Cybex Recalls Multiple Child Car Seat Models Over Safety Defect

Columbus Trading-Partners USA, Inc. has issued a recall for several models of its Cybex Aton G child car seats due to a defect that could lead to harness failure. The affected seats, produced between March 10, 2023, and May 10, 2024, have been found to contain hip anchor retention hooks that may deform under certain conditions, potentially causing the harness to detach and increasing the risk of injury in a crash. The recall, identified as 25C-002 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impacts multiple versions of the Aton G, including the Aton G Swivel, Aton G SensorSafe, and Eos and Aton G Travel System models.

The issue arises when the child seat is slid or scraped over a sharp edge or inserted into the Aton G Swivel Base at an angle, causing the retention hooks to bend and lose contact with the harness anchor pin. If the hooks are deformed and the harness is loose, the anchor pin can dislodge, making the harness ineffective in securing the child. However, Cybex notes that when a child is properly secured and the harness is tightened, detachment is unlikely to occur. The company has already implemented a design change as of May 10, 2024, replacing the retention hooks with a single, stronger retention bar that prevents deformation.

Cybex first became aware of the issue in March 2024 when a customer reported a problem with an Aton G Swivel model. The company investigated and initially deemed it an isolated incident. However, after receiving a defect complaint from Transport Canada in December, Cybex re-evaluated the issue and determined that misuse—such as sliding the seat at an angle into the base—could lead to the defect occurring. Following further discussions with regulators, Cybex initiated the recall in February 2025.

To address the problem, Cybex will provide free remedy kits to all affected owners. These kits will include components that secure the harness anchor pin in place, along with installation instructions and an instructional video. Registered owners will automatically receive the kits, while others can request one by contacting Cybex customer service. Consumers are advised to inspect the retention hooks for damage before each use and to refrain from using the seat if the harness anchor pin is missing. Notifications to owners and dealers will begin in early April 2025.

Article by multiple RFHC contributors.

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