Car seat installation So we attempted to install our car seat today. We followed all of the…

Are you using the latch system? I get into the backseat and sit on it to push it as far back as it will go and pull tight on the straps. After that it doesn't move more then a half inch or so side to side with force.

You can go to a fire station and have a firefighter install it for you ? I just did that today!

Here is a link for place you can get it inspected! http://www.safercar.gov/cpsApp/cps/index.htm

I alway Google and you tube video to see for that specific brand!

I'd take it to be inspected, or maybe completely take it out and start over. My bf said he installed my car seat for me the other day, so I went to check and it was all wrong ? (I've nannied forever and used many car seats so I knew how to install them). His mistakes were that he didn't pull the buckle all the way till it locked and pull it tight on the base. Also he didn't know how to use the latches on the side. Most cars have little buttons with car seat signs on the seats where the latches can attach. I always hook both in before I tighten them so it is even and both sides are tight. Maybe that was the issue?

Also make sure that the base is level on the seat (most have a bubble level on them and a twist in the back to lower or raise the base)

If your talking about the part of the seat where your legs would hand over that part of the carseat is ok to lift up a little to absorb impact or something like that but what u want to be sure of is that it can't move side to side if it moves side to side it needs to be re installed. Sit on it and pull as tight as you can and lock it off or make sure latches are completely tight while your pushing with your weight in it. Chp or local police dept will check it free and reinstall correctly if necessary. Be sure it leveled too

Make sure you are pulling the seatbelt ALL the way OUT (as if you were leaning forward in your seat) until you hear the "click" once you release it the seatbelt it should keep it in place.

Yes the part of the seat where your legs would hang over is what lifts

It's supposed to lift there. Rear facing car seats are meant to cocoon baby in the event of an accident. You ONLY check for movement at the belt path with your non dominant hand and no firmer than a hand shake. If the base moves less than 1 inch side to side it's perfectly safe

Thanks so much ! That's really helpful. It's very tight at the base where it's buckled

The front is supposed to lift to absorb impact! Check out safekids.org they do car seat safety inspections and teach you exactly how to install your car seat and how to harness your baby in your specific seat. It was so helpful for me and I learned so much that I didn't know my car seat could do!

I went to the fire station and they were quite happy to help me with the car seat

Thanks everyone !