[JenB]

Why do carseats expire? Will the plastic get stressed or something?

Eight months sounds like enough time for baby to grow out of it, or at least into something that will last longer, but maybe it's been too long since there were little sibs at my house.

[msdrby]

It's the 20 lbs that makes the difference. The baby won't be 20 lbs until about 1 yr old, and has to be in a rear facing, infant seat for that time frame. So, when December rolls around, there are 4 months that I will need a new rear facing seat. Just looking now to compare prices. Jeez, these things are $$. It's been too long since I have done this. Feeling a bit out of da loop.

The carseats are rendered unusable if you get in a carwreck, if they get old, or if the safety requirements change. In my case, Century got bought by Graco. Not sure where that puts me for stroller compatibility.