10 out of 10 people found this review helpful.
Graco Turbo Booster Safe, smart pick for older kids
Date of Review: Jun 10, 2008
The Bottom Line: The Graco Turbo Booster is an excellent choice for a child preschool aged or older. It is a well made, affordable choice.
As a mother of four children I have gone through my fair share of car seats. Last summer as we were getting ready for a long car trip I decided it was time to move my 3 yr old to a belt positioning booster. With my list of requirements in hand I started my search.
My Requirements-
1. Compact- Many carseats on the market a bulky and take up more than one seat. The Graco Turbo Booster is made efficiently with more than adequate padding, as well as EPS foam to cushion any bumps and protect in case of accidents. The Turbo Booster does this while maintaining a compact, streamlined appearance.
2. Cost- I really didn't want to spend much more than $50.00. The Graco Turbo Booster can be purchased for around $45.00.
3. Belt Positioning Booster- I needed a booster seat with a back that was not only adjustable but easy to use. The Graco Turbo Booster is easy to adjust with just one hand on the back of the seat. This is a definite plus if it will be used for more than one child.
Assembly and Use-
Within minutes I had snapped and clicked this car seat together. The cloth covering and padding hooks on to the frame through elastic loops. A screwdriver is needed for the headrest however so be prepared. I was not and used a plastic knife! The seat comes equipped with two cupholders. I have only ever used one because if you have to use the seat next to the carseat the other cupholder tends to get in the way. The seatbelt is easy to use and my now four year old can buckle herself in.
Problems-
The padding on the arm rests tends to fall off. It was driving me crazy so I just took it off all together.
If I had to do it over I would probably wait until my child was a little older to move to a belt positioning seat. Children at 3 and even 4 years of age still have a tendency to try and put the seatbelt behind their heads, defeating the whole purpose of the seat. A five point harness would keep younger children safer even if they do happen to fit the weight requirements.
I still use this seat and love it, and more importantly my daughter does. I know that she is safe in it when used properly and comfortable for long drives.
