should I buy this car seat?

leeandradittman

I am on a budget for baby items, and I found this car seat for sale on Craigslist for 30$. It is still being sold in stores so it's up to date. Here it is on the Wal mart website for 92$: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Graco-SnugRide-Infant-Car-Seat-Lively-Dots/13017317

My question is, does this sound like a good idea? The seller says it's in great condition, and seeing as how it's less than half the original cost and still up to code it seems like a good deal for me. But I'm a FTM so I really am not sure if I should take this one or it it's more important to splurge on car seats and buy a newer/nicer one .

marierk

nope....always buy car seats brand new...you never know if they've been in an accident if they've had a previous owner.

sadeathe

I would personally wonder about whether the person had been in an accident, because if they had you'd literally be putting your child's life in their hands.  I don't think I would buy a car seat from a stranger.

pugznploons

never buy a used car seat

FraggleChic

Ditto PPs.

MWAJ

I wouldn't. Even if it wasn't in an accident, you still don't know how they cared for it. Soaking the straps in water while washing can weaken the straps. Carrying the seat by the straps can weaken the straps. There are too many variables.

bellag8212

yeah i'm with everyone else on this.. buying a car seat used is a big no-no. you never know how it was previously treated.

sosoph

Your carseat and crib must be new (or from a sibling/immediate family where you know the items entire history - no friends of friends). Budget on anything else.

leeandradittman

Thanks! It sounds pretty clear that I shouldn't buy this used one... so I will plan on buying a new one!