Graco Contender 65 Review

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Published by 
Jess Miller
Last updated: 
March 27, 2024
baby car seat

The Graco Contender is an affordable car seat that adjusts to different modes and positions. It can be used for infants and older children who are ready for a bigger seat. It has a lot of features that help make it safe for your child and easy to install and move around. 

It can be used as a rear facing seat or a forward facing seat, and both the harness and headrest are adjustable. It comes with a comfortable head and body support that is removable and an attached cup holder. Parents love this car seat, and it’s hard to be a bad Graco Contender 65 review online. If you are looking for a versatile car seat, you may want to consider this seat.

Product Features

The Graco Contender 65 has a lot of impressive features that make it one of the top convertible car seats on the market. Parents found the car seat to be convenient and easy to use. The high safety ratings also provide some nice peace of mind,

Easy Installation

Unlike other car seats that can be hard to install, the Graco Contender 65 is different. You don’t have to have a lot of technical expertise to install it, and you can do it in just a few minutes. This is convenient for people who need to move their car seats from one car to the next.

It comes with a manual with clear instructions, and there are various labels on the car seat to help with installation.

Secure Latch System

safety seat back car

The latch system with this car seat is perfect for installing it as a rear facing seat. They also help to make the seat compatible with all types of vehicles. It also helps parents install the car seat in any position. The latch system is unique to Graco convertible seats.

Rear Belt

When installing a car seat, it is always nice to have as much security as possible. The Graco Contender 65 allows you to use the seat belt in the car to put through the rear of the car seat whether it is facing forward or backward. It can be used with other belts and latches to help keep the seat in place. 

Padded Seats

child sleeping

While safety is every parent's number one concern, comfort for the child is also high on the list. Children won't enjoy riding in the car seat if it's not comfortable, and that can make long car rides stressful for everyone. Luckily, the Graco Contender 65 has seats that are padded on all sides so the child can stay comfortable even if they are sleeping in the seat on long car rides.

Design

This seat is designed to be stylish and trendy. It looks a little different than other convertible car seats, but most people think that's a good thing. It's available in several different colors and patterns. So you can easily find something to match the interior of the vehicle or your personal style. Kids will even appreciate the fun colors and trendy designs.

Lightweight

Pink Baby Car Seat

If you switch car seats between vehicles or take them out of your car regularly, you will appreciate how the weight of this seat. It’s easy to carry, and it’s not bulky. The lightweight comes in handy when you are trying to install it in the car too.

Easy To Clean

Most parents know how messy and dirty car seats can get. Snacks and drinks are a good way to keep kids entertained in the car, but they can also make a huge mess. If you don’t have a seat that is easy to clean, it can be a real pain.

The fabric on the car seat is removable and can be tossed in the washing machine for easy cleanup. The hard surfaces can be wiped down with soap and water or even disinfected with bleach.

How It Compares To Other Car Seats

There are a lot of convertible car seats on the market, but the Graco Contender 65 is one of the most popular. Here is how it stacks up to the competition.

Graco Contender 65

The Graco Contender 65 was our top pick when compared to other similar car seats.

Britax Allegiance 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat

This seat is another popular convertible car seat. While it still gets a positive review, it doesn't quite measure up to the Graco Contender 65. It’s not built as strong, but it does have high safety ratings and some nice features.

Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat

This seat is another popular convertible car seat. While it still gets a positive review, it doesn't quite measure up to the Graco Contender 65. It’s not built as strong, but it does have high safety ratings and some nice features.

Pros and Cons

Not every Graco Contender 65 review was positive, but most people who own the car seat seem to like it. Still, there are both pros and cons to owning this car seat and understanding them can help you decide if it is right for you.

PROS

  • Easy to install
  • Convenient latch system
  • Rear belt
  • Comfortable padding
  • Lightweight
  • Stylish design
  • Easy maintenance
  • Attached cup holder
  • Many color options

CONS

  • Straps are hard to tighten
  • Latch system installation is difficult
  • Not designed for larger children
  • One has two different position options

Reviews from Other Customers

Almost every Graco Contender 65 review from customers online was positive. Most people were happy with the price, ease of installation, and simplicity. Here are what some owners had to say about the car seat.

One reviewer explained that he had purchased the Graco Contender as a replacement for a different car seat because his child had outgrown it. He was happy to find a car seat at an affordable price that was able to fit their child. 

Our Final Verdict

If you are looking for a car seat that is easy to install and will keep your child safe, this is a good option. It has a lot of convenient safety features, and it’s not hard to adjust the seat or change it into different positions.

The adjustable headrest allows taller kids to ride in the seat and helps to make the seat compatible with children of different heights and weights. It’s a car seat that will last your child for many years and will fit your child until he or she is ready for a backless booster. It’s affordable, durable, and it will keep your child safe.

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Simple: To write awesome guides. Kids don’t come with instructions. We are not afraid to dive right in and get messy. The result? The most detailed guides on the internet; from gear guides to parenting advice.
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