When Do Car Seats Expire?

Car seats are one of the most important purchases parents make for their children. They are designed to keep little ones safe during every ride, but many parents don’t realize that car seats come with an expiration date. Using an expired seat can compromise safety, which is why knowing when your car seat expires is just as important as installing it correctly.

At MacroBaby – the largest baby store in the U.S., we carry a massive selection of car seats for every stage of your child’s journey. Plus, our Orlando showroom has safety experts ready to help families choose the perfect fit.

Why Do Car Seats Expire?

Car seats don’t last forever, and for good reason. Here are the main factors:

  • Material wear and tear: Over time, the plastic and other materials can weaken due to heat, cold, and daily use.

  • Advances in safety: Car seat technology is constantly evolving, and older models may not meet today’s higher safety standards.

  • Parts availability: As models age, replacement parts may no longer be available if something breaks.

So, When Do Car Seats Expire?

Most car seats expire 6 to 10 years after their date of manufacture, not the date of purchase. You can usually find the expiration date on a sticker, label, or molded into the plastic shell of the seat.

Key things to remember:

  • Always check your seat for the exact expiration date.

  • Don’t use hand-me-down or secondhand seats without confirming the expiration.

  • Replace your car seat after any moderate or severe accident, even if no damage is visible.

The Exception: Babyark Convertible Car Seat

Almost every car seat comes with an expiration date—but the Babyark Convertible Car Seat is different. Built with a reinforced steel frame, carbon fiber, and advanced crash-absorbing technology, the Babyark is the only car seat on the market with no expiration date. That means it’s designed to provide lifetime safety without the worry of replacement every few years.

Shop Car Seats at MacroBaby

At MacroBaby, we make it easy to find the safest option for your family:

  • One of the largest selections of car seats from trusted brands like Nuna, Britax, Cybex, Graco, Uppababy, and Babyark.

  • Expert guidance in our Orlando store, where our staff can help you choose, install, and understand your car seat.

  • Online shopping with competitive prices and nationwide shipping.

Your child’s safety is non-negotiable. By understanding when car seats expire—and exploring long-lasting options like the Babyark Convertible Car Seat—you can feel confident every time you hit the road.