Key findings
Nearly 1 million vehicles on U.S. roads have unfixed safety recalls related to LATCH child-seat anchors, according to CARFAX.
The recalls span multiple makes and model years and could leave child seats improperly secured if anchors fail or don’t engage correctly.
- Common defects include faulty welds, misaligned anchors, and coatings that impede latch engagement.
- Potential impact: millions of children could be at risk if seats aren’t attached correctly in affected vehicles.
Why it matters
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), required in most vehicles since 2003, is designed to simplify car-seat installation and improve crash protection. Defective or misused anchors can compromise restraint performance, especially during sudden stops or collisions.
What owners should do now
- Check for open recalls using CARFAX’s free tools (e.g., CARFAX Car Care app and recall tracker).
- If affected, contact a dealership or the manufacturer to schedule a no-cost repair.
- Review both the vehicle and car-seat manuals to ensure anchors and tethers are used correctly.
- If buying used, verify recall status before purchase and complete any outstanding repairs promptly.
Who is affected
The issue is not confined to a single automaker, segment, or price point. It spans a wide range of vehicles and is especially challenging in used-vehicle markets where cars may have changed hands and notices were missed.
Recall completion challenges
Open recalls can persist for years due to missed notifications, ownership changes, or lack of awareness—even though repairs are free at franchised dealerships.
Data availability
CARFAX has identified states with the most unfixed LATCH recalls and can provide state and metro-level figures to newsrooms and stakeholders on request.
Bottom line
Check now, fix quickly, and ensure car seats are installed correctly. Unresolved LATCH-anchor defects undermine a primary connection point for many child seats, increasing risk if a crash occurs.
