Safety 1st Grow and Go Car Seat Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
Safety 1st’s Grow and Go 3-in-1 convertible car seat requires a detailed manual for proper usage, addressing recent recalls impacting nearly 180,000 units due to headrest concerns.
This guide provides essential information regarding installation, safety features, maintenance, and troubleshooting, including access to a downloadable PDF version.
Understanding the manual is crucial, especially considering the foam headrest cover recall and the importance of locating Child Safety Seat Inspection Stations for assistance.
The Safety 1st Grow and Go 3-in-1 convertible car seat is designed to adapt with your child, offering extended use from infancy through childhood. This seat transitions between rear-facing harness mode, forward-facing harness mode, and finally, a booster seat, providing long-term value and convenience for parents.
However, it’s vitally important to be aware of the recent voluntary recall affecting approximately 179,800 Grow and Go Sprint models (Item No: CC138). This recall stems from a potential choking hazard related to the foam padding within the headrest. Understanding the specifics of this recall, and verifying if your model is affected, is the first step in ensuring your child’s safety.
This manual serves as a comprehensive resource, guiding you through proper installation using both the LATCH system and vehicle seat belts, as well as detailing safety features and maintenance procedures. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for specific compatibility information, particularly for vehicles lacking a rear seat.
Understanding the 3-in-1 Functionality
The Safety 1st Grow and Go’s core benefit lies in its versatility as a 3-in-1 car seat. It begins as a rear-facing harness seat, accommodating infants and toddlers, and then converts to a forward-facing harness seat as your child grows. Finally, it transitions into a belt-positioning booster seat for older children.
Each stage has specific weight and height limits that must be strictly adhered to for optimal safety. Proper recline angle adjustment is crucial in the rear-facing stage to ensure correct positioning and head support; The headrest and harness are adjustable to accommodate your growing child, with clear height indicators to guide you.
Understanding these transitions and adjustments is key to maximizing the seat’s lifespan and ensuring your child remains securely protected. Remember to consult the user guide (available as a PDF download) for detailed instructions on each stage and to verify compatibility with your vehicle.
Car Seat Recall Information (as of 12/22/2025)
As of today, December 22, 2025, nearly 180,000 Safety 1st Grow and Go Sprint car seats are under voluntary recall due to a potential choking hazard. This recall specifically affects models with a defect in the foam padding of the headrest cover.
Approximately 13 case reports have been filed regarding this issue, though thankfully, no injuries have been reported to date. The affected models include the CC138 and Sprint versions. Owners are urged to immediately stop using the car seat and contact Safety 1st customer support.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the recall, emphasizing the importance of addressing this safety concern. Detailed recall information, including instructions for remedy, can be found on the NHTSA website and within the official recall notice. Always prioritize child safety and heed recall warnings.
Identifying Affected Models: CC138 and Sprint Versions
Determining if your Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat is affected by the current recall is crucial for your child’s safety. The recall primarily impacts the Grow and Go Sprint All-in-One convertible car seat, but also includes specific production runs of the CC138 model.
Locate the item number on the car seat itself – it’s typically found on a label underneath the cover or on the back of the seat. Verify if it matches either CC138 or identifies the Sprint version. The manufacture date, located on the car seat, is also important to check against recall specifics.
If you are unsure, consult the Safety 1st website or contact their customer support with your car seat’s item number and manufacture date for confirmation. Don’t risk your child’s safety; accurate identification is paramount;
Installation Guide
Safety 1st’s Grow and Go car seat installation involves utilizing either the LATCH system or the vehicle’s seat belt, ensuring proper recline angle adjustment for optimal safety.
Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions and consider a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station for hands-on guidance.
LATCH System Installation
Utilizing the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system for your Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat offers a secure installation method when compatible with your vehicle. Begin by locating the lower anchor connectors in your vehicle’s seat bight – the space between the seat cushion and backrest. Attach the car seat’s lower anchor connectors to these vehicle anchors, ensuring a firm click to confirm a secure connection.
Next, route the top tether strap to the designated anchor point in your vehicle. This tether significantly reduces forward movement during a crash. Consult your vehicle owner’s manual to pinpoint the exact tether anchor location, as it varies between models. Tighten both the lower anchors and the top tether strap to eliminate any slack, achieving a snug and stable installation. Remember, the car seat should not move more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back when tested at the belt path. Always refer to the Safety 1st user manual for specific LATCH installation guidance related to your car seat model (CC138 or Sprint version).
Belt Installation: Rear-Facing Mode
Installing the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat in rear-facing mode using the vehicle’s seat belt requires careful attention to detail. First, position the car seat securely on the vehicle seat. Thread the vehicle’s seat belt through the correct belt path on the car seat – consult your Safety 1st manual for the specific path for rear-facing installation.
Buckle the seat belt and firmly press down on the car seat while pulling the shoulder belt to eliminate any slack. Utilize the locking mechanism of your vehicle’s seat belt – either a switchable latch plate or a locking latch plate – to secure the car seat tightly. Ensure the car seat doesn’t exceed one inch of movement side-to-side or front-to-back when tested at the belt path. For vehicles lacking a rear seat, always consult your vehicle owner’s manual for guidance. Proper installation is paramount for your child’s safety, and hands-on training at a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station is recommended.
Belt Installation: Forward-Facing Mode
Installing the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat in forward-facing mode with the vehicle seat belt demands precision. Begin by positioning the car seat securely on the vehicle seat, ensuring it’s in the upright position. Thread the vehicle’s seat belt through the designated belt path on the car seat – refer to your Safety 1st manual for the correct path for forward-facing installation.
Buckle the seat belt and apply firm pressure to the car seat while tightening the shoulder belt, removing all slack. Engage your vehicle’s seat belt locking mechanism – either a switchable latch plate or a locking latch plate – to firmly secure the car seat. Verify that the car seat moves no more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back at the belt path. Remember, for vehicles without a rear seat, consult your vehicle owner’s manual. Seeking guidance from a Child Safety Seat Inspection Station is highly recommended to confirm correct installation.
Proper Recline Angle Adjustment
Achieving the correct recline angle is paramount for infant and young child safety when using the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat. The manual details specific recline indicators for both rear-facing and forward-facing modes. For rear-facing infants, a more reclined position is crucial to maintain a secure airway; Utilize the built-in recline indicators – these are often lines or levels – to ensure the seat is positioned correctly.
Adjust the recline by releasing the recline mechanism (refer to your user guide for specific instructions) and repositioning the seat until the indicator aligns with the appropriate level. Always double-check the angle after adjustment. Incorrect recline can compromise the car seat’s protective capabilities. If unsure, consult the Safety 1st manual or seek assistance from a certified Child Safety Seat Inspection Station for hands-on guidance.
Safety Features & Adjustments
Safety 1st Grow and Go boasts adjustable headrests, a five-point harness, and side-impact protection; proper adjustment is vital for optimal child safety and comfort.
Headrest Adjustment and Height Indicators
Proper headrest adjustment is paramount for your child’s safety within the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat. The headrest must be positioned correctly to ensure optimal protection in the event of a collision, supporting the child’s head and neck effectively.
The car seat features height indicators to guide you in adjusting the headrest to the appropriate level. These indicators correspond to your child’s height and weight, ensuring a snug and secure fit as they grow. Always refer to the user manual for specific height and weight ranges associated with each headrest position.
Recent recalls have highlighted concerns regarding the foam headrest cover, emphasizing the importance of regularly inspecting the headrest for any signs of damage or detachment. Ensure the headrest is securely locked into each position after adjustment. Incorrect headrest positioning can compromise the car seat’s protective capabilities, so diligent attention to these details is crucial.
Remember to re-adjust the headrest as your child grows to maintain the correct level of support and protection throughout their use of the car seat.
Harness Adjustment and Tightness Checks
Correct harness adjustment is critical for maximizing the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat’s protective features. The harness straps must be properly positioned and tightened to securely restrain your child during travel, minimizing the risk of injury in a crash.
Ensure the harness straps lie flat and are not twisted. Adjust the harness height so that it corresponds with your child’s shoulder level – straps should be at or above the shoulders in rear-facing mode, and at or below the shoulders in forward-facing mode.
To check for proper tightness, perform the “pinch test.” After buckling and tightening the harness, attempt to pinch the strap at the child’s shoulder. If you can pinch any excess webbing, the harness needs further tightening. It should be snug enough that you cannot pinch any slack.
Regularly check the harness tightness, especially as your child grows or wears bulkier clothing. A properly adjusted harness is a cornerstone of child passenger safety.
Choking Hazard: Foam Headrest Cover Recall Details
A significant safety concern has prompted a voluntary recall of Safety 1st Grow and Go Sprint All-in-One car seats due to a potential choking hazard. This recall, impacting nearly 180,000 units, centers around the foam headrest cover.
The defect involves the headrest’s foam padding, which can detach in pieces, presenting a choking risk to young children. Approximately 13 reports of this issue have been received, though thankfully, no injuries have been reported to date.
Owners of affected car seats should immediately stop using the headrest. Dorel Juvenile Group, the manufacturer, urges consumers to contact them for a free replacement headrest.
Identifying affected models (CC138 and Sprint versions) is crucial. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides resources and information regarding the recall process. Prioritizing this recall is vital for ensuring your child’s safety.
Side Impact Protection System Explained
The Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat incorporates a crucial Side Impact Protection System designed to enhance your child’s safety during a collision. This system features energy-absorbing foam strategically placed in the headrest and side wings of the car seat.
This specialized foam works to distribute crash forces away from your child’s head, neck, and torso, minimizing the potential for injury. The design aims to create a protective cocoon, offering an extra layer of security beyond standard car seat safety features.
Proper installation and adjustment of the car seat are vital to ensure the Side Impact Protection System functions effectively. Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions on achieving the correct fit and recline angle.
Regularly reviewing the manual and understanding the system’s components will contribute to maximizing your child’s safety while traveling.
Usage & Maintenance
Safety 1st’s Grow and Go requires adherence to specific weight and height limits for both rear-facing and forward-facing modes, detailed in the user manual.
Regular cleaning and care, as outlined in the guide, are essential for maintaining the car seat’s integrity and hygiene.
Rear-Facing Weight and Height Limits
Safety 1st’s Grow and Go car seat’s rear-facing capabilities are designed to protect your little one for as long as possible, maximizing safety during this critical developmental stage. Understanding and adhering to the specified weight and height limits is paramount for ensuring optimal protection.
Generally, the rear-facing weight limit for the Grow and Go is between 5 and 40 pounds. However, it’s crucial to consult your specific model’s user manual, as variations may exist. Beyond weight, height is equally important; children should remain rear-facing until they reach the maximum height limit, typically around 40 inches.
Important Considerations: Always prioritize reaching the height or weight limit first. Do not rush to transition to forward-facing based solely on age. Regularly check your child’s measurements against these limits to ensure continued safe rear-facing travel. Proper recline angle adjustment, detailed in the installation guide, is also vital for optimal rear-facing performance. Refer to the manual for detailed instructions and illustrations.
Exceeding these limits compromises the car seat’s protective capabilities in the event of a crash.
Forward-Facing Weight and Height Limits
Once your child outgrows the rear-facing limitations of the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat, transitioning to forward-facing is the next step. However, strict adherence to the forward-facing weight and height limits is crucial for continued safety and protection.
The Grow and Go typically allows forward-facing use for children weighing between 22 and 65 pounds. Again, always verify these specifics within your model’s user manual. Height is equally important; the maximum forward-facing height limit is generally around 49 inches, measured to the top of the head.
Key Reminders: Ensure your child meets both the weight and height requirements before switching to forward-facing. Utilize the headrest adjustment feature to maintain appropriate head and neck support as your child grows. Proper harness tightening, as detailed in the safety features section, is also essential.
Never exceed these limits, as it can significantly reduce the car seat’s effectiveness in a collision. Prioritize safety and consult the manual for detailed guidance.
Cleaning and Care Instructions
Maintaining a clean Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat is vital for hygiene and longevity. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt and spills that could compromise the seat’s integrity. The fabric cover is generally removable and machine washable – use cold water and a mild detergent, then air dry. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals.
For the plastic components, simply wipe them down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Do not submerge the car seat base or any electronic parts in water. Pay close attention to the harness straps; clean them regularly with a damp cloth to remove any food residue or debris.
Important Note: Always ensure the car seat is completely dry before reinstalling the cover or using the seat. Inspect the seat for any damage during cleaning. Refer to the user manual for specific cleaning recommendations related to your model.
User Manual Availability & PDF Download
Accessing the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat’s user manual is crucial for safe and correct installation and usage. A comprehensive guide, Item No CC138, is readily available for download in PDF format. This digital version offers convenient access to all instructions, safety guidelines, and troubleshooting tips.
You can typically find the PDF manual on the Safety 1st website, or through various online retailers where the car seat is sold. Searching for “Safety 1st Grow and Go CC138 User Guide” will yield direct links to downloadable files.
Having the manual readily available, either digitally or in print, ensures you can quickly reference important information regarding weight limits, installation procedures, and recall notices. Always refer to the manual for the most up-to-date guidance and safety recommendations.
Troubleshooting & Support
Safety 1st provides extensive support, including FAQs, installation assistance, and access to Child Safety Seat Inspection Stations for hands-on help with any issues.
Contact Safety 1st customer support directly for specific concerns or to report problems related to the recent recall impacting the Grow and Go Sprint models.
Common Installation Issues
Difficulty achieving a tight fit is a frequently reported issue with the Safety 1st Grow and Go. Users sometimes struggle to secure the car seat firmly, especially using the LATCH system or vehicle seat belts. Ensure the belt path is correct and tighten until minimal movement—less than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back—is detected.
Incorrect recline angle can also pose a problem, particularly for rear-facing infants. Refer to the manual for the appropriate angle indicators and adjust accordingly. Vehicles with steeply reclined seats may require a rolled towel or pool noodle to achieve the correct angle.
Compatibility with vehicle seats can sometimes present challenges. Always consult your vehicle owner’s manual to confirm proper car seat placement. If unsure, seek assistance from a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician at an inspection station.
Finally, some users report confusion with the LATCH connectors. Double-check that the connectors are securely attached to the vehicle’s anchor points and that the straps are tightened correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I install the Safety 1st Grow and Go? A: Detailed installation instructions, covering both LATCH and belt installation in rear-facing and forward-facing modes, are found in the user manual.
Q: What if my vehicle doesn’t have LATCH? A: You can always use the vehicle seat belt to securely install the car seat. Refer to the manual for specific belt routing instructions.
Q: What do the weight and height limits mean? A: These limits ensure your child fits safely within the car seat. Exceeding them compromises the seat’s protective capabilities.
Q: Where can I find a PDF of the manual? A: A downloadable PDF version of the user guide is available online through various retailers and the Safety 1st website.
Q: What should I do about the recall? A: Contact Safety 1st customer support to determine if your model (CC138 or Sprint) is affected and to receive a free remedy.
Child Safety Seat Inspection Stations
Ensuring correct installation is paramount for your child’s safety. Utilizing a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) is highly recommended, especially given recent Safety 1st Grow and Go recalls and installation complexities.
Inspection stations provide hands-on assistance and verification that your car seat is properly secured in your vehicle, addressing potential issues with LATCH systems or belt installation.
Locating a station is easy! Resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website offer a search tool to find nearby inspection sites.
These stations can also help with understanding weight and height limits, proper recline angles, and harness adjustments, as detailed in the Safety 1st Grow and Go manual.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance – a correctly installed car seat significantly enhances your child’s protection in the event of a crash.
Contacting Safety 1st Customer Support
If you have questions or concerns regarding your Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat, particularly in light of the recent recall affecting nearly 180,000 units, reaching out to their customer support is crucial.
Direct assistance can clarify any uncertainties about installation, safety features, or the foam headrest cover issue, ensuring your child’s safety.
Customer support representatives can provide guidance on obtaining replacement parts, understanding the recall process, and accessing the complete user manual in PDF format.
They can also address specific questions related to weight and height limits, harness adjustments, and proper recline angles, as outlined in the manual.
Promptly contacting Safety 1st demonstrates a commitment to your child’s well-being and ensures you have the most up-to-date information regarding your car seat.
