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10 Best Car Seats For 5 Year Olds 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat, Rear-Facing and Forward-Facing, Extended Rear-Facing Seat Option, Redmond, Ideal for Newborns, Infants, and Toddlers

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,150
Harness System
Installation Method
Adjustability

Most important from
72402 reviews

Harness System
Installation is straightforward, and the harness system is easy to adjust as the child grows, adding to the car seat's usability.
Installation Method
The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat is incredibly easy to install, with clear instructions making the process straightforward for busy parents.
Adjustability
The adjustable leg extension is a standout feature, keeping children rear-facing longer and ensuring they remain comfortable.
Safety Ratings
The build quality feels robust and reassuring, giving parents confidence in the safety of their child every time they hit the road.
Comfort Features
The extended rear-facing feature allows toddlers to ride comfortably and safely in the rear-facing position for longer, providing peace of mind.

The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat stands out for its adaptability and safety features, making it a solid choice for parents with children aged 5 and under. It can accommodate children from 4 to 65 pounds, allowing for extended rear-facing use up to 50 pounds, which is crucial for safety in the event of a collision. Its steel-reinforced build reinforces its durability, and the car seat is designed with top safety standards, including being Graco ProtectPlus Engineered for various crash scenarios.

One notable strength is the 4-position adjustable extension panel, which provides extra legroom, ensuring that your child remains comfortable as they grow. The No-Rethread Simply Safe Adjust Harness System simplifies the adjustment process, allowing for easy resizing as your child grows without the need to rethread the harness. The InRight LATCH system makes installation a breeze, with a simple push-button mechanism that offers secure attachment.

There are a few considerations. Some parents might find the seat on the heavier side at 19 pounds, which can make switching cars or adjusting positions a bit cumbersome. While the car seat is designed to provide comfort, it may not suit every child's preference, particularly if they are sensitive to the seat's padding or position. Additionally, while it has a high safety rating, it's always wise to ensure that it fits well in your specific vehicle, as the dimensions (21.5 x 19.5 x 23.5 inches) may not work for all car models.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,150
Harness System
Installation Method
Adjustability

Most important from
72402 reviews

Harness System
Installation is straightforward, and the harness system is easy to adjust as the child grows, adding to the car seat's usability.
Installation Method
The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat is incredibly easy to install, with clear instructions making the process straightforward for busy parents.
Adjustability
The adjustable leg extension is a standout feature, keeping children rear-facing longer and ensuring they remain comfortable.
Safety Ratings
The build quality feels robust and reassuring, giving parents confidence in the safety of their child every time they hit the road.
Comfort Features
The extended rear-facing feature allows toddlers to ride comfortably and safely in the rear-facing position for longer, providing peace of mind.
#2

Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless Booster Car Seat, Denton

Rating
9.6
Adjustability
Safety Ratings
Comfort Features

Most important from
28893 reviews

Adjustability
Adjustments for your child’s height are straightforward, enhancing comfort as they grow.
Safety Ratings
The seatbelt guides offer a secure fit, providing peace of mind about your child's safety.
Comfort Features
This booster seat is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to transfer between cars, and the comfortable padding ensures a pleasant ride.

The Graco TurboBooster 2.0 Backless Booster Car Seat, Denton, is a popular choice for parents seeking a reliable car seat for their 5-year-olds. It stands out with a high consumer rating, reflecting robust protection and comfort features suitable for children between 40 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. The lack of a harness system is typical for backless boosters, as it relies on the vehicle's seat belt system. It's designed for forward-facing orientation and uses a seat belt installation method, which is straightforward and commonly used. The height-adjustable armrests enhance comfort, accommodating the growing child over a range of years, from ages 4 to 10.

The car seat is engineered with Graco ProtectPlus, ensuring safety in frontal, rear, and rollover crashes, which is reassuring for safety-conscious parents. It has been tested for extreme temperatures, adding to its durability and reliability. However, it does not come with latch connectors, which some parents might prefer for additional stability during installation. The modern design with hide-away cup holders adds convenience and style, making it appealing to kids and parents alike. Despite its lack of recline options, the lightweight design of only 6 pounds makes it easy to move and install in different vehicles.

This booster seat is an excellent choice for those who need a simple, effective solution for older children's seating needs. It's important to ensure that the seat belt fits properly on your child as they grow since this model supports a transition from booster to using the vehicle seat belt alone. If you are looking for a car seat with advanced harness systems or recline features, you might need to explore other options.

Rating
9.6
Adjustability
Safety Ratings
Comfort Features

Most important from
28893 reviews

Adjustability
Adjustments for your child’s height are straightforward, enhancing comfort as they grow.
Safety Ratings
The seatbelt guides offer a secure fit, providing peace of mind about your child's safety.
Comfort Features
This booster seat is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to transfer between cars, and the comfortable padding ensures a pleasant ride.
#3

Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1, 10 Years Use Infant to Toddler Car Seat, Zagg, Includes Rear Facing, Forward Facing, Highback Booster & Backless Booster Seat options

Rating
9.4
Weight and Height Limits
Harness System
Installation Method

Most important from
24914 reviews

Weight and Height Limits
Comfort for the baby is exceptional, and the car seat will last until no longer needed.
Harness System
Straps are easy to tighten and loosen, and cup holders are versatile for snacks and drinks.
Installation Method
Clear instructions on installation and adjusting settings as the baby grows make it user-friendly.
Adjustability
Reclining options and seat height adjustments are simple to manage.
Safety Ratings
Sturdy design ensures safety, and the car seat is highly recommended.
Comfort Features
Children appear happier and more comfortable, even on long trips.

The Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat is designed to grow with your child, offering four modes of use, making it a versatile choice for families. It transitions from rear-facing to forward-facing, highback booster, and finally to a backless booster, accommodating children from 4 pounds up to 120 pounds and up to 52 inches tall. This wide range makes it particularly beneficial for parents looking for a long-term investment in safety and comfort.

One of the standout features is the safety aspect, with Graco's ProtectPlus Engineered design that provides comprehensive protection against various types of crashes. The 5-point harness system adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that your child is well-protected as they grow. The seat's installation is made easier with the InRight LATCH system and the integrated belt lock, which helps secure the seat effectively.

Comfort is not overlooked either; the seat has a 6-position recline and simple adjustments to the harness, which can be modified to fit your child's needs as they grow. The RapidRemove cover is a practical feature, allowing for quick cleaning without the hassle of uninstalling the seat. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The car seat is relatively heavy at 22.8 pounds, which may make it less portable, especially if you need to move it frequently between vehicles. Additionally, while the size is generally safe and spacious, some users might find it takes up considerable space in smaller cars. The installation may also require some practice to master fully.

Rating
9.4
Weight and Height Limits
Harness System
Installation Method

Most important from
24914 reviews

Weight and Height Limits
Comfort for the baby is exceptional, and the car seat will last until no longer needed.
Harness System
Straps are easy to tighten and loosen, and cup holders are versatile for snacks and drinks.
Installation Method
Clear instructions on installation and adjusting settings as the baby grows make it user-friendly.
Adjustability
Reclining options and seat height adjustments are simple to manage.
Safety Ratings
Sturdy design ensures safety, and the car seat is highly recommended.
Comfort Features
Children appear happier and more comfortable, even on long trips.

Buying Guide for the Best Car Seats For 5 Year Olds

Choosing the right car seat for your 5-year-old is crucial for their safety and comfort during car rides. At this age, children are transitioning from toddler seats to booster seats, and it's important to select a seat that fits their size and weight, as well as your vehicle. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a car seat for your child.
Weight and Height LimitsWeight and height limits indicate the range within which the car seat can safely accommodate a child. This spec is important because it ensures that the car seat will provide adequate protection for your child. Car seats are generally divided into categories based on weight and height: forward-facing seats typically support children from 20 to 65 pounds, while booster seats are designed for children from 30 to 100 pounds. To pick the right one, measure your child's current weight and height and choose a seat that fits within those limits, allowing some room for growth.
Harness SystemThe harness system is what secures your child in the car seat. For 5-year-olds, a 5-point harness is often recommended as it provides better security by distributing the force of a collision across five points of contact. Some booster seats use a vehicle's seat belt instead. If your child is on the smaller side or you prefer extra security, opt for a seat with a 5-point harness. If your child is larger or more mature, a booster seat that uses the car's seat belt might be appropriate.
Installation MethodThe installation method refers to how the car seat is secured in your vehicle. This can be done using the LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) or the vehicle's seat belt. The LATCH system is generally easier to use and can provide a more secure fit, but it has weight limits. If your child exceeds these limits, you'll need to use the seat belt installation method. Check your vehicle's manual to see which method is recommended and ensure you can install the seat correctly.
AdjustabilityAdjustability refers to how easily the car seat can be adjusted to fit your child as they grow. This includes adjustable headrests, harness heights, and recline positions. A car seat with multiple adjustment options can provide a better fit and more comfort for your child over a longer period. Look for seats that offer easy-to-use adjustment mechanisms and consider how often you might need to make these adjustments.
Safety RatingsSafety ratings are assessments provided by organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings evaluate the car seat's performance in crash tests and ease of use. Higher-rated seats have been proven to offer better protection and are easier to install and use correctly. Check the latest safety ratings and choose a car seat that has high marks in both crash protection and usability.
Comfort FeaturesComfort features include padding, fabric quality, and additional amenities like cup holders or armrests. These features are important for keeping your child comfortable during longer car rides. Look for seats with ample padding and breathable fabrics, especially if you live in a warmer climate. Additional features like cup holders can make the ride more enjoyable for your child and convenient for you.

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