Star Riser or combo seat for my almost 3-yr. old?

[kolson]

Hi! My daughter is almost 3 yrs. old, 35 lbs., 37 inches. Based on Toddler Bargains' raving of the Britax Star Riser, I was going to get her that since it says it goes from 30 lbs. But, now I'm reading that kids should be in a 5-pt. harness until 40 lbs. I also looked at the Cosco Summit (which Consumer Reports totally advocated), but I'm seeing mixed reviews on that as well. What should I do? Can anybody recommend a good safe combo seat without spending $200 plus?

Last question, I have to buy two seats - one for each car - but my kids spend 90% of the time in my car. Consequently, I was considering a less expensive seat for my husband's car. Do you think that foolish? Any SAFE, but less expensive recommendations for that one?

Any input is appreciated!!!

[CPSDarren]

Hi-

A combo is a good choice for your child, since a 5-point harness is recommended to at least 40 pounds. Don't put too much faith in Consumer Reports. Any combo seat can be used safely despite their comments:

http://www.car-safety.org/faq.html#Q29

Here are some resources on finding a combo:

http://www.car-safety.org/carseats.html#comb

http://www.carseatsite.com/recommend...bination_Seats

Darren
www.Car-Safety.Org

[momathome]

I love my Britax StarRiser and bought it for my dd when she was3 1/2 years-old, 30lbs, 36in. She was definitely not ready for it at age 3 if only because when she fell asleep, she slumped right out of the seat. She was much more ready for this seat when she was about 4 1/2. When she was 3, we ended up using the Evenflo Express booster seat with 5 point harness - it was $60 at KMart, have very nice padding, and was easy to use and install. Good luck!
-Lauren