BRITAX FRONTIER 85 User Manual

Frontier 85

User Guide

IMPORTANT: Thoroughly read, understand, and follow all instructions before installing this child seat. Store this user guide in the pocket behind the cover (See features pages for reference).

This product and its components are subject to change without notice.

Warnings ......................................................................................................2

Safety Information .......................................................................................4

Important Notes .................................................................................................... 4

Certification ...........................................................................................................4

Registration ...........................................................................................................5

Child Seat Features .....................................................................................6

Child Seat Fit Requirements ......................................................................8

Vehicle Compatibility ..................................................................................10

Compatible Vehicle Seat Belts ............................................................................10

Incompatible Vehicle Seat Belts ..........................................................................14

Child Seat Functions ...................................................................................16

Installing the Child Seat ..............................................................................26

General Information .............................................................................................26

Harness Mode .................................................................................................26

Booster Mode ..................................................................................................27

Installing the Child Seat: Harness Mode ..................................................28

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) – Short Path .......................28

Lap-Shoulder Belt – Selecting a Belt Path ..........................................................32

Lap-Shoulder Belt – Short Path ...........................................................................34

Lap-Shoulder Belt – Long Path ...........................................................................38

Lap Belt – Short Path............................................................................................42

Switching Between Modes .........................................................................46

Harness to Booster Mode .................................................................................... 46

Booster to Harness Mode .................................................................................... 48

Positioning the Child Seat: Booster Mode ...............................................52

Using LATCH ........................................................................................................53

Lap-Shoulder Belt.................................................................................................54

Securing Your Child ....................................................................................55

Harness Mode ......................................................................................................55

Booster Mode .......................................................................................................58

Care and Maintenance ................................................................................60

Tips and Troubleshooting ...........................................................................69

Warranty .......................................................................................................72

Table of Contents

Section Title

Harness mode: use only with children who weigh between 25 • and 85 lbs (11.4 and 38.6 kg) and whose height is between 30 and 57 in. (76.2 and 144.8 cm) and are at least 2 years of age.

Booster mode: use only with children who weigh between 40 • and 120 lbs (18.2 and 54.5 kg) and whose height is between 42 and 65 in. (106.7 and 165.1 cm).

Snugly adjust the belts provided with this child restraint around • your child.

Secure the top anchorage strap provided with this child seat.• Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when •

restraining the child in this booster seat. Secure this child restraint with the vehicle’s child restraint •

anchorage system if available or with a vehicle belt. Follow all instructions on this child restraint and in the written •

instructions located in the pocket behind the cover of the child seat.

contact the vehicle manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for the LATCH anchors in your vehicle. Use the vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with children who weigh more than the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 40 pound (18.2 kg) child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.

Use this child seat forward-facing only.• According to accident statistics, children are safer when •

properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.

This child seat must not be used in the home, in boats, or other • non-certified applications.

To prevent injury due to deterioration or hidden damage, • discontinue use of this child seat when it is older than nine

years or has been in a moderate or severe crash. See date of manufacture and expiration date located on child seat shell. See page 6.

The primary protection for occupants of a vehicle in a collision • is the body of the vehicle itself. A child seat may not protect a child when the vehicle is seriously im pact ed. However when correctly installed, a child seat will substantially improve the chances for survival in most crashes.

Cover the child seat when the vehicle is parked in direct • sunlight. Parts of the child seat can become hot enough to burn a child.

Secure this child seat even when it is not occupied. In a crash, • an unsecured child seat may injure vehicle occupants.

Store the child seat in a safe place when it is not being used. • Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the child seat.

Never use the harness or adjuster strap to lift or carry this child • seat. Doing so could damage the harness adjuster and webbing. Always carry this child seat by the shell or tether straps.

Do not allow children to play with this child seat.• The use of non-Britax covers, inserts, toys, accessories, or •

tightening devices is not approved by Britax. Their use could cause this child seat to fail Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or not perform as intended in a crash.

Always check the back seat upon leaving your vehicle to prevent • leaving a child restrained in a child seat alone in the vehicle.

Do not leave loose objects, e.g. books, bags, etc., in the back • of a vehicle. In the event of a sudden stop, loose objects will keep moving, potentially striking passengers and causing serious injuries.

Do not leave folding vehicle seats unsecured. In the event of a • sudden stop, a loose seat back could cause the child seat not to perform as intended.

WARNING!

DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur:

Important Notes

Verify that the child seat is securely installed and that the • harness is properly adjusted around the child each time the child seat is used.

Adjust the harness to fit the clothes the child is wearing. • Remove bulky coats and/or jackets before putting the child in the child seat.

Do not, except as described in this booklet, attempt to • disassemble any part of the child seat or change the way the harness or vehicle’s seat belts are used.

Do not use anything to raise the child seat off of the vehicle seat. • In a crash, this could cause the child seat not to perform as intended.

Certification

This child seat system conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

This Restraint is Certified for Use in Motor Vehicles and Aircraft when Used in Harness Mode.

This Restraint is Not Certified for Use in Aircraft when Used in Booster Mode.

Belt positioning booster seats require lap-shoulder belt installation not available in aircraft.

Follow lap-belt installation instructions found on page 42, to install this child seat in aircraft.

NOTE: The Versa-Tether cannot be used in aircraft.

Install your child seat in a window seat to avoid blocking the aisle.

If the aircraft lap belt is too short, ask the flight attendant for a belt extender.

Registration

Child seats can be recalled for safety reasons. You must register this child seat to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, and the child seat’s model number and manufacturing date to Britax Child Safety, Inc., 13501 South Ridge Drive, Charlotte, NC 28273, or call 1-888-4BRITAX, or register online at www. BritaxUSA.com/registration. For recall information, call the U.S. Government’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.NHTSA.gov.

Serial Number:___________________________________

Batch Number:___________________________________

Date of Manufacture:______________________________

Safety InformationSafety Information

Cover1 Manufactured Date and 2

Expiration Date Label LATCH Strap3 Arm Rest4 Cup Holder5 Head Restraint6 Head Restraint Cover7 Harness Slot8

User Guide Storage (in

pocket behind cover)

Shoulder Belt Guide10 Comfort Pads11 HUGS™ Chest Pads12 Chest Clip13 Harness Straps14 Harness Buckle15 Lower Belt Guide16 Belly Pad17 Harness Adjuster Release 18

Lever (under flap) Harness Adjuster Strap19

Head Restraint Adjuster 20 Locking Screw Storage Slot LATCH Connector21 LATCH Connector Storage Slot22 LATCH Connector Release 23 Button LATCH Adjuster24 LATCH Adjuster Release 25 Button Belt Slot26 Harness Yoke Storage (on belt 27 shield) Versa-Tether28

Hook

Versa-Tether29

Storage Clip

Locking Screw30 Head Restraint Adjuster31 Shell32 Versa-Tether (Top Anchorage 33 Strap) Versa-Tether34

Adjuster

Versa-Tether35

Webbing Storage Strap Harness Height Adjuster36 Belt Shield37 Harness Yoke (behind Belt 38 Shield) Positioning Block39

15 16

31 32

35 36

11 12

Child Seat FeaturesChild Seat Features

Harness Mode:

Children must:

be at least two years of age 1 and weigh between 25 – 85 lbs (11.4 – 38.6 kg) 2 and stand 30 – 57 in. (76.2 – 144.8 cm) in height 3 and

WARNING! Harness mode use of this child seat is ONLY

for children who meet ALL of the following requirements. If the child does not meet all harness mode requirements because the child is too small, another type of child seat MUST be used. If your child does not meet all harness mode requirements because they are too large, you may need to use this child seat in booster mode. Thoroughly review all fit requirements

before using the child seat.

WARNING! Booster mode use of this child seat is ONLY for

children who meet ALL of the following requirements. Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt to secure the child. If the child does not meet all booster mode requirements because the child is too small, you may need to use this child seat in harness mode. Thoroughly

review all fit requirements before using the child seat.

Children must:

be at least 40 – 120 lbs (18.2 – 54.5 kg) 1 and stand 42 – 65 in. (106.7 – 165.1 cm) in height 2 and the top of the child’s ears must be below the top of the head 3

restraint and the vehicle belt must be appropriately positioned at or above 4

the child’s shoulder through the shoulder belt guide.

Shoulder level

Above Shoulder Level Below Shoulder Level

NOTE: Britax recommends booster mode only after the child outgrows harness mode.

the top of the child’s 4 ears must be below the top of the head restraint when seated and

the harness straps must 5 be located at or above the child’s shoulders when seated.

Booster Mode:

Child Seat Fit RequirementsChild Seat Fit Requirements

Switchable Retractor in ALR Mode with Sliding Latch Plate3.

Has a latch plate that freely

slides along the vehicle belt webbing.

Has a retractor that can be

switched to function as an ALR by pulling the vehicle belt fully out until a clicking sound can be heard when retracting.

To use a child seat with this * type of vehicle belt, you will need to switch to the ALR mode or use a locking clip.

Compatible Vehicle Seat Belts

NOTE: The information in this section only applies to installation with vehicle belts.

Vehicle seats and seat belts differ from vehicle to vehicle. Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about your vehicle belts and their use with child seats.

Lap-Shoulder (3-Point) Belt

ALR (Automatic Locking Retractor) with Sliding Latch Plate 1.

Has a latch plate that freely

slides along the vehicle belt webbing.

Has a retractor that stops the

belt from being pulled out again once the belt webbing has been pulled out at least 24 in. (61 cm).

Tightens by feeding the

belt webbing back into the retractor.

ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) with Locking Latch Plate2.

Has a latch plate that does

not allow the lap part of the belt to become loose after it is buckled.

Has a retractor that locks

only in an emergency situation such as sudden stop or crash.

Latch

Plate

Latch

Plate

Latch

Plate

Vehicle CompatibilityVehicle Compatibility

Locking Latch Plate6.

Has a latch plate that

does not allow the belt to become loose after it is buckled.

Tightens by pulling on the

belt webbing.

ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) with a Sliding Latch Plate4.

Has a latch plate that freely

slides along the vehicle belt webbing.

Has a retractor that locks

only in an emergency situation such as sudden stop or crash.

IMPORTANT: This belt type requires the use of a locking clip to secure the seat during installation. A locking clip must be secured approximately 1 in. (2.5 cm) from the latch plate to secure the child seat.

Call Britax Consumer Services at 1(888) 427-4829 to obtain a locking clip.

Has a retractor that stops the b belt from being pulled out again once the belt webbing has been pulled out at least 24 in. (61 cm).

Tightens by feeding the

belt webbing back into the retractor.

Latch

Plate

Adjuster

Latch

Plate

Lap Belt

IMPORTANT: A Lap belt may only be used to install the child seat

in harness mode and should never be used to secure your child in booster mode.

ALR (Automatic Locking 5. Retractor)

Has a latch plate that is a sewn into the webbing.

1” (2.5 cm) from Latch

Plate

Vehicle CompatibilityVehicle Compatibility

Vehicle Buckle Positions

WARNING! The following types of vehicle belts are NOT

compatible with this child seat:

Incompatible Vehicle Seat Belts

Lap-shoulder belts with 1 top or bottom anchor points on the vehicle door.

Motorized, automatic vehicle 2 belts.

Lap-shoulder belts that have 3 a separate retractor each for the lap part and shoulder part.

Lap belts forward of the 4 vehicle seat bight.

Lap belts that have a retractor that locks only 5 in case of a sudden stop (emergency locking retractor or ELR).

WARNING! Some vehicles have no seating positions which

are compatible with this child seat or any other child seat. If in doubt, contact the vehicle manufacturer for assistance. Forward-facing vehicle seats MUST be used with this child

seat. Side-facing or rear-facing seats CANNOT be used. See diagram below.

Vehicle Seating Positions

DO NOT place a child seat in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger air bag unless deactivated. DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY can occur. See your vehicle owner's manual for child seat installation instructions. The back seat is the safest place for children 12 and under.

WARNING!

WARNING! The position of the vehicle

belt buckle can adversely affect the stability of the child seat.

If the buckle lies near the incorrect position ( ) when the vehicle belt is tightened, try fitting the child seat in another seating position in the vehicle OR consult your vehicle owner’s manual to see if you can lower the vehicle buckle position by twisting the vehicle buckle stalk. If it is not possible to achieve the correct position (

) for the buckle, then another seating

position MUST be used.

Vehicle CompatibilityVehicle Compatibility

Harness Mode: Harness Height Adjustment

IMPORTANT: Make all adjustments for the fit of your child before using the child seat. Place the child seat on the floor and have your child sit in the seat. Follow the instructions on the following pages to make the proper adjustments to the harness, buckle, and head restraint.

WARNING! Head restraint adjustment is for use in Booster

Mode ONLY. DO NOT Use the head restraint adjuster when the harness is attached.

Lift the head restraint 2 adjuster release to move the head restraint.

Loosen the harness. 1

Press release levera Pull both harness straps b forward

Lift and slide the harness 2 height adjuster into the desired position, then release.

Ensure the adjuster is * seated securely between the notches.

Booster Mode: Head Restraint Adjustment

Remove the locking screw

from the head restraint adjuster and insert into the shell to store for later use.

IMPORTANT: The vehicle belt must be positioned at or above the child’s shoulder through the shoulder belt guide.

IMPORTANT: In harness mode, the harness height adjuster also adjusts the height for the head restraint. Always position the harness straps at or above your child’s shoulders.

Locking Screw

storage

Shoulder level

Above Shoulder Level Below Shoulder Level

Child Seat FunctionsChild Seat Functions

Adjusting Buckle Position

Removing the Buckle

Unbuckle the harness by

pressing the release button and pulling the tongues.

Re-threading the Buckle

IMPORTANT: Select the slot

closest to, but not under the child.

Turn and push the buckle 1 retainer through the slot in the cover and child seat shell.

Locate the buckle retainer on

the bottom of the child seat. Slide the buckle retainer up

or down to release it from the child seat shell.

Pull the buckle retainer away

from the child seat to loosen. Turn and push the buckle

retainer through the slot in the child seat shell.

Pull the buckle retainer 2 through the slots in the cover and child seat shell to the bottom of the child seat.

Pull the buckle away from the

child seat until tight.

Ensure that the buckle strap is * not twisted.

Pull the buckle retainer 6 through the slots in the child seat shell and cover to the top of the child seat.

Slide the buckle retainer back

into place to hold it against the child seat shell.

Child Seat FunctionsChild Seat Functions

Insert one tongue at a time into the buckle.

NOTE: Proper connection is confirmed with an audible click after inserting each buckle tongue.

Fastening the Buckle Releasing the Buckle

Press the release button and pull the tongues from the buckle.

NOTE: Periodically clean the buckle to ensure proper operation. See Page 67.

Using the Chest Clip

Squeeze to

open

Push together to fasten

NOTE: Always position the chest clip at armpit level.

Using the Positioning Block

NOTE: Set the positioning block position BEFORE installing.

Unhook the Versa-Tether from

the storage clip

Harness Position2

Booster Position3

Positioning

Block

Positioning

Block

Child Seat FunctionsChild Seat Functions

Using the LATCH Connectors

The LATCH connectors are located on the sides of the shell in the storage slots. Store the LATCH connectors when not in use.

To remove the LATCH connector from the storage slot or lower anchor:

Press and hold the red release

button.

Pull the LATCH connector

from the storage slot or lower anchor.

To attach the LATCH connector to the storage slot or lower anchor:

Firmly push the LATCH connector into the slot or lower anchor until a click is heard to store.

NOTE: The LATCH connectors store in the slots upside-down.

Using Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)

LATCH SYSTEM ANCHOR LOCATIONS

Te ther

Anchor

Lower LATCH

Anchors

The figure above shows typical locations for lower anchors and tether anchors in a vehicle. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for the exact LATCH anchor locations and seating positions (if equipped), information on use with a child seat, and for the maximum weight rating for the LATCH anchors.

Standard vehicle seat spacing between LATCH anchors is 11 inches (27.9 cm). This child seat can be used in a seating position with up to 20 inches (50.8 cm) of space between the LATCH anchors if the vehicle manufacturer allows.

Top

Child Seat FunctionsChild Seat Functions

To remove the Versa-Tether from the storage clip:

Remove the webbing from the

elastic strap and loosen the Versa-Tether.

Remove the Versa-Tether

hook from the storage clip.

To attach the Versa-Tether to the storage clip or a tether anchor:

Firmly press the hook over the

storage clip or tether anchor point.

Always attach the hook over 2 the anchor point.

IMPORTANT: Use the elastic strap to contain extra webbing. Always ensure any excess webbing is contained within your vehicle.

Using the Versa-Tether

WARNING!

Attach the Versa-Tether only to tether anchors identified by • your vehicle manufacturer as tether anchorage points.

If your vehicle does not currently have a tether anchor • attachment, refer to your vehicle owner’s manual or contact your vehicle man u fac tur er for assistance. DO NOT modify your vehicle without advice from your vehicle manufacturer.

When using the child seat in harness mode:

Britax recommends that the tether be used at all times • when installing the child seat. Using the tether will improve the stability of your child seat and reduce the risk of injury.

You must • always use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 85 lbs (29.5 – 38.6 kg).

Tether anchor locations vary from vehicle to vehicle. Check your vehicle owner’s manual and look for the tether anchor symbol shown in the diagram to help identify where the top tether anchor point is located in your vehicle.

Child Seat FunctionsChild Seat Functions

WARNING!

Long belt path is only for use with a lap-shoulder belt. Never • use the long belt path option with LATCH or a lap belt.

Use• only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when restraining a child in booster mode. Never restrain a child with only a lap belt in booster mode.

You MUST always• use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 85 lbs (29.5 – 38.6 kg) in harness mode.

Install forward-facing only.•

DO NOT use anything to raise the child seat off of the vehicle seat.•

Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual or contact the vehicle • manufacturer for the maximum weight rating for the LATCH anchors in your vehicle. Use the vehicle belt (not LATCH connectors) for installations with children who weigh more than the vehicle LATCH anchor limit. Unless specified otherwise by the vehicle manufacturer, assume a 40 lb (18.2 kg) child is the vehicle LATCH anchor limit.

General Information

Harness Mode

The positioning block must be • rotated to the front when installing the child seat in harness mode.

Based on your vehicle’s seat belt • configuration, you may achieve a more secure installation using one of two approved lapshoulder belt path options (long or short belt path). If the first

installation method results in more than 1 in. (2.5 cm) of front-toback or side-to-side movement at the belt path, try the other option. See page 32 for information on selecting a belt path to install this child seat in your vehicle.

Use this child seat in harness mode with children at least 2 years of • age and 25 – 85 lbs (11.4 – 38.6 kg) who stand 30 – 57 in. (76.2 –

144.8 cm) in height. Britax recommends using harness mode to 85 lbs (38.6 kg). See the Child Seat Fit Recommendations section on page 8 for information on when your child has outgrown harness mode.

Booster Mode

The positioning block must • be rotated to the back when positioning the child seat in booster mode.

This child seat can be used in • booster mode with children who stand 42 – 65 in. (106.7 – 165.1 cm) in height and weigh more than 40 lbs (18.2 kg). Britax recommends using harness mode to 85 lbs (38.6 kg).

When positioning this child • seat in booster mode use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt to secure the child and child seat into the desired seating position.

In booster mode, this child • seat can be positioned on the vehicle seat using LATCH. Use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt to secure the child. Ensure that the LATCH system does not interfere with the vehicle belt function and alignment when securing your child.

Positioning

Block

Positioning

Block

Installing the Child SeatInstalling the Child Seat

LATCH – Short Path

Before you begin:

Check that your vehicle has LATCH anchors. 9

Check your vehicle owner’s manual for the vehicle’s LATCH * anchor limits.

Check that your vehicle has a top tether anchor. 9

You MUST always* use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 85 lbs (29.5 – 38.6 kg).

Britax recommends that the Versa-Tether is used at all times. * Using the tether will improve the stability of the child seat and reduce the risk of injury. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for tether anchor locations.

Remove the Versa-Tether 9

hook from the storage clip and place it over the child seat back to keep it from becoming pinned between the child seat and vehicle seat during installation.

Versa-Te ther

(Top Te ther)

Install with LATCH using only the short belt path as shown above.

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Locate the LATCH anchors in 1 your vehicle.

Ensure harness height is * adjusted to fit your child.

Rotate the positioning block to 2 the front and place the child seat on the vehicle seat.

Verify that the LATCH strap is

not twisted and firmly press the LATCH connectors onto their adjacent LATCH anchors to attach.

Push the child seat into the

vehicle seat and pull the end of the LATCH strap through the belt slot to secure.

The child seat is secure when it * cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1 in. (2.5 cm) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a different seating location.

Firmly press the Versa-Tether5

hook to the vehicle tether anchor to attach. Remove all slack from the tether webbing.

Use the elastic strap to contain

extra webbing.

Checklist

Check that positioning block is rotated to the front. 9 Check all connections and verify that child seat is secure. 9

The child seat is secure when it cannot be moved front-to-* back or side-to-side more than 1 in. (2.5 cm) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a different seating location.

Ensure any excess Versa-Tether 9

webbing is stored in elastic band. Always ensure any excess webbing is contained within your vehicle.

<1 in.

Check Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) attachment

Check that Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) webbing is stored in elastic band

Check LATCH

connector attachments

Check that the

Positioning Block is

rotated to the front

Check that there is

LESS than 1 in. (2.5 cm)

of movement (front to back

or side to side) at the belt path

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Lap-Shoulder Belt – Selecting a Belt Path

Due to variability in vehicle seat designs and belt systems, the Frontier 85 child seat can be secured to the vehicle seat by a lap-shoulder belt with either a short belt path or a long belt path installation method.

The following may help with selecting which belt path to try first:

WARNING! Do not use the long belt path for LATCH or lap

belt installations.

Outside edge of child seat

Buckle stalk behind

child seat

The buckle stalk is in position for

short belt path installation

Outside edge of child seat

Buckle stalk beside child seat

The buckle stalk is in position for

long belt path installation

If the buckle stalk is to the side of the child seat (i.e. the child seat B is narrower than the insertion points of the vehicle belt system), then the long belt path may be the best option to try first.

If one installation method results in more than 1 in. (2.5 cm) of front-to-back or side-to-side movement at the belt path, then try the other method.

Both the short and long lap-shoulder belt path installation methods meet or exceed all Federal motor vehicle Safety Standards. Either of these options can be used based upon vehicle compatibility for children at least 2 years old and 25 lbs (11.4 kg) up to 85 lbs (38.6 kg) in harness mode.

Rotate the positioning block to the front and place the child

seat on the vehicle seat in the chosen seating position. Note the position of the vehicle buckle stalk relative to the child seat. If the buckle stalk is behind the child seat (i.e. the child seat is wider than the insertion points of the vehicle belt system), then the short belt path may be the best option to try first.

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Before you begin:

Check that your vehicle has a seat belt that can be locked. 9

Check your vehicle owner’s manual to determine what type * of vehicle belt you have and how it can be locked for use with child seats. If your vehicle belt does not lock, a locking clip must be used. Call Britax Consumer Services at 1(888)427-4829 to obtain a locking clip.

Check that your vehicle has a top tether anchor? 9

You MUST always* use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 85 lbs (29.5 – 38.6 kg).

Remove the Versa-Tether 9

hook from the storage clip and place it over the child seat back to keep it from becoming pinned between the child seat and vehicle seat during installation.

Versa-Te ther

(Top Te ther)

Lap-Shoulder Belt – Short Path

Short lap-shoulder belt path installation

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Rotate the positioning block to 1 the front and place the child seat on the vehicle seat.

Ensure harness height is * adjusted to fit your child.

Pull the vehicle belt out and 2 route the belt through the first belt slot, under the cover and through the second belt slot.

Verify that the belt is not

twisted and then buckle. Push the child seat firmly

into the vehicle seat while removing all slack from the lap part (a), then shoulder part (b) of the vehicle belt.

Ensure that the vehicle belt * is locked as directed by your vehicle owner’s manual. The child seat is secure when it * cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1 in. (2.5 cm) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a different seating location.

Firmly press the Versa-Tether5

hook to the vehicle tether anchor to attach. Remove all slack from the tether webbing.

Use the elastic strap to contain

extra webbing.

Checklist

Check that positioning block is rotated to the front. 9 Check all connections and verify that child seat is secure. 9

Ensure any excess Versa-Tether 9

webbing is stored in elastic band. Always ensure any excess webbing is contained within your vehicle.

Check Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) attachment

Check vehicle

buckle attachment

<1 in.

Check that Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) webbing is stored in elastic band

Check that the

Positioning Block is

rotated to the front

Check that there is

LESS than 1 in. (2.5 cm)

of movement (front to back

or side to side) at the belt path

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Before you begin:

Check that your vehicle has a seat belt that can be locked. 9

Check that your vehicle has a top tether anchor? 9

You MUST always* use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 85 lbs (29.5 – 38.6 kg).

Remove the Versa-Tether 9

hook from the storage clip and place it over the child seat back to keep it from becoming pinned between the child seat and vehicle seat during installation.

Versa-Te ther

(Top Te ther)

Long lap-shoulder belt path installation

Lap-Shoulder Belt – Long Path

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Rotate the positioning block to the 1 front and place the child seat on the

vehicle seat.

Ensure harness height is adjusted * to fit your child.

Position the shoulder part of the

vehicle belt behind the head restraint.

IMPORTANT: DO NOT route the vehicle belt under the cover or through the belt guide on the head restraint.

Route the lap and shoulder parts 3 of the vehicle belt over the lap belt guide, through the belt slot, across the back of the child seat shell, then through the second belt slot.

Verify the vehicle belt is not twisted,

then buckle. Push the child seat firmly into the

vehicle seat while removing all slack from the lap part (a), then from the

shoulder part (b) of the vehicle belt.

Ensure that the vehicle belt is * locked as directed by your vehicle owners manual.

The child seat is secure when it * cannot be moved front-to-back or side-to-side more than 1 in. (2.5 cm) at the belt path. If the child seat is not secure, repeat the installation procedure or use a

different seating location.

Firmly press the Versa-Tether

hook to the vehicle tether anchor to attach. Remove all slack from the tether webbing.

Use the elastic strap to contain extra

webbing.

Checklist

Check that positioning block is rotated to the front. 9 Check all connections and verify that child seat is secure. 9

Ensure any excess Versa-Tether 9

webbing is stored in elastic band. Always ensure any excess webbing is contained within your vehicle

Check Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) attachment

Check vehicle

buckle attachment

<1 in.

Check that Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) webbing is stored in elastic band

Check that the

Positioning Block is

rotated to the front

Check that there is

LESS than 1 in. (2.5 cm)

of movement (front to back

or side to side) at the belt path

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Lap Belt – Short Path

Before you begin:

Check that your vehicle has a seat belt that can be locked. 9

Check your vehicle owner’s manual to determine what type * of vehicle belt you have and how it can be locked for use with child seats.

Check that your vehicle has a top tether anchor? 9

You MUST always* use the Versa-Tether for children weighing 65 – 85 lbs (29.5 – 38.6 kg).

Remove the Versa-Tether 9

hook from the storage clip and place it over the child seat back to keep it from becoming pinned between the child seat and vehicle seat during installation.

Install with the lap belt using only the short belt path as shown above.

Versa-Te ther

(Top Te ther)

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Rotate the recline block to the 1 front and place the child seat on the vehicle seat.

Ensure harness height is * adjusted to fit your child.

Pull the vehicle belt out and 2 route the belt through the first belt slot, under the cover and through the second belt slot.

Verify that the belt is not

twisted, then buckle.

Push the child seat firmly

into the vehicle seat while removing all slack from the vehicle belt.

Firmly press the Versa-Tether 5 hook to the vehicle tether anchor to attach. Remove all slack from the tether webbing.

Use the elastic strap to contain

extra webbing.

Checklist

Check that positioning block is rotated to the front. 9 Check all connections and verify that child seat is secure. 9

Ensure any excess Versa-Tether 9

webbing is stored in elastic band. Always ensure any excess webbing is contained within your vehicle.

Check Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) attachment

Check vehicle

buckle attachment

<1 in.

Check that Versa-T e ther

(Top Te ther) webbing is stored in elastic band

Check that the

Positioning Block is

rotated to the front

Check that there is

LESS than 1 in. (2.5 cm)

of movement (front to back

or side to side) at the belt path

Installing the Child Seat: Harness ModeInstalling the Child Seat: Harness Mode

Turn and slide the retainer 6 through the slot to remove.

Pull the harness webbing tight * from the other side before pulling the retainer through.

Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the remaining harness buckle strap.

Remove the locking screw

from the head restraint adjuster and insert into the shell to store.

IMPORTANT: Store the screw in the slot provided in the shell. Store all parts of the harness in a safe place. These parts will be needed to convert the child seat back to harness mode.

Pull the harness straps out of

the slots.

DO NOT remove the HUGS™ * chest pads or chest clip.

On the bottom of the seat, 5 slide the retainer of one harness strap up and pull it away from the child seat shell.

This seat may only be used in booster mode with children who stand 42 – 65 in. (106.7 – 165.1 cm) in height and weigh more than 40 lbs (18.2 kg). Britax recommends booster mode only after the child outgrows harness mode.

Harness to Booster Mode

To remove the harness and buckle:

Loosen the harness.

Press release levera Pull both harness straps forwardb

Remove the belt shield and 2 unhook the harness straps from the yoke.

Replace the belt shield (a) then

store the yoke in the slot (b).

Locking

Screw storage

Switching Between ModesSwitching Between Modes

Nest the harness straps by 9 inserting the right strap loop into the left strap loop.

Remove the harness yoke

from storage on the belt shield (a), then remove the belt shield (b).

Turn and slide the retainer of

each harness strap through the harness slot.

Ensure that the icon on the * chest clip faces out.

Slide each retainer back into 6 place on the child seat shell.

Booster to Harness Mode

To replace the harness and buckle:

Move the harness adjuster to

the highest position (a), then move the head restraint to the lowest position (b).

Ensure that harness slots in * the cover, head restraint and harness adjuster are aligned.

Replace the locking screw 2 to lock the head restraint adjuster.

Turn and slide the retainer of

the buckle strap through the buckle slot.

Choose the slot that is closest * to, but not under your child.

Slide the retainer back into 4 place to hold it against the child seat shell. Verify that the strap is not twisted, and that the button faces out.

Locking

Screw storage

Insert the harness straps 7 through the slots in the cover, shell, and harness adjuster to the back of the child seat.

Switching Between ModesSwitching Between Modes

Pull the adjuster strap to 13 tighten the harness.

Pull the harness adjuster away * from the child seat (parallel to the ground) to tighten. See page 57.

Before reattaching the harness 10 straps, hold the harness yoke as shown, and ensure that the adjuster strap attached to the yoke is not twisted.

Adjuster

Strap

Checklist

Check that the harness straps are not twisted 9 Ensure the chest clip and HUGS 9 ™ pads face outward. Check that the adjuster strap is not twisted 9 Check that the harness yoke is in the proper orientation and 9

that the harness straps are nested securely onto the yoke

Slide nested harness straps 11 completely onto the harness yoke.

Replace the belt shield over

the harness straps and yoke.

IMPORTANT: Check the harness straps and attachments before using the child seat.

Check that Harness

Yo ke hangs as shown,

and that Harness

Straps are nested

securely on the yoke

Check that the

Chest Clip and

HUGS™ Chest

pads face outward

Check that

Harness Straps

are not twisted

Check that Adjuster Strap is not twisted

FRONTBACK

Switching Between ModesSwitching Between Modes

Detach the Versa-Tether1

hook

from the storage clip. Ensure the positioning block

is rotated to the back.

Place the child seat on the

vehicle seat and connect the LATCH connectors to the vehicle LATCH anchors.

Push the child seat into the

vehicle seat and pull the end of each LATCH strap through the belt slot to remove slack.

Repeat as necessary. Store * excess webbing behind cover.

Using LATCH

Positioning the Child Seat: Booster ModePositioning the Child Seat: Booster Mode

Before you begin:

Does your vehicle have a top tether anchor in the chosen seating 9 position?

Does your vehicle have LATCH anchors in the chosen seating position? 9

IMPORTANT: Use LATCH only to position this child seat to your vehicle seat. Secure your child using the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt system.

WARNING!

Position forward-facing • only in a seating position with a lap-shoulder belt.

Use • only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when securing a child in booster mode. Never secure a child with a lap belt only in booster mode.

Always• secure the unoccupied child seat. If the LATCH anchors in your vehicle prevent proper •

vehicle belt fit across your child you cannot use LATCH to position this seat in booster mode. See below.

The vehicle belt fits properly when the lap part sits low across the child’s hips (a) and the shoulder part lies across the child’s shoulder and does not contact the child’s neck when routed through the upper belt guide (b).

54 55

Firmly press the Versa-Tether5

hook to the vehicle tether anchor to attach. Remove all slack from the tether webbing.

Use the elastic strap to contain

extra webbing.

Always ensure any excess * webbing is contained within your vehicle

Use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder 7 belt to secure your child.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

Ensure that the positioning

block is rotated to the back.

Place the child seat on the

vehicle seat and use the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt to secure your child.

Positioning the Child Seat: Booster Mode

WARNING!

Never route the vehicle belt over the child when using this • child seat in harness mode.

Adjust the belts provided with this child seat so they • fit snugly around your child. A snug strap should not allow any slack. It lies in a relatively straight line without sagging. It does not press on the child’s flesh or push the child’s body into an unnatural position.

The HUGS™ chest pads must be used at all times.•

Adjust the harness to fit the clothes the child is wearing. • Remove bulky coats and/or jackets before putting the child in the child seat.

Verify that the child seat is secure and the harness is • properly adjusted around the child each time the child seat is used.

Harness Mode

Before you begin:

Always check the seat area for debris and remove it to prevent interference with the harness adjuster mechanism.

Positioning

Block

Securing Your Child

Fasten the chest clip.7

The correct height for the chest * clip is at the middle of the chest at armpit level. The HUGS* ™ chest pads may be placed in any position that is comfortable for the child within the range of the correctly placed chest clip.

Loosen the harness.1

Press release levera Pull both harness straps forwardb

Open the chest clip.2

Press tabsa Pull apartb

Release the buckle and place 3 the harness straps around the armrests.

Pull the harness adjuster strap

to tighten the harness.

The harness should have * a comfortable but snug fit around the child. A snug strap should not allow any slack. It lies in a relatively straight line without sagging. It does not press on the child’s flesh or push the child’s body into an unnatural position. You should not be able to pinch excess.

Pull the harness adjuster away

from the child seat (parallel to the ground) to tighten.

Do not pull sideways.

Checklist

Before traveling, verify that the:

Harness straps are not twisted. 9 Harness is snug. 9 Buckle is fastened. 9 Chest clip is at the child’s armpit level. 9

Place the child in the child 4 seat and position the harness straps around the child.

Fasten the harness buckle.

Proper connection is confirmed * with an audible click after inserting each buckle tongue.

Securing Your ChildSecuring Your Child

Fasten the vehicle belt across 4 the child.

Lap part of the vehicle belt * must be routed low across the child’s hips.

Pull the vehicle belt out and 3 route the shoulder part of the vehicle belt through the upper belt guide.

Booster Mode

WARNING!

Only use a lap-shoulder belt to secure the child in booster • mode.

Use the shoulder belt guides on the child seat to ensure • proper fit.

Ensure the lap part of the belt sits low across the child’s hips • and that the shoulder part does not contact the child’s neck.

Before you begin:

Ensure that the positioning block is in booster position.• If your vehicle seat back is adjustable, ensure it is in the •

upright position before placing the child seat on the vehicle seat.

Place the child seat on the vehicle seat and have the child sit in 1 the child seat.

Adjust the head restraint so

the shoulder belt guides position the vehicle belt at or just above the child’s shoulders. The child’s ears should be below the top of the head restraint.

Checklist

Before traveling, verify that the:

Vehicle belt is not twisted. 9 Buckle does not rest on red belt guide. 9 Shoulder part of vehicle belt is routed through upper belt guide at or 9

above the child’s shoulder and does not contact the child’s neck. Lap part of the vehicle belt is routed low across the child’s hips. 9

Remove slack from the vehicle 5 belt.

Securing Your ChildSecuring Your Child

Pull the harness straps 4 through the shell and cover to the front of the child seat.

Loosen the harness.

Press release levera Pull both harness straps forwardb

Unbuckle the harness, then 2 move the harness adjuster to the highest position.

Remove the belt shield and

unhook both harness straps from the yoke.

Remove the screw to unlock

the head restraint adjuster and raise the head restraint to the highest position.

Store the screw in the slot in * the shell.

Unhook the elastic bands, 6 then remove the cover from the head restraint.

Be careful not to damage the * energy-absorbing foam.

Unfasten the clips behind the 7 armrests, then pull the cover from the lower belt guides.

Cover Removal

Care and MaintenanceCare and Maintenance

WARNING!

Never remove the buckle tongues from the harness. • DO NOT remove the HUGS• ™ pads from the harness straps.

Locking

Screw storage

Turn and push the buckle 8 retainer through the shell and cover to the top of the seat.

Pull the belly pad over the * buckle retainer to remove.

Pull the harness straps, buckle 9 tongues, HUGS™ chest pads, and chest clip through the slots in the cover.

Remove the elastic loops from

the hooks on the bottom of the child seat, then pull the lower part of the cover from the bottom of the child seat shell.

Route the cover around the

head restraint and remove the entire cover from the child seat shell.

Cleaning the Cover

HAND WASH the cover using cold water and mild soap.• LINE DRY to prevent the cover from shrinking.•

DO NOT:•

Bleach* Machine wash* Machine dry* Iron*

Cleaning the Harness

SPONGE CLEAN the harness using warm water and mild soap.• TOWEL DRY•

DO NOT:•

Disassemble the harness* Bleach* Machine wash* Machine dry* Iron*

Cleaning the Shell

SPONGE CLEAN the shell using warm water and mild soap.• TOWEL DRY•

DO NOT use abrasive cleaners•

Care and MaintenanceCare and Maintenance

Replace the screw to lock the 7 head restraint adjuster.

Insert the harness straps

through the slots in the cover, shell, and harness adjuster to the back of the child seat.

Pull the head restraint cover

over the head restraint shell, and reattach the elastic bands.

Be careful not to damage the * energy-absorbing foam.

Move the harness adjuster to 6 the highest position (a), then move the head restraint to the lowest position (b).

Ensure that harness slots in * the cover, head restraint and harness adjuster are aligned.

Replacing the Cover

Fit the cover around the head

restraint.

Be careful not to damage the * energy-absorbing foam.

Fit the bottom of the cover 2 over the lower part of the child seat shell, then pull the elastic loops over the hook on the bottom of the child seat shell.

Pull the harness straps, buckle

tongues, HUGS™ chest pads, and chest clip through the appropriate holes in the cover.

Push the cover under the

lower belt guides.

Care and MaintenanceCare and Maintenance

Turn and push the buckle 2 retainer through the shell and cover to the top of the seat.

Pull the belly pad over the * buckle retainer to remove.

To Clean:

THOROUGHLY RINSE the • buckle using warm water.

TEST THE BUCKLE by fastening • and unfastening until a positive click is heard after inserting each buckle tongue. If clicks are not heard, repeat the cleaning procedure.

TOWEL DRY•

DO NOT:•

Soak* Lubricate* Use solvents* Use soap or household detergents*

Cleaning the Buckle

If your child eats and drinks while in the child seat, you may need to check the buckle periodically and rinse out any accumulated debris or dried liquids.

Remove the Buckle

Locate the metal retainer on the

bottom of the child seat, and slide the retainer up to release it from the child seat shell.

Push the buckle retainer 11 through the slots in the child seat shell and cover to the bottom of the child seat.

Ensure the harness straps are * not twisted and that the buckle faces out.

Ensure that the adjuster strap 9 attached to the yoke is not twisted, then slide nested harness straps completely onto the harness yoke. See pages 49 and 50.

Replace the belt shield over

the harness straps and yoke.

Reattach the clips behind the

arm rests and slide the fabric under the lower belt guides.

Care and MaintenanceCare and Maintenance

Turn and push the buckle 2 retainer through the slots in the cover and shell to the bottom of the child seat.

Re-thread the Buckle

Select the slot closest to, but not under the child.

Pull the buckle away from the 3 child seat until tight. Verify that the buckle retainer lies flat against the child seat shell.

Ensure that the buckle strap is * not twisted and that the button faces out.

Energy-Absorbing Tether

The Versa-Tether can indicate when the child seat has been in a moderate or severe crash and replacement of the child seat is necessary.

Figure 1 shows the tether when the child seat is acceptable for continued use (provided the child seat has not been involved in a crash). The colored stitching will be intact and the webbing will be held under a tether label.

Figures 2 and 3 show examples of when the child seat is unacceptable for continued use. If the tether label is torn, or if one or both of the loops have pulled through the back side of the shell and/or any of the colored stitching has ripped, the child seat is no longer acceptable for use.

IMPORTANT: Discontinue use of child seat if it has been involved in a moderate or severe crash, regardless of whether the loops have pulled through the back side of the shell and the colored

stitching has been ripped.

Tips and TroubleshootingCare and Maintenance

Tips

TIP: If you’re having difficulty

attaining a tight installation in harness mode using the short belt route, try reclining the vehicle seat back during installation. Once the installation process is complete, return the vehicle seat back to the most upright position possible. See Figure A.

NOTE: This tip will only be helpful if your vehicle seat back is able to recline. See page 15 for important information on choosing a vehicle seating position. The back seat is the safest place for children 12 and under.

TIP: When installing the child seat

using the short belt route (Figure B):

Buckle the vehicle belt or attach • the LATCH connectors to the vehicle anchors.

Pull the vehicle buckle stalk or • LATCH connectors into the belt slot to properly align it into the belt path.

Tighten. •

Troubleshooting

Problem: The harness is hard to adjust. Possible Solution: Check that the harness slots in the head

restraint and harness adjuster are properly aligned. Do not use the head restraint adjuster when the harness is attached.

Possible Solution: The yoke may be caught on a strap or other component of the child seat. Remove the obstruction and try adjusting the harness again.

Problem: The adjuster strap is fraying at the sides: Possible Solution: Pull the harness adjuster strap away from the

child seat (parallel to the ground) to tighten. Do not pull sideways. Doing so may cause the harness adjuster strap to fray at the sides. See page 57.

Problem: The buckle will not fasten with a click after each tongue is inserted.

Possible solution: There may be debris in the buckle mechanism. Clean the buckle as shown on page 67 and try fastening the buckle again.

If you have misplaced your head restraint lock-out screw, you can purchase a replacement #8 x ½” sheet metal screw at any hardware store.

Please contact Consumer Services at 1.888.427.4829 if you have an issue not listed here.

Tips and Troubleshooting Tips and Troubleshooting

This child seat was manufactured by Britax Child Safety, Inc. Britax® warrants this product to the original retail purchaser as follows:

LIMITED ONE-YEAR WARRANTY

This product is warranted against defective materials or work man ship for one year from the date of original purchase. Proof of purchase is required. Your exclusive remedy for this warranty is that Britax will, at its option, provide repair or replacement components for this product. Britax reserves the right to discontinue or change fabrics, parts, models or products, or to make substitutions. To make a claim under this warranty, you must contact Britax Consumer Services at 1-888-427-4829 or write to us using the address on the back cover of this booklet.

PLEASE COMPLETE AND MAIL THE OWNER REGISTRATION CARD WITHIN (30) DAYS OF PURCHASE

You may also register online at www.BritaxUSA.com/registration.

WARRANTY LIMITATIONS

This warranty does not include damages which arise from negligence, misuse or use not in accordance with the product instruction. The use of non-Britax Child Safety, Inc. covers, inserts, toys, accessories, or tightening devices is not approved by Britax. Their use could cause this child seat to fail Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards or not perform as intended in a crash. Their use automatically voids the Britax warranty.

LIMITATION OF DAMAGES

The warranty and remedies as set forth above are exclusive and in lieu of all others, oral or written, express or implied. In no event will Britax, or the retailer selling this product, be liable to you for any damages, including incidental or consequential damages, arising out of the use or inability to use this product.

LIMITATIONS OF WARRANTIES AND OTHER WARRANTY TERMS AND STATE LAWS

Any implied warranties, including implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, shall be limited to the duration and terms of the express written warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above lim i ta tions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state. Neither Britax, nor the retailer selling this product, authorizes any person to create for it any other warranty, obligation, or liability in connection with this product.

Warranty

Britax Child Safety, Inc.

13501 South Ridge Drive Charlotte, NC 28273 USA

A Britax Childcare Group Limited company

Te l. : 1-888-427-4829

www.Britax.com

BRITAX FRONTIER 85 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual