The same kind of care should go into choosing a car seat. You can choose new car seats or used car seats, but there are some things you need to keep in mind regardless of whether you buy new or used. For example, car seats differ based on the age of the child. The seat that your newborn will use isn’t the same seat your toddler will use.

You also need to choose a car seat that fits your vehicle. Some car seats don’t seem to match up well with some vehicles. You need to be able to install it correctly in your vehicle, and to easily and correctly use it when the time comes.

The price of the car seat doesn’t tell the whole tale. An inexpensive car seat may be as useful and as safe as an expensive car seat.

If you do buy a used car seat, don’t get one that’s too old. Anything more than three or four years old should be avoided. You’ll want to make sure you can read and check the manufacturer as well as the model number, so you can check for recalls.

Finally, you want to avoid a car seat that has experienced an accident. Even if you can’t see any damage, the structure may have been damaged.