Child car seat Britax Römer King 2 - one of the most popular solutions for transporting children weighing from 9 to 36 kg (groups 1/2/3). This model combines German quality, advanced safety systems and versatility, which makes it popular among parents who are not ready to compromise on child protection. However, even the most reliable chair requires proper installation and operation - mistakes here can negate all the benefits.
In this guide we will look at technical specifications models, installation nuances in cars with different types of seat belts, and also give practical advice on caring for and checking the seat before the trip. We will pay special attention Compatible with ISOFIX and Top Tether systems, since these parameters often become the cause of confusion among buyers. Whether you are just choosing a chair or have already become its owner, here you will find answers to key questions.
Specifications and features of Britax Römer King 2
Model King 2 belongs to the category of universal chairs that “grow” with the child. It is suitable for children from 9 to 36 kg (from approximately 9 months to 12 years), which covers three safety groups at once. Here are the main parameters:
- 🔹 Weight category: 9–36 kg (groups 1/2/3)
- 🔹 Age: from 9 months to 12 years
- 🔹 Mounting method: 3-point vehicle belt + optional ISOFIX (for groups 2/3)
- 🔹 Tilt adjustment: 5 positions (including for sleeping)
- 🔹 Sheathing material: removable cover made of breathable fabric, washable at 30°C
- 🔹 Dimensions: 44 × 63 × 65 cm (in working position)
- 🔹 Chair weight: 7.2 kg
One of the key features King 2 is a system Pivot Link, which reduces the load on the child’s neck during a frontal impact. Unlike many analogues, it uses internal 5-point harness (for group 1), which later switches to a standard car belt (for groups 2/3). This solution avoids the need to buy a new seat as the child grows.
Another plus - height-adjustable headrest (11 positions), which adapts to the child’s growth. It is important that the headrest is connected to internal straps: when it is raised, the position of the shoulder straps is automatically adjusted, which eliminates errors during fixation.
Comparison with other Britax Römer models
To understand why King 2 so popular, it's worth comparing it with other chairs from the brand. Below is a table of key differences from its closest analogues:
| Model | Child's weight | Mounting method | Security system | Price (approximate) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Britax Römer King 2 | 9–36 kg | Belt + ISOFIX (optional) | Pivot Link, 5 point harness | 25 000–30 000 ₽ |
| Britax Römer Dualfix M | 0–18 kg | ISOFIX + support leg | 360° rotation, Pivot Link | 35 000–40 000 ₽ |
| Britax Römer Advansafix IV R | 9–36 kg | ISOFIX + Top Tether | SecureGuard, adjustable tilt | 30 000–35 000 ₽ |
| Britax Römer Discovery | 9–36 kg | Belt only | Side protection, removable cover | 18 000–22 000 ₽ |
As can be seen from the table, King 2 takes the golden mean in terms of price and functionality. It is cheaper than models with full ISOFIX (for example, Advansafix IV R), but more reliable than budget options like Discovery. The main advantage over competitors is Can be used with both belts and ISOFIX (for groups 2/3), which expands compatibility with cars.
However, there are also nuances. For example, unlike Dualfix M, there is no 360° rotation function, which can be inconvenient when positioning a sleeping child. But King 2 lighter (7.2 kg versus 14 kg for Dualfix), which is important when there are frequent changes between machines.
Step-by-step instructions for installing the chair
Improper installation of a child car seat reduces its effectiveness by 70–90%. To avoid errors, follow these instructions:
- Choosing a seat in the car. The safest place is rear seat behind the driver. If the chair is installed in the front seat, be sure to turn off the airbag (if provided for by the design of the car).
- Adjusting the chair. Before installation, check:
- 🔧 The headrest should be at the level of the child’s ears.
- 🔧 Internal straps (for group 1) - at shoulder level, without twists.
- 🔧 Back tilt: for sleeping - position 3-4, for wakefulness - 1-2.
- 🚗 Pass the car belt through red guides on the chair (they are marked on the body).
- 🚗 Tighten the belt so that the chair does not move more than 2 cm in any direction.
- 🚗 For group 1 use internal 5-point harness, for groups 2/3 - regular car.
- ISOFIX fastening (optional). If your car is equipped with ISOFIX, use connecting brackets (included). Snap them until you hear a characteristic click and check the indicators for correct locking (green).
☑️ Check before travel
⚠️ Attention: If you are using ISOFIX, always check compatibility with your vehicle. Some models (eg Volkswagen Polo until 2015) have restrictions on the weight of the seat + child (no more than 33 kg for ISOFIX). In this case, for group 3 (22–36 kg) you will have to switch to fastening with belts.
Car Compatibility: What to Look for
Not all cars are equally suitable for installation Britax Römer King 2. The main problems arise with:
- 🚘 Cars without ISOFIX. In this case, the seat is secured only with a standard belt, which is less reliable in case of side impacts.
- 🚘 A car with a short bench. If the rear seat is less than 40 cm deep, the seat may push into the front seat, preventing it from adjusting the recline.
- 🚘 Sports coupes. Low seating and reclining seats may make installation impossible.
- 🚘 Cars with rear seat airbags. They need to be turned off if the chair is installed facing forward.
Check before purchasing list of compatible cars on the official Britax Römer website. For example, a chair may not be suitable for Renault Twingo or Fiat 500 due to the compact dimensions of the cabin. If your model is not listed, please contact your dealer for a test installation.
If your car does not have ISOFIX, but it is possible to install Top Tether (top anchorage point), use it together with the seat belts. This will significantly increase the stability of the chair in an accident.
Another important point - car belt length. In some machines (for example, Toyota RAV4 before 2013), the straps may be too short to secure the seat correctly. In this case you will have to use belt extender, but only certified (for example, from Britax Römer).
Common operating mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced parents sometimes make mistakes that reduce safety. Here are the most common:
- Weak belt tension. The chair must be fixed so that with a sharp jerk it does not move more than 2 cm. You can check this by firmly pulling the chair by the upper part.
- Incorrect position of internal straps. For group 1 the belts must go strictly on the shoulders, without sagging or twisting. If the child pulls his hands out from under the straps, use soft pads.
- Ignoring the expiration date. The plastic of the chair loses its strength over time. Service life King 2 — 6 years from production date (indicated on the sticker).
- Use after an accident. Even if the chair looks intact, it needs to be replaced - microcracks in the plastic can make it unreliable.
⚠️ Attention: Never use a chair with cracks on the body or if the cover is torn in the belt area. This can cause the straps to break in an accident. Also avoid placing the chair on side seats (for example, in minibuses) - this is the most dangerous place in a side impact.
Another common mistake is Switching to a standard belt is too early. Many parents transfer their child from an internal 5-point seat belt to a car seat belt already at a weight of 15 kg, although the manufacturer recommends doing this not earlier 18 kg. The fact is that the standard belt passes through the stomach, which is dangerous in the event of a frontal impact.
What to do if a child unfastens his seat belts?
If your child has learned to unfasten the inner belt buckle, try the following methods:
1. Use protective case for lock (sold separately).
2. Distract your child during the trip with toys or music.
3. Teach your child safety rules in a playful way (for example, “belts are like a superhero belt”).
If the problem persists, consider models with protection against self-opening (for example, Britax Römer Advansafix IV R).
Care and cleaning: how to extend the life of a chair
To Britax Römer King 2 has served the entire stated period, it is necessary to properly care for it. Basic recommendations:
- 🧼 Case: Remove and wash by hand or machine when 30°C (do not use bleach). Dry away from direct sunlight.
- 🧴 Plastic parts: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use abrasives or solvents.
- 🔄 Belts: Wipe with a damp cloth. Do not immerse in water or iron. Check for wear every 6 months.
- 🌡️ Storage: Avoid extreme temperatures (for example, do not leave the chair in an unheated garage in winter).
Pay special attention adjustment mechanism. Check periodically to ensure that no crumbs or sand have gotten inside - this may make it difficult to adjust the height of the headrest. For cleaning, use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow attachment.
⚠️ Attention: If the chair has been in an accident, it cannot be reused, even if outwardly it looks intact. Impact loads can damage the internal structure of the plastic, making the chair unreliable the next time you use it.
Where to buy and how not to run into a fake
Armchair Britax Römer King 2 sold in official brand stores and large children's hypermarkets (Children's world, Obstetrics) and on proven sites (Wildberries, Ozon marked "Original"). However, there are fakes on the market that are almost indistinguishable from the original, but do not provide adequate security.
Features of the original chair:
- 🏷️ Sticker with serial number and the production date on the case.
- 📄 Availability instructions in Russian (included).
- 🔍 The Britax Römer logo is engraved on the plastic, not glued on.
- 🛡️ There are internal straps red correct position marks.
The cost of a new chair starts from 25,000 rubles. If you are offered to buy it cheaper 20,000 rubles, this is a reason to be wary. Also avoid buying second hand - you have no way of knowing if the chair has been in an accident.
Buy child car seats only from authorized dealers. Saving on child safety can result in tragic consequences.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Can the Britax Römer King 2 be installed in the front seat?
Yes, but only if three conditions are met:
1. Airbag disabled (if provided in the car).
2. The seat is moved as far away from the dashboard as possible.
3. The chair is fixed standard belt (ISOFIX is not used on the front seat).
⚠️ Not recommended installing a rear-facing seat in the front seat is the most dangerous place in the car.
How to transfer a chair from group 1 to group 2/3?
The transition occurs when the child reaches 18 kg or his shoulders begin to protrude beyond the red marks on the inner straps. To do this:
1. Remove the internal 5-point harness (they will no longer be needed).
2. Adjust the headrest to the desired height.
3. Secure the seat with a standard car seat belt, passing it through blue guides (for group 2/3).
✅ Check that the belt goes across the child’s chest and hips, and not across the stomach or neck.
Is this chair suitable for newborns?
No, Britax Römer King 2 designed for children from 9 kg (from about 9 months). For newborns (0–13 kg) a group infant carrier is required 0+, for example, Britax Römer Baby-Safe.
Can the seat be used without ISOFIX?
Yes, the chair can only be attached standard seat belt. However, ISOFIX provides a more secure fit, especially in side impacts. If your car has ISOFIX, it is recommended to use it (for groups 2/3).
How to check if the chair is installed correctly?
Run three tests:
1. Displacement test: Try moving the chair to the sides - it should not move more than 2 cm.
2. Belt test: There should be a gap between the belt and the child's body. one finger (no more).
3. Tilt test: The child's head should not fall forward while sleeping (adjust the backrest tilt if necessary).
If at least one test fails, reinstall the chair.