Fixing systems

For optimum safety, it's vital to ensure that a car seat is correctly installed and secured using the correct fastening systems, as this will guarantee perfect installation. There are two fastening systems for installing a seat: 3-point seat belt and Isofix system.

The Isofix system:

Since 2005, all car manufacturers have been obliged to incorporate the Isofix system into their new vehicle models. The Isofix system is also required by European standard R129. This fixing principle, which reduces the risk of incorrect installation, is considered to be the safest. In the event of an impact, the car seat remains attached to the vehicle bench seat, providing optimum protection for the child's body.

In a vehicle: These are two rings placed between the seat and the backrest. They are indicated by a drawing, or they may not be visible. You therefore have to put your fingers through to reach them.

On a car seat: These are two clips that fit into the Isofix points and clip onto the hooks.

siège auto isofix

The Isofix system is limited to a maximum weight of 33 kg (car seat and child), to ensure perfect attachment. Many Isofix booster seat models are fitted with a safety belt to ensure that the child is secured above the weight limit.

The Isofix attachment system is usually supplemented by another securing system: the Top Tether or strut. This is a third point of stability that prevents the car seat from tipping forward.

jambe de force siège auto

The strut: This is a foot that can be adjusted in height so that it rests on the floor of the vehicle. However, care must be taken to ensure that the strut does not rest on a floor box.

The strut adds a point of stability to the car seat. In the event of a collision, the car seat will not tip forward.

Top Tether : This is a strap on the back of the car seat that attaches to the rear of the vehicle seat, either in the boot at ground level, behind the back of the seat or on the rear parcel shelf.

Like the support strut, the Top Tether is a point of stability that prevents the car seat from tipping forward in the event of a collision.

ceinture top tether

The safety belt :

The vehicle's 3-point safety belt is a universal fastening system. A car seat that can be fitted using the seat belt therefore has the advantage of being adaptable to all vehicle models. The safety belt can also be used to install a car seat in the front of the vehicle (only if the vehicle model is compatible with the car seat for front installation).

However, securing a car seat using a seatbelt increases the risk of incorrect installation. We therefore advise you to be vigilant and always follow the installation instructions.