do car seats have an expiry date

Yes, car seats do have an expiry date, much to the chagrin of parents everywhere. Typically, the lifespan ranges from 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture, not purchase. Over time, materials degrade, plastics become brittle, and the safety standards evolve, making older seats potentially unsafe. Always check the label or manual for the exact expiry date. Using an expired car seat is a bit like trusting a dodgy umbrella in a monsoon—better avoided. For second-hand seats, sites like Tradingpost or PuppyList might have listings, but beware of expired or damaged units.