CYBEX CALLISTO Complaints

Product Type: Child Restraint System – Forward-Facing Issue Type: Structural Failure During Crash Testing Component(s) Involved: Top tether (hook, strap, and vehicle anchor interface) My name is [XXX] and I am writing about my concerns with the results of Cybex Callisto G360's Consumer Report's crash test results. During the multiple forward-facing dynamic crash tests using a Hybrid III 6-year-old crash test dummy, the child restraint’s top tether system experienced repeated structural failures. The seat was installed using the lap-and-shoulder belt and the top tether, per manufacturer instructions. Across three out of three tests with the standard Hybrid III 6YO dummy, the top tether released before the dummy’s head reached its maximum forward excursion. The specific failures included: -Two tests where the top tether hook broke -One test where the tether anchor on the test sled broke In one out of one additional test using the weighted Hybrid III 6YO dummy, the top tether strap itself sheared (tore) off just past the double-webbing section, again before maximum head excursion. In all four tests, the tether system failed early in the crash event, eliminating the intended restraint effect and allowing for the potential of significantly increased head and neck excursion. The top tether is a critical safety component for forward-facing seats, designed to limit forward head movement and reduce head and neck injury risk. Early release or structural failure of the tether system can result in: -Excessive head excursion -Increased head and neck loading -Increased likelihood of head contact with the vehicle interior -Reduced effectiveness of the restraint system as a whole Because the failures occurred across multiple test samples, and involved different components of the tether system, this may indicate a systemic issue rather than a single defective part. The nature of these failures may also indicate potential non-compliance with FMVSS 213 performance requirements. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF

Harness straps not locking due to food debris falling through hole. Fault design since food can easily fall through and nothing blocks it

I am writing to formally report a safety concern involving the Cybex Calisto G 360 convertible car seat. The issue pertains to a persistent rattling noise that emanates from the seat, specifically from the area near the child’s footrest, just above the belt tensioner lock mechanism. This sound occurs consistently during vehicle operation, regardless of whether a child is seated or the seat is unoccupied. I contacted the manufacturer, and their response was as follows: “After our Product Team reviewed your claim, it was determined that the amount of rattle you hear is completely normal. It passes our quality review for sound. The specific sound that is heard is from the metal rod inside the belt tensioner door.” While I appreciate their response, I remain deeply concerned. A rattling sound originating from a critical restraint mechanism area warrants a thorough safety inspection. The explanation that it is “normal” does not ease concerns about potential long-term reliability, wear, or failure of a restraint system component. Given that this noise may indicate looseness or internal movement of a part involved in child restraint tensioning, I strongly believe this issue requires further investigation by independent safety professionals. Please let me know if any additional documentation, photos, or videos would help in assessing the issue.

I am filing this complaint regarding a defective CYBEX Callisto car seat and the company’s mishandling of my replacement request. The tension door of the car seat has malfunctioned three times while driving, causing the seat to become unsecured and putting my child’s safety at significant risk. This malfunction is deeply concerning and could lead to severe consequences. Details of the Incident Component Failure: The tension door of the car seat pops open during use, rendering the seat unsecured. This has occurred three times. Availability for Inspection: The defective car seat is available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: Each malfunction directly jeopardized my child’s safety while driving. Inspection: A certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) and CYBEX customer service both confirmed that the car seat was installed correctly. CYBEX Customer Service Interaction: When I contacted CYBEX customer service to report the issue, they initially refused to replace the defective seat unless I provided a video of the malfunction. This request was unreasonable, as capturing the incident is nearly impossible due to its random nature and dangerous to attempt while driving. After further discussion, CYBEX agreed to replace the car seat under the condition that I remove all identifying product information (serial number, manufacturer date, etc.) and submit photos. I complied with their instructions, but I was subsequently informed that the car seat was out of stock in all colors, requiring me to wait for a replacement. When I later noticed that the car seat was back in stock in certain colors, I followed up with CYBEX, only to be told that they had reversed their decision and were now refusing to replace the seat. This decision, after I complied with all of their requests, including removing the product’s identifying information, is unacceptable and unprofessional.