All car seats have an expiration date . Generally, it's 6 years, but contact the manufacturer of the seat to find out what the expiration date is. Never buy a used car seat if you don't know its full history and never use a car seat that has been in a crash . Don't use any products in the car seat that didn't come from the manufacturer . Car seat fabrics meet strict fire safety codes. Add-on toys can injure your child in a crash. Remember Car seats are made for travel . Don't leave your baby for hours on end in the car seat outside of the car. Did You Know? Securing babies in rear-facing seats has proven to be the safest option to support their head, neck and spinal cord to prevent injuries. Toddlers under age 2 are safer riding rear-facing, if the seat allows it.