German association ADAC are currently conducting their twice-yearly child car seat crash tests, and the results of two models are unfortunately so bad that Stiftung Warentest, essentially the German version of Which?, are putting out an urgent warning to consumers. Under the 50km/h crash test (~30mph) when used in the rear facing position both seats completely fell apart posing a severe danger.
Crash test video (apology for Shorts): https://www.youtube.com/shorts/npH0ExtW5sk
The model sold frequently in the UK is the Reecle 360 / ZA10 but these models are often sold with various brand names, therefore it is a good idea to check if you have a seat bought from an online platform which is a spin and all-stages type, especially if this brand does not sell through brick-and-mortar stores such as John Lewis, Halfords, Argos or independent nursery specialists.
If you have a seat from a recognised brand who are known to make their own seats, such as Britax, Maxi Cosi, Cybex or Joie, you don't need to check the seat.
Brands I've seen on Amazon which look similar and may be the same manufacturer - Reecle, Reebaby, Jovikids, Globalkids, Lettas.
Chipolino was the brand of the other failing seat, but I believe this brand is not widely sold in the UK. It is still worth checking because these types of seats are frequently sold all over Europe with different branding for each country.
It's possible that budget or fashion-oriented brands which use generic models, like Cozy n Safe, Cosatto or My Babiiee might use this base model. I don't have any specific reason to associate them with this crash test - but if you are concerned you can check the approval numbers against the numbers below.
Look on the back of your seat to locate an orange coloured ECE R129.03 approval label. It looks similar to the image provided. Look at the long number underneath the E in a circle.
You are looking for a unique approval number of
0313715 (E8)
or
030047 (E57)
If your child seat has this approval number, whether or not it is a Reecle brand, stop using it immediately and replace it with a new seat. As far as I am aware, there is currently no recall but if you would like to take this up with your retailer and request a return, you can find the article (in German) on the Stiftung Warentest website. It may be that it comes through to English language media over the next few days.
Two last points:
- Please don't turn this thread into bashing anybody for buying a seat even if you personally would not buy it. Car seats for sale should be fit for purpose, manufacturers should be held to account and people should be able to ask for advice without being shamed.
- I am happy to advise or suggest budget friendly alternatives if anybody needs to replace a seat urgently.
Thanks for reading.