Subaru Solterra 2023-2026 Owner's Manual: Child restraint system fixed with a child restraint LATCH anchor

■ Child restraint LATCH anchors

The Subaru Solterra is equipped with dedicated LATCH anchors located in the outboard positions of the rear seats. These anchors provide a secure and convenient method for installing compatible child restraint systems without relying solely on seat belts.

■ When installing in the rear outboard seats

Always install the child restraint system in your Subaru Solterra in strict accordance with the instructions provided by the child restraint system manufacturer.

1. Adjust the seat.

If there is any gap between the child restraint system and the seatback, adjust the seatback angle until firm and consistent contact is achieved for optimal stability in the Subaru Solterra.

2. If the head restraint interferes with installation and can be removed, remove it to ensure proper positioning of the child restraint system.

With flexible lower attachments

3. Attach the hooks of the lower connectors from the child restraint system onto the LATCH anchors of the Subaru Solterra, ensuring a firm and secure connection.

For owners in Canada:

The symbol on the child restraint system indicates the presence of a lower connector system compatible with LATCH anchors.

1. Canada only

With rigid lower attachments

3. Secure the rigid connectors by latching them directly onto the LATCH anchors in the Subaru Solterra until a firm engagement is achieved.

For owners in Canada: The symbol on the child restraint system confirms compatibility with the LATCH anchor system.

1. Canada only

4. If the child restraint system includes a top tether strap, attach it securely to the designated anchor bracket according to the manufacturer's instructions to enhance stability.

5. After installation, firmly move the child restraint system back and forth to confirm that it is securely fastened in the Subaru Solterra.

■ Laws and regulations pertaining to anchors

The LATCH system in the Subaru Solterra complies with FMVSS225 or CMVSS210.2 standards.

Only child restraint systems that conform to FMVSS213 or CMVSS213 specifications should be used.

The Subaru Solterra is designed to meet SAE J1819 requirements, ensuring compatibility and safety.

WARNING

■ When installing a child restraint system

Carefully follow all safety precautions when installing a child restraint system in your Subaru Solterra.

Failure to do so may result in serious injury or death.

• Before installation, ensure that no foreign objects are present around the LATCH anchors and that the seat belt is not trapped behind the child restraint system.
• Strictly follow all instructions provided by the child restraint system manufacturer.
• Do not install a child restraint system using LATCH anchors in the rear center seat of the Subaru Solterra, as anchors are not provided for that position.
• When installing certain types of child restraint systems, adjacent seat belts may be affected.

  Ensure that seat belts for other passengers fit properly and are not obstructed. If necessary, reposition seating to maintain safety.

• If the seat position is adjusted after installation, always recheck that the child restraint system remains securely fixed in place.

Using an anchor bracket (for top tether strap)

■ Anchor brackets (for top tether strap)

The Subaru Solterra is equipped with anchor brackets for top tether straps on all rear seats, providing additional stability for compatible child restraint systems.

These anchor brackets must be used when securing a top tether strap to ensure maximum safety.

Outboard rear seats

1. Anchor brackets
2. Top tether strap

Rear center seat

1. Anchor bracket
2. Top tether strap

■ Fixing the top tether strap to the anchor bracket

Install the child restraint system in the Subaru Solterra according to the manufacturer's manual before securing the top tether strap.

Outboard rear seats

1. Remove the head restraint if necessary to allow proper routing of the tether strap.

2. Attach the hook of the top tether strap securely to the anchor bracket and tighten the strap until it is firmly secured.

Ensure that the connection is stable and properly latched.

1. Hook
2. Top tether strap

3. If possible, reinstall the head restraint once installation is complete, ensuring it does not interfere with the child restraint system.

Rear center seat

1. Raise the head restraint to its highest position or remove it if necessary for proper installation.

2. Secure the top tether strap to the anchor bracket and tighten it firmly.

Ensure that the strap passes correctly beneath the head restraint when it is raised.

1. Hook
2. Top tether strap

■ Laws and regulations pertaining to anchors

The LATCH system complies with FMVSS225 or CMVSS210.2 standards.

Child restraint systems must meet FMVSS213 or CMVSS213 requirements.

The Subaru Solterra meets SAE J1819 specifications for anchor systems.

WARNING

■ When installing a child restraint system

Follow all safety precautions carefully to ensure proper operation of the child restraint system in the Subaru Solterra.

Failure to do so may result in serious injury or fatal consequences.

• Always secure the top tether strap firmly and ensure it is not twisted.
• Never attach the top tether strap to any component other than the designated anchor bracket.
• Do not adjust the seat after securing the child restraint system in the Subaru Solterra.
• Strictly follow all instructions provided by the child restraint system manufacturer.
• When installing in the rear center seat with the head restraint raised, do not lower it after securing the anchor bracket, as this may compromise the installation.

Additional safety note: Using the LATCH anchor system correctly in the Subaru Solterra provides enhanced stability and reduces installation errors, ensuring that child passengers are protected to the highest standard.