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2016 Dodge Journey: Car Seat Check
Dodge Journey Car Seat Safety: A Comprehensive Family Review
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
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
- Reserve third row for booster-age children only
- Practice buckling with children before relying on independent use
- Consider high-back boosters for better belt positioning
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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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Last Updated On May, 27-2025