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2016 Dodge Journey: Car Seat Check

Dodge Journey Car Seat Safety: Complete Family-Friendly Review | MotorVero

Dodge Journey Car Seat Safety: A Comprehensive Family Review


Dodge Journey car seats


The Dodge Journey stands as one of the most affordable three-row SUVs on the market, offering families a budget-friendly people-mover with some clever child-friendly features. Our in-depth safety review examines exactly how well this crossover accommodates car seats, booster seats, and growing families.

Key Takeaways: Dodge Journey Car Seat Compatibility

  • Seating Capacity: Fits 2 car seats comfortably in second row, 3 narrow seats possible
  • Third Row Limitations: Only booster seats suitable due to missing tether anchors
  • Standout Feature: Available integrated second-row boosters (48+ lbs requirement)
  • Installation Challenges: Hard-to-access LATCH anchors in second row
  • Legroom Considerations: Front seats may need adjustment for rear-facing seats
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Dodge Journey Car Seat Configuration Options

The Journey's flexible seating arrangement offers several configurations for child safety seats, though with some important limitations parents should consider:

Second Row Accommodations

The 60/40 split second-row bench provides multiple installation options:

  • Two Full-Size Car Seats: Perfect fit with easy access to LATCH anchors
  • Three Narrow Seats: Possible but requires careful seat selection
  • Integrated Boosters: Available on higher trims for children 48+ pounds

Third Row Considerations

While the Journey offers third-row seating, child safety options are limited:

  • No lower LATCH anchors in third row
  • Missing top tether anchors restrict usage to booster seats only
  • Flat seat bottom helps booster stability but buckle accessibility is challenging

Detailed Car Seat Installation Analysis

We tested the Dodge Journey with multiple car seat types to evaluate real-world usability:

Infant Car Seat Installation

Using the Graco SnugRide Classic Connect 30, we found:

  • Secure fit in rear-facing position
  • Front passenger seat required adjustment for proper clearance
  • LATCH anchors functional but deeply recessed in seat bight
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Convertible Seat Performance

The Britax Marathon convertible seat worked well in both orientations:

  • Rear-facing mode didn't require front seat adjustment
  • Forward-facing installation was straightforward with top tether
  • Middle position installation possible with some buckle accessibility challenges

Booster Seat Evaluation

The Graco TurboBooster performed admirably in multiple positions:

  • Second-row fit was excellent with reclining seat back
  • Third-row installation worked despite floppy buckle stalks
  • Integrated boosters (when equipped) provided convenient alternative

Dodge Journey Car Seat Safety Rating

Overall Grade: B-

Grading Scale:

  • A: Excellent fit, easy installation, no space compromises
  • B: Good fit with minor installation challenges
  • C: Marginal fit with multiple installation issues
  • D: Poor fit with significant compromises
  • F: Unsafe or incompatible

The Journey earns its B- rating due to its clever booster features and generally good second-row performance, marked down for third-row limitations and challenging LATCH access.

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Family-Friendly Features That Shine

Several thoughtful design elements make the Journey stand out for families:

Integrated Booster Seats

Available on higher trims, these built-in boosters:

  • Eliminate the need for separate booster seats
  • Feature simple, one-hand operation
  • Meet all federal safety standards for children 48+ pounds

Second-Row Flexibility

The 60/40 bench offers useful adjustments:

  • Slide-and-recline function helps accommodate different seat types
  • Creates easier third-row access when folded forward
  • Allows legroom customization as children grow

Third-Row Access

Compared to many three-row SUVs, the Journey provides:

  • Relatively easy entry/exit pathway
  • Decent headroom for booster-age children
  • Simple fold-flat operation when not in use

Important Safety Considerations

While the Journey offers good value, parents should note these safety aspects:

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LATCH System Limitations

  • Lower anchors are set deep in seat crevice (hard to access)
  • Middle position has additional anchor but equally challenging to reach
  • 65-pound combined weight limit (child + seat) for LATCH usage

Third-Row Restrictions

  • No top tether anchors limits usage to belt-positioning boosters only
  • Buckle stalks are floppy, making independent use difficult for children
  • Legroom is tight for older children in boosters

Front Seat Compromises

  • Rear-facing seats may require front seat adjustment
  • Tall drivers might find legroom limited with rear seats installed
  • Visibility slightly impacted by high-mounted rear seats

Expert Installation Tips

Based on our certified technician experience, we recommend:

For Second-Row Installation

  • Use a thin towel to help access recessed LATCH anchors
  • Consider seat belt installation if LATCH proves too difficult
  • Utilize the middle position's anchor for improved stability when possible

For Third-Row Usage

General Recommendations

  • Always check for proper seat tightness (less than 1" of movement)
  • Monitor LATCH weight limits as children grow
  • Consult your vehicle manual and car seat instructions simultaneously

Final Verdict: Is the Dodge Journey Family-Friendly?

The Dodge Journey presents an affordable three-row option with some genuinely clever family features, particularly its available integrated boosters. While it handles typical car seat installations adequately in the second row, the lack of third-row tether anchors significantly limits its flexibility for families with multiple young children. For parents with mostly booster-age kids or those who rarely use the third row, the Journey offers good value. However, families needing full three-row car seat capability may want to consider alternatives with more comprehensive child safety accommodations.

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Motorveroben

Last Updated On May, 27-2025

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