Graco Extend2Fit Review: Well, in this post, I would be discussing the nuts and bolts of Graco Extend2Fit in order to help you make an informed buying decision.
Moreover, I would also be presenting to you the ratings that Graco Extend2Fit has received from our evaluation team as well as our clientele.
Not only that but also we would be highlighting the area of improvement as well as Graco Extend2Fit comparison with its close competitors so that you can have all-round knowledge about this idiosyncratic product.
Lastly, I would be responding to the queries related to Graco Extend2Fit Review in order to help you clear your doubts before you make a purchase.
So, without any further ado, let’s begin…
Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat Review
To begin with, the USP of this idiosyncratic superlative convertible car seat is the extra five inches of rear-facing legroom.
In layman’s terms, the Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat grows along with your kid’s different phases of the growth cycle.
Trust me, if you’re a first-time buyer then these extra five inches might not sound like a big number, right?
However, the fact is that it can make a huge impact on comfort levels.
From my past experience, I can affirm that my kids were very happy in this unique seat because of their comfort level.
On top of it, the brand has extended the rear-facing weight limit in the Extend2Fit® models up to 50 pounds.
Since it grows with your kids’ growth phase so your kid can use it for a longer duration which makes it a “value for money” investment.
Let’s understand it with an example.
Once your kid outgrows the rear-facing weight or height limit, then you can convert Extend2Fit® models into a forward-facing car seat with a five-point harness.
In the forward-facing mode, the Extend2Fit® can handle the weight in the range of 22 and 65 pounds and heights up to 49 inches.
Nonetheless, any kid less than 22 pounds has to ride rear-facing.
Moving further, we would be throwing light on all the parameters which are really important from a buying point of view.
Graco Extend2Fit Comparison Chart
In order to make things simple, quick, and easy for you, we’ve come up with a Graco Extend2Fit comparison chart.
| Model/Features | Dimensions | Weight |
| Graco Extend2Fit | 22.1 x 19.2 x 25.2 inches | 19 lbs |
| Graco Extend2fit Platinum | 22.1 x 19.2 x 25.2 inches | 22.8 lbs |
| Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 | 19.25 x 22.52 x 25.16 inches | 21.56 lbs |
| Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1 | 21 x 19 x 23 inches | 24 lbs |
| Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit Platinum 4-in-1 | 20 x 21.5 x 24 inches | 26.5 lbs |
Graco Extend2Fit Vs. Chicco NextFit: Which One Is Better?
We’ve accumulated the main points in the tabular format in order to help you make an informed buying decision.
| Features/Graco Extend2Fit Vs. Chicco NextFit | Chicco NextFit | Graco Extend2Fit |
| Rear-Facing Weight | 5 to 40 pounds | 4 to 50 pounds |
| Rear-Facing Height | Less than 49 inches | Up to 45 inches |
| Forward-Facing Weight | 22 to 65 pounds | 22 to 65 pounds |
| Forward-Facing Height | Up to 49 inches | Up to 49 inches |
| Width | 19 inches | 19.2 inches |
| Height | 29.2 inches | 22.1 inches |
| Depth/Length | 21 inches | 25.2 inches |
| Easy To Install Forward-Facing | Yes | No |
| Easy To Install Rear-Facing | Yes | Yes |
| Easy To Uninstall | Yes | Yes |
| Easy To Buckle And Unbuckle | Yes | No |
| Side Impact Tested | Yes | Yes |
| Five-Point Harness | Yes | Yes |
| Check Current Price On Amazon | $$$ | $$$ |
Graco Extend2fit Vs. Milestone: Which One Is Better?
| Features/Extend2fit Vs. Milestone | Graco Extend2fit | Milestone |
| Safety | Steel frame, Impact-absorbing base, True shield, 5-point harness | Steel reinforced frame, Protect plus engineered, 5-point harness |
| Size Limits | Rear-Facing 5-50 Front Facing: 22-65 49” | Rear-Facing 5-40 Front Facing: 22-65 Booster: 30-100 57” |
| Installation | InRight Latch | InRight Latch |
| Fabric/Material | Machine Washable | Machine Washable |
| Cup Holder | 2 Built-In | 1 Built-In |
| Recline Position | 6 | 4 |
| Headrest Position | 10 | 10 |
| Rethread Harness | No | No |
| Extended Use | Yes | Yes |
| Check Current Price On Amazon | $$$ | $$$ |
Graco Contender Vs. Extend2fit Convertible Car Seat: Which One Is Better?
| Features/Graco Contender Vs. Extend2fit | Graco Extend2fit Convertible Car Seat | Graco Contender 65 Convertible Car Seat |
| Safety | Impact Absorbing Base Steel Frame True Shield 5-point harness | EPS Energy-Absorbing Foam Intermittent Metal Rods ProtectPlus 5-point harness |
| Size Limits | Rear-Facing 4 – 50 pounds Front Facing: 22-65 pounds 49” | Rear-Facing 5 – 40 pounds Front Facing: 22 – 65 pounds 49” |
| Installation | One Second In Right Latch | Latch Equipped Simple Install |
| Fabric/Material | Machine Washable | Machine Washable |
| Cup Holder | 2 Built-In | 1 Built-In |
| Recline Position | 6 | No |
| Headrest Position | 10 | 8 |
| Rethread Harness | No | No |
| Extended Use | Yes | Yes |
| Check Current Price On Amazon | $$$ | $$$ |
Extend2fit Convertible Car Seat Vs. Safety 1st Grow and Go Vs. Evenflo Tribute LX: Which One Is Better?
| Features/Car Seat Brands | Graco Extend2fit | Safety 1st Grow and Go | Evenflo Tribute LX |
| Convertible | Yes: Rear-Facing, Forward-Facing | Yes: Rear-Facing, Forward-Facing, Booster Seat | Yes: Rear-Facing, Forward-Facing |
| Weight Capacity | Rear-Facing: 4-50lbs. Forward-Facing: 22-65lbs. | Rear-Facing: 5-40lbs. Forward-Facing: 22-65lbs. Highback Booster: 40-100lbs. | Rear-Facing: 5-40lbs. Forward-Facing: 22-40lbs. |
| Safety Features | Meets all federal safety standards. 5-point Harness Side Impact Tested | Meets all federal safety standards. 5-point Harness Side Impact Tested | Meets all federal safety standards. 5-point Harness Side Impact Tested |
| Estimated Lifespan | 10 Years | 10 Years | 10 Years |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 90 Days | 90 Days |
| Features | 6 Position Recline 10 Position Headrest 2 Cupholders Washable Cover | 3 Position Recline 5 Position Headrest 2 Cupholders Washable Cover | Foldable Cupholder Washable Cove |
| Check Current Price On Amazon | $$$ | $$$ | $$$ |
Is Extend2Fit A Convertible Car Seat?
Of course, Graco Extend2Fit is a convertible car seat that grows along with your kid’s growth phase.
Other than the base model, the Extend2Fit convertible car seat is available in four other sub-models, that is, Graco Extend2fit 3-in-1, the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1, the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit Platinum 4-in-1, and the Graco Extend2fit Platinum.
All the models including the base and sub-models fall in the “convertible” car seat category.
In simple terms, these little beasts can adjust to suit multiple age groups.
These seats are mainly used in two modes, that is, rear-facing, and front-facing.
So, even though your infant has grown to become a toddler, the Graco Extend2Fit car seats are still useful for her.
It will not only save you a good amount in the long run but will also be useful for years to come.
These Graco car seats have almost similar dimensions, and overall also the difference is not much.
Features
Moving further, we would be discussing some essential features in order to help you make an informed buying decision.
Capacity
Many first-time buyers wouldn’t be aware of the fact that both Graco Extend2Fit and the Graco Extend2fit Platinum can be used in the rear-facing position till the time your kid reaches a weight limit of 50 lbs.
Of course, 50 lbs is a higher weight limit as compared to many competitors of the brand Graco.
Your toddler can reap the benefit of these seats till the time her weight limit falls in the range of 22 and 65 lbs.
And the best part is that the Graco Extend2fit 3-in-1, the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1, and the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit Platinum 4-in-1 can all be used in the same weight ranges and positions as the Graco Extend2Fit.
Many of you would be astonished to know that your kid can reap the benefits of this idiosyncratic superlative car seat even though she is 100 pounds as a highback booster seat, interesting, isn’t it?
Your kid can use both Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1 and the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit Platinum 4-in-1 as a backless belt-positioning booster till the time she reaches 120 lbs.
Construction
Of course, robust construction is yet another important buying parameter that we can’t afford to ignore.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
The good news is, that the GRACO car seats are equipped with all the essential parameters in order to provide your kid with the best possible protection during any crash.
For example, the steel-reinforced frame of the Graco Extend2Fit® and EPS Energy-Absorbing Foam will protect your child during the collision.
We went back straight to our clients who have been using the Extend2Fit® car seats for their kids and asked about the feedback, and you know what, they were really satisfied as well as ready to recommend them.
The LATCH installation is newbie-friendly, quick, and easy.
In fact, the installation can be expedited in one simple click, and the credit goes to the patented InRight™ system to a large extent if not fully.
Most importantly, in the case of Extend2Fit® car seats, the LATCH system doesn’t allow any kid above 45 pounds from being secured with LATCH.
Durability
Of course, the Graco car seats are among the most durable car seats available on the market, right now.
Well, cloth covers, durable plastic, and removable cupholders are some of the features that you’ll find across all the models of Extend2fit.
One of the main reasons for every model of Graco Extend2Fit to be durable is the steel-reinforced frame that is intended to last for at least 10 years if not MORE.
Well, Graco provides a warranty for both replacement and repair due to manufacturing defects for a year after purchase.
Recline Positions
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that multiple recline positions are one of the reasons for the popularity of Graco Extend2Fit.
In order to make the installation process newbie-friendly, an easy-read bubble level is right in place.
Furthermore, the six recline positions make your kid comfortable.
Not only that but also the Graco Extend2Fit car seats are equipped with two buckle positions and a ten-position adjustable headrest in order to accommodate kids of all shapes and sizes.
Frankly speaking, what I really liked about these little beasts is their ability to adjust the five-point harness without rethreading.
On top of it, Graco’s SimpliSafe Adjust™ Harness System will allow you to adjust the harness and the headrest together.
If your car has lower anchors right in place then you can exploit the LATCH system in booster mode as well.
Latch System
It goes without saying that the LATCH system has its own importance that can’t be overruled for sure.
Almost all the Graco Extend2Fit® car seats are equipped with a latch connection system, that is, InRight™ or EZ Tight™.
The way straps are tightened is the main difference between the two.
In simple words, there are two ways to tighten the straps, that is, manually or with a ratchet.
As per our knowledge and experience, we always recommend our clients install the car seat using a seatbelt in case their kids weigh more than 45 pounds.
Avoid, lower anchors to secure.
Even though you’re confident and well-versed in the installation process still my suggestion would be to read your car seat manual thoroughly before expediting the installation.
Advantages
The Extend2Fit car seats come with several advantages.
Out of all the advantages that the Graco Extend2Fit possesses, the one that really grabbed my eyeballs is none other than the SAFETY features.
Yes, you guessed it, RIGHT.
The Extend2Fit car seats are among the safest ones that Graco has to offer.
And, the best part is, that different safety tests have confirmed the high-quality safety that the Graco car seats possess.
Once you’ve bought a Graco Extend2Fit car seat, you can sit and relax as it will provide your kid with the best possible safety during a collision.
Another important feature that has made this car seat so popular among our clientele is the leg rest feature.
This feature helps your kid to be comfortable by providing her with five inches of extra legroom.
In fact, this can make car rides much more comfortable for your baby.
The more your kid is comfortable during the ride the better you would be able to concentrate on driving.
Flexibility is yet another great advantage that the Extend2Fit car seats possess.
You can use them in both modes which are forward-facing and rear-facing.
Not only that but also they possess a higher weight limit when rear-facing than many of their close competitors.
And, in case, your kids are way bigger than their counterparts of the same age group then you can opt for the 3-in-1, 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1, and the 4Ever Extend2Fit Platinum 4-in-1.
Don’t worry, in most of the scenarios, you don’t have to opt for a separate booster car seat.
Disadvantages
Like any other car seat, the Graco Extend2Fit car seats come with their own sets of disadvantages as well.
We at IzzySmartHomeGuide.Com feel that in order to keep the Graco Extend2Fit Car Seats Review unbiased, we need to discuss the dark side, disadvantages, or cons, whatever you call them.
Before we discuss the disadvantages, let me tell you very clearly, during our evaluation process, we’ve found that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages by a huge margin.
One of the common problems that most of the Graco Extend2Fit models possess is the difficulty to remove the seat covers to wash them.
Of course, we’ve got an exception, and it is none other than the Graco Extend2fit Platinum model.
Other than the platinum models, the installation might be a tedious and time-consuming affair for the newbies.
Some of our clients have complained that at times it becomes really difficult to get the seat belt tight enough to hold the car seat in place adequately.
However, for me, the main disadvantage of these Graco Extend2fit models is the compatibility issue with the strollers.
Versions
You’ve got a wide range of versions to choose from other than the ‘basic’ Graco Extend2Fit®.
And, the best part is, all the versions come with the same standard set of safety and comfortability.
However, each of the sub-models has slightly different features to offer.
- Extend2Fit 3-in-1
- Graco Extend2Fit with TrueShield Technology
- Extend2Fit with RapidRemove™
- Graco Extend2Fit with Safety Surround™
- Extend2Fit Platinum
The Graco Extend2fit 3-in-1, the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1, and the Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit Platinum 4-in-1 can act as a booster seat for small kids.
Meanwhile, they can adjust the same for infants and toddlers which is something really interesting about these little beasts, isn’t it?
Let me tell you very frankly, these Graco seats are almost identical in terms of safety, security, and comfortability in case you’re planning one to buy for your infants or toddlers.
To be honest, the Extend2fit is quite popular among our clientele and there is more than one reason for it.
For example, the Extend2fit is popular because of the fact that your kids can use it for a longer duration without any hassle.
In layman’s terms, more time rear-facing simply means more safety for a longer duration.
It’s always good to be safe than sorry, isn’t it?
Extend2Fit Recalls
We had been asked quite a few times about the Extend2FIt Recalls by our clients, and we do understand the motive behind such queries, and nothing is wrong with it.
So, we decided to discuss the same on this blog so that a wide range of audiences can reap the benefits.
It is really important for my readers to know that in early 2016, Graco® issued a voluntary recall on some of the Extend2Fit® models.
In fact, most of the manufacturing defects occurred between the time duration of November 27, 2015, and January 20, 2016.
It was found that in most of the cases, the recline label placement was faulty which could lead to installation issues as well as a higher risk of injury during a collision.
In order to provide an effective solution, what actually Graco did was, it notified all affected owners and sent out new labels with instructions on how to attach the new label correctly.
Well, I was one among those who didn’t register my Extend2Fit® convertible car seat so I don’t have an option but to contact the Graco team directly.
I always recommend registering your car seat as soon as possible as it not only protects your warranty but also ensures that you’ll be notified by the manufacturer in case of a recall.
I learned from my mistakes, and it’s good that you learn from my mistakes rather than committing them on your own :):)
Warranty
You should never buy a product that doesn’t come with a warranty period.
The longer the warranty duration the better it is.
A longer duration of warranty simply depicts the confidence and trust that the manufacturer has in its offering.
The good news is, that all the Graco Extend2Fit models are covered with a year warranty.
It’s a limited warranty that covers the manufacturer’s defects in materials and workmanship.
Unfortunately, issues such as misuse, accidents, and normal wear and tear aren’t covered in the warranty.
Installation
It goes without saying that installation is an important parameter from the buyer’s point of view.
In fact, it becomes very important especially if you’re a first-time buyer who doesn’t have any information about how to install a Graco Extend2Fit car seat.
Well, installing the Graco Extend2Fit, Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1, and Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1 is easier, and the credit goes to the effective latch installation.
But, it’s not always the case, indeed!
If your car doesn’t come with latch anchors then definitely, things can become tedious and time-consuming.
In that case, you’re not left with many options, so you’ve to solely rely on your car’s seatbelt.
You might face some difficulties with this method especially when you’re placing the car seat in the rear-facing.
The real problem arises when during the installation you want to figure out what you’re actually doing.
However, the same isn’t true when you’re trying to install the car seat in the forward-facing position.
Trust me, it’s relatively easier and quicker.
Not to forget, the car seat is more stable in the forward-facing position.
If you own a car that requires using the seatbelt to fasten your child’s safety seat, then it would be really hard to get tightened on the non-platinum model, so be careful while choosing the Graco Extend2Fit model.
Since both Installing the Graco Extend2Fit, Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1, and Graco 4Ever Extend2Fit 4-in-1 come with the EZ tight latch so installation becomes a breeze, that is, an easy 3-step process.
Cleaning
It goes without saying that if you’re a working MOM like me then definitely, ease of use & cleaning would be an important buying parameter.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
Well, when it comes to cleaning, the Graco Extend2fit and all its variants can be machine washed so you don’t have to worry at all if your kids mess up with the cover on a frequent basis.
You need to line dried the covers.
Out of all the Graco Extend2Fit car seat models, the Extend2Fit Platinum model is the most user-friendly and the covers are easiest to be removed from it.
Once you’ve removed the cover, you’ll find a layer of smooth, soft, and durable plastic beneath it that can be easily wiped down with the help of paper towels and a mild cleaner.
FAQs
In this section, I would be responding to the queries related to Graco Extend2Fit Car Seat Review in order to help you clear your doubts before you make a purchase.
Since we receive a large number of queries related to a particular topic so it becomes really difficult for us to cover all the questions.
We’ve tried our best to cover all the important queries related to Extend2Fit and beyond it as well.
However, if we haven’t included your question in spite of the fact that it’s an important one and must be included, then please feel free to reach out to us via a contact form, and we would be more than happy to include it.
Thank you, once again for showering love and affection, we’re growing very fast, and it would’ve NOT been possible without you all.
Does the Graco Extend2Fit® turn into a booster?
Frankly speaking, it totally depends.
To be honest, the Extend2Fit® version can’t be used as a booster seat for sure.
However, Extend2Fit models and Graco 4Ever® Extend2Fit 4-in-1 models can be used in the booster mode.
How do you loosen the straps on a Graco Extend2Fit® car seat?
Trust me, it is one of the frequently asked questions, and I’ve been responding to it for years if not decades.
Especially, the question comes from first-time buyers.
The harness release lever is located above the harness adjustment strap and under the seat pad on the front of your Extend2Fit® car seat.
Loosening straps is simpler than you can ever imagine.
All you need to do is to lift the lever while pulling the straps out at the chest clip.
How long is a Graco Extend2Fit® good for?
It goes without saying that if you’re serious about buying a Graco Extend2Fit® then definitely, you would be interested in knowing after its expiration, right?
You can reap the benefits of the Graco Extend2Fit® family for ten years from the date of manufacture.
The model number and date of manufacture are stamped on the sticker.
And, on the backside of the car seat, you can find the manufacturer’s information.
Does the Graco Extend2Fit® have a base?
Of course, Graco Extend2Fit® comes with a built-in base and doesn’t need a removable base at all.
Just for your information, only 20 percent of the front-to-back overhang is allowed.
Can Graco Extend2Fit® touch the front seat?
Well, if you’ve installed the Extend2Fit® car seat in the correct way then definitely, it will not touch the front seat.
However, when you’re using a foot extender in the rear-facing mode then things can turn out to be tricky.
Moreover, we don’t recommend buying an Extend2Fit® car seat if you own a small and highly compact car.
Are Extend2Fit® convertible car seats easy to clean?
Already, we’ve discussed a lot about the Extend2Fit® convertible car seat cleaning methodology in the buying section.
Still, if you’re not convinced then let me reiterate it again for you.
All Extend2Fit® fabric covers are removable and machine washable.
In case, you’re interested in quick removal of car seat covers without uninstalling the car seat, then look for the models that are equipped with RapidRelease™.
On top of it, mild soap and water would be enough to clean all of the metals and plastic parts.
The harness straps can be spot cleaned, and for cleaning the buckle, you can use a damp cloth.
Which is better Graco 4Ever vs Extend2Fit?
To be honest, both Graco 4Ever and Extend2Fit come with their own sets of pros and cons.
However, in order to help you make an informed decision, we would be presenting to you both pros and cons of each of these superlative car seats followed by our inference.
Extend2Fit Pros
- Comfortable two-mode seating design
- Comes with extra legroom and is equipped with the handy extension panel
- Comfort and safety are further enhanced because of excellent padding
- Robust construction and highly durable, and the credit to a large extent goes to high-quality steel reinforcement
- Equipped with headrests and multiple reclined positions
Extend2Fit Cons
- The cup holders are located at far distances
- You might face some issues when it comes to tightening up the straps
Graco 4Ever Pros
- Unique 4-mode seat design
- Multiple positions for headrest and recline
- Highly durable and long-lasting since it is equipped with metal reinforcements
- Newbie-friendly installation process
Graco4Ever Cons
- The headrest might push the head of your baby upward making her uncomfortable
- Tightening straps in a certain position may be a tedious and time-consuming affair
Inference: Post evaluation of both these top-rated convertible car seats, we came to the conclusion that the Graco Extend2Fit is the safest, and the Graco 4Ever is the most versatile.
What is the difference between Graco Extend2Fit and Extend2Fit 65?
Please find the attached self-explanatory comparison table for your perusal which clearly depicts the major difference between the two.
| Differences/ Extend2Fit Vs. Extend2Fit 65 | Graco Extend2Fit | Graco Contender 65 |
| 5-Inch Extension Panel | Yes | No |
| Rear-Facing Mode Weight | 5-50 lbs | 5-40 lbs |
| Position Recline | 6 | 2 |
| Adjustable Headrest Position | 10 | 8 |
| InRight LATCH System | Yes | No |
| Steel Reinforced Frame | Yes | No |
| Cup Holder | Dual | Single |
| Check Current Price On Amazon | $$$ | $$$ |
It’s A Wrap
First and foremost, I would like to thank you for being with us till the end.
Secondly, I would like to bring to your notice that I along with my core team have put loads and loads of effort into coming up with this idiosyncratic superlative piece of information.
And, in case, you liked our efforts and want to appreciate the core team of izzysmarthomeguide.com, then please do share this information with like-minded people and the ones who are in need of it.
After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?
Cutting long-story-short, without any doubt or second thought, I can affirm that Graco Extend2Fit and its sub-models are excellent car seats equipped with premium quality safety features, comfortability, durability, etc.
Features such as an adjustable headrest, several reclining positions, and plenty of legroom are bound to make your experience unique, enticing, and superlative.
However, when it comes to cleaning, many first-time buyers might find removing the car seat cover a bit difficult for almost all the models except the Graco Extend2fit Platinum.
During our evaluation process, we found out that the Extend2Fit car seats do have certain drawbacks and areas for improvement.
However, the good news is, that the pros outcast the cons by a huge margin, and that makes this little beast one of the safest car seats on the market, right now.
Last but not least, we’ve tried to the best of our capabilities to include as much relevant information as much possible in order to help you make an informed buying decision.
That’s all, as of now:):)
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