Warning to NY Parents-Counterfiet Car Seats-How To Spot a Fake

Parents already have a lot to think about, but one area that deserves extra attention is car seats.

Counterfeit versions are showing up online, and while they may look like the real thing, they often fail to meet U.S. safety standards. That means they could put your child at risk in a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is a great resource to find out more.

It’s easy to see why families are tempted. Some car seats cost more than $500, and when a cheaper option pops up, it feels like a win. But many of these so-called deals come from sellers overseas, where safety rules are not the same. The problem is that the differences are not always obvious.

Here are a few signs that a car seat might be counterfeit:

• Missing labels, warning stickers, or registration cards
• No instruction manual
• Flimsy or poorly made parts
• A price that seems too good to be true

When shopping for a car seat, there are also a few things you do want to see. Look for the statement that says, “This restraint system conforms to all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.”

That label means the seat meets U.S. requirements. Buy directly from the manufacturer when possible or from a trusted retailer like a major store you already know. And skip used seats altogether, since you cannot be sure if they were damaged or recalled.

If you suspect you have found a counterfeit, report it to STOPfakes.org. Protecting children starts with making sure their car seats are safe and reliable.