Some customers may have trouble locating the ISOFIX lower anchors due to variations in their backseat leather designs. To help, the PERO Team has identified six different types of ISOFIX lower anchor systems for your convenience.
ISOFIX Lower Anchor System
Common systems
The design of ISOFIX anchorage systems can vary depending on the car brand and model. Based on the PERO team’s extensive experience in installing ISOFIX car seats for various vehicles, we’ve categorized and named six types of ISOFIX systems. Parents can refer to the descriptions and images below to identify the ISOFIX system in their car:
Open-style ISOFIX Lower Anchor System
This style typically includes guide rails, making the metal anchor points clearly visible. Installation is relatively simple; just align the car seat’s ISOFIX connectors with the anchors and click them into place.
Exposed-style ISOFIX Lower Anchor System
In this design, the metal hooks are located near the leather upholstery, and you may see part of the anchor peeking out. Aligning the car seat’s ISOFIX connectors might take a bit more time compared to the open-style system.
Covered-style ISOFIX Lower Anchor System
Similar to the open-style system, this design usually includes guide rails, but it comes with an additional cover over the anchor points. The metal hooks aren’t visible until you flip open the cover.
Slit-style ISOFIX Lower Anchor System
Typically found at the bottom of the seatback, this design features two vertical slits in the leather. You’ll need to pull the leather apart to access the metal anchors underneath.
Seat Gap-style ISOFIX Lower Anchor System
This system is hidden between the seat cushions. There may be a small ISOFIX label marking the location of the anchors. To check, you can feel for the metal hooks by reaching into the gap. However, some models have deeper or lower anchor points, making installation more difficult. In such cases, the car seat base may not sit flush with the seat cushion.
Hidden-style ISOFIX Lower Anchor System (Covered by fabric or foam)
This is the most challenging design to work with. The metal anchors are often covered by seat fabric or foam, making them hard to locate. You’ll need to remove the covering first to properly connect the ISOFIX anchors with the car seat.