Sooner or later, all parents face the problem of safely transporting their child in a car. And then there are questions regarding the choice, reliability and installation of a car seat. What is the isofix system and how safe is this mounting option?
ISOFIX - a reliable and necessary system for attaching a child car seat
ISOFIX is a system for rigidly attaching a child car seat to a car seat. It was developed by ISO, an international standardization organization whose priority goal is to make the process of installing a chair as simple and reliable as possible.
It is worth distinguishing ISOFIX of two types:
- power, which, in fact, is designed to fully stabilize and fix the chair in emergency situations. It is used in device categories 0+ and 1;
- non-power, used in car seats of older categories.
If the device has the designations kidfix, seatfix or isifix, then it means that it is a non-power ISOFIX, or rather, its analogue, which in emergency situations can only partially slow down the shift of the seat during a side impact, but nothing more.
When using analogues of ISOFIX, the device for transporting a child is additionally fixed with a standard seat belt, which takes on the entire load.
Error free installation
Most often, it is the installation of a child seat that causes difficulties, despite the developed instructions. For example, a system that provides for fastening with a seat belt has such disadvantages as skipping it in the wrong groove, twisting, weak fixation, which can reduce all protection to zero.
Studies show that in about 70% of cases, car seats with a belt are not fastened correctly.
In the ISOFIX system, standard belts are not required during installation. The chair is attached using two runners (brackets) with locks located at its base to steel brackets located inside the car seat.
Most cars are equipped with ISOFIX brackets, but it's best to make sure you have them before purchasing a child carrier. They are located on both sides of the rear car seat between the seat and backrest, but can be hidden by a zipper or a plug, which is indicated by a special symbol (the image of the silhouette of a child in a car seat). In front, ISOFIX is not installed except in special cases (for example, self-installation), because the rear seat is safer than the front.
ISOFIX for maximum safety and the use of a standard seat belt
The brackets to which the child car seat is attached are firmly welded to the car body. This allows you to maximize the stabilization of the device in a collision, skidding and other emergencies. Some consumers are afraid that the rigidity of the system can harm the child. This is supported by various experiments. For example, a crash test with Hybrid III dummies has shown that ISOFIX reduces pressure on the cervical region at the time of impact.
It is no secret that the level of safety in the chair during a collision directly depends on the speed of the fastening systems. The faster it stabilizes, the more reliably the baby will be protected. The rigidity of the external fasteners is leveled (reduced to nothing) with the help of the belts of the car seat itself, designed for this. ISOFIX can only cause harm if a category 2 and 3 device is attached to it, which will exceed the permissible weight and lead to an unreasonable increase in the load on the system.
Also, reducing the load on the brackets and the entire system as a whole is carried out with the help of additional support points. There are two types of them:
- retractable leg, which is located at the base of the chair and, if necessary, is installed on the floor of the car;
- anchor Top Tether, which is a belt with a carabiner lock at the end, mounted on the back surface of the car seat. It is attached to a hook welded in the trunk or behind the rear seat headrest. This anchor mount is universal and is provided in most vehicles.
Types of additional support points - photo gallery
The retractable leg creates a third anchor point in the ISOFIX system The Top Tether anchor, like the leg, creates a third anchor point in the ISOFIX system 
The Top Tether anchor is attached to a hook in the trunk or behind the rear seat headrest.
Cons of the ISOFIX system
- In groups 2 and 3, ISOFIX is used simply for convenience, without carrying a protective function in emergency situations, since in this case they are performed by the car's seat belt, and the system only provides additional fixation. It is used only in devices of the age category 0+ and 1, or on chairs where these are combined:
- in group 0+, the skids are built into a special base, on which the cradle is placed and automatically fixed against the movement of the car;
- in group 1, the skids are built into the lower part of the chair or also into the base.
- The weight of the child must not exceed 18 kilograms, and the ECE R 44/04 standard also limits the weight of the seat itself to 15 kilograms. This is explained by the fact that with strong impacts, enormous loads are placed on the system, and its strength is still not unlimited.
- Equipping the ISOFIX system makes the chair heavier by 25-30% of its original weight. The cost of the product also increases by about 1.5 times.
- Since there are no uniform standards for the rear seat of a car, when choosing a child car seat, you need to check whether it fits your car, whether the angle of inclination and height match.
Isofix with car seats of different weight categories - photo gallery
The infant carrier is installed on a special base in which the ISOFIX system is built in. In category 2 and 3 car seats, ISOFIX does not perform a protective function 
A child in a category 2.3 car seat is fastened with a standard seat belt
How to install and remove a car seat: instructions, photos and videos
- Determine the location of the brackets on the car seat, if necessary, install plastic expanders on them to prevent damage to the upholstery of the car seat.
- Slide the brackets out of the car seat, install it on the car seat.
- Connect the brackets to the brackets by moving the chair close to the seatback. In this case, a characteristic click should be heard, which indicates that the locks have clicked into place.
- Determine where the Top Tether anchor is located (in the trunk or behind the seat headrest), snap the carabiner.
- Check how securely everything is fixed.
- To remove the car seat, simply unlock the locks.
How to secure a child car seat in a car - video
Where and how to fix isofix yourself
The ISOFIX system in the car can:
- set by the manufacturer;
- provided as an additional option;
- be completely absent.
In the second case, for installation, you need to purchase spare parts and fix them yourself or entrust this to an experienced car mechanic.
Post-factory installation - photo gallery
Bracket for ISOFIX for post-factory installation Holes for post-factory installation of brackets in the floor between passenger compartment and trunk Installed ISOFIX brackets
Is it possible to make isofix loops with your own hands
But even if you have an old-style car and no ISOFIX mounts are provided in it, you can make them yourself. However, in this case, it is impossible to predict how the chair will behave in an accident; all responsibility for the health of the child lies entirely with the parents.
Homemade ISOFIX mount - photo gallery
A self-made bar for ISOFIX mounting is made by hand The bar is installed by attaching it to the car body The finished mount is not noticeable and does not interfere with the seat back recline
Opinions on whether it is necessary to put homemade isofix in the car
Putting a homemade isofix mount? Better buy a regular chair, which is fastened with a regular belt.
https://www.u-mama.ru/forum/hobby/auto/635027/index.html
As I understand it, there is no difficulty in putting it - you apply it to the body, make marks at the attachment points, and drill. You put bolts on the inside and nuts on the outside. Nuts - with large washers and sealant, and bolts not from OMA - and there will be happiness.
Jura 80
You can fasten it with a belt and Isofix at the same time, I personally made sure of this (category 1). But the fact is that when the child grows up, he will have to be fastened with a belt himself, and the chair under him will fidget. Personally, my opinion is that it is better to let the chair be fixed to the “home-made” Isofix than to just hang out under the child, and in addition to this, the child will also be secured with a belt.
Hinstein
http://www.audi-belarus.by/forum/viewtopic.php?t=57318
The Isofix child seat attachment system has gained great popularity among motorists.
In most cases, it is compatible with other Latch, X-fix, Seatfix, V-Tether, Top-Tether systems, but it also has its own design features.
Which machines have the Isofix system - the history of its implementation
The International Organization for Standardization in the 90th year of the last century introduced a single ISO standard for the fixation (fastening) system for child car seats Isofix. These standards were reflected in the edition of the ECE R-44 rules in 1995 and, starting from the 96th year in European countries, it became mandatory to introduce mounting brackets rigidly connected to the car body, located at a distance of 280 millimeters, into the design of cars, developed from this year cars.
These connectors must be located between the rear seat cushion and the backrest, marked with the inscription "Isofix" and the image of the cradle. Since 2011, the rules have become mandatory for all cars sold and produced in the European Union.
What the Isofix mount looks like and its design features
In order to be able to attach Isofix car seats, the design of the car seat must provide for the presence of two metal brackets placed at a standard distance from each other. This fastener is included in the basic package of vehicles manufactured since 2006. Attachment points are usually marked with the inscription Isofix.
As a rule, two rear outer seats are equipped with Isofix mounts, on some cars they are available on all seats.
In any case, before buying a car seat, you should carefully examine all the seats, as they can be hidden and may not always be indicated by the appropriate information plates, especially in cases where the upholstery of the seats has changed.
In some car models, these may be buttons with pictograms.
In child car seats, Isofix fastening elements can be located on different sides. Before you buy a car seat with an Isofix mount, you need to familiarize yourself with how it will be located in the car.
Variants with the use of additional structural elements are possible. These can be options such as "stop on the floor" or Top Tether, "anchor" fasteners.
"Anchor" fasteners Top Tether assumes the presence of an additional fastening element (brackets). Sometimes it is located in the trunk area, seat backs, even on the ceiling. The brackets are located discreetly, they can be found by the corresponding designations with the "anchor" icon.
The option "emphasis on the floor" is more versatile and reliable. Firstly, some cars are not equipped with additional brackets for the "anchor" option. Secondly, the presence of an additional stop on the floor increases the reliability of the structure, reduces the possibility of the structure tipping over in a collision.
Sometimes additional floor support can be purchased separately. It has height adjustment, as different seats have different seating heights.
Application features
Isofix is used in child car seat groups 0+, 1 and 2/3. When transporting children weighing from 15 to 36 kg, this attachment is an aid. The main load in this case must be provided by the regular seat belts of the car.
There are no seat belts in the car seats of these groups. The child is fastened with the car's standard seat belt system.
It would seem, why then use the Isofix mount in this group of car seats? The fact is that when hit from the side, it significantly reduces the lateral displacement of the child. In the event of a frontal collision, the child car seat moves along the Isofix sled, accompanying the child until the regular seat belts begin to operate, providing “all-round protection” for the child.
In group 0+, Isofix is a two-component system consisting of a base on which the main fastening elements and a carry cot are located. These two components can be purchased separately if the design elements are standardized. In some models, when a child moves from one weight category to another, you can not change the basic system (for example, Maxi-Cosi).
The base can be made in various versions.
This is very convenient for parents of babies. The cradle is usually small in size and weight. In it, without waking the child, you can bring him to the car and, accordingly, take him out of it without performing complex fasteners.
A design feature of groups 0 and 1 is that Isofix has built-in seat belts. Fastening with regular car seat belts is not required. This imposes 100% responsibility on the Isofix design and, above all, on:
- mechanical fastening to regular car brackets;
- base-cradle mounting structure;
- reliability of the built-in seat belts;
- stop strength.
Therefore, you should purchase a child car seat only from trusted official manufacturers and dealers. A "left" car seat can nullify the degree of protection for the child.
0+/1 baby systems sometimes use a more comfortable swivel cup as older children prefer the front viewing area, while parents are more comfortable with the reverse position for baby care.
The presence of the 3rd point of support is mandatory for group 1 according to the ECE R44/04 regulations, as during a frontal impact a huge force is applied to the car seat. In some designs, such as the Romer Versafix, there is no additional support.
This is compensated by a special movable structure that redirects the impact force down, that is, to the standard car seat structure. But it is impossible to install such a child car seat on all cars equipped with the Isofix system.
It is necessary to read the instructions supplied with the Romer Versafix, which contains a list of compatible car models. In general, you should carefully consider the purchase of a child car seat, its compatibility with the design of the car, as the question is about the safety of your child.
Other analogues
The American analogue of Isofix is the LATCH system. The car has brackets for attaching car seats. The child seat has straps with carabiners that attach to the brackets.
Thus, the main difference of the LATCH system is the movable belt connection with the child car seat. A higher degree of mobility during a collision increases the likelihood of a child's lateral movements and, consequently, injury.
In practice, it is more convenient when installing and removing, with small impacts, due to mobility, it compensates for the accelerating load.
In Canada, the UAS (Universal Anchorage System) standard, otherwise Canfix, is used. It is also compatible with the Isofix system, but has more than the European degree of mobility.
Advantages and disadvantages of Isofix mounts
The advantages of the system include:
- the child car seat is mechanically connected to the car body and not to its seat;
- simplicity and unambiguity of fastening to body structural elements of a car;
- minimizing the displacement of the car seat in a side impact;
- full compliance with modern safety standards.
Disadvantages (rather, cons) of the system;
- higher cost compared to other systems;
- the possibility of installation only on vehicles equipped with appropriate mounting brackets;
- on some car models, installing Isofix seats is difficult.
conclusions
- If your car is equipped with Isofix brackets, then the child seat must definitely be compatible with this system.
- Before buying a specific model of a child seat, carefully inspect the interior of the car for the possibility of using an "anchor" mounting system. Carefully read the instructions for the car seat, make sure it is compatible with your car model.
- Provide for the versatility of using the mount, the possibility of using it for different groups, various landing options.
- Do not purchase "left" models. Remember - it's about the safety of the baby!
What is Isofix?
Let's start with the banal. Isofix is a system for rigidly attaching a car seat to the car body. Isofix is the international standard for all car and child car seat manufacturers. It minimizes the possibility of an error when installing the car seat and improves the protective properties. The main purpose, after all, is to exclude the possibility of installing the chair incorrectly (up to 70% of installations occur with errors). After all, here you just need to correctly direct the brackets and snap the locks on the brackets of the counterpart in the car.
Isofix are two sleds (2 brackets) at the base of the car seat, which, with the help of special rods, are snapped around the brackets in the car, located between the back and seat of the car seat. Almost always in a car, places equipped with brackets for installing an Isofix child car seat are located behind the right and left of the sofa (although there are exceptions).
I will not explain in detail the latch system and Isofix devices in car seats and the car, because. the Internet is full of such information, and its practical value in terms of choosing a car seat for your child is extremely small.
Which car seats use Isofix?
Now important. Isofix is a fastening used in groups 0+ and 1, as well as in child car seats - combinations of these groups. Those. for children weighing up to 18 kg (age up to about 3-3.5 years). And only in chairs in which the child is secured with internal straps.
ALL. THE LIST IS EXHAUSTIVE and, as I wrote, rigidly standardized.
It is in these groups that we meet a normal, real, power isofix, which holds both the chair and the child fixed in it with internal straps. It is in car seats of groups 1 and 0+ that he takes on all the impact energy in the event of an accident. It is here that it gives all its advantages in both ease of installation and security.
In group 0+ (children's car seats from birth up to 13 kg) isofix is not used in the child seats themselves, which are cradles, but in special bases on which some of these cradles can be installed. The advantages are obvious - we carry the baby in a light cradle, put him at home, take the sleeping person out of the car. And at the same time, in a cramped cabin, there is no need to “conjure” over a standard belt every time to secure the car seat. We put it on the base, pressed it - the chair was installed. Press the button or pull the handle - the chair is free and you can carry the child home. Security is also generally better.
There is really only one minus - the isofix base costs about the same as the chair itself under it (which, in turn, usually costs more than a chair that cannot be installed on such a base). In 95% of models, the isofix base can be thrown away / sold after using the 0+ group. Although there are exceptions where the base goes into group 1, there are not very many such models, especially safe in both groups (example: Maxi Cosi Pebble, etc.).
In group 1 car seats (9-18 kg), Isofix brackets are usually built into the base of the car seat itself (in the L-shaped part).
Although there are a number of models that are just a top that is placed on the base from the 0+ group (Example - Maxi Cosi Pearl, etc.).
In combined car seats of group 0+/1 with isofix system(now there are more and more of them) - also built into the base of the car seat itself. But since the chair can be placed both against the course and along the course, everything is more complicated here. Either the isofix is only used in group 0+ (HTS Besafe Izi Combi), or the chair shell can be rotated to change the installation direction (Maxi Cosi Milofix). Or, in general, a 180-degree swivel bowl, including for boarding and disembarking a passenger (Romer Dualfix, Cybex Sirona).
What kind of “leg” or emphasis on the floor on parts of the car seats that prevents you from putting a bag of potatoes at the child’s feet? And what is some Top Tether anchor strap? Maybe better without it?
Isofix is essentially a mount at 2 points on the same axis. And it is along this axis that a colossal torque occurs during an accident. This creates a large load on the elements of the Isofix system themselves and, moreover, there is a dangerous displacement in front of the seat with the child.
Therefore, there is a need for a third point of support. And it comes in two types.
The first kind - retractable stop in the floor in the form of a telescopic “leg”, coming out of the base of the car seat. It rests on the floor and thus prevents rotation and reduces the load on the brackets.
The second kind - Top Tether anchor. This is a special belt that comes out from the back of the top of the child car seat with a carabiner at the end. This carbine is attached to a special bracket in the car, most often located either in the trunk floor or behind the headrest of the rear car seat. This type of mount is considered universal, all new cars are already being developed with a place for Top Tether and in the near future, any car will be equipped with it.
Due to the fact that the Isofix fastening system takes on huge loads in the event of an accident, ECE R44 / 04 rules strictly regulate its use. For this reason, seats with the Isofix system cannot weigh more than 15 kg, and it can only be used up to a child weighing 18 kg.
There are separate models that can be mounted on Isofix without 3 fulcrum. For example, Romer Versafix. This is achieved due to the special movable design of the Isofix rails, which allows you to redirect the load downwards. But this mounting method is not universal and you can install the seat in this way only after making sure that your car is on the list of compatible ones that came with the car seat. To be fair, there's probably 95% of all cars out there.
What then is “Isofix” in child car seats of groups 2-3 (15-36 kg, from about 3 years old)?
I wrote the word “isofix” in quotation marks, because the real isofix system, as I wrote above, does not apply to such a child’s weight at all. This is where all sorts of designations “kidfix”, “sitfix”, “isophyte”, etc. appear. etc., with which manufacturers emphasize that this is not Isofix, but a compatible mounting method!
In groups 2-3 (car seats 15-36 kg), the child is already fastened with a regular seat belt, passed through special guides in the car seat. Accordingly, the entire load in an accident falls on the regular belt.
At the same time, the seat must be able to move forward, accompanying the child until the standard seat belt is deployed, providing lateral protection and proper belt routing throughout the entire braking. Those. if we fixed the chair of group 2-3 on a full-fledged isofix, then it would only harm. And of course, there should not be any Top-tether or floor stops here!
Therefore, everything that is called isofix in group 2-3 is simply a system similar in installation method, which should be able to unfasten, or extend, or move forward when loaded.
Such a system practically does not carry a safety improvement function, except that it slightly limits the displacement during a side impact. The main advantage is that you do not need to fasten a child car seat with a belt when you are driving without a child, and it just stands more stable - it is more convenient to put and drop a passenger.
But what about child car seats from 9 to 36 kg?
What about the so-called “transformers”, or as they are often called “universal” chairs of groups 1-2-3?
The most typical customer request is “I want a car seat from 9 to 36 kg with the isofix system”.
So, today, there are no such chairs, at least those that have successfully passed independent tests, in nature. Due to the fundamental difference already described in the design of the real Isofix 1 group and decorative - from groups 2-3. Romer Xtensafix was supposed to be the first sign, solving this problem just at the expense of the relative rotational mobility of the guides. But there a problem arose in another, and we will never know what happened exactly in terms of the “hybrid” isofix.
Often, transformers 9-36 kg with safety tables instead of belts fall under the general trend of the presence of isofix. After all, it says everywhere - ISOFIX. But the trick is that in them a regular belt is passed through the table, and the whole load is again on it, and the isofix is again decorative there, from group 2-3. Those. in the first group, it simply compensates for the inconvenience of the seat (which without it is not fixed in any way in the car), and in group 2-3 it works as usual. But its use in this group does not give special security.
There are still strange examples, like Inglesina Prime Miglia I-Fix. I think their approach is completely wrong. If you carefully read the instructions, then in group 1 (9-18 kg) you need to fasten this child car seat with both a regular belt and Isofix (that is, it’s just not clear why the extra action). And in group 3 - do not use it at all. It’s scary to think how many people didn’t read this trash, but simply put the chair on Isofix. And the manufacturer, if anything, has nothing to say - after all, he warned.
Now there are the first classic models of transformers 9-36 kg (gr. 1-2-3) with internal straps and the isofix system, which seems to work in all groups. For the most part, from not very well-known manufacturers. I am sure that this problem is technologically solvable, but I would refrain from special enthusiasm about such models until there are at least some official tests confirming the safety of these designs. Isofix for the sake of isofix, I honestly do not understand!
For reference, there is also an American version of a similar system - LATCH. The main difference is that there are no rigid metal brackets on the side of the car seat, but there are straps with latches at the ends. In group 2-3, there is no difference with similar fixtures of the European modification, because you just need to hold the chair.
But with group 1 it is more difficult, because. chairs with this system are not particularly sold in Europe (I think the problem is with the homologation of the system itself according to European standards, where everything is strictly regulated), which means that we are unlikely to see independent European crash tests for such seats. And in the US, only consumer tests are carried out with requirements above the standards. Therefore, it remains to believe or not to believe the test results of the manufacturers themselves.
And finally, a couple of common myths about Isofix:
MYTH 1. “A car seat with Isofix is always safer than without it.”
This is far from always the case. Firstly, as is already clear from this article, this statement can only apply to car seats 0+ (0-13 kg) and 1 (9-18 kg). In groups and 3 (15-36 kg) this is not a real isofix and has almost no effect on safety. In transformer chairs, it is either from a group of 2-3, or a design that has not been tested by time and tests.
But also in groups 0+ and 1, although isofix chairs most often show the best results, but also not always and not in all models. For example, in the independent crash tests of ADAC 2013, at the base of one of the 0+ car seats, the isofix mechanism simply unfastened and the seat flew forward like a projectile. And not only the safety of the child seat depends on the method of fastening, but also on many other factors.
MYTH 2. Strictly the opposite. “Isofix chairs are more dangerous, because. due to the rigid fastening, a sharper jerk occurs and a greater load on the child. And when fastened with a belt, braking occurs more gradually. the belt does not work immediately, and besides, it can stretch a little.”
This is completely false. First, many tests show the opposite. Well, secondly, for those who are interested, let's see why this is not so. In a collision, there is a sharp drop in speed from the initial to zero, in a short period of time. This process is very fast, but not instantaneous. some time there is a deformation of the car body. And that's good, because. overload from impact does not occur instantly, in one sharp peak that we might not survive, but gradually. It's the same with the car seat inside. If it is not rigidly attached to the body, then its braking, and consequently, the braking of a child fastened with internal straps, does not begin immediately. It turns out that the child extinguishes his kinetic energy in a shorter time interval than the car body, and receives a much greater peak load, which is precisely the danger.
For the same reason, the best safety results among seat belts are those with a good belt tensioner.
Several conclusions.
- Isofix is a great invention.
- Its main advantage is to reduce the likelihood of incorrect installation.
- Isofix directly affects security in groups 0+ and 1 and their combinations, in the rest it affects convenience.
- Not always, even in groups 0+ and 1, the presence of Isofix gives security advantages. It all depends on the design of the chair itself. Watch crash tests.
- the search for a full-fledged isofix in “transformers” 1-2-3 today is a waste of time. In chairs with a table, he is from a group of 2-3. And in armchairs with straps, this is a rejection of proven and safe chairs in favor of something that does not yet exist or is unknown and unverified.
- Isofix in groups 0+ and 1 needs 3 points of support (except for single modifications). If, say, a chair says that you need a Top Tether belt, but you don’t have it in your car, you shouldn’t take this chair because it is “the best and safest in the world.” Get the opposite effect for a lot of money. Isofix for the sake of isofix is the wrong criterion for selection.
Many motorists, when faced with the term ISOFIX, do not know what it is and why it is needed. In this article, we will try to close this gap in knowledge. Here you will learn what ISOFIX is in a car, why it is needed, and what are its advantages and disadvantages. If you are planning to buy a car, then this information will help you make the right choice, ensure safety and avoid traffic violations.
According to the requirements of the traffic rules, transportation of children in cars is allowed only with the use of special seats. At the same time, the seats must ensure the safety of a minor passenger in any emergency.
What ISOFIX mounts look like
Many manufacturers are engaged in the release of such devices, but the variety of models and methods of fastening has become more of a negative factor. The fact is that the use of various modifications of car seats led to frequent errors in their installation. As a result, children suffered even in minor accidents.
This was the reason for the emergence of a single international standard for rigid fastening of child car seats directly to the car body. This standard was introduced by the International ISO Institute and was called ISOFIX or ISO FIX.
In addition to ISOFIX, there are alternative standards for attaching car seats. For example, in the USA the standard is quite popular LATCH, and in Canada UAS.
How to install an ISOFIX seat
Thanks to the simple design of the fasteners, it became possible to minimize the number of errors when installing car seats for children. At its core, Isofix consists of two brackets that are attached directly to the car body. The standard place for their installation is the space between the backrest and the seat of the passenger rear seats.
Installing an ISOFIX seat
To install the car seat, you simply need to guide it over the sled to the brackets and snap the clips included in the kit. It is almost impossible to make a mistake during such operations, and the reliability of fixation is quite high.
There are also modifications of child car seats with additional attachment points. Manufacturers claim that such models provide a higher degree of protection for the child.
- Modifications with retractable (telescopic) thrust leg. Such an emphasis makes it impossible to move the chair forward during frontal impacts, although it creates some inconvenience during operation.
- Anchor models, which have an additional fixation point using a special belt with a carabiner. The belt clip can be located behind the seat headrest or on the luggage compartment floor. This modification is considered more convenient and no less reliable. Almost all new cars are equipped with the ISOFIX system in this version.
It should be noted that most child car seats with the ISOFIX attachment system can also be secured using conventional car belts. This is useful if the seat is to be used in a car that is not equipped with the proper mounting.
What are Isofix car seats?
Isofix fastening is used for fastening car seats designed for a child weighing up to 18 kg. These are the so-called group 0+ and group 1.
Group 0+ (left) and 1 (right) ISOFIX car seats
Group 0+ car seats are used for newborns and children weighing up to 13 kg. This design is a set of two main elements - the carrying chair (cradle) itself and the base, which has an Isofix-type mount. The main advantage of such modifications is the ability to comfortably carry even a sleeping child. Just put the chair on the base, press and the safety of the trip is ensured. The disadvantages of such a system are traditionally attributed to the increased cost, both the base and the carrying itself have a fairly high price.
Group 1 car seats are used for people weighing 9-18 kg. At its core, this is a traditional chair with a standard mount built into its bottom. There are no special design differences, and simplicity allows for reliable fixation and safety.
Also on sale were combined group 0+/1 car seats which can be used for any child weighing up to 18 kg. Such modifications can be installed both in the direction of travel and against it. In this case, the Isofix mount is mainly used exclusively for group 0+. Some models have a system for rotating the car seat bowl (up to 180 degrees), which makes it easier to place the child or disembark.
Video about ISOFIX in the car
Some cons of ISOFIX mounts
The main disadvantage, as already noted, is the weight limit. If the weight of the child is more than 18 kg, it is technically impossible to ensure a reliable fastening of the chair during emergency shock loads due to a certain tensile strength of the structural elements.
Some difficulties are also caused by differences in the design of the passenger seats of the car themselves. The different shape of the backrest, headrests, differences in size and other factors complicate the use of standard Isofix mounts.
Even 5 years ago, no one could have imagined that standard chairs with Isofix would be very popular. Today, car owners are trying to first ensure the safety of small travelers on the road.
Most of the cars in use in our country are foreign cars that have a similar fastening system. Armchairs with standard seat belts are completely outdated and practically not used. The Isofix system itself is a small, but very reliable, heavy-duty bar that is built into the base of the seat back itself at the back.
The fasteners of the system themselves are hidden under the plugs, they are taken out only when necessary.
Based on the requirements of international standards, since 2006, all cars must be equipped with upper attachment points located on the 3-point seat belt. The standards were created specifically to ensure the safety and protection of even the smallest passengers on the road. Starting from 2011, Isofix must be present in every car. Isofix installs in 95% of cars of foreign manufacturers, as well as in all new cars from our Russian manufacturers.
About the benefits
To give a complete answer to the question of what is Isofix in car seats, it is necessary to take into account all the advantages of this system.
- It is Isofix that allows you to put a child car seat in accordance with all the rules, and it will reliably protect the baby in an accident situation. According to statistics with the Isofix system, in 96% of cases, a car seat is installed in a car without errors. At the same time, there are still car owners who install a car seat using standard belts. But here it is possible to fix the device correctly only in 20% of cases.
- Isofix as a car seat attachment system has many advantages that car owners-parents will appreciate. The chair with "Isofix" has an orthopedic backrest, a special shape of the headrest, which allows you to most effectively protect the head, neck, shoulders of the baby in the event of a serious blow.
- Isofix allows you to significantly reduce the displacement of the chair forward or to the side and significantly reduces its rotation. This is possible due to the presence of upper, lower fasteners.
- Isofix is a unique system that has no analogues today. Everyone can handle the installation and dismantling of a chair or cradle. Reliable Isofix fastening will ensure a fixed position of the child, even when cornering.
- Fastening the seat using the Isofix system to the car frame provides the highest safety for the child on the trip. The manufacturer checks all devices for any defects.
Today, Isofix is used in almost all civilized countries as a standard for installing child seats in a car. Classic seat belts will not be able to fully protect the child. Therefore, to reduce the risk of serious injury in an accident or during heavy braking, a reliable, durable frame of the device is so important.
Are there any disadvantages of the Isofix system?
Despite the spread of this mounting system, its success among car owners, it still has a number of disadvantages that may affect its correct application.
Isofix is a fairly versatile mount. However, it should be borne in mind that there is still no single standard for fasteners on the rear seats.
The following shortcomings can also be noted.
- In cars from different manufacturers, the height, as well as the level of inclination of the pillows, can vary markedly. Therefore, the car owner must independently configure Isofix compatibility.
- Also, there are still cars in which there are no connectors for mounting at all. There are no special seats with Isofix for such cars. In such a case, you will have to use a standard three-point seat belt to mount the car seat, which is not always convenient.
- Isofix alone often does not withstand such a load, you must also use a standard seat belt to fasten the child. To ensure maximum safety, babies can be additionally fastened with conventional seat belts.
Where to buy a car seat with Isofix
Such infant carriers and car seats can be easily found in specialized and online stores. The cost of the device with "Isofix" is different. Usually, both budget and expensive options for car seats are presented at the buyer's choice. Often the cost of the device depends on the manufacturer and the materials from which it is made. Typically, heavy-duty plastic and wear-resistant material are used to make the chair frame. It does not fade, does not fade, practically does not get dirty.
If necessary, an additional cover can be put on the chair. Designs with the Isofix system are intended for use with winter clothing, which is especially important for Russia. The average price of a car seat with the Isofix system ranges from 3,500 rubles to 10,000 rubles.
Mounting Features
Outwardly, Isofix looks like 2 brackets, they are located directly under the back of the car seat. The distance between these brackets is 28 cm due to 2 fasteners with teeth. The chairs are hooked onto the brackets and set to a fixed position. When the seat is fixed, the baby is fastened to it with five-point harnesses. The principle of using Isofix is extremely simple, so every member of the family can handle the installation of the car seat. The seat is attached to the body of the car, which ensures the greatest safety.
Detailed information about the Isofix mount can be found in the instructions for a particular chair model. Most devices today are also equipped with an additional “anchor strap” mount, which is mounted on the top of the chair and attached to a separate bracket. However, not all cars support the possibility of such an additional attachment.
Removing the car seat is carried out in the same reverse order. First, the chair is removed, and then all the locks are unlocked by pressing a button. Removing the chair from the mounts is quite easy.
Now there are car seats equipped with a third attachment point at the very top on the back.
This is necessary to ensure the greatest safety of the crumbs, since the risk of jerks in the event of a collision is significantly reduced, and the stability of the chair or cradle is significantly increased. However, it is not necessary to do this at all, so you can easily securely fasten the chair in a car with the Isofix two-point system.
Devices 0+, that is, from birth to 1.5 - 2 years, are special carry cots. The Isofix system is not built into them, but into a special base on which they are installed. The advantage of such chairs is that you do not need to pull the baby out of the cradle before you put it in the car. There is no need to fasten the cradle when using a regular standard seat belt.
It is enough to put the device on the base and fix it with one click.
However, it should be borne in mind that the base for the infant carrier with the Isofix mounting system is sold separately and most often costs the same as the chair. There are also models in which the base can go from 0+ to category 1, but in this case it is necessary that the retaining structure meets all safety requirements.
Designs from 9 to 18 kg
In such car structures, the brackets of the fastening system are built into the base of the chair, more precisely, into the part in the shape of the letter G. Such car seats are divided into: standard semi-universal, as well as universal. It is also possible for sellers to find designs that are placed on the base, like 0+ car seats. But most often there are combined car seats of version 0 - 1, where the fasteners are placed in the base. However, the system here is more complicated due to the fact that the chair can be placed in the car against or along the way. There are also options with a 180% swivel base for getting in and out of the crumbs.
As mentioned above, "Isofix" is a fastening connection at two points along one axis. In such an axis, a serious rotational moment occurs in the event of an accident, the child seat is strongly shifted forward and strong pressure is created on the fasteners. That is why there is a need to create a fulcrum. In modern restraint systems, there are 2 types of such a support:
- A retractable stop representing an outwardly retractable "leg" that comes out of the base of the cradle or chair. The emphasis on the floor occurs in such a way that the pressure on the Isofix holders is significantly reduced.
- Top Tether is a unique anchor fastener, it is a belt with a carabiner at the end. It is located behind, at the top of the car seat or chair. Due to the carabiner, it clings to a bracket located in the floor of the luggage compartment or behind the headrest of the seat in the back row. So, all new cars are accompanied by this type of additional emphasis. In the near future, all cars will be equipped with this type of fastener.
Due to the fact that the Isofix mount can take on very serious loads in the event of an emergency, there are certain rules and regulations for its operation. So, the weight of a seat in a car with the Isofix system cannot exceed 15 kg, and the weight of a small passenger cannot exceed 18 kg according to the standard. There are also separate car seats, they can be fixed without an additional point of support, which becomes possible due to a special movable system of guide fasteners. To install these car seats, it is important to make sure that your car is on the compatibility list with it.
The standard Isofix mounting system no longer has anything to do with such chairs. Therefore, such designations as “sitfix”, “kidfix” can often be used here. They do not use the Isofix retention system for fastening.
In group 2-3 car seats, a regular standard seat belt is already used to fasten the child; it is passed through the guides intended for this in the restraining seat. This allows for reliable protection of the baby and the correct movement of the seat belt in a braking situation. Attaching a device of such a group to a conventional Isofix system can only do harm. Stops, as well as Top Tether are not used in this category of chairs. That is why it must be borne in mind that all the options that manufacturers call the Isofix system in group 2 - 3 are just analogues. They provide little to no safety feature and only slightly limit displacement in the event of a side impact. Also, such mounts provide stability in case of very sharp turns, reduce the pressure of the seat on the baby in an accident.
Armchair from 9 to 36 kg
Transforming chairs or universal chairs, as they are also called, belong simultaneously to several categories of groups: from 1 to 3. Such designs are incompatible with the Isofix system. However, manufacturers are already beginning to offer customers chairs with relative rotational mobility of all available guides.
In stores, you can find transforming car seats equipped with safety tables that replace belts. On such devices, manufacturers always write Isofix. Then the standard belt is passed through a special table, then the load also falls on it, that is, Isofix plays only a decorative role here. Therefore, it makes no sense to talk about the security of the device.
It will not be superfluous for Russians to find out that there is an analog American Isofix Latch system. Its main difference is that it does not have rigid brackets located on the side of the car seat. American restraints belonging to the group up to 36 kg do not have any differences from European counterparts.
And if there is no Isofix?
You carefully read the instructions for the car, it is equipped with the Isofix system, but you can’t find it in any way. The reason with a high probability lies in the fact that in such a mounting system, brackets are simply mounted in your car. To solve it, it is enough to come to the dealership so that you can install them.
It also happens that there are two cars in the family, or in the near future it is planned to purchase a new car to replace the old one, where there is no Isofix system. But what kind of restraint to choose, with or without Isofix? You can buy a very good chair without Isofix. Alternatively, you can buy a device with a mounting system, but remove the brackets from the seat in a car that is not equipped with Isofix.
