What parents should know about NHTSA’s investigation into the Evenflo Revolve360 car seat

Earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigationOpens a new window into the Evenflo Revolve360 carseat, plus all other Revolve360 models, including the Revolve360 EXTEND and Revolve360 Slim. 

These car seats, which first came on the market in 2021, allow parents to rotate the seat as they get their child in and out. But new concern over compliance of the seat’s child restraint systems and detachable base has led NHTSA to take action. 

“The investigation primarily focuses on the installation method and the detachable base of the Revolve360 car seat, excluding considerations related to crash test safety, webbing, and similar factors,” explains Suzanne Chan, D.N.P., a pediatric nurse practitioner and certified child passenger safety technician (CPST). “The potential non-compliance refers specifically to the installation process of the car seat.”

Why is NHTSA investigating the Evenflo Revolve360 car seats? 

NHTSA has been notified of at least six car crash incidents where various models of the Revolve360 experienced issues with their shells (the part of the car seat with the harness) being separated from their detachable base. This is being further investigated by NHTSA, who explains in their investigation report that the Evenflo Revolve360 and all similar models may not meet standard operating procedures for its detachable base. They also report that the Revolve360 car seats may fail to meet the standard labeling requirements for the car seat. 

While investigations like this are not too common, it’s not unusual for them to occur after a car seat has been on the market, explains Dr. Chan. “In the case of the Revolve360, a relatively new design in comparison to traditional car seats, an investigation was initiated following six reported incidents where the seat detached during crashes. The lack of detailed information on these incidents, such as whether a child was in the car or if the seat was properly installed and locked in position, makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation.”

Evenflo is aware of the investigation and continues to sell all models of the Revolve360 car seat. “Safety is our top priority, and we look forward to addressing the agency’s concerns, Amy Magee, VP of Marketing at Evenflo, told BabyCenter in a statement. “We deeply empathize with the concerns parents have regarding car seat safety and the importance of ensuring the well-being of children during every journey. Evenflo remains dedicated to providing high-quality and secure products for families.”

What should I do if my child uses an Evenflo Revolve 360 car seat? 

The Revolve360 car seats have not been recalled, which means more information is needed to determine whether they will be sometime down the line. “[NHTSA] will obtain additional information about the potential separation of the Revolve360’s shell from its detachable base to assist with the agency’s evaluation of these products,” explains the investigation report, so we can expect to hear from them as soon as they have more details. 

So what should you do if your child is currently using one of these car seats?

“At this time, we recommend that families currently using Revolve360 review and follow the instructions provided in the product manual for the proper installation and use,” says Magee of Evenflo. “All information available to Evenflo indicates that a properly installed and latched Revolve360 will perform safely as intended.” 

If you feel comfortable and there are no identified safety concerns, Dr. Chan says you can continue using the car seat. “However, it’s always advisable to stay informed about any updates or recommendations from the manufacturer or relevant authorities in case there are developments in the investigation or safety guidelines in the future,” she adds. 

If you do decide to use a different car seat while these safety issues are being investigated, seek out retailers known for safe and affordable options, such as WalmartOpens a new window or TargetOpens a new window. 

How can I stay up-to-date on the investigation? 

If you do have a Revolve360 model, you can stay up-to-date on the investigation and any recalls or safety notices by making sure your seat is registered with the manufacturer. You’ll receive a postcard-type piece of paper whenever you first purchase any car seat, which includes instructions on how to register directly through the manufacturer. NHTSA also makes it easy to register your specific car seat on their websiteOpens a new window. You can also periodically check for updates on the investigation on their website. 

Additionally, anytime you’re shopping for a car seat, it’s important to verify the model you’re considering with NHTSA’s Car Seat FinderOpens a new window, to make sure it’s listed as a safe  — and approved  — option. Our BabyCenter car seat guide also features car seats at every price point, and all are verified as approved by the NHTSA.

This article originally appeared on WhatToExpect.comOpens a new window.