Investigation PE98065: Vehicles

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Dec 18, 1998

Closed

Jun 30, 1999

Model years

—

Subject

Carry Handle Unlatching

Component: Child seat

Summary

The Office of Defects Investigation opened this investigation on December18, 1998 based on 37 reports received of carry handle unlatching in Cosco Arriva and Turn-About child safety seats.The Arriva and Turn-About are rear facing infant car seats, equipped with a handle, that may also be used outside of a vehicle as an infant carrier.The seat is designed for children that weigh 22 pounds or less, and who are 26 inches or less in height.Since opening the investigation ODI received 13 additional reports, the Consumer Product Safety Commission provided ODI with nine relevant reports, and Cosco provided information pertaining to 92 reports.Of the 151 reports relevant to sudden handle unlatching 46 indicate the infant occupant was ejected from the seat and 25 of those reported injuries.Four injuries were reported to children that were not ejected.Injuries were alleged to occur to children who were both restrained and unrestrained.Cosco will provide a free repair kit that includes left and right handle locks that consumers can easily install

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.