Our Zydeco is Terrible!

We have had the 2006 Zydeco for a year, and taking the average over that year, have used it approximately once or twice a week. We had to have the seat replaced approximately 6 months ago, because the mechanism for raising and lowering it broke (it broke in the mid-recline position, and that's where it would have had to stay if it wasn't fixed or replaced). When we got the replacement seat from Zooper, it was obviously used -- it had very worn out straps, which were also covered in gross, crusted food from the child who previously used it, and was missing the crotch buckle and strap. We had to go to the hassle of switching out the various straps and buckles to get a complete and functional replacement seat in our stroller.

Yesterday, the mechanism for raising and lowering the seat back broke on the replacement seat. I'm a not a slob or maniac -- I take very good care of my things, it's just a very poor design. Also, a few months ago the front wheel stopped steering properly. It gets stuck and prevents you from turning and moving the stroller without tilting it onto its back wheels. That's quite a pain with 30 lbs. of stroller 25 lbs. of toddler on board. Also, since almost the beginning, the right rear wheel rubs and squeaks throughout the ride.

I bought this stroller because, although it was pricey, it included everything -- air pump, covers, sleeping bag, infant carrier adapter, etc. -- unlike most of the other all-terrain brands -- which I loved. I loved that I could use it for my infant carrier, and that the front wheel could be stationary or free (convenient if you want to go into a store with tight corners). It was also reviewed well in Consumer Reports and Baby Bargains. But the function is terrible and very frustrating, and I'm very sorry I spent so much money on it. Since it also does not have a handbrake or tether for off-road, and it's so heavy, I might as well have purchased a much lighter, less expensive jogging stroller.