that in this case the belt will still have to be passed through the table, and the entire main load will fall on it, and not on the Isofix brackets. Accordingly, we can conclude that the structure itself in this group performs a decorative function and will not be able to provide complete safety during a collision.

How to choose?

When choosing a particular model with the Isofix system, you should pay attention to some details that will definitely help you decide on the purchase of the most suitable child seat. It is recommended to purchase only car seats from well-known and reliable manufacturers who are responsible for the quality of their goods.

It is advisable to buy a car seat of the brand that has successfully passed the crash test on your brand of car, so you can once again reinsure yourself and your child.

Be sure to pay attention to the presence of the European safety certificate with the ECE R44 / 04 code. It should be borne in mind that the previous certificate is already outdated and has no effect at the moment, its code is ECE R44 / 03. In addition to the security code, the label contains: model name, type of fastening system, type of belt (five- or three-point). And it also indicates the permissible weight of the child and the country code where this model was certified.

The car seat must have protruding side bolsters at the level of the child's head to protect it during a side impact. A five-point belt is much preferable to a three-point belt, as it provides maximum safety for the child and has the best reliability. Try to get a car seat that fits your child, ideally fits both in weight and in age. To avoid mistakes, first check the comfort of the chair by placing the baby in it.

Pay attention to the color of the fabric with which the child seat is upholstered: it should be pastel or dark so as not to irritate the eyes. The absence of a toxic odor indicates the high quality of materials and additional safety of the child. It is advisable to purchase a car seat with a removable cover so that it can be washed in case of contamination. The belts should have special soft pads so as not to rub the body and not cause discomfort.

How to mount in the car?

Before installing the seat in the car, you should carefully read the instructions for use, since some models provide for additional fastening with a belt. The system's metal hinges are installed inside the rear seat of the vehicle. If you stick your hand between the pillow and the backrest, you can easily feel them. More modern vehicles have decorative plugs to indicate the presence of mounts. As a rule, they are round in shape and have a pattern in the form of a child in a car seat.

The Isofix design is quick and easy to install, but there are some differences depending on the age type of the seat. In order to secure the car seat for a newborn, you should direct the locks to the metal hinges and press on it until it clicks. After installing the base, the lower support is fixed in the form of a retractable leg. Next, a carrier is placed on the base, which is also installed until it clicks.

Both designs have special indicators to indicate correct installation. Such a system is very convenient, since you do not have to wake up the baby, in order to transfer him from the car to the room, it is enough to remove the carrier from the base.

To install other types of car seats, the following sequence is used: the brackets are extended on the body and directed to the hinges, after which the body should be pressed until it clicks. After fixing, the indicator of correct installation should be green. Next, fasten the Top tether strap and adjust its length.

If it is necessary to remove the system from the car, first unfasten the belt and press the levers to unlock the Isofix lock.

Manufacturers

Modern manufacturers of children's products offer a wide range of child car seats with the Isofix system. Recall that when choosing a particular model, you should focus on the make of the car in which the seat will be installed. Make sure this model has been crash tested on your car. Consider the most popular Isofix construction models included in most ratings. All of the car seats below have the European safety certificate ECE R44 / 04.

Capella S12312i

The car seat of the Chinese manufacturer is designed for children weighing 9-36 kilograms:

the child is fixed with built-in five-point belts, adjustable in length;
the backrest position is adjustable so that the baby is comfortable to sleep;
fabric upholstery is easily removable and can be machine washed;
the headrest is height adjustable, has five positions;
a comfortable, soft and ergonomic seat provides comfort to the body, and an anatomical pillow will keep the head straight;
the manufacturer offers several colors: gray, black, beige, cream;
mounted in the direction of the vehicle;
additional fixation with a seat belt is required.

Reviews of this model are completely positive. Parents are pleased with the soft and ergonomic seat in which the child feels comfortable. Simple and convenient installation of the model, high quality workmanship, wide range of colors and ease of maintenance delight customers, as well as a pleasant price.

Siger cocon isofix

The model is intended for children in the weight category 1-2, that is, 9-25 kilograms:

durable buckle on the seat belts provides additional security;
the back of the model is height adjustable, has six positions;
removable fabric upholstery is easy to clean in the washing machine;
additional protection against side impacts;
installation takes place in the direction of the vehicle;
it is recommended to additionally fasten the model with a car belt;
a large number of colors and interesting patterns on the pillows.

Reviews of this model are mostly positive. Parents are pleased with the democratic price of a car seat, a variety of colors and funny patterns on the fabric. The softness of the chair, a large number of backrest positions and additional plastic protection on the sides are noted. A big plus is the ease of adjusting the back, which can be done with just one hand. However, there are users who highlight the cons. For example, the strength of the lock turned out to be too great for some of the parents, and they found it difficult to open it.

Leader Kids Verona

This model belongs to the group 1-2-3:

five-point seat belts are height adjustable and have soft pads so as not to chafe or cause discomfort to the baby;
anatomical headrest adjustable in height depending on the height of the child;
strong and shock-resistant frame does not deform;
additional cushioning inserts at leg and shoulder level provide lateral protection;
for babies, a special anatomical insert with side wings is included, which eliminates the sitting angle and provides support for the child's spine;
hypoallergenic fabric upholstery has a ventilation function;
several colors;
the cover is easy to remove and is machine washable.

Reviews of this model are mostly positive. Customers are pleased with the soft and anatomical seat in which the child feels comfortable. However, the lack of the ability to adjust the position of the back still prevents some from giving five points.

Maxi-Cosi AxissFix Plus

The group 0 + / 1 car seat allows you to quickly get in and out of your child. The seat has a 360 degree swivel mechanism. The five-point harness, adjustable in length, a comfortable anatomical seat with four backrest positions and additional protection for the child's head and neck provide maximum comfort and safety for the child.