Second-hand car seats - a good idea?

Hi everyone,

I've been offered a second hand car seat from a relative for my baby due in September. It's a good brand, well made and looked after, no perishing on the plastic and has a good steel frame BUT it is past it's expiry date.

Should I use it?

What's the deal with the 5 year lifespan of car seats, are they really unsafe after this time or is it just Plunket etc being over-cautious and retailers trying to make more sales?

Any advice about car seats would be welcome, I'm overwhelmed by the choice :)

x

Though double check the exp date is 5 years for that model. These days its generally 6-10 years depending on the seat. So it could still be ok!