The top tether is a strap that connects from a child’s car seat to an anchor in the car. It ensures that the car seat remains in the car should there be an accident. It also ensures that the child does not move more than one inch, in either direction.
The anchor where the tether connects in the car is not always easy to find. In minivans and SUV’s, it may be located on the floor, or the ceiling. In sedans, the anchor is usually located on the back shelf behind the back seat. Its not uncommon for parents to attach the tether to an incorrect anchor either. A cargo hook has often been confused for the tether anchor and is not safe.
If your car doesn’t have the top tethers anchors, – some older models don’t – your car dealer may be able to retrofit them for any car manufactured 1989 or after. If you’re having trouble locating the tether and/or anchor location, check your car’s owners manual.
Once your child’s forward facing car seat is tethered, if it is tethered correctly, it should not move any more than an inch from side to side.
Fun Fact: In a pinch your local CPST can check your car sear installation for you and also offer free trainings on installation because as a new parent, any complicated process that can be handed off to a trained professional is a no brainer – especially if its both safer and free!