What Parents Should Know About the Evenflo Revolve360 Car Seat Investigation

Earlier this month, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened a investigation on the Evenflo Revolve360 carseat, along with all other Revolve360 models, including the Revolve360 EXTEND and Revolve360 Slim.

These car seats, which first hit the market in 2021, allow parents to rotate the seat as they get their child in and out. But new compliance concerns over child restraint systems and detachable bases have prompted NHTSA to take action.

“The investigation focused primarily on the installation method and the detachable base of the Revolve360 car seat, excluding considerations related to crash test safety, webbing, and similar factors ,” explains Suzanne Chan, DNP, a pediatric nurse practitioner, certified child passenger safety technician (CPST) and member of the What to Expect Medical Review Board. “The potential non-compliance relates specifically to the car seat installation process.”

Why is NHTSA investigating Evenflo Revolve360 car seats?

NHTSA has been notified of at least six vehicle crash incidents in which various Revolve360 models experienced issues with their shells (the part of the car seat that holds the harness) separating from their detachable base. This is being further investigated by the NHTSA, which explains in their investigation report that the Evenflo Revolve360 and all similar models may not meet standard operating procedures for its detachable base. They also reported that Revolve360 car seats may fail to meet standard car seat labeling requirements.

While investigations like this aren’t very common, it’s not uncommon for them to happen after a car seat goes on the market, Dr. Chan. “In the case of the Revolve360, a relatively new design compared to traditional car seats, an investigation was initiated following six reported incidents in which the seat detached during crashes. The lack of detailed information on the This incident, such as whether a child is in the car or whether the seat is properly installed and locked in position, makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive understanding of the situation.”

Evenflo is aware of the investigation and continues to sell all Revolve360 car seat models. “Safety is our top priority, and we look forward to addressing the agency’s concerns, Amy Magee, VP of Marketing at Evenflo, told What to Expect in a statement. “We deeply sympathize with parents’ concerns about safety. on the car seat and the importance of ensuring the well-being of children on every journey. Evenflo remains committed to providing high quality and safe products for families.”

What should I do if my child uses the Evenflo Revolve360 car seat?

Revolve360 car seats have not been recalled, which means more information is needed to determine if they are in line. “[NHTSA] will obtain additional information regarding the potential separation of the Revolve360 shell from its detachable base to aid in the agency’s review of these products,” the investigative report explained, so we can expect to hear from them as soon as them more details.

So what should you do if your child is currently using one of these car seats?

“At this time, we recommend that families currently using the Revolve360 review and follow the instructions provided in the product manual for proper installation and use,” said Evenflo’s Magee. “All information available to Evenflo indicates that a properly installed and attached Revolve360 will function safely as intended.”

If you’re comfortable and no safety concerns have been identified, Dr. Chan that you can continue using the car seat. “However, it is always advisable to stay informed about any updates or recommendations from the manufacturer or relevant authorities in case there are investigative developments or future safety guidelines,” he added.

If you decide to use a different car seat while investigating these safety issues, look for retailers known for safe and affordable options, such as Walmart o Target.

How do I stay up-to-date on the investigation?

If you have a Revolve360 model, you can stay up-to-date on the investigation and any recalls or safety notices by making sure your seat is registered with the manufacturer. You will receive a postcard-type piece of paper every time you buy any car seat, which includes instructions on how to register directly through the manufacturer. NHTSA also makes it easy to register your specific car seat with their website. You can also periodically check for investigation updates on their website.

Additionally, any time you buy a car seat, it’s important to verify the model you’re considering NHTSA’s Car Seat Finder, to make sure it’s listed as a safe — and approved — option. Our What to Expect car seat guide also features car seats at every price point, and all have been verified as approved by the NHTSA.