How far should my carseat be reclined? Should it tilt to one side?
It is recommended that newborns and young infants sit in a rear-facing carseat at a 45 degree angle (maximum). Some infant carseats have a built-in level indicator. Older infants should have less recline once they are able to support their heads. Forward-facing carseats should not be reclined. Though some forward-facing and convertible models are approved in a semi-reclined position, this recline does concentrate crash forces in the crotch so an upright position is preferred.A slight tilt in not a problem in forward- or rear-facing seats. This tilt should not be so severe that it lifts part of the base of the carseat off the vehicle seat. This issue is generally more common with rear-facing carseats, and in some cases a locking clip can be used if nothing else works to reduce the tilt caused by a locked shoulder belt pulling up on the carseat.
