Where the date is on a car seat

Federal law requires the month and year of manufacture on the label. Expiration is the manufacturer’s own policy, not a federal rule. That month-and-year is what you're looking for — it's printed on a label on the shell, and the maker's "Do not use after" statement is in the manual or moulded into the plastic near it.

• Infant car seat Carrier shell, handle, separate base — three places to check.
• Convertible and all-in-one Underside, side of the shell, back of the shell.
• Booster seat Underside first; highbacks also carry it on the backrest.

Already found the date? Read what it means for your seat — or go straight to your brand's page for the maker's stated figure.