Evenflo Triumph Convertible Child Restraints Recall, 

March 29, 2002

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today announced a safety recall of 28,312 Evenflo Triumph convertible child restraints manufactured from October 20, 2001 through January 31, 2002. The name "Triumph" appears on the front of the car seats, and the car seats have model numbers beginning with "264." The model number and date of manufacture appear on the white label on the lower, backside of the seat.

The agency said certain components which act as a link in the internal harness system manufactured by an Evenflo supplier may not meet design specifications, and may not be strong enough to fully secure the occupant in the event of a vehicle crash, possibly resulting in serious injury. Evenflo will provide owners with a free upgrade kit along with easy to follow installation instructions.

"Parents should obtain and install the repair kit as soon as possible, so that the child seat provides maximum protection for the child," said Dr. Jeffrey Runge, NHTSA Administrator. "Parents and caregivers should properly restrain children in the back seat for every trip."

Dr. Runge advised parents to continue to use the seat while waiting to receive and install the repair kit because it will still provide better protection than an adult seat belt or no restraint.

NHTSA takes consumer complaints about child safety seats seriously. It energetically investigates questions concerning possible defects in child safety seats and requires that defects be remedied. Child safety seats are the most effective safety devices in cars when used properly, and NHTSA unequivocally promotes their use. Child safety seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers in passenger cars.

For more information, owners should call Evenflo's toll-free number (800) 425-1967 or visit http://www.triumphcarseat.com/ or write to Evenflo Company, Inc., 707 Crossroads Court, Vandalia, OH 45377.

Consumers with questions about this or any other safety recall campaign should call NHTSA's toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.