Britax Marathon Canadian vs USA

[cj]

Is there a difference between the US and the Canadian version? Is it just a testing issue.

Thanks

CJ

[pamela mom of 3]

Well the USA model goes up to 65lbs whereas they dropped the Canadian model to 48lbs because we lack the test similar to why it took so long to get 30lbs rf baby seats. ;)

According to the Parentsplace carseat board, their is no difference other than labels and "approved" weights. This info should be able to be found by searching, info came from the CL who has a contact at britax.

I have not seen the Canadian model to compare... ;)



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[AvatarX]

If there is no difference between the USA and the Canadian Marathon, is it legal for us to buy the Marathon from the US and use it in Canada? Or will we be stopped and charged for using an 'illegal' car seat if stopped by the police? I'm considering buying my Marathon from the US, as they have more fabric patterns, and prices tends to be a tad cheaper.

[pamela mom of 3]

I should point out one can buy covers...and i usually recommend an extra since they can't go into the dryer and are now hand wash too.

Really you should not buy a US seat especially since it is now available here...it would be the safest bet all round to avoid any possible issues because of it's lack of Canadian stickers.

I would call transport canada and ask them... also we are supposed to be getting some new covers choices, their on britax's site.

HTH! :)



~Pamela Mom Of 3

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[hipmaman]

As a CRS tech, here is my standard answer on this issue...

With the Marathons, we have been told they are the same, except for labelling. However, you should use the Canadian MA if you are living in Canada. It is illegal to use seats that is not certified for use in Canada. Depending on the province you live in, it could mean demerit points, fine and seat confiscated, etc., if caught.

Aside from that, there are other factors you should consider before using a non-Canadian seat. Insurance and carseat companies might not accept liability if in a collision. Warranty of the carseat would be void and null as the seat is being used 'against instructions' (ie. outside of said jurisdiction).

If you can accept these risks, then it's your call to use a non-Canadian seat. If you are uncomfortable, then it's best to buy a Canadian MA to use. I would recommend using a Canadian seat though. As Pamela said, buy an extra cover to avoid liability and legal issues.

[smiliedds]

Another thing to consider is insurance. I am pretty certain that the car insurance company would not cover any accident problem if the car seat is not bought in Canada (and therefore supposedly not approved!!!). Call your car insurance company to make sure.

Rebecca

[smiliedds]

Oops, i didn't realize the insurance issue was answered!

I have a question that you might know the answer. Is Britax MA is most recommended convertible car seat now (in Canada)? Any other one that is recommended in the case where the MA is to big for the car?

Thanks

[hipmaman]

Ahhh, as tech I am not supposed to favour one brand over another, lol. Britax are not as widely known in Canada to techs, parents, TC, etc. as in the US. So, you might not hear as much about it as say something like the 3-in-1 seats.

But as a mom, I would say that yes Britax seats (in this case, Marathon) are my favourites. They are easy to use, easy to install, comfortable for babes, etc. The bonus is that there are nice covers for them, lol

[smiliedds]

Thanks. Britax it is. Now I just have to search for a cover from the US sites (I haven't seen one up here that I like).

Rebecca

[bubbaray]

DH and I were out looking at convertible seats on the weekend as DD days in her infant seat are soon going to end (how did my munchkin get to be 17lbs?!?!). We already have the Graco ComfortSport in one car, but we are looking at the Britax Marathon for DD's main seat.

Just so you know, Britax will be selling some "new to Canada" covers here soon. They are listed on the Britax website under Canadian Marathon. http://www.britaxusa.com/products.cf...9D3CD17EA9E3EE

I don't know when these new fabrics will be in stores up here, so if you know, please post! I'm trying to convince DH to get the cow fabric, but we'll probably end up with one of the denim fabrics....

Melissa
Mom to Maya http://www.mothering.com/discussions...lies/binky.gif & Dog Mom to Bubba http://www.mothering.com/discussions...milies/dog.gif

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