4. The 2015 edition is thoroughly revised and
includes many updates to older editions.
Does your kit look
like this? YIKES!
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
4
5. • Chapters marked by gray
tab.
• Appendix A-D start at gray
line.
• Each tab/line includes a
chapter/appendix
indicator.
App. A
App. B
App. C
App. D
Chapters
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
5
7. Chapters 2 and 3—LATCH lower anchorage
Chapters 4 and 5—Tether anchorage
vs. Chapter 3/5:
• Usage (verbs)
Chapters 2/4:
• Parts (nouns)
• What’s the same
(regulated) vs. what
varies
• Ordered
Steps
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
7
8. A: CRs With LATCH
Product-specific details on LATCH use
B: Vehicle Information About LATCH
Bullets before tables provide brand-wide info
Model details for each vehicle
C: LATCH in Center Positions
Nonstandard-width scenarios
Standard center LATCH system scenarios
D: Service Bulletins (free TA retrofit), Citations
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
8
9. ?LATCH Seat Belt
• Can I use LA
attachments?
• Must I use the seat
belt instead?
• Can I use either?
• Can I use both?
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
9
10. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
10
Say a family arrives for a car seat
check with:
• A borrowed Graco Smart Seat,
made January 2014
• In a 2010 Honda Accord sedan
• For their only child:
• 8 months old
• 20 pounds
• 27 inches
11. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
11
Can the LA Attachments be used?
• In what seating positions?
• For what weights?
If yes,
• How should strap be routed?
• Can both seat belt and LA
attachment be used?
Can the tether be used?
• In what positions?
• Where are the anchors?
• How long can it be used?
12. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
12Page on seating position from
2010 Honda Accord OM
13. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
13
Page on
seating position
from Graco
Smart Seat
owner’s
manual
14. > 280 mm= Nonstandard
=LATCH use OK
=Check manuals;
Both CRM and VM
must say OK!
Can a CR be installed in the
center position using these LAs?
280 mm280 mm
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
14
15. LM Appendix A
?
On nonstandard-width center use
LM Appendix B, bullets
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
15
16. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
16
Vehicles with one or two rows—Honda
MODEL BODY YEAR
SECOND ROW
NOTES
CENTER OUTBOARD
ACCORD
4-door
Sedan
& Hybrid
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints: To tether, lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Hybrid Model: Vehicles not produced in all MYs01-15 (2) LATCH
ACCORD
CROSSTOUR
Crossover 10 TA (2) LATCH
(3) TAs on backs of seats
EX-L Model: To tether, remove the front cargo cover (rear cargo cover may stay in place).
May put the cover back in place once CR is installed, IF it doesn’t interfere with proper
tether use.
RECALL: Some vehicles have an incorrectly assembled front passenger-side air bag.
Children 12 and under MUST be seated in the back seat. See dealer or call 1-800-999-
7009 to have the air bag inspected and replaced, if necessary. NHTSA Campaign
#10V402000.
CIVIC
3-door
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on back wall of cargo area
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on back wall of cargo area
02-05 (2) LATCH
Center: TA on back wall of cargo area
Outboard: (2) TAs on floor in cargo area
MY01: No vehicles produced for this model.
2-door
Coupe
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints and Tethering: Lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Although some OMs state that a HR must be removed, the vehicle manufacturer says it IS
safe to follow this guidance and that doing so is approved IF the HR does not interfere with
the tether or the installation of the CR.
01-15 (2) LATCH
4-door
Sedan
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00 TA (2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
4-door
Sedan,
Hybrid, or
Natural
Gas
01-15 TA (2) LATCH
(3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints, MY12-15: To tether, lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Hybrid and Natural Gas Models: Vehicles not produced in all MYs
LM Appendix B, model-specific table entry
17. T he LATCH M anual 2015C- 2
A
P
P
E
N
D
I
X
C
Vehicle
make
Vehicle model
(All years, unless MY noted)
W idth
apart
(inches)
OK, any width
Aprica,Combi,
Cybex,*
Dorel,*
Evenflo,GB,Tomy,
Graco,*(1)
Harmony,
Teutonia,Urbini
OK if width
11–20 inches
Britax,(2)
SnugSeat*
Orbit,Recaro,
SafeGuard,
UPPAbaby(3)
OK if
11–18
inches
Triple
Play,
Kiddy* (4)
OK if
11–14
inches
Diono*
Any
CR
brand
not
listed
Chrysler PT Cruiser 4-door (MY05–10),
Sebring4-door (MY04–10), 200 (MY11–14)
15.4 YES YES YES N O N O
200 (MY15) 17.7 YES YES YES N O N O
Pacific
a
(5- seat ) Not given YES Check width Check width Check width N O
Dodge Avenger (MY08–14), Caliber,incl.SRT4 15.4 YES YES YES N O N O
Nitro 15.7 YES YES YES N O N O
Dart 17.3 YES YES YES N O N O
DakotaQuad Cab 4-door (MY05–11),
Durango w/ bench(MY04-09),Stratus(MY04-06)
Not
given
YES Check width Check width Check width N O
Jeep/
Eagle
Compass,Patriot, Liberty 15.4–15.7 YES YES YES N O N O
Grand Cherokee,incl.SRT8 (MY05–10) 18.9 YES YES N O N O N O
Wrangler Unlimited 19.1 YES YES N O N O N O
Ford Windstar (MY00–03) 12.0 YES YES YES YES N O
Fiesta(all styles)/Escape (MY01–12) 15.4/15.7 YES YES YES N O N O
Focus (MY11 and earlier,all styles) 17.7 YES YES YES N O N O
Escape (MY13–15), Edge,
Focus (MY12–15), Fusion, C-Max
18.1 YES YES N O N O N O
CrownVictoria (MY09–11),
F-150 SuperCab/SuperCrew (MY09–14);
Explorer,all styles,incl.SportTrac(MY09–15);
Police Interceptor (sedan and utility);
Flex w/ bench, Taurus X w/ bench (MY09);
Transit Connect (see App.Bentry for Transit)
>20.0 YES N O N O N O N O
Lincoln MKC,MKX,MKZ,Zephyr 18.1 YES YES N O N O N O
LS(MY00–05) 19.7 YES YES N O N O N O
Town Car (MY09–11),
MKT w/ bench seat
>20.0 YES N O N O N O N O
Mercury Mariner 15.7 YES YES YES N O N O
Milan 18.1 YES YES N O N O N O
Grand Marquis sedan (MY09–11),
Mountaineer w/ bench seat (MY09–10)
>20.0 YES N O N O N O N O
Mazda CX-7,Mazda2,Mazda3 (all styles, MY04–13),
Protegé (MY01–03), Protegé5,Tribute
15.35–
15.75
YES YES YES N O N O
CX-5 16.5 YES YES YES N O N O
Mazda3 (all styles,MY14+),Mazda6 (MY14+) 17.4 YES YES YES N O N O
Mazda6 (all styles, MY03–13) 18.3 YES YES N O N O N O
CX-9 19.7 YES YES N O N O N O
Subaru MY15 Legacy,Outback, andWRX,per OM Not given YES, if in OM Check width Check width Check width N O
AN Y VEH ICLE MODEL N OT LIST ED ABOVE N O N O N O N O N O
Table C1: N onstandard-W idth LATCH in the Center Position
Thistable indicateswhether the inner barsof two outboard LATCH systemsmay be used to install aCRusing
lower anchorsin acenter seatingposition that doesnot have adesignated LATCH system. Permission assumes
proper installation. Alwayscheck thespecificvehi cleand CRmodelsin appendicesAand Bfor completedetails.
Key: YES =Allowed;both manufacturerssay“okay” N O = Not allowed;one or both manufacturerssay“no”
Notes: (1) ExcludesanyGraco model withpush-onLA connectors. (2)Allowedonlywitholder models,asstatedinmanual. SeeBritax inApp.A.
(3) UPPAbabymax.widthis22inches,so checkexact widthfor particular vehiclemodelslistedasover 20inches. (4) Kiddymax.widthis17.7inches.
* For BPB models with LA attachments, see the“Center Use” column of TableA2 (pageA-3) for exceptions that apply only to BPBs.
Details, details!
Be sure to check the
fine print.
For Graco, it says use
is allowed:
• At any width
• For CRs that don’t
have push-on
connectors.
On nonstandard-width center use
Table C1 in Appendix C
is another LM source.
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
17
18. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
18
LM Appendix C, Table C2
On standard-width center use
NOTE: Honda is NOT present on this list!
19. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
19
What are the key pieces of
information in this scenario?
• A borrowed Graco Smart Seat,
made January 2014
• In a 2010 Honda Accord
• For their only child, age 8
months, 20 pounds, 27 ins.
20. • Nonregulated
• Vary by factors like CR
weight, design and
CRM testing
• In instructions, LM
• Must compare with LA
limits.
• Regulated by NHTSA
• Vary by CR weight
only.
• In instructions, LM,
and on label
• Already reflect LA
strength.
Before After
20
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
20
21. Example of new label,
early 2014
LA Attachment limits AFTER
February 27, 2014: Appearance
Example of new label, late
2014
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
21
22. LA Attachment limits AFTER
February 27, 2014: Limit Rounding
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
22
24. What’s the
vehicle
maker’s
limit?
Of CRs made
BEFORE Feb. 2014
What is
the CR
maker’s
limit?
Compare the two limits. If they differ, read
directions carefully to determine which to use.
(Some CRMS allow use of LA limit if HIGHER.)
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
24
25. Vehicle
brand
Child weight limit for
LOW ER AN CHORS (in lbs.)
Child weight limit for T ET H ER AN CH ORS (in lbs.)
Factory-installed anchor
with seat belt
Retrofita nchor
with seat belt
Acura Follow CRinstructions(except Diono). Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Alfa Romeo N/A;no vehicles with LAs. Follow CR instructions. N/A
Audi 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
BMW 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Buick 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Cadillac 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Chevrolet 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Chrysler 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions if model is
listed inTable B2; 65 lbs. minus CR
weight if model is listed in Table B3.
65 minus CR weight.
Coda Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions. N/A
Daewoo 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Dodge 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions if model is
listed inTable B2; 65 lbs. minus CR
weight if model is listed in Table B3.
65 minus CR weight.
Eagle N/A;no vehicles with LAs. N/A;no vehicleswithfactory-installedTAs. 65 minus CR weight.
Ferrari Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions. Not stated;assume65minusCRweight.
Fiat 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions. N/A
Ford MY13 and older=48.
MY14 and newer=65 minusCRweight.
Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Geo 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
GMC 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
H onda Follow CRinstructions(except Diono). Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
H ummer 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
H yundai 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Infin
i
ti MY13 and older=Follow CRinstructions.
MY14 and newer=65 minusCRweight.
Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Isuzu Not stated;assume65 minusCRweight. Not stated;assume 65 minusCRweight. Not stated;assume65minusCRweight.
Appendix B
Appendix A
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
25
Another option is Table B1, a
31. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
31Page on TA locations and use from
2010 Honda Accord OM
32. Vehicle
brand
Child weight limit for
LOW ER AN CHORS (in lbs.)
Child weight limit for T ET H ER AN CH ORS (in lbs.)
Factory-installed anchor
with seat belt
Retrofita nchor
with seat belt
Acura Follow CRinstructions(except Diono). Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Alfa Romeo N/A;no vehicles with LAs. Follow CR instructions. N/A
Audi 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
BMW 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Buick 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Cadillac 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Chevrolet 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Chrysler 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions if model is
listed inTable B2; 65 lbs. minus CR
weight if model is listed in Table B3.
65 minus CR weight.
Coda Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions. N/A
Daewoo 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Dodge 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions if model is
listed inTable B2; 65 lbs. minus CR
weight if model is listed in Table B3.
65 minus CR weight.
Eagle N/A;no vehicles with LAs. N/A;no vehicleswithfactory-installedTAs. 65 minus CR weight.
Ferrari Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions. Not stated;assume65minusCRweight.
Fiat 65 minus CR weight. Follow CR instructions. N/A
Ford MY13 and older=48.
MY14 and newer=65 minusCRweight.
Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Geo 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
GMC 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
H onda Follow CRinstructions(except Diono). Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
H ummer 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
H yundai 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight. 65 minus CR weight.
Infin
i
ti MY13 and older=Follow CRinstructions.
MY14 and newer=65 minusCRweight.
Follow CR instructions. Follow CR instructions.
Isuzu Not stated;assume65 minusCRweight. Not stated;assume 65 minusCRweight. Not stated;assume65minusCRweight.
Appendix B
Appendix A
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
32
…or Table B1
Bullets…
33. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
33
Vehicles with one or two rows—Honda
MODEL BODY YEAR
SECOND ROW
NOTES
CENTER OUTBOARD
ACCORD
4-door
Sedan
& Hybrid
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints: To tether, lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Hybrid Model: Vehicles not produced in all MYs01-15 (2) LATCH
ACCORD
CROSSTOUR
Crossover 10 TA (2) LATCH
(3) TAs on backs of seats
EX-L Model: To tether, remove the front cargo cover (rear cargo cover may stay in place).
May put the cover back in place once CR is installed, IF it doesn’t interfere with proper
tether use.
RECALL: Some vehicles have an incorrectly assembled front passenger-side air bag.
Children 12 and under MUST be seated in the back seat. See dealer or call 1-800-999-
7009 to have the air bag inspected and replaced, if necessary. NHTSA Campaign
#10V402000.
CIVIC
3-door
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on back wall of cargo area
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on back wall of cargo area
02-05 (2) LATCH
Center: TA on back wall of cargo area
Outboard: (2) TAs on floor in cargo area
MY01: No vehicles produced for this model.
2-door
Coupe
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints and Tethering: Lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Although some OMs state that a HR must be removed, the vehicle manufacturer says it IS
safe to follow this guidance and that doing so is approved IF the HR does not interfere with
the tether or the installation of the CR.
01-15 (2) LATCH
4-door
Sedan
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00 TA (2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
4-door
Sedan,
Hybrid, or
Natural
Gas
01-15 TA (2) LATCH
(3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints, MY12-15: To tether, lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Hybrid and Natural Gas Models: Vehicles not produced in all MYs
CLARITY
4-door 09-15 N/A (2) LATCH
(2) TAs on rear filler panel
LM Appendix B, model-specific table entry
34. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
34
Vehicles with one or two rows—Honda
MODEL BODY YEAR
SECOND ROW
NOTES
CENTER OUTBOARD
ACCORD
4-door
Sedan
& Hybrid
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints: To tether, lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Hybrid Model: Vehicles not produced in all MYs01-15 (2) LATCH
ACCORD
CROSSTOUR
Crossover 10 TA (2) LATCH
(3) TAs on backs of seats
EX-L Model: To tether, remove the front cargo cover (rear cargo cover may stay in place).
May put the cover back in place once CR is installed, IF it doesn’t interfere with proper
tether use.
RECALL: Some vehicles have an incorrectly assembled front passenger-side air bag.
Children 12 and under MUST be seated in the back seat. See dealer or call 1-800-999-
7009 to have the air bag inspected and replaced, if necessary. NHTSA Campaign
#10V402000.
CIVIC
3-door
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on back wall of cargo area
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on back wall of cargo area
02-05 (2) LATCH
Center: TA on back wall of cargo area
Outboard: (2) TAs on floor in cargo area
MY01: No vehicles produced for this model.
2-door
Coupe
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00
TA
(2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints and Tethering: Lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Although some OMs state that a HR must be removed, the vehicle manufacturer says it IS
safe to follow this guidance and that doing so is approved IF the HR does not interfere with
the tether or the installation of the CR.
01-15 (2) LATCH
4-door
Sedan
All-99 TA point (2) TA points (3) 8-mm weld nuts on rear filler panel
00 TA (2) TAs (3) TAs on rear filler panel
4-door
Sedan,
Hybrid, or
Natural
Gas
01-15 TA (2) LATCH
(3) TAs on rear filler panel
Head Restraints, MY12-15: To tether, lift HR and route tether under, through the HR legs.
Hybrid and Natural Gas Models: Vehicles not produced in all MYs
CLARITY
4-door 09-15 N/A (2) LATCH
(2) TAs on rear filler panel
LM Appendix B, model-specific table entry
35. Appendix A CR manufacturer statements
Chapter 7 (including
this summary table)
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
35
On Tethering RF
37. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
Other Topics:
• Whether a seat belt may be used as a tether anchor
• Whether AAB suppression system is affected by seatback pressure
• Use of head restraints with CRs
• Advice to reduce risk of shoulder belt entanglement
• Seating position limitations
• GM vehicles with dynamic locking latchplates
• CRs that allow rear-facing tethering
• How tight LA attachments with boosters should be
• Whether additional info and photos are available in LATCH Gallery
• Listing of free retrofit programs
• Listing of most current studies on LATCH
• Weights of current CR models
• LATCH-use differences if CR is in Canada
• LATCH-use differences if CR is used on a school bus
• QR codes to access CR instructions and videos
• Policy regarding use of inflatable seat belts
• Information on how to sign up for LM updates
And much
more!
37
38. 38
38
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
Save the
LATCH!• Regulatory Fixes?
• Market Pressure?
39. January 2015: NHTSA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
• Proposals based on years
of research and testing.
• Most changes would be
to FMVSS 225 (vehicles).
• Some changes also to
FMVSS 213 (CRs)
• When finalized, 3 years
proposed for deadline to
comply.“Let’s fix what ails you!”
39
39
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
40. 40
January 2015: NHTSA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
• Proposals to improve
LATCH ease-of-use.
• LAs: Tools would be
used to confirm bar
clearance, depth, and
attachment force.
Marking required.
• TAs: Would be required
to be metal cross-bars
and be marked.
Proposed tools from Docket No.
NHTSA-2014-0123
40Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
41. Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
41
A special tool is used to measure lower anchor depth within the seat bight as
well as the force required to attach a connector to the anchor (left). Another
tool measures the anchor's clearance angle (right).
42. LM UPDATES
Newsletter
articles, FAQs,
and other
resources.
SRN
SUPPORT
LATCH
GALLERY
A place to share
photos of
interesting lower
and tether anchor
situations.
Check regularly
for updates to the
LM. Sign up to
be notified of
changes.
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
42
43. Earn 1 additional CEU for answering an open-
book quiz using the current LATCH Manual.
Quiz available at www.saferidenews.com.
Use the 2015 LATCH Manual to answer 10
questions.
Keep it in your folder for recertification credit.
Quiz graded only if you are audited.
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
43
44. Presentation by Denise Donaldson,
Safe Ride News Publications
Find recent articles, LATCH updates, order forms, and
LATCH Gallery at: www.saferidenews.com
E-mail questions/comments to:
info@saferidenews.com
Or call 800-403-1424.
Safe Ride News Publications, 9/2015
44
Notes de l'éditeur
PRESENTER NOTES:
This LATCH review session provides an basic overview for using LATCH.
For any real life scenario, referring to important resources is essential, such as those shown here:
* The CR instructions
* CR labels (including noting the date of manufacture)
* The vehicle owner’s manual
* The current LATCH Manual (2015)
Discussion Ideas:
Why is it important to check labels on CRs with respect to LATCH?
Who provides the CR- and vehicle-specific model information in the LATCH Manual? (Answer: The manufacturers of the CRs/vehicles provide it to SRN.)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Staying up to date
After the vehicle and CR manuals, the LATCH Manual is the most helpful resource for learning about LATCH.
USE THE CURRENT EDITION! SRN updates the LATCH Manual every two years. The current edition, 2015, has a red cover. It is essential that CPSTs refer to this edition only, as many important changes were made in this revision. Potentially dangerous misinformation could be given to a caregiver if a CPST refers to an older version of the manual.
Discussion Idea:
Do you think you need to check an older LATCH Manual to get information about older vehicles? (Answer: NO! SRN only adds new vehicles with each revision, and does not eliminate older ones that might still be used by caregivers. Information about older vehicles can be changed, however, when it is reviewed by the manufacturer during the new manual update process.)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Misuse of LATCH—Lower anchorage
Can a Chicco KeyFit be used this way in a center position of a 2007 Toyota Corolla, with the LA connectors attached to the inner bars of outboard LATCH positions?
FIRST ASK – does this car have standard center LATCH?
NO, so…
NO, it is not okay to install with the LA attachments here because neither manufacturer allows it.
Discussion Idea:
What is the fastest way to find this information? (Answer: Because the LATCH Manual provides this information consistently for all CRs and vehicles in one place, and does so in a uniform way for each brand, the LATCH Manual is very helpful for quickly and accurately making the determination of whether this is allowed for any given scenario.
LATCH Manual Support:
Appendix C discusses use of LATCH in the center position
Table C1 cross-references all situations in which both the CR and vehicle manufacturer allow use of nonstandard-width center LATCH.
The manufacturers entries in Appendix A and B indicate whether this is allowed for the brand. (For vehicle brands that allow it in some models, information is further provided in the notes section for the particular model.)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Misuse of LATCH—Lower anchorage
Can a Chicco KeyFit be used this way in a center position of a 2007 Toyota Corolla, with the LA connectors attached to the inner bars of outboard LATCH positions?
FIRST ASK – does this car have standard center LATCH?
NO, so…
NO, it is not okay to install with the LA attachments here because neither manufacturer allows it.
Discussion Idea:
What is the fastest way to find this information? (Answer: Because the LATCH Manual provides this information consistently for all CRs and vehicles in one place, and does so in a uniform way for each brand, the LATCH Manual is very helpful for quickly and accurately making the determination of whether this is allowed for any given scenario.
LATCH Manual Support:
Appendix C discusses use of LATCH in the center position
Table C1 cross-references all situations in which both the CR and vehicle manufacturer allow use of nonstandard-width center LATCH.
The manufacturers entries in Appendix A and B indicate whether this is allowed for the brand. (For vehicle brands that allow it in some models, information is further provided in the notes section for the particular model.)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: In a nonstandard-width center position?
“Nonstandard-width center LATCH position” refers to a center position made up of the two inner bars of the designated outboard LATCH systems when the bars are not spaced 280 mm apart (11 inches).
It is called nonstandard because it does not meet all the criteria required by FMVSS 225 (the required width) and therefore is not identified as a standard LATCH position in the vehicle owners’ manual.
Use of a position that does not have bars that are spaced according to the standard is okay only if BOTH manufacturers approve it:
The CR manufacturer: Many allow this, but often a maximum width is specified (like 20 inches).
The vehicle manufacturer: Most do not allow this. This is allowed only in some models/MYs of Ford/Lincoln/Mercury, Chrysler brands, Mazda and Subaru.
Discussion Idea:
Have you ever met with a caregiver who has installed a CR in the center when the VM or CRM do not approve of this? What do you tell them?
LATCH Manual Support:
Appendix C is dedicated to all aspects of using LATCH in a center seating position.
Table C1 in Appendix C cross-references all vehicle models that have ever allowed use of a nonstandard center LATCH system with the stances on this subject of CR brands to show the CR/vehicle scenarios in which a CR may be installed in the center using LATCH bars that are spaced wider than standard width.
Presenter Support:
These details are provided here so that presenters are prepared for questions and/or can discuss these details during class if time allows:
If use of the inner bars of the outboard positions are not allowed by the VM for LATCH installation in the center, it might mean that one or more of the following is true:
There may be a conflict with LATCH use in this position, such as seating that is not even, seating parts that would interfere, etc.
LATCH bars or either too narrow or too wide apart in the judgment of the VM.
The vehicle manufacturer simply hasn’t run the tests necessary to ensure it would the criteria of FMVSS 225.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: In a nonstandard-width center position?
This slide shows where information on this subject can consistently be found for each CRM and VM brand in the LATCH Manual.
The information in the manufacturers’ entries in Appendix A and Appendix B are what SRN calls the “source information,” because this information is the exact detail provided and approved by the manufacturers before publication.
The CR information is found toward the beginning of each entry in Appendix A. The bullet always begins in bold with the words “Center installation.”
The VM information is found in the brand-wide bullets that are provided before each VMs vehicle tables. It is always the top/center bullet and begins in bold with the words: “Center position installation using LAs with nonstandard spacing:”
For VMs that allow this use for some vehicles, additional information is provided in the model listing in the brand’s vehicle table.
Discussion Idea:
What types of information are included for Evenflo CRs in this example? (Answer: That use of nonstandard-width center positions is okay with Evenflo; that it must also be approved by the VM; that the spacing can be any width greater than 11 inches; that this is a retroactive change since 2012.)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a larger child?
As discussed on the last slide, the fact that CRMs generally waited until very near or at the February 27, 2014, deadline, PLUS the fact that the newly regulated limits are not retroactive to CRs made earlier, means that we can understand a CR’s LA attachment limit based on the date the CR was made. More importantly, this is a key factor to the process that should be used when determining the LA attachment use limit.
CPSTs who want to understand the meaning of a limit for CRs made before and after compliance (typically February 2014) can consider the following:
BEFORE
Limits were up to the CRM
To come up with the limit, CRMs could consider various factors, including the design of the CR and its parts and the results of its own testing
CRMs stated the limit in most CR instructions and provided information for the LATCH Manual.
Nearly all CRMs deferred to the VM’s LA limit
AFTER
NHTSA states a regulated limit based on the formula “Child weight limit=65 pound minus the CR weight”
The formula considers only two factors: The weight of the CR and that the combined CR/child weight not exceed 65 pounds.
NHTSA requires the information to always be found on CR labeling.
The limit on the CR takes into account the LA strength minimum, so there is no longer the need to compare with VM limits.
Discussion Idea:
Show of hands: Do attendees think that the regulated LA attachment limits for all CRs became lower after February 2014? (Answer: The limits did go down in many cases (sometimes dramatically, as in the case of Diono CRs). However, the new NHTSA rule has allowed some CRMs to shift the LA attachment use limit higher than they’d set it when the limit was unregulated. In researching the 2015 LATCH Manual, SRN found that 5 companies raised the LA attachment limit on some or all models, while 9 reduced it. Nine others remained the same as the CRM-stated limit prior to regulation.)
LATCH Manual Support:
Appendix A provides information on LA attachment limits split between before and after regulatory compliance.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a larger child?
The amendment to FMVSS 213 that was finalized in February 2012 is a major change for LATCH. It means that a limit for LA attachment will always be required, and that this limit is always consistently based on the same formula for all CR models. It also means that caregivers and CPSTs will be able to expect this information to be presented in a uniform way on all applicable CRs, and that this information will consistently appear in the same place on CR labeling.
While it is unfortunate that the use of LA attachments must be limited—in some cases to a very low child weight—there are many advantages to the new situation. Most importantly:
The LA attachment child weight limit will be consistently found on CRs and
The only limit users need to know will be the one found on the CR. Because the NHTSA-required limit incorporates considerations of vehicle LA strength, there is no more need to compare the VM and CRM limits on CRs made since compliance to the new rule.
Now that February 2014 has come and gone, and SRN has gathered information from all the CRMs regarding their timeline for compliance to update the LATCH Manual, we know more about the situation. Importantly, we can say that manufacturers, in general, did not comply early (in 2012 or 2013). Instead, most CR models were not labeled in compliance with the amended rule until just about the compliance deadline of February 27, 2014. Although there were a few models introduced in late 2013 that were launched with the compliant labeling, by and large we can consider CRs made AFTER February 2014 to be compliant with the new rule requirements (and those made before, not).
Having this fairly clean cut-off date is helpful, because the requirements of the rule change are not retroactive. Our former procedure for determining the limit for LA attachments (find both the VM and CRM limits and compare them) must be used for CRs made before roughly February 2014. Those made afterward are much more simple: Follow the information provided on the label.
(Presenters: It might help to remind attendees that this discussion is specifically about the LA attachments. (Notice the careful use and general avoidance of the term LATCH!) A discussion specific to tethering will follow on a later slide.)
LATCH Manual Support:
In Appendix A, CR manufacturers were asked to provide LA attachment child weight limit information for CRs made before and after compliance. It is presented in this way close to the beginning of the entry for each CR manufacturer that makes models with LA attachment weight limits.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a larger child?
CRs made BEFORE February 2014
When using CRs that were made BEFORE NHTSA’s requirement for a standard LA attachment weight limit, a process must be followed to determine the limit to use.
This involves looking up the CR’s LA attachment limit and the vehicles LA limit and comparing them.
The slide indicates the sources that can be used to find this information.
Once the two limits are known, they must be compared. If they are different, users must decide which one to use, and CPSTs can be very helpful in this process. Most CR manufacturers (makers) defer to the vehicle manufacturer’s limit (Diono is the only exception, but caregivers may nonetheless decide to follow the VM limit). It is important to recognize that some CR manufacturers defer to the vehicle limit if it is lower, while others say to use the vehicle limit whether it is lower or higher than the CR limit. Therefore, it is NOT always necessary to default to the lower of the two limits when comparing. If the CR manufacturer allows a vehicle LA limit to be used that is higher, then that limit can be followed.
Discussion Idea:
Do you think that most caregivers have any idea that LATCH weight limitations is an issue they must consider? Are they consistently provided with all the information they need? (Possible answer: Since February 2014, yes, on the label! Before that, not usually. Although the CR instructions provided the CRM’s limit, the vehicle OM rarely addresses weight limits. Although this information is provided in the LM, how many of all caregivers actually gain access to this information through a CPST?)
LATCH Manual Support:
Pages 24 and 26–28 cover the topic of weight limits for lower anchorage, including this process to determine weight limits for CRs made before February 2014.
A bullet at the beginning of each CR manufacturer entry in Appendix A indicates the weight limit to follow for CRs made before February 2014.
Appendix B lists LA weight limits in each brand entry (left-hand column of bullets) and in Table B1.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a larger child?
When the CR was made BEFORE February 2014, the vehicle manufacturer’s stated limit for LA use should also be considered.
This slide shows where information on this subject can consistently be found in summary-table B-1 in the LATCH Manual.
Nissan’s source info from the previous slide is expressed briefly here in table form, along with all other brands.
Note that this table also includes TA limits when used with a seat belt. This aspect of the table will be covered later in the presentation, since tethering is an issue that is different than using LA attachments.
People may opt to find this information in Table B-1, but it is important to know that this ties to the source information in each brand’s bullet section, as shown in the previous slide.
Discussion Idea:
Do you use this table? (Anecdotally, SRN hears from many CPSTs that this is the most-used part of the LATCH Manual. While we are happy this summary is helpful, we hope that people understand where to also find the expanded source information. Also, it is unfortunate that many LM users do not expand their use beyond this table, since there are many, many more ways in which the LM can be useful. In the situation in which Table B1 is used, for instance, it would be a mistake to look only at this table and not consider the information on this subject provided by he CR manufacturer in Appendix A.)
It will depend on the child’s height whether limiting RF LATCH at 30 pounds (10 less than the RF maximum) will make any difference or not. That is, it’s probable that a child of 30 pounds would be turned forward facing due to height or societal pressures. After all, the average 30 pound child is 2 years old. Not even the 90th percentile big child is 40 pounds until after age 3.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a larger child?
This slide shows where CR weights can consistently be found for CRs in the LATCH Manual. They are always in a box at the end of the CR manufacturers Appendix A entry.
These weights are provided to SRN by the CR manufacturer directly. (SRN does not weigh the CRs, nor do we pull this information from the Internet.)
This information is used for determining the LA limit only when:
IF the VM states the LA limit as “65 pounds minus CR weight.” AND
IF the CR was made PRE-February 2014
This is the last slide on LA attachment weight limits, so it is a good point to ask if there are any questions on this subject before moving on.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: Simultaneously with a seat belt to install a CR?
This slide shows where information on the subject using LA attachments and seat belts simultaneously can be found in the LATCH Manual.
Appendix A includes a bullet on this subject for ever manufacturer, starting in bold with “Seat belt and LA attachments:”
Page 31-32 in Chapter 3 includes a section (partially shown here) that discusses this subject and summarizes the information provided by manufacturers.
Presenter Support:
Attendees might ask why Appendix B does NOT uniformly address this for all VMs. The explanation is that SRN did not ask VMs to say YES or NO on this non-regulated subject in order to avoid the arbitrary NO response that would most certainly have been the result.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Misuse of LATCH—Lower anchorage
NOTE: FORWARD CLICK TO SHOW THE ANSWER TO THE MISUSE QUESTION ON THIS SLIDE
Misuse:
FF convertible CR installed with flexible attachment in the RF belt path.
Potential consequence: Crash dynamics would change with use of wrong path. It could cause the CR to rotate too far forward in a crash, especially if the tether is not also used.
Discussion Idea:
Why is this form of misuse so common? Have you seen convertible CRs with two sets of LATCH straps, one for each mode? (Possible answers: Some Graco convertibles have two sets of flexible LA attachments; Clek Foonf has rigid connectors for FF and a flexible LA attachment for RF.)
LATCH Manual Support:
Appendix A provides details by CR model for how to move a flexible LATCH strap between rear and forward facing.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Misuse of LATCH—Lower anchorage
NOTE: FORWARD CLICK TO SHOW THE ANSWER TO THE MISUSE QUESTION ON THIS SLIDE
Misuse:
FF convertible CR installed with flexible attachment in the RF belt path.
Potential consequence: Crash dynamics would change with use of wrong path. It could cause the CR to rotate too far forward in a crash, especially if the tether is not also used.
Discussion Idea:
Why is this form of misuse so common? Have you seen convertible CRs with two sets of LATCH straps, one for each mode? (Possible answers: Some Graco convertibles have two sets of flexible LA attachments; Clek Foonf has rigid connectors for FF and a flexible LA attachment for RF.)
LATCH Manual Support:
Appendix A provides details by CR model for how to move a flexible LATCH strap between rear and forward facing.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a larger child?
When the CR was made BEFORE February 2014, the vehicle manufacturer’s stated limit for LA use should also be considered.
This slide shows where information on this subject can consistently be found in summary-table B-1 in the LATCH Manual.
Nissan’s source info from the previous slide is expressed briefly here in table form, along with all other brands.
Note that this table also includes TA limits when used with a seat belt. This aspect of the table will be covered later in the presentation, since tethering is an issue that is different than using LA attachments.
People may opt to find this information in Table B-1, but it is important to know that this ties to the source information in each brand’s bullet section, as shown in the previous slide.
Discussion Idea:
Do you use this table? (Anecdotally, SRN hears from many CPSTs that this is the most-used part of the LATCH Manual. While we are happy this summary is helpful, we hope that people understand where to also find the expanded source information. Also, it is unfortunate that many LM users do not expand their use beyond this table, since there are many, many more ways in which the LM can be useful. In the situation in which Table B1 is used, for instance, it would be a mistake to look only at this table and not consider the information on this subject provided by he CR manufacturer in Appendix A.)
It will depend on the child’s height whether limiting RF LATCH at 30 pounds (10 less than the RF maximum) will make any difference or not. That is, it’s probable that a child of 30 pounds would be turned forward facing due to height or societal pressures. After all, the average 30 pound child is 2 years old. Not even the 90th percentile big child is 40 pounds until after age 3.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Should I Tether: When in RF mode?
This is a fairly complex topic that cannot be covered in its entirety during this short presentation.
Encourage attendees to learn more about RF tethering in the instructions for CRs that allow it. Also, some VMs have posted helpful videos on their website or on You Tube.
The LATCH Manual provides a very helpful summary of the many aspects of rear-facing tethering in Chapter 7. This is a great read for any CPST who wants to become more familiar with this topic.
In Appendix A, all CR manufacturers state whether RF tethering is or isn’t allowed. Additional details are provided for those that do allow it.
(NOTE: The manufacturer most noted for allowing this technique in the U.S., Britax, removed this permission from owner’s manuals beginning in early 2015 (all models are expected to be updated by June 2015). The revised instructions are not retroactive, so follow the instructions that come with the CR being used. This change occurred AFTER the 2015 LATCH Manual went to press, so consult the LATCH Updates page at www.saferidenews.com for updates to Chapter 7 and the Britax entry in Appendix A.
This is the last slide on rear-facing tethering, so it is a good point to ask if there are any questions on this subject before moving on.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Can I use LA attachment: With a booster seat?
This slide shows where information on this subject can consistently be found for each CRM and VM brand in the LATCH Manual.
This is the last slide on LATCH with boosters, so it is a good point to ask if there are any questions on this subject before moving on.
Discussion Idea:
LATCH Manual Support:
Optional LATCH use with boosters:
Some boosters have lower LATCH attachments, as do combination CRs used as boosters. Though LATCH regulations do not apply to boosters, 18 booster makers now allow use of LATCH connectors for boosters or combination seats in the booster mode. (See Table A3, 2013 LM). Combination CRs also have tether straps, some of which can be used in booster mode.
LATCH installation option for the booster helps it stay in place, both while driving and in loading/unloading.
Lower attachment must not interfere with buckling of the seat belt.
Some booster instructions advise lower attachments to be loose, others tight. Some allow tether use, others do not, so read instructions! Also see LATCH Manual App. A for usage details.
VMs differ in their recommendations of use of LATCH with boosters (either lower attachments or tether). See Appendix B bullets (at the beginning of each brand entry) for information on each vehicle brand’s policy on this subject.
Lower anchor and tether anchor weight limits do not apply to boosters because the seat belt takes the crash forces and LATCH is only used to hold the booster in place.
Question: Do you think most caregivers today secure a booster when their child is not riding in the car?
Likely answer: Probably not, or inconsistently.
Reason for Hope? NHTSA’s Proposals to Cure LATCH
Many challenges related to the use of LATCH have to do with LAs and TAs that are difficult to identify, find, and/or attach to. In addition, consistency in marking, materials, instructions has been a problem, so caregivers have not become accustomed to what to expect when it comes to LATCH.
NHTSA has long had “doctoring up” LATCH on its to-do list, and submitted a first public step toward this, a formal Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), in January 2015. In the NPRM, NHTSA made a wide range of proposals, most of which would amend FMVSS 225.
The changes proposed are a good first step, but after any final rule is published, NHSTA plans to allow manufacturers 3 years to comply. So changes will not be seen immediately.
LATCH Manual Support:
Chapters 2 and 4 discuss the standardized versus variable aspects of LATCH lower and tether anchorage, respectively. Many of the variable aspects are the subject of NHTSA’s proposed improvements.
Presenter Support:
This and the next slide cover proposals from early 2015, when this presentation was prepared by SRN. It is unknown when NHTSA will publish a final rule after considering comments from the public regarding these proposals. If a presenter is uncertain about status updates regarding these proposals, the information can be found at www.regulations.gov by searching Docket No. NHTSA-2014-0123. You can also contact SRN to learn if there have been any status updates on this proposal by sending an e-mail to info@saferidenews.com.
Reason for Hope? NHTSA’s Proposals to Cure LATCH
Many challenges related to the use of LATCH have to do with LAs and TAs that are difficult to identify, find, and/or attach to. In addition, consistency in marking, materials, instructions has been a problem, so caregivers have not become accustomed to what to expect when it comes to LATCH.
NHTSA has long had “doctoring up” LATCH on its to-do list, and submitted a first public step toward this, a formal Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), in January 2015. In the NPRM, NHTSA made a wide range of proposals, most of which would amend FMVSS 225.
The changes proposed are a good first step, but after any final rule is published, NHSTA plans to allow manufacturers 3 years to comply. So changes will not be seen immediately.
LATCH Manual Support:
Chapters 2 and 4 discuss the standardized versus variable aspects of LATCH lower and tether anchorage, respectively. Many of the variable aspects are the subject of NHTSA’s proposed improvements.
Presenter Support:
This and the next slide cover proposals from early 2015, when this presentation was prepared by SRN. It is unknown when NHTSA will publish a final rule after considering comments from the public regarding these proposals. If a presenter is uncertain about status updates regarding these proposals, the information can be found at www.regulations.gov by searching Docket No. NHTSA-2014-0123. You can also contact SRN to learn if there have been any status updates on this proposal by sending an e-mail to info@saferidenews.com.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Reason for Hope? NHTSA’s Proposals to Cure LATCH
In a nutshell, NTHSA’s proposals, if finalized as amendments to standards, should improve ease-of-use of LATCH, and also create clarity and consistency of marking, instructions, and some parts. NHTSA’s intention is to make LATCH easier to use and also raise awareness of it’s presence in vehicles.
Much of the proposals were informed by the “Keys to a Better LATCH” study by UMTRI and IIHS (discussed on Slide # 17 of the 1.5 CEU version of this presentation). That study’s findings about LA bars often having clearance issues, being too deep in the bight, too requiring too much force to attach to directly led to many of the proposals for LAs (including adding the tools shown to standardize measurements on these aspects of LA design and placement).
TAs were also the subject of many proposals, including the significant change to require all styles to be a metal cross bar design.
In general, standardized markings for LAs/TAs as well as on the corresponding parts on CRs were proposed, along with coordinating explanations in instructions and OMs.
There were many other proposals as well, and NHTSA asked for public comment on some topics that it did not make proposals on, including having LATCH provided for center seating positions and standardizing LATCH terminology.
Discussion Idea:
Can you think of some TAs that would require redesign if NHTSAs proposals are finalized?
Do attendees know how to look up rules and proposals submitted by NHTSA? (Answer: Go to www.regulations.gov and search the docket number. In this case, it is NHTSA-2014-0123)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Staying up to date
SRN offers many free resources for technicians at its website. Important ones to know about regarding LATCH use are the ones listed here:
LATCH Manual Updates: Check this out for updates to the latest manual. Better yet, subscribe at the website to get e-mail notification when an update is posted.
SRN Support: Contact us with questions, read newsletter articles on LATCH, order SRN fact sheets, and more.
LATCH Gallery: A site that shows interesting LA and TA situations in vehicles using photos. CPSTs are encouraged to use our submission form to send us interesting photos to add to the Gallery. (NOTE: Appendix B vehicle models note when further information can be found here.)
PRESENTER NOTES:
Staying up to date
An additional CEU for the LATCH Manual Quiz:
NOTE: Take a minute to reiterate the importance of updating CPST/CPSTI profiles, submitting all CEU information at recertification time, and keeping proof of CEUs for four months after recertification is approved.
PRESENTER NOTES:
Conclusion
Please let attendees know they can feel free to contact SRN with questions and comments. SRN loves to hear from the CPST community!