I have a carseat that was manufactured in 1998. It is an Evenflo On my Way. I did a search and did not find a recall for this particular model #. My question is: Is it safe to pass to someone? It has never been in an accident. My friends are having twins and I am certain could use an extra seat. I do not want it to come back and bite me in the butt. I gave them a highchair which upon the Dad's research turned up an old recall and they could no longer get the part,(which was not a safety issue) they opted to send it back to the manufacturer for a refund ($15). I don't even want to offer it to them if the same thing could happen. Dad is extremely thorough!! Should I just trash it? Take it to a shelter? Donate it?

By Trina~moderator on Wednesday, February 25, 2004 - 11:24 am:

Used Child Safety Seat Checklist


Personally, I'd trash it simply due to it's age. Child Passenger Safety experts advise using a car seat for no longer than 6 years. Reasons: Possible recalls, degradation of plastic and parts, may not meet current government safety standards, doesn't have new safety features such as 5 pt. harness, etc..

If I remember correctly the Evenflo On My Way only has one set of harness slots. This can pose a problem for small infants if the harness does not fit correctly. Harness straps should be at or below an infants shoulders when rear facing. If the harness straps are above an infants shoulders (rear facing) this could cause injuries during a crash.

When disposing of a car seat do not just set it out on the curb or at the dump. People have been known to grab these seats and use them. Argh! Remove the cover, cut the straps and throw the pieces out on separate trash days. Some people actually destroy the shell with a sledge hammer but I take a thick, permanent marker and write something like "DO NOT USE - in a crash" on it in a clearly visible spot.

A good place to go with car seat questions and concerns...

Car Seats Board

By My2girlygirls on Wednesday, February 25, 2004 - 11:42 am:

Thanks, that is what I was leaning towards. I hate to throw it out, but for safety sake, that is what I will do. Thanks for your advice!