TriRide
™
3-IN-1 CAR SEAT
www.gracobaby.com
NWL0001076646D 10/20
FAILURE TO PROPERLY USE THIS
CHILD RESTRAINT INCREASES
THE RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY
OR DEATH IN A SUDDEN STOP OR
CRASH.
Do not install or use this child
restraint until you read and
understand the instructions in this
manual.
2
1-A A Quick Guide to Your Manual
1-B Welcome to the Graco Family!
1-C Right Mode of Use
1-D Before You Begin
Register This Child Restraint
If You Need Help
Certification
Car Seat’s Useful Life
Vehicle Seat Protection
Warm Weather Use
1-E Safety Warnings
1 Important Pages 6-27
2 Features Pages 28-33
3
1 Important Pages 6-27
2 Features Pages 28-33
4-A Forward-Facing Use
4-B Install Forward-Facing With LATCH
4-C Install Forward-Facing With Vehicle Seat Belt
4 Forward-Facing Pages 52-66
3-A Rear-Facing Use
3-B Install Rear-Facing With Lower Anchor Attachment
3-C Install Rear-Facing With Vehicle Seat Belt
3 Rear-Facing Pages 34-51
4
5-A Securing Child 5-Point Harness
5 Securing Child Pages 67-76
8 Accessories Pages 99-100
7 Moving Lower Anchor Attachment
Pages 94-98
6-A Booster Use
6-B Install Highback Booster
6-C Securing Child Highback Booster
6 Booster Pages 77-93
5
5 Securing Child Pages 67-76
8 Accessories Pages 99-100
7 Moving Lower Anchor Attachment
Pages 94-98
9-A How to Uninstall Lower Anchor Connectors and Tether
9-B Choosing Vehicle Seat Location
9-C Unsafe Vehicle Seat Locations
9-D Vehicle Seat Belts
9 Vehicle Information Pages 101-111
10-A Cleaning Seat Pad
10-B Cleaning Crotch Buckle
10-C Cleaning Harness, Lower Anchor Attachment and Tether
10 Care & Cleaning Pages 112-119
6 Booster Pages 77-93
6
1-A A Quick Guide to Your Manual
This car seat is for children: Rear-Facing: 5-40 lb (2.2-18 kg)
Forward Facing: 22-65 lb (10-30 kg)
Booster: 40-100 lb (18.1-45 kg)
• Children less than 22 lb (10 kg) MUST use this car seat rear-facing.
Review section 1-C for more information.
Note: Preterm or low birth weight infants may be at special risk in a vehicle
or aircraft. According to the AAP, these infants may suffer breathing issues
if improperly reclined in a car seat. When rear-facing, use the corrected age
for preemies. Graco advises that you have your physician or hospital staff
evaluate your infant and recommend the proper car seat or car bed before
you and your infant leave the hospital.
7
Install Cup Holders
Adult Assembly Required
The cup holders must be installed.
To attach the cup holders, match the right
cup holder to the right side of the seat and
the left to the left. Slide the hook on the
cup holder into the slot in the seat, then
rotate the bottom of the cup holder down
until you hear a “CLICK”. You will hear
a “CLICK” when they are secured in
place.
L
8
Get to Know Your Car Seat
What Seating Location Should I Use?
Review section 2-A to see all of the features of this car seat.
The best seating location for this car seat is one that:
• Is recommended by your vehicle owner’s manual, and
• Results in a secure installation of this car seat.
Some vehicles have specific requirements for where the car seat can be
installed, so be sure to check your vehicle owner’s manual for available
seating positions, if any.
Review section 9-B, 9-C, 9-D of this manual AND your vehicle owner’s
manual.
9
Which Installation Method Should I Use?
This car seat can be installed in your vehicle using either the vehicle seat
belt OR the lower anchor attachment. Both are equally safe to use. INSTALL
USING ONLY ONE METHOD. Graco allows the securing of the car seat with
LATCH system in the booster mode only if the vehicle manufacturer allows it.
The child still MUST BE SECURED with the vehicle lap/shoulder seat belt.
Vehicle Seat Belt: Review section 9 and your vehicle owner’s manual to
learn how to install your car seat with the vehicle seat belts.
LATCH or Lower Anchor Attachment: The LATCH system or lower anchor
attachment allows you to securely attach your safety seat in your car without
using the vehicle seat belt and possibly to get a better fit. All 2003 and newer
model year vehicles are required to have a lower anchor attachment system,
although some manufacturers began including lower anchor attachment
earlier. Some vehicle owner manuals use the term ISOFIX to identify the lower
anchor attachment system.
According to accident statistics, children
are safer when properly restrained in the
rear seating positions than in the front
seating positions. The center of the back
seat can be the safest during a possible
side impact.
10
LATCH consists of lower anchors and a tether anchor, which are built in
to your vehicle, and a lower anchor attachment and tether that are built
in to your car seat. The lower anchor attachment is used INSTEAD of the
vehicle’s seat belt to secure the child seat to the vehicle. The tether is used
IN ADDITION to the lower anchor attachment OR the vehicle’s seat belt to
secure a forward-facing car seat to the vehicle.
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for exact location and use.
What is LATCH?
Vehicle Tether
Anchor
Vehicle Lower
Anchor
Typical seat in a passenger
vehicle. Other vehicle types
may have different lower
anchor
and tether
anchor
locations.
Vehicle Seat Bight
11
Lower Anchor Attachment
The Lower Anchor Attachment consists of two lower
anchors, which are built in to your vehicle, and lower
anchor connectors that are built in your car seat.
Review section 3-B & 4-B
of this manual AND your
vehicle owner’s manual.
Typical seat in a passenger
vehicle. Other vehicle types
may have different lower
anchor
and tether
anchor
locations.
When Installing Rear-Facing or Forward-Facing
Vehicle Seat Belt
There are two types of vehicle seat belts that can
be used When Installing Rear-Facing & Forward-
Facing. Lap/Shoulder Seat Belt or Lap Only Seat
Belt.
Review section 3-C, 4-C & 9 of this manual AND
your vehicle owner’s manual.
12
When Installing as a Booster
Vehicle Seat Belt
Only use the Lap/Shoulder seat belt
configuration when installing as a booster
Review section 6-B, 6-C, and 9 of this manual
AND your vehicle owner’s manual.
13
Does Your Car Seat Fit Your Child Correctly?
To make sure your child is secured properly, review section 3, 4, 5 & 6 to
understand all of the actions you need to take to properly adjust the car
seat to fit your child.
Harness Height, Rear-Facing
(A) Harness straps at or just below the
child’s shoulders (B) and top of head must
be at least 1” (2.5 cm) below the headrest
adjustment lever. Review section 5.
Harness Height, Forward-Facing
(C) Harness straps at or just above the child’s
shoulders (D) and top of child’s ears below
top of headrest. Review section 5.
Buckle Position (E)
The correct slot is the one that is closest to
your child without being underneath them.
Review section 5.
Harness Tightness (F)
If your fingers slide off the harness straps
without pinching the straps, it is tight enough.
Review section 5.
For Rear-Facing and Forward-Facing, You Need to Adjust:
1” (2.5 cm)1” (2.5 cm)
A
E
B
F
C
D
14
Use Lap/Shoulder Belt Only
Position Lap Belt
Lap belt must go behind armrest
and lie low across your child’s
hips and thighs.
Position Shoulder Belt
Shoulder belt lies across shoulder
between neck and edge of
shoulder.
For Booster, You Need to Adjust:
15
Car Seat Does Not Move More
than 1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt
Path (A)
Review section 3
Check level indicator (B)
Review section 3
Harness Straps at or Just
Below Child’s Shoulders (C)
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits (D)
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps
at the Shoulder (E)
Review section 5
Rear-Facing Installation
B
A
D E
C
16
Use the tether strap when
using forward-facing (A)
When used properly, the tether
helps reduce injury in a sudden
stop or crash.
Review section 4
Car Seat Does Not Move More
than 1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt
Path (B)
Review section 4
Harness Straps at or Just
Above Child’s Shoulders (C)
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits (D)
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps
at the Shoulder (E)
Review section 5
Forward-Facing Installation
B
A
D E
C
17
Never Use Lap Belt Only
Review section 6
Lap Belt Behind Armrest and
Lies Low Across Hips and Thighs
Review section 6
Shoulder Belt Lies On the
Shoulder, Between the Neck and
Edge of Shoulder
Review section 6
Booster Installation
18
1-B Welcome to the Graco Family!
Your child’s safety depends on you. No car seat can guarantee protection
from injury in every situation, but proper use helps reduce the risk of serious
injury or death.
Even if this car seat seems easy to figure out on your own, you must follow
the detailed instructions in this instruction manual to ensure all steps are
preformed correctly.
Visit: www.gracobaby.com/en-US/safety for more information about
Graco’s car seat safety standards.
19
1-C Right Mode of Use
* Check your local and state laws and the AAP/NHTSA recommendations. See pages 24-25.
5 lb
(2.2 kg)
22 lb
(10 kg)
40 lb
(18 kg)
65 lb
(30 kg)
Rear-Facing with 5-Point Harness
Must be 49” (125 cm) or less: 5-22
lb (2.2-10 kg) less than 1 year old
MUST be rear-facing. 22-40 lb (10-18
kg) SHOULD be rear-facing.*
Booster Mode with Vehicle Lap/
Shoulder Seat Belt Must be 43-57”
(110.1-145 cm) tall and 4+ years
old. 40-65 lb (18.1-30 kg) CAN be
in booster mode. Over 65 lb (30 kg)
MUST be in booster mode.*
100 lb
(45 kg)
Forward-Facing with 5-Point Harness
Must be 49” (125 cm) or less: 22-40 lb
(10-18 kg) can sit upright unassisted CAN
be forward-facing. 40-65 lb (18-30 kg)
SHOULD be forward-facing.*
20
1-D Before You Begin
Please fill out the prepaid registration postcard attached to the harness
and mail it in today or register online at www.gracobaby.com/
carseatregistration.
Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must register
this restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, and the
restraint’s model number and manufacturing date to:
Graco Children’s Products, Inc.
Attn: Customer Service
P.O. Box 169, Elverson, PA 19520-9901
or call 1-800-345-4109
or register online at
www.gracobaby.com/carseatregistration
For recall information, call the U.S. Government’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-
327-4236 (TTY: 1–800–424–9153), or go to http://www.NHTSA.gov.
Register This Child Restraint
21
Please fill out the prepaid registration postcard attached to the harness
and mail it in today or register online at www.gracobaby.com/
carseatregistration.
Child restraints could be recalled for safety reasons. You must register
this restraint to be reached in a recall. Send your name, address, and the
restraint’s model number and manufacturing date to:
Graco Children’s Products, Inc.
Attn: Customer Service
P.O. Box 169, Elverson, PA 19520-9901
or call 1-800-345-4109
or register online at
www.gracobaby.com/carseatregistration
For recall information, call the U.S. Government’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-
327-4236 (TTY: 1–800–424–9153), or go to http://www.NHTSA.gov.
Model Name _________________________
Model Number _______________________
Date of Manufacture __________________
Date of Purchase _____________________
For future reference or if you change addresses, record the model name,
model number, date of manufacture and purchase date of this car seat on the
below. You can find this information either on the registration card if you still
have it or on the date label located on the back of the car seat.
In the U.S.A, please contact our Customer Service Department with any
questions you may have concerning parts, use, or maintenance. When you
contact us, please have your product’s model number and date of manufac-
ture ready so that we may help you efficiently. These numbers can be found
on a sticker on the back side of your car seat.
For additional resources or to get your car seat checked by a child passenger
safety technician, please visit the following web sites:
www.nhtsa.gov • www.seatcheck.org • www.safekids.org
If You Need Help
22
STOP using this car seat and throw it away 10 years after the date of
manufacture. Look for this sticker on back of the car seat.
Graco Children’s Products Inc. advises against loaning or passing along
a car seat unless you know the complete history of the product. We also
advise against purchasing a car seat second hand.
Certification
Car Seat’s Useful Life
Protect vehicle seat. Use a car seat mat, towel, or thin blanket under and
behind car seat.
Vehicle Seat Protection
This child restraint meets or exceeds all applicable requirements of Federal
motor vehicle safety standard 213 for use in motor vehicles.
This child restraint is certified for use in aircraft only when used
with the internal harness system. Use only on forward-facing
aircraft seats. Follow the instructions for vehicle installation. For
rear-facing installation, see section 3-C and 9-D Lap Belt Installation.
For forward-facing installation, see section 4-C and 9-D Lap Belt
Installation, but do not use tether. Contact the airline for their specific
polices.
This child restraint is not certified for aircraft use when used as a
booster seat because aircrafts do not have shoulder belts. Contact
the airline for their specific polices.
23
STOP using this car seat and throw it away 10 years after the date of
manufacture. Look for this sticker on back of the car seat.
Graco Children’s Products Inc. advises against loaning or passing along
a car seat unless you know the complete history of the product. We also
advise against purchasing a car seat second hand.
Car seat parts can get very hot in the sun or warm weather. To avoid
burns, always check before putting child in car seat.
1-E Safety Warnings
No car seat can guarantee protection from injury in
every situation, but proper use helps reduce the risk of
serious injury or death. READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY.
Warm Weather Use
Failure to follow these instructions and child restraint’s labels
can result in child striking the vehicle’s interior during a sudden
stop or crash.
24
! NEVER PLACE THIS CHILD RESTRAINT REAR-FACING
IN A VEHICLE SEATING LOCATION THAT HAS AN ACTIVE
FRONT AIR BAG.
If an air bag inflates, it can hit the child and car seat with great force
and cause serious injury or death to your child.
! Review your vehicle owner’s manual for more information
about air bags and car seat use.
! If your vehicle does not have a back seat, review your vehicle
owner’s manual.
! Graco recommends making sure the base is a minimum of
80% on vehicle seat when using the 5-point harness.
! Children are safer riding rear-facing and should ride rear-
facing as long as possible, until they reach the maximum
rear-facing height or weight rating for their car seat. Then
children should ride forward-facing, using the built in harness
25
system for as long as possible until they reach the maximum
forward-facing weight or height for their car seat. At that
point, children should ride in a belt-positioning booster seat.
A booster is no longer needed once the vehicle seat belt
fits properly, typically when they reach 4 feet 9 inches (145
cm) tall and are between ages 8-12 years old. Be sure to
check your local and state laws, as well as AAP and NHTSA
recommendations, for car seat usage.*
! Choose the correct mode of use for the car seat depending on
your child’s size. Infants less than 22 lb. (10 kg) MUST use this
car seat rear-facing.
! Select a suitable location for the car seat in your vehicle.
! Secure car seat with a vehicle seat belt or the lower anchor
attachment that is properly routed as shown in this manual.
*Graco Supports the American Academy of Pediatrics and National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration’s Car Seat Guidelines. Visit www.gracobaby.com/en-US/safety
for information on car seat usage recommendations.
26
! Vehicle seat belt system MUST hold car seat securely. Not
all vehicle seat belts can be used with a car seat.
! If vehicle seat belt does not hold car seat securely, read
“Vehicle Seat Belts” section 9-D and your vehicle owner’s
manual.
! Always secure car seat with the lower anchor attachment
or a vehicle seat belt, even when unoccupied. In a crash, an
unsecured car seat can injure passengers.
! If car seat is in a crash, it must be replaced. DO NOT use it
again! A crash can cause unseen damage and using it again
could result in serious injury or death.
! DO NOT use car seat if it is damaged or missing parts.
! DO NOT use accessories or parts other than those provided
by Graco except for a thin towel or mat to protect your vehicle
seat or rolled towels or pool noodles to help get your car seat
level. Their use could alter the performance of the car seat.
27
! DO NOT remove LATCH system from car seat. If using vehicle
seat belt to secure car seat, lower anchor hooks must be
stored.
! Never leave child unattended, even when sleeping. Child
may become tangled in harness straps and suffocate or
strangle.
! Rear-facing car seat must be properly leveled:
• Too reclined can result in injury or ejection.
• Too upright can result in breathing difficulties.
! Never attach two lower anchor connectors to
one vehicle lower anchor unless specifically
allowed by the vehicle manufacturer.
! Do not use both the vehicle belt and lower anchor
attachment at the same time when using the car seat rear
or forward facing.
28
2 Features
2-A Features
A
L
B
C
D
F
N
G
O
H
J
M
E
I
K
29
2 Features
A Headrest/Harness Height
Adjustment Lever
B Headrest
C Booster Shoulder Belt Guide
D Chest Clip
E Harness Straps
F Buckle Strap
G Harness Adjustment Strap
H Seat Base
I Infant Head Support
J Harness Covers
K Infant Body Support
L Buckle
M Cup Holders
N Harness Adjustment Lever
(under seat pad)
O Recline Handle
P Harness Storage Compartment
P
30
2 Features
B
D
F
A
C
G
E
H
I
31
2 Features
A Level Indicator
B Tether Strap
C Forward-Facing Belt Path
D Cup Holder
E Lower Anchor Attachment
F Booster Lap Belt Path
G Rear-Facing Belt Path
H Seat Base
I Recline Position Indicator
32
2 Features
A
D
E
H
B
C
F
G
33
2 Features
A Level Indicator
B Tether Storage Bar
C Tether Hook
D Tether Strap
E Lower Anchor Connector
Storage
F Lower Anchor Strap
G Lower Anchor Adjuster
H Instruction Manual Storage
34
Rear Facing
3-A
3-A Rear-Facing Use
Rear-Facing: 5-40 lb
(2.2-18 kg) and whose
head is at least 1” (2.5 cm) below
the headrest adjustment handle
• Infants who weigh less than 22 lb (10 kg)
MUST be rear-facing.
• Place car seat rear-facing in the vehicle
back seat.
• Make sure the lower anchor strap or
vehicle seat belt is routed through the
rear-facing belt path marked with a blue
label.
• Install this car seat tightly in your vehicle.
Car seat should not move at the
rear-facing belt path more than 1” (2.5
cm) from side to side, front to back.
• Check recline level making sure the ball is
within the blue area. Vehicle MUST be on
level ground.
• Harness straps need to be even with or
just below the top of child’s shoulders
Vehicle Seat Lap/Shoulder
Belt
Lower Anchor Attachment
and chest clip is at armpit level.
• Recheck the level indicator with child in
seat.
• Children are safer riding rear-facing
and should ride rear-facing as long as
possible, until they reach the maximum
rear-facing height or weight rating for
their car seat. Then children should
ride forward-facing, using the built in
harness system for as long as possible
until they reach the maximum forward-
facing weight or height for their car
seat. Be sure to check your local and
state laws, as well as AAP and NHTSA
recommendations, for car seat usage.
Visit www.gracobaby.com
and the Graco
®
TriRide
TM
car seat product page to
view installation videos.
35
Rear Facing
3-A
Vehicle Seat Lap Belt
NEVER place this child
restraint rear-facing in a
vehicle seating location
that has an active front
air bag.
and chest clip is at armpit level.
• Recheck the level indicator with child in
seat.
• Children are safer riding rear-facing
and should ride rear-facing as long as
possible, until they reach the maximum
rear-facing height or weight rating for
their car seat. Then children should
ride forward-facing, using the built in
harness system for as long as possible
until they reach the maximum forward-
facing weight or height for their car
seat. Be sure to check your local and
state laws, as well as AAP and NHTSA
recommendations, for car seat usage.
Note: Preterm or low birth
weight infants may be at
special risk in a vehicle or
aircraft. According to the
AAP, these infants may
suffer breathing issues if
improperly reclined in a car
seat. Graco advises that
you have your physician or
hospital staff evaluate your
infant and recommend the
proper car seat or car bed
before you and your infant
leave the hospital.
36
Rear Facing
3-A
When reading the level indicator,
- If the ball is entirely in the light blue
area, the restraint is level for infants
0+ months in age.
- If the ball is entirely in the dark blue area,
the restraint is level for a child 3+ months
in age.
- If the ball is not completely in the blue areas,
the child restraint is NOT level. You must
adjust your recline position.
Vehicle MUST be on level ground.
Use corrected age for preemies.
37
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for Lower Anchor location
and use.
3-B Install Rear-Facing With Lower Anchor
Attachment
1. Store Tether
Attach tether hook to the plastic bar on
right side of the car seat.
2. Remove Lower Anchor Connectors
from Storage Location
Unhook the lower anchor connectors and
remove from storage position.
Visit www.gracobaby.com and the
TriRide
TM
car seat product page to
view installation videos.
38
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
3. Make Sure Lower Anchor Strap
is in the Rear-Facing Belt Path
Marked With a Blue Label
If not, see section 7 to move lower
anchor attachment.
4. Recline the Car Seat
Pull out on handle on front of child
restraint and adjust to one of the three
rear-facing positions.
6
5
2
1
4
3
39
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
5. Place Car Seat Rear-Facing
in Back Seat of the Vehicle
Place rear-facing in vehicle seat and
center the car seat between the lower
anchors. The base should sit as flat as
possible on the vehicle seat.
6. Make Sure Base is a minimum of
80% on Vehicle Seat.
7. Check the Level Indicator
Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball
must be completely in the blue area.
Readjust the recline if needed.
For infants 3 months and under, the ball
must be entirely in the light blue area.
If needed, rolled towels may be placed
under the car seat at the vehicle seat
crease, until the ball is completely in the
blue area.
40
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
8. Extend the Lower Anchor Strap
For easier installation, extend the lower
anchor strap to its maximum length by
pressing the grey button and pulling on
the strap.
9. Attach Lower Anchor Connectors
to Vehicle’s Lower Anchors
Strap should lie flat and not be twisted.
41
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
10. Tighten the Lower Anchor strap
Press down firmly in the center of the
car seat while tightening the lower
anchor strap
to remove all the slack
.
You may need to tighten through the
rear-facing belt path as shown.
42
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
11. Test For Tightness
Grab the sides of the seat where the
lower anchor attachment is and slide
the car seat side-to-side and front-to-
back.
If the seat moves less than 1” (2.5
cm), it is tight enough.
43
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
12. Check the Level Indicator
Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball
must completely be in the blue area.
Readjust if needed.
For infants 3 months and under, the
ball must completely be in the light
blue area.
If needed, rolled towels may be placed
under the car seat at the vehicle seat
crease, until the ball is completely in
the blue area.
See section 5 to secure your child.
Recheck level indicator with child in
seat.
44
3-B
Rear Facing
with Lower Anchor
Attachment
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Level Indicator’s Ball
Is In The Blue Area And
Vehicle On Level Ground
Harness Straps at or Just Below the
Child’s Shoulders
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
45
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Level Indicator’s Ball
Is In The Blue Area And
Vehicle On Level Ground
Harness Straps at or Just Below the
Child’s Shoulders
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
3-C Install Rear-Facing with
Vehicle Seat Belt
1. Store Tether Strap and Lower Anchor
Connectors
Attach tether hook and lower anchor
connectors to the plastic bars as shown.
Visit www.gracobaby.com and the
TriRide
TM
car seat product page to
view installation videos.
46
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
3. Place Car Seat Rear-Facing in
Back Seat of the Vehicle
Place rear-facing in vehicle seat. The
base should sit as flat as possible on the
vehicle seat.
2. Recline the Car Seat
Pull out on handle on front of child
restraint and adjust to one of the three
rear-facing positions.
6
5
2
1
4
3
47
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
3. Place Car Seat Rear-Facing in
Back Seat of the Vehicle
Place rear-facing in vehicle seat. The
base should sit as flat as possible on the
vehicle seat.
5. Check the Level Indicator
Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball
must completely be in the blue area.
Readjust if needed.
For infants 3 months and under, the ball
must completely be in the light blue
area.
If needed, rolled towels may be placed
under the car seat at the vehicle seat
crease, until the ball is completely in the
blue area.
See section 5 to secure your child.
Recheck level indicator with child in seat.
4. Make Sure Base is a minimum of
80% on Vehicle Seat.
48
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
6. Route the Vehicle Seat Belt
Through the Rear-facing Belt Path
Thread vehicle seat belt through the
rear-facing belt path (marked with a blue
label) and out the other side. Buckle the
seat belt. The seat belt should lie as flat
as possible and not be twisted.
Note: Make sure the vehicle seat belt
is in front of the buckle strap when the
buckle is in the inner-most position, and
behind when in the outer-most position.
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for vehicle seat belt use
49
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
7. Lock Vehicle Seat Belt
In most vehicles today, slowly pull the
shoulder belt all the way out and then
let it go back in. You will hear a clicking
sound. Slowly pull out on the belt and
it should be locked. If not, review your
car’s owner manual and section 9-D.
8. Tighten the Vehicle Seat Belt
Press down firmly in the center of the car
seat. Pull on the shoulder belt to remove
slack.
Do not pull on the vehicle seat belt with
excessive force.
Note: To make routing the vehicle seat
belt easier, remove the seat pad.
50
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
10. Check the Level Indicator
Vehicle MUST be on level ground. Ball
must completely be in the blue area.
Readjust if needed.
For infants 3 months and under, the ball
must completely be in the light blue
area.
If needed, rolled towels may be placed
under the car seat at the vehicle seat
crease, until the ball is completely in
the blue area.
See section 5 to secure your child.
Recheck level indicator with child in
seat.
9. Test For Tightness
Grab the sides of the seat where the
Lower Anchor strap is and slide the car
seat side-to-side and front-to-back.
If the seat moves less than 1” (2.5 cm),
it is tight enough.
51
3-C
Rear Facing
with Seat Belt
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Level Indicator’s Ball
Is In The Blue Area And
Vehicle On Level Ground
Harness Straps at or Just Below the
Child’s Shoulders.
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
52
Forward-Facing
4-A
4-A Forward-Facing Use
Forward-Facing:
22-65 lb (10-30 kg)
49 inches (125 cm) or less
• For children over 40 lb (18
kg) you MUST use recline position 5.
• Place car seat forward-facing in the
vehicle back seat.
•
Make sure lower anchor strap or vehicle
seat belt is routed through the forward-
facing belt path marked with an orange
label.
• Install this car seat tightly in your
vehicle. Car seat should not move at
the forward-facing belt path more than
1” (2.5 cm) from side to side, front to
back.
LATCH
Do not install by this method
for a child weighing more
than 45 lb (20 kg)
53
Forward-Facing
4-A
• Harness straps need to be at or just
above the top of child’s shoulders and
chest clip is at armpit level.
• Children are safer riding rear-facing
and should ride rear-facing as long as
possible, until they reach the maximum
rear-facing height or weight rating for
their car seat. Then children should
ride forward-facing, using the built in
harness system for as long as possible
until they reach the maximum forward-
facing weight or height for their car seat.
At that point, children should ride in a
belt-positioning booster seat. Be sure to
check your local and state laws, as well
as AAP and NHTSA recommendations,
for car seat usage.
Vehicle Seat Lap Belt
With Tether
Vehicle Lap/Shoulder Seat
Belt with Tether
54
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
1. Remove Lower Anchor
Connectors from Storage
Location
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for LATCH location and use. Do
not install lower anchors when a child weighs more than 45 lb (20 kg)
2.
Make Sure Lower Anchor Strap is
in the Forward-Facing Belt Path
Marked with Orange Label
If not, see section 7 to move lower anchor
attachment.
4-B Install Forward-Facing
With LATCH
Visit www.gracobaby.com and the
TriRide
TM
car seat product page to
view installation videos.
55
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
2.
Make Sure Lower Anchor Strap is
in the Forward-Facing Belt Path
Marked with Orange Label
If not, see section 7 to move lower anchor
attachment.
3. Recline the Car Seat
Pull out the recline handle and place the
car seat in recline position 4 or 5.
For children over 40 lb (18 kg) you
MUST use recline position 5.
1
2
5
6
3
4
4. Unhook Tether Hook From Storage
Unhook tether and lay it in the seat.
56
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
5. Place Car Seat Forward-Facing
in Back Seat of the Vehicle
Place forward-facing in vehicle seat
and center the car seat between the
lower anchors. The base should sit as
flat as possible on the vehicle seat.
Note: make sure base is a minimum of
80% on Vehicle Seat.
6. Extend the Lower Anchor Strap
For easier installation, extend the lower
anchor strap to its maximum length by
pressing the grey button and pulling on
the strap.
57
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
6. Extend the Lower Anchor Strap
For easier installation, extend the lower
anchor strap to its maximum length by
pressing the grey button and pulling on
the strap.
7. Attach Lower Anchor Connectors
to Vehicle’s Lower Anchors
Lower anchor strap should not be
twisted.
8. Tighten the Lower Anchor Strap
Make sure there is no slack in the
lower anchor strap by pulling any extra
webbing through the forward facing belt
path.
58
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
9. Attach Tether Hook
Extend the tether by
lifting up on the tether
lock and attach.
Consult vehicle’s owner manual for
specific location.
Press down firmly in the center of the car
seat while tightening the lower anchor
strap
to remove all the slack
.
If there is slack, pull on the lower anchor
strap and repeat step 8.
59
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
10. Tighten Tether Strap
Remove all the slack.
11. Test For Tightness
Grab the sides of the seat where the
lower anchor attachment is and slide the
car seat side-to-side and front-to-back.
If the seat moves less than 1” (2.5 cm),
it is tight enough.
See section 5-A to secure your child.
60
4-B
Forward-Facing
with LATCH
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Harness Straps at or Just Above the
Child’s Shoulders.
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
61
4-C
Forward-Facing
with Seat Belt
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Harness Straps at or Just Above the
Child’s Shoulders.
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
4-C Install Forward-Facing with
Vehicle Seat Belt
1. Store Lower Anchor Connectors
Attach lower anchor connectors to the
plastic bars as shown.
2. Recline the Car Seat
Pull out the recline handle and place the
car seat in recline position 4 or 5.
For children over 40 lb (18 kg) you
MUST use recline position 5.
Visit www.gracobaby.com and the
TriRide
TM
car seat product page to
view installation videos.
1
2
5
6
3
4
62
4-C
Forward-Facing
with Seat Belt
3. Unhook Tether Hook From
Storage
Unhook tether and lay it in the seat.
4. Place Car Seat Forward-Facing
in Back Seat of the Vehicle
Place forward-facing in vehicle seat.
The base should sit as flat as possible
on the vehicle seat.
Note: make sure base is a minimum of
80% on Vehicle Seat.
63
4-C
Forward-Facing
with Seat Belt
5. Route the Vehicle Seat Belt
Thread vehicle seat belt through the
forward-facing belt path (marked with
an orange label) and out the other side.
Buckle the
seat belt.
The seat
belt should
lie as flat
as possible
and not be
twisted.
Review your vehicle’s owner manual for vehicle seat belt use
Note: To make routing the vehicle seat
belt easier, remove the seat pad.
64
4-C
Forward-Facing
with Seat Belt
7. Tighten the Vehicle Seat Belt
Press down firmly in the center of the
car seat. Pull on the shoulder belt to
tighten while feeding the slack back in
the retractor.
6. Lock the Vehicle Seat Belt
In most vehicles today, slowly pull the
shoulder belt all the way out and then
let it go back in. You will hear a clicking
sound. Slowly pull out on the belt and
it should be locked. If not, review your
car’s owner manual and section 9-D.
65
4-C
Forward-Facing
with Seat Belt
9. Tighten the Tether Strap
Push the car seat back while tightening
the tether strap to remove all the slack.
8. Attach Tether Hook
Extend the tether by
lifting up on the tether
lock and attach.
Consult vehicle’s owner manual for
specific location.
10. Test For Tightness
Grab the sides of the seat where the
vehicle seat belt is and slide the car
seat side-to-side and front-to-back.
If the seat moves less than 1” (2.5
cm), it is tight enough.
See section 5-A to secure your child.
66
4-C
Forward-Facing
with Seat Belt
Is Everything Correct?
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Harness Straps at or Just Above the
Child’s Shoulders
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
67
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
Car Seat Does Not Move More than
1” (2.5 cm) at the Belt Path
Harness Straps at or Just Above the
Child’s Shoulders
Review section 5
Chest Clip Even With Armpits
Review section 5
Cannot Pinch Harness Straps at the
Shoulder
Review section 5
1.
Loosen Harness Straps
Push down on the harness adjustment
lever while pulling out on the harness
straps at the chest clip.
5-A
Securing Child 5-point Harness
WARNING! In cold weather, do not put snowsuits or bulky
garments on your child when placing them in the car seat. Bulky
clothing can prevent the harness straps from being tightened properly.
To keep child warm, buckle your child in the car seat and place a blanket
around the child or place the child’s coat on backwards after buckling in.
68
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
Unbuckle the chest clip and the crotch
buckle. Place harness straps off to the
sides.
2.
Place Your Child in the Seat
Make sure their back is flat against the car
seat back.
Avoid bulky or heavy clothing. Doing so
will prevent the harness straps from being
tightened properly. You may place a blanket
over the child after you have secured the
child.
69
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
3.
Place Harness Straps Over
Child’s Shoulders and Buckle
You will hear a “CLICK” when buckle tongues
are securely attached. Pull up on each buckle
tongue to make sure it is securely attached.
Forward-Facing: Harness straps
should be at or just above the child’s
shoulders. Top of child’s ears below top
of headrest.
4.
Be Sure the Harness Straps
Are at the Proper Height
Rear-Facing: Harness straps should be at
or just below the child’s shoulders. Top of
head must be at least 1” (2.5 cm) below the
headrest adjustment lever.
Rear-Facing
1” (2.5 cm)1” (2.5 cm)
Forward-Facing
2.
Place Your Child in the Seat
Make sure their back is flat against the car
seat back.
Avoid bulky or heavy clothing. Doing so
will prevent the harness straps from being
tightened properly. You may place a blanket
over the child after you have secured the
child.
70
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
5. To Raise or Lower Headrest/
Harness Height
Squeeze the adjustment handle and move
headrest for the proper harness height.
6.
Adjust the Seat Pad
For smaller babies, shorten headrest by
placing the bottom of the flap under the
support as shown.
71
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
7.
Check the Buckle Position
The correct slot is the one that is closest
to your child without being underneath
them.
8. To Adjust the Buckle Position
Recline the car seat and locate the metal
retainer under the car seat shell.
5. To Raise or Lower Headrest/
Harness Height
Squeeze the adjustment handle and move
headrest for the proper harness height.
72
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
9.
Rotate Metal Retainer and Insert
It Up Through the Shell and Pad
From the top of the car seat, pull the
crotch buckle out.
10.
Insert Metal Retainer in the New
Crotch Buckle Slot
Reach underneath the car seat and pull
the metal retainer through.
73
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
11.
Pull Up on Crotch Strap to Make
Sure it is Secured
12. Rear-Facing With Lower Anchor
Attachment: Make sure the lower
anchor strap is (A) in front of the buckle
strap when the buckle is in the inner-most
position, and (B) behind when in the
outermost position and that it is flat and is
not twisted.
A B
74
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
13.
Buckle the Chest Clip
You will hear a “CLICK” when the chest
clip is securely buckled.
14.
Pull All the Slack Out From
Around the Waist
Pull up on the harness strap while
pushing the chest clip down. Do this to
both sides.
75
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
15.
Tighten the Harness by Pulling
the Harness Adjustment Strap
When you are not able to pinch any
of the harness webbing at your child’s
shoulder, the harness is tight enough.
A snug harness should not allow any
slack. It lies in a relatively straight line
without sagging. It does not press on
the child’s flesh or push the child’s
body into an unnatural position.
76
Securing Child
5-Point Harness
5-A
16.
Raise the Chest Clip to Child’s
Armpit Level
17. Check Tightness Again, Tighten
More if Needed
77
Booster
6-A
6-A Booster Use
Booster Use:
40-100 lb (18.1-45 kg)
43-57 in. (110.1-145 cm)
at least 4 years old
• Place car seat forward-facing in the
vehicle back seat.
• Make sure vehicle seat’s lap belt is
adjusted snugly and lays low on the
child’s hip and is routed behind the
armrest in the booster’s belt path.
• Vehicle belts MUST lie flat against child
and MUST NOT be twisted.
• Vehicle seat’s shoulder belt is adjusted
snugly and should lie between child’s
neck and edge of shoulder.
• Never use a vehicle lap-only belt across
front of child.
• DO NOT position vehicle shoulder belt
under the child’s arm or back.
• DO NOT allow child to slouch or slide
down in the booster seat.
Vehicle Lap/Shoulder Seat
Belt
78
Booster
6-A
• DO NOT position vehicle belt over top of
armrests.
• Vehicle’s seat headrest SHOULD NOT
create a gap between vehicle seat and
booster seat.
• The front of booster seat MUST NOT
hang over front of vehicle seat.
• If child will not keep vehicle belt properly
positioned, DO NOT use this booster
seat. Use a different car seat.
• When forward-facing, children should
use the built in harness system for as
long as possible until they reach the
maximum forward-facing weight or
height for their car seat. At that point,
children should ride in a belt-positioning
booster seat. A booster is no longer
needed once the vehicle seat belt fits
properly, typically when they reach 4 feet
9 inches (145 mm) tall and are between
ages 8-12. Be sure to check your local
and state laws, as well as AAP and
NHTSA recommendations, for car seat
usage.
Never Use a Vehicle
Lap-Only Belt Across
Front of Child
79
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
A
6-B Install Highback Booster
1. Raise The Headrest To The
Highest Position
2. Store The Harness System
A. Loosen The Shoulder Straps
As Much As Possible
Push down on the harness
adjustment lever while pulling out on
the harness straps at the chest clip.
B. Unbuckle the chest clip
B
80
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
E
C
C. Unbuckle the buckle
D. Remove Harness Covers
To remove, undo the fastening strips
and remove.
D
E. Lift the headrest pad flap up
out of the way
81
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
H. Remove the Buckle Strap
From bottom of car seat, rotate metal
retainer to
side in order
to push it
through slot
easier.
H
G
G. Pull Bottom Seat Pad Back To
Expose the Plastic Shell
F
F. Unsnap Seat Pad
Undo the 2 snaps.
82
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
I. Open the Harness Storage Door
J. Place Harness, Chest Clip,
Buckle Tongues and Buckle
Inside Storage Compartment and
Close the Door
J
J
I
CLICK!
83
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
K. Replace Seat Pad
Move the headrest back to its proper
position for your child.
K
3. Adjust the Car Seat
Place car seat in recline position 6.
1
2
5
6
3
4
4. Place Car Seat Forward-Facing
in Back Seat of the Vehicle
Place forward-facing in vehicle seat.
The bottom of the seat should sit as flat
as possible on the vehicle seat.
Make sure the base completely rests
on the vehicle seat.
84
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
Graco allows the securing of the car seat with
LATCH system in the booster mode only if the
vehicle manufacturer allows it. The child still MUST
BE SECURED with the vehicle lap/shoulder seat
belt. LATCH can be used in the booster mode
regardless of the weight of the child up to 100 lb
(45 kg).
Verify the following before using LATCH in the
booster mode:
• The lower anchor connectors DO NOT interfere
with any vehicle seat belts or buckles.
If the lower anchor connectors interfere with the vehicle seat belts or if the chosen
seating position does not have lower anchors, you MUST store the lower anchor
connectors. Store the lower anchor connectors by attaching to the plastic bars
as shown. Store the tether as shown. Always secure car seat with lower anchor
attachment or a vehicle seat belt, even when unoccupied. In a crash, an unsecured
car seat can injure passengers.
Skip to Step 14 on page 90 if Not Using LATCH
85
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
5. Remove Lower Anchor Connectors
from Storage Location
6.
Make Sure Lower Anchor Strap is
in the Forward-Facing Belt Path
Marked with Orange Label
If not, see section 7 to move lower anchor
attachment.
Make sure the lower anchor attachment
is routed in front of the harness strap, is
flat, and is not twisted.
Graco allows the securing of the car seat with
LATCH system in the booster mode only if the
vehicle manufacturer allows it. The child still MUST
BE SECURED with the vehicle lap/shoulder seat
belt. LATCH can be used in the booster mode
regardless of the weight of the child up to 100 lb
(45 kg).
Verify the following before using LATCH in the
booster mode:
• The lower anchor connectors DO NOT interfere
with any vehicle seat belts or buckles.
If the lower anchor connectors interfere with the vehicle seat belts or if the chosen
seating position does not have lower anchors, you MUST store the lower anchor
connectors. Store the lower anchor connectors by attaching to the plastic bars
as shown. Store the tether as shown. Always secure car seat with lower anchor
attachment or a vehicle seat belt, even when unoccupied. In a crash, an unsecured
car seat can injure passengers.
86
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
7. Unhook Tether From Storage
Location and Lay it in the Seat
8. Extend the Lower Anchor Strap
For easier installation, extend the lower
anchor strap to its maximum length by
pressing the grey button and pulling on
the strap.
87
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
9. Attach Lower Anchor Connectors
to Vehicle’s Lower Anchors
Lower anchor strap should not be
twisted.
10. Tighten the Lower Anchor Strap
Remove all the slack from the lower
anchor strap.
7. Unhook Tether From Storage
Location and Lay it in the Seat
8. Extend the Lower Anchor Strap
For easier installation, extend the lower
anchor strap to its maximum length by
pressing the grey button and pulling on
the strap.
88
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
11. Attach Tether Hook
Extend the tether by
lifting up on the tether
lock and attach.
Consult vehicle’s owner manual for
specific location.
12. Tighten Tether Strap
Remove all the slack.
89
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
13. Test For Tightness
Grab the sides of the seat where the
Lower Anchor strap is and slide the
car seat side-to-side and front-to-
back.
If the seat moves less than 1” (2.5
cm), it is tight enough.
See section 6-C to secure your
child.
12. Tighten Tether Strap
Remove all the slack.
90
6-B
Install Highback
Booster
14. Thread the Vehicle Seat
Shoulder Belt Through Seat
Belt Guide on the Headrest
See section 6-C to secure your
child.
91
6-C
Securing Child
Highback Booster
1. Place Child In Seat
Have your child sit in the booster seat,
with his/her back flat against the back of
the booster seat.
2. Thread Vehicle’s Shoulder Belt
Into Seat Belt Guide in the
Headrest
6-C Securing Child Highback Booster
Use only the vehicle lap and shoulder
belt system when restraining the child
in the booster seat.
92
6-C
Securing Child
Highback Booster
3. Buckle the Vehicle Lap/Shoulder
Seat Belt
Be sure the lap portion of the vehicle seat
belt goes behind the armrests.
Be sure the lap portion of the vehicle seat
belt lies low across your child’s hips.
Be sure the shoulder belt lies across your
child’s shoulder, between the neck and
edge of shoulder. The belt guides should
be even with or just above the shoulders.
93
6-C
Securing Child
Highback Booster
3. Buckle the Vehicle Lap/Shoulder
Seat Belt
Be sure the lap portion of the vehicle seat
belt goes behind the armrests.
Be sure the lap portion of the vehicle seat
belt lies low across your child’s hips.
Be sure the shoulder belt lies across your
child’s shoulder, between the neck and
edge of shoulder. The belt guides should
be even with or just above the shoulders.
Is Everything Correct?
Never Use Lap Belt Only
Lap Belt Behind Armrest and Lies
Low Across Hips and Thighs
Shoulder Belt Lies On the Shoulder,
Between the Neck and Edge of
Shoulder
94
7 Moving Lower
Anchor Attachment
7-A Moving Lower Anchor Attachment
1. For Ease of Moving the Lower
Anchor Attachment
A. Loosen the harness straps.
B. Raise the headrest to the highest
position.
C. Unbuckle the chest clip.
D. Unbuckle the buckle.
A
B
C
D
95
7 Moving Lower
Anchor Attachment
7-A Moving Lower Anchor Attachment
E
F
G
E. Unsnap Seat Pad
Undo the 2 snaps.
F. Pull Bottom Seat Pad Back To
Expose the Plastic Shell
G. Lift the headrest pad flap up out
of the way.
96
7 Moving Lower
Anchor Attachment
2. Pull the Lower Anchor Connectors
Out of the Belt Path Openings
Pull the lower anchor connectors out of
the belt path openings, so that the lower
anchor connectors lay in the seat.
3. Slide Entire Lower Anchor Strap
Along Bar to the Desired Belt
Path Openings
Rear-Facing: Slide lower anchor strap
along bar to the front of the seat.
Forward-Facing: Slide the lower anchor
strap up along bar to the top.
Rear-
Rear-
Facing
Facing
Rear-
Facing
Forward-
Forward-
Facing
Facing
Forward-
Facing
97
7 Moving Lower
Anchor Attachment
4.
Push the Lower Anchor Hooks Out
Through the Desired Belt Path
Openings on Each Side of Car Seat
Rear-Facing: Make sure the Lower
Anchor strap is in front of the buckle strap
when the buckle is in the inner-most position
(A), and behind when in the outer-most
position (B) and that it is flat and is not
twisted.
A B
98
7 Moving Lower
Anchor Attachment
5. Replace the Seat Pad
Move the headrest back to its proper
position for your child.
Forward-Facing: Make sure the lower
anchor attachment is routed behind
the harness strap, is flat, and is not
twisted.
99
Important
8 Accessories
8-A Accessories
Harness Covers
Make sure that harness covers do not
interfere with placement of the chest clip
at armpit level.
To remove, undo the fastening strips and
remove.
Infant Body Support
Use only in the rear-facing mode.
Infant body support must be used if
shoulders are below the lowest harness
setting.
Never allow infant body support to
bunch or fold behind child.
100
8 Accessories
Infant Head Support
Use only in the rear-facing mode. To
adjust the support, pull up until desired
height. Do not use without the infant
body support.
To install, thread the infant head support
straps through the headrest and use the
fastening strips to connect the straps
together.
To remove, undo the fastening strips
and pull the straps out of the headrest.
101
9 Vehicle
Information
9-A How to Uninstall Lower Anchor
Connectors and Tether
Lower Anchor Connectors
Press in on the hook’s spring. Push
hook in, lift hook up, twist and pull out
away from anchor point.
Tether
To remove, lift up on the tether lock to
release the tension.
Press in on the hook’s spring. Push
tether hook in, then lift up and pull away
from tether anchor.
102
9 Vehicle
Information
9-B
Choosing Vehicle Seat Location
Review your vehicle owner’s manual for seating locations.
The best seating location for this car seat is one that:
• Is recommended by your vehicle owner’s manual, and
• Results in a secure installation of this car seat
In the event there is no available back seat and / or you have no other option than
to place a child in a front passenger seating position (other than rear-facing), the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that you take
the following steps:
• Ensure the child is properly restrained according to their age and size
• Move the seat as far back as possible
• Make sure the child is not leaning out of position, such as leaning forward into
the deployment path of the air bag
• Set the air bag ON-OFF switch, if available, to the OFF position
103
9 Vehicle
Information
9-C
Unsafe Vehicle Seat Locations
Never install this car seat in any of the following vehicle seating locations:
rear-facing or side-facing
vehicle seats
rear-facing with an
active front air bag
booster mode with vehicle
lap belt only seat belt
9-B
Choosing Vehicle Seat Location
In the event there is no available back seat and / or you have no other option than
to place a child in a front passenger seating position (other than rear-facing), the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that you take
the following steps:
• Ensure the child is properly restrained according to their age and size
• Move the seat as far back as possible
• Make sure the child is not leaning out of position, such as leaning forward into
the deployment path of the air bag
• Set the air bag ON-OFF switch, if available, to the OFF position
104
9 Vehicle
Information
9-D
Vehicle Seat Belts
This car seat can be installed using a vehicle seat belt. To do this, you will need to change
the seat belt to a locked mode for use with car seats. With some vehicle seat belts, this is
done with the latchplate; with other vehicle seat belts, this is done with the retractor.
Review your vehicle owner’s manual for vehicle seat belt use
Vehicle Seat Belt Terms
Retractor
A device that winds up the unused vehicle seat belt.
It is often hidden inside the panels on the walls of
the vehicle or in the vehicle seatback.
Latchplate
The male end of the seat belt with the silver tongue.
Seat Bight
The crease where the vehicle seat back and seat
bottom meet.
105
9 Vehicle
Information
Identify Your Seat Belt Type
There are two different types of vehicle seat belts that can be used with this car seat:
Lap/Shoulder Belt
3 connections points. Can be used in
all car seats modes of use.
Lap Belt Only
2 connection points. Can ONLY be
used in harness mode.
The following types of vehicle seat belts CANNOT
be used safely with this car seat:
Lap Belt with Motorized
Shoulder Belt
Lap Belt or Shoulder
Belt Mounted on Door
Some vehicles you may
not get a secure fit. Read
both your vehicle and car
seat manuals.
Belts Forward of the
Seat Bight
9-D
Vehicle Seat Belts
This car seat can be installed using a vehicle seat belt. To do this, you will need to change
the seat belt to a locked mode for use with car seats. With some vehicle seat belts, this is
done with the latchplate; with other vehicle seat belts, this is done with the retractor.
106
9 Vehicle
Information
Sliding Latchplate and Switchable
Retractor
A latchplate that slides freely on the belt webbing
and cannot, by itself, hold the belt snug around
a car seat.
When installing the car seat, route the vehicle
seat belt through the proper belt path and buckle
it in. Slowly pull the shoulder belt all the way
out to switch it to locking mode. Then, as
you pull the vehicle seat belt tight, feed all the
slack back into the retractor.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and
slide the seat side-to-side and front-to-back. The
seat should not move more than 1” (2.5 cm).
Always review your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about your
vehicle seat belts.
There are three types of retractors: ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor), ALR
(Automatic Locking Retractor) , and Switchable (ELR switch to ALR). To
determine your type of retractor, follow these steps:
1. Slowly pull the belt out about halfway and stop.
2. Let the belt retract back several inches.
3. Try to slowly pull the belt out more. If the belt cannot be pulled
any further, it is ALR. If it can be pulled further, go to the next
step.
4. Slowly pull the belt all the way out, and then allow it to retract several inches.
5. Try to pull the belt all the way out again. If it cannot be pulled out, it is
Switchable. If it can still be pulled out freely, it is ELR.
Note: Most vehicles manufactured after 1996 will have Switchable retractors in the
back seat. If you have any questions about your retractor type, consult your vehicle
owner’s manual or call Graco for assistance.
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation - Rear-Facing/Forward Facing Modes
107
9 Vehicle
Information
How to Lock Your Lap and Shoulder Vehicle Seat Belt
Sliding Latchplate and Switchable
Retractor
A latchplate that slides freely on the belt webbing
and cannot, by itself, hold the belt snug around
a car seat.
When installing the car seat, route the vehicle
seat belt through the proper belt path and buckle
it in. Slowly pull the shoulder belt all the way
out to switch it to locking mode. Then, as
you pull the vehicle seat belt tight, feed all the
slack back into the retractor.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and
slide the seat side-to-side and front-to-back. The
seat should not move more than 1” (2.5 cm).
Note: With the vehicle seat belt in this locking mode, all the tension is upwards in the
shoulder belt. This may start to tilt your car seat sideways. If this happens, use a locking
clip instead of this switching the retractor. See Sliding Latchplate and ELR Retractor.
Always review your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about your
vehicle seat belts.
There are three types of retractors: ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor), ALR
(Automatic Locking Retractor) , and Switchable (ELR switch to ALR). To
determine your type of retractor, follow these steps:
1. Slowly pull the belt out about halfway and stop.
2. Let the belt retract back several inches.
3. Try to slowly pull the belt out more. If the belt cannot be pulled
any further, it is ALR. If it can be pulled further, go to the next
step.
4. Slowly pull the belt all the way out, and then allow it to retract several inches.
5. Try to pull the belt all the way out again. If it cannot be pulled out, it is
Switchable. If it can still be pulled out freely, it is ELR.
Note: Most vehicles manufactured after 1996 will have Switchable retractors in the
back seat. If you have any questions about your retractor type, consult your vehicle
owner’s manual or call Graco for assistance.
Lap/Shoulder Belt Installation - Rear-Facing/Forward Facing Modes
108
9 Vehicle
Information
Locking Latchplate and ELR
Retractor
A latchplate that holds the lap belt snug
after it has been adjusted; contains
a metal bar on the underside of the
hardware that “locks” the belt in position.
When installing the car seat, route the
vehicle seat belt through the proper belt
path and buckle it in. Then, pull upwards
on the shoulder belt so that the lap belt
gets tight around the car seat.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path and
slide the seat side-to-side and front-to-back.
The seat should not move more than 1”
(2.5 cm).
109
9 Vehicle
Information
Sliding Latchplate and ALR
Retractor
A latchplate that slides freely on the belt
webbing and cannot, by itself, hold the
belt snug around a car seat.
Slowly pull the shoulder belt all the
way out. Route the vehicle seat belt
through the proper belt path and buckle
it in. Then, as you pull the vehicle seat
belt tight, feed all the slack back into the
retractor.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt path
and slide the seat side-to-side and front-to-
back. The seat should not move more than
1 inch (2.5 cm).
110
9 Vehicle
Information
Sliding Latch plate and ELR Retractor
A latch plate that slides freely on the belt
webbing and cannot, by itself, hold the belt
snug around a car seat.
With this retractor, you will need to use the
locking clip to lock the vehicle seat belt.
To get a locking clip order online at
gracobaby.com or call 1-800-345-4109
Route the vehicle seat belt through the
proper belt path and buckle it in. Pull the
vehicle seat belt tight. While pushing down
on seat, pinch the two straps together
behind the buckle tongue. Unbuckle the belt
without allowing it to slip.
Attach locking clip to lap and shoulder belts
as shown.
Rebuckle belt. Check that lap belt does not
move by pulling hard. If belt loosens or
lengthens, repeat procedure.
1” (2.5 cm)
Locking Clip
111
9 Vehicle
Information
Lap Belt Installation - DO NOT use in Booster Mode
Always review your vehicle owner’s manual for specific information about
your vehicle seat belts.
Locking Latch plate and No
Retractor
When installing the car seat, route the
lap seat belt through the proper path and
buckle it in. Then, pull upwards on the
tail of the belt so that the lap belt gets tight
around the car seat.
Sewn On Latch plate and ALR
Slowly pull the lap belt all the way out.
Route the vehicle seat lap belt through the
proper belt path and buckle it in. Then, pull
the lap belt tight while feeding all the slack
back into the retractor.
Grab the sides of the seat at the belt
path and slide the seat side-to-side
and front-to-back. The seat should
not move more than 1” (2.5 cm).
Sliding Latch plate and ELR Retractor
A latch plate that slides freely on the belt
webbing and cannot, by itself, hold the belt
snug around a car seat.
With this retractor, you will need to use the
locking clip to lock the vehicle seat belt.
To get a locking clip order online at
gracobaby.com or call 1-800-345-4109
Route the vehicle seat belt through the
proper belt path and buckle it in. Pull the
vehicle seat belt tight. While pushing down
on seat, pinch the two straps together
behind the buckle tongue. Unbuckle the belt
without allowing it to slip.
Attach locking clip to lap and shoulder belts
as shown.
Rebuckle belt. Check that lap belt does not
move by pulling hard. If belt loosens or
lengthens, repeat procedure.
112
10 Care &
Cleaning
10-A
Cleaning Seat Pad
Head Support Cover
Raise the headrest to the highest
position.
Lift the headrest pad flap up out of the
way and undo the two snaps below the
head support.
113
Important
10 Care &
Cleaning
Undo elastic loops behind head support.
Undo elastic loops inside each shoulder
belt guide.
Peel cover off head support.
Machine wash pad in cold water on
delicate cycle and drip-dry. DO NOT USE
BLEACH.
To put the head support cover back on,
reverse preceding steps.
10-A
Cleaning Seat Pad
114
10 Care &
Cleaning
Seat Pad
Undo the two snaps.
Pull the seat pad forward and undo the 2
snaps at the front of the seat.
115
Important
10 Care &
Cleaning
Continue to pull the seat pad forward and
undo the 2 elastic loops at the front of the
seat.
Undo the fabric below each cup holder and
remove the seat pad from the shell.
Machine wash pad in cold water on delicate
cycle and drip-dry. DO NOT USE BLEACH.
To put the seat pad back on, reverse
preceding steps.
116
10 Care &
Cleaning
Side Pad
On each side of the seat, undo the snap
near the forward-facing belt path and
the snap at the front of the seat (A).
Undo the armrest fabric behind each
cup holder (B).
Undo the fabric below each lap belt
guide (C).
B
C
A
117
Important
10 Care &
Cleaning
Undo elastic loops on the back of the
seat.
Remove the side pad from the shell.
Machine wash pad in cold water on
delicate cycle and drip-dry. DO NOT USE
BLEACH.
To put the seat pad back on, reverse
preceding steps.
118
10 Care &
Cleaning
10-B Cleaning Crotch Buckle
Recline the car seat and locate the metal
retainer. Rotate the metal retainer up
through the shell and pad. From the front,
pull the crotch buckle out.
To clean buckle, place in a cup of warm
water and gently agitate the buckle. Press
the red button several times while in the
water.
DO NOT SUBMERGE THE BUCKLE
STRAP. DO NOT USE SOAPS,
HOUSEHOLD DETERGENTS or
LUBRICANTS.
Shake out excess water and allow to air
dry. Repeat steps as needed until it fastens
with a click. Re-insert the buckle into the
same slot it was removed. Pull up on
crotch buckle to make sure it is secured.
WARNING! Inspect and clean
buckle from time to time to
remove any objects or debris that
could prevent latching.
119
Important
10 Care &
Cleaning
10-C Cleaning Harness, Lower
Anchor Attachment and
Tether
Surface wash only with mild soap and damp cloth. DO NOT IMMERSE
THE HARNESS STRAPS, LOWER ANCHOR STRAP or TETHER STRAP
IN WATER Doing so may weaken the straps. If harness straps, lower
anchor strap or tether strap are frayed or heavily soiled, contact Customer
Service at www.gracobaby.com or 1-800-345-4109.
120
www.gracobaby.com
FAILURE TO PROPERLY USE THIS
CHILD RESTRAINT INCREASES THE
RISK OF SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH
IN A SUDDEN STOP OR CRASH.
Do not install or use this child restraint
until you read and understand the
instructions in this manual.
NWL0000930187A 1/19
TriRide
™
To purchase parts or accessories in the United States, please contact
us at the following:
www.gracobaby.com
or
1-800-345-4109
Replacement Parts
Store instruction manual
in base as shown.
