What are ISOFIX points and how do they work?

What does ISOFIX mean?

ISOFIX is the international standard for fitting points built into your car when it’s manufactured – It stands for ‘International Standards Organisation Fix’. You use them to quickly and easily lock your child seat or car seat base safely and securely to your car.

How do I know if my car has ISOFIX?

ISOFIX points have been standard in cars since 2004 and more often than not they can be found in the rear seats of the car. Some manufacturers include them in the front passenger seat as well – check your car’s manual to be sure.

To find them, look for the ISOFIX labels between the base and back or your car seats. You might be able to spot them where the back of the seat meets the cushion but sometimes they’re covered by a plastic cover and more difficult to see. The points are welded to the back of the seat and your car manual will tell you where they are if you can’t find them.

Before you buy your car seat or seat base, you should check with the manufacturer to make sure it will fit.

How does ISOFIX work?

ISOFIX points are built into the car when they’re manufactured and match the points on the car seat or seat base. The alligator clips on the car seat simply click into place and you don’t need to use the seat belt to secure it.

When you want to remove the seat from the points, you press a button that will unlatch to set it free. Make sure to read the instructions that come with your car seat because the process might differ.

Types of ISOFIX car seats

When shopping around for the right car seat, something to consider is there are three different types of ISOFIX available. The main difference between them is that some seats will only fit certain cars.

• Universal: this uses a foot prop or top tether as well as the ISOFIX points for forward-facing seats. These should fit into most newer cars.
• Semi-universal: this uses top tether, foot proper and connectors for forward and rear-facing cars seats – keep in mind they’re not compatible with all cars.
• Vehicle specific: this is only compatible with specific vehicles and uses a two point connection system.

If you’re not sure if the seat will fit the car you have you can check the handbook or look at the seat manufacturer’s approved vehicle list. You can find this on the box or their website.

Is ISOFIX safe?

Independent tests have shown ISOFIX to be safe. This is because the car seat or base is connected directly to the car rather than relying on a seat belt alone. This means there’s less movement should you be in an accident.

They’re also easier to use than seat belts. Simply click the seat into place. Most seats have green and red indicators to let you know if the seat has been connected correctly – giving you peace of mind.

Pros and Cons of ISOFIX

As with most things, there are pros and cons to ISOFIX.

PROs

• Reduces the risk of badly fitted car seat
• Fixed to the car seat meaning there’s less movement in the event of an accident
• Easy to fit and remove the car seat

CONs

• Not all car seats fit every car
• ISOFIX bases can be expensive

What are the best cars with ISOFIX?

Most cars come with at least two ISOFX points, but some manufacturers include three as standard. Whether you’re looking for an MPV or estate, or anything in between, a car that comes with more than two pints as standard is perfect for a growing family. Here are some of our favourite:

BMW X1

With two in the back and one in front, you’ll have plenty of choice where to install the child seat in this fun to drive SUV.

VW Touran

Thanks to the high roof and wide doorways, installing child seats in the Touran is super easy and offers all of the roomy benefits of an MPV.

Volvo S90

If you prefer the look of a saloon to an MPV or SUV, the S90 offers a quiet ride with loads of room for more two or more children.

Skoda Superb Estate

With plenty of room for four adults, this estate provides ample room for 3 child seats.

SEAT Alhambra

Offering plenty of cabin space, this MPV has sliding rear doors and makes it easy for you to install a child seat.

ISOFIX make installing and removing car seats easier than ever and provide an extra layer of safety for your child. Make sure you check both your car’s manual and the seat manufacturer when buying so you get a seat that fits. And if you’re in need of ideas, check out the best cars for families here.