Is it okay to buy a used carseat? what about on ebay?

[kjc_bb]

kjc: I have noticed that quite a few people are selling used carseats on ebay. I was just wondering if it is okay to purchase a used carseat. If so, is there anything that I should be careful about?


kjc

[Momof3Labs]

You have to be careful that the seat hasn't been through a recall or in an accident.

Personally, this is too critical a safety issue to me to trust someone I don't know on eBay. One "fib" by the seller could mean life or death for your baby - that isn't worth it, to me.

[Joolsplus2]

Here's a great flow chart of sorts to help you know if a used seat is OK http://www.cpsafety.com/articles/usedseat.aspx
*Some* of us ;) sell seats that are all yesses, but you just never know if the seller has that much integrity...

[kjc_bb]

Thanks Lorie and Julie for your answers to my questions.
Your response times were quicker than I had expected :)

Thanks for the link as well -- that was very helpful.
After your answers, I'm not so comfortable buying a used carseat. But then, if that changes, I'll know what questions to ask and what to look out for.

Thanks again!
kjc

[kransden]

Don't forget to ask friends. I got my carseat from a friend and am looking for a good home for it now that I am done with it.

Karin
Katie 10/24/02