You should never consider buying or using a secondhand child safety seat. Though money could be saved by getting a used seat, this practice can be potentially dangerous. It is very difficult to determine if a seat:

• has been recalled.
• has been mistreated.
• has been involved in a crash.
• is missing any key components.

Never use a child safety seat that has been involved in a crash.

If you must consider a secondhand child safety seat, you must be able to answer yes to all of the following questions:

• Was the seat manufactured less than 5 - 6 years ago? Earlier seats may not be crashworthy or may have been recalled. Make certain that the date of manufacture and model number are still visible on the label of the car seat. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards require all seats be labeled with model numbers and dates of manufacture. Without this information, it is impossible to determine the history of the seat. To identify whether there have been any recalls on a seat, call the NHTSA Hotline at 1 (800) 424 - 9393.
  
  
• Is the manufacturer's instruction booklet available for you to consult? You need to read the information carefully so you can be sure you have all the parts and can install the seat properly.
  
  
• Was the seat well maintained?
  
  
• Are the harness straps free of fraying and discoloration? Sunlight can cause deterioration, especially in some of the older models.
  
  
• Is the webbing completely free of any signs of wear in places where it passes over the slots?
  
  
• Do the buckles operate properly?
  
  
• Are all the needed parts included? If a tether strap or locking clip is required, are they available?
  
  
• Is the seat free of any cracks, bends, loose bolts, etc.?

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