Graco TurboBooster Review – Best Booster Car Seat for Kids over 4 Years Old

Graco TurboBooster

Overall Rating

 4.7/5

Front-Facing Only

If there is such a thing as the perfect Christmas or birthday present, the Graco TurboBooster backless booster is probably it. Aimed at children between 4 and 8 years old, the TurboBooster’s great size limit, compact and lightweight design, and ease to use are sure to mesmerize your little one and lead to a safe ride. It’s one of the cheapest booster seats on the market, and you certainly get what you pay for or even more – particularly when it comes to good years of use. With two armrests, cup holders, and made of memorial foam, the Graco TurboBooster provides the most comfort. Better still, this backless booster’s lightweight plastic frame is portable and durable.

Graco Turbooster Backless Review - Best Budget Booster for Big Kids

Pros & Cons

The good and the bad

What is it best for

Who we recommend it for

Value for Money

Is it worth the price tag?

Design

Dimensions, weight, color, etc

Safety Rating

Crash tests, FMVSS213, SIP

Performance

Weight/height limits, airplane, etc

Installation

Install with LATCH or seat belt

Alternatives

Other car seats to consider

1. Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

2. Who Is It Best For?

What age is Graco TurboBooster for?

The Graco TurboBooster is pitched at children who weigh between 40 to 100 pounds and are between 43 to 57 inches tall. If you want to know the age to use this backless booster, it should be the ages of 4 and 8 (the minimum age requirements to stop using a car seat).

However, its upper size limit and features mean that it’s kids between the ages of 5 and 10 that will get the most out of it.

If your child is in the 4 to 5 age range, you’ll probably want to look at the Graco TurboBooster highback booster or Graco Tranzitions. It’s hard to put an exact number on it, though. You’ll always want to assess your child’s size, your family budget, and the needs of your kids before picking a particular model.

With the Graco TurboBooster, though, you’ll be getting a backless booster that’s ideal for big kids. It is also available in various colors and designs, and also various types (Graco TurboBooster LX), making it easy to find a seat that fits your style.

Its safety specs, comfortable features, and ease of use are all geared towards fitting even the most inexperienced and apprehensive of kids at ease – not to mention their parents.

3. Value for Money

Is the Graco TurboBooster worth it?

If you want a backless booster seat for big kids between 4 and 8 years old, the Graco TurboBooster is absolutely one of the best choices.

It’s cheaper compared to other backless boosters on the market, making it a good choice for families on a budget. This TurboBooster backless booster seat is also designed to be portable, easy to install, and provides a high level of comfort with its padded base, and adjustable armrest with cupholder.

It’s easy to use, including simple car seat assembly and seat belt installation. The Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat has a very compact design, so it’s good to fit in most vehicles, including small cars. The low profile is friendly for kids to climb in and get out by themselves.

This TurboBooster backless booster seat has a size limit of 100 lbs/ 57″ and it lasts good years before your kid grows out of that.

4. Design

Graco TurboBooster Dimensions and Width

Is the Graco TurboBooster narrow to do three across?

The Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat is very compact. That point is obvious looking at the car seat appearance. Let’s confirm that with the dimensions of this Graco’s most popular booster car seat: 15.5″ (depth or length) x 16.25″ (width with cup holders pushing in) x 8.64″ (height with armrest). The net length and width and height is at 15.5″ x 16″ x 8.5″.

Without any doubt, the 16.25-inch width is good to fit 3 across if you have to install multiple car seats in the back row. That’s very friendly for growing families with several kids. The 8.5-inch low profile is okay for big kids older than 4 years old to climb in this backless booster car seat. Some bigger kids around 6 or 7 years old are probably able to buckle them with the easy-to-use seat belt path. What parents need to do is to confirm that they’re buckled correctly so that they’ll have a safe ride.

Related posts:

Portability

The weight of the Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat is approximately 5 pounds. It is designed to be lightweight and portable, making it easy to move between vehicles. There is a built-in carry handle, with which parents and even kids can transport it conveniently. Additionally, the Graco TurboBooster has a compact size, which makes it easy to store when not in use.

Overall, the Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat has a good portability at a score of 9 out of 10. That’s as convenient as those foldable car seats for travel. Its lightweight design, compact size, and built-in carry handle make it easy to transport and store, making it a good choice for families who are always on the go.

Two Cup Holders

The Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat comes equipped with two built-in cup holders that are located on the sides of the seat. These cup holders are designed to securely hold drinks and snacks, providing your child with easy access to their beverages and snacks while they’re on the road. This increases the comfiness of a kid in this car seat.

The cup holders are made of a durable material that is easy to clean, and they are positioned at a convenient distance from the seat, so your child can easily reach for their drink or snack without having to uncomfortably lean or stretch. This can help make car rides more enjoyable and less stressful for both you and your child.

That’s the positive point – it’s a car seat with cup holders. The down point is that the cup holders are shallow, not as deep as the cup holders in convertible car seats and all-in-one car seats.

This issue can be found in both Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat and the Graco TurboBooster highback booster seat. Luckily, the manufacturer listened to the customer’s feedback and improves this in the upgrade version – Graco TurboBooster LX highback and backless models, with the cup holder on the right side being much deeper to hold large water bottles.

The cup holders (or called storage compartments from their design) are removable. So parents can remove the cup holders from the location for cleaning when they get dirty.

Armrest

It’s really good for the Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat to have two armrests on both sides. This delivers max comfort for big kids in the car seat. After all, there is no backrest or other support in a backless booster.

The armrests in Graco TurboBooster are not built into the car seat and you need to assemble them after receiving the package. It’s easy to do this, following the instructions in the Graco TurboBooster seat manual (we have already found the user manual download link for you).

There are soft-fabric made armrest covers included in the package and you need to slip them into the right position for comfort.

Cup Holders

Cup holders are also another plus to increase the comfy of a kid in the car seat. They are designed to hold drinks and snacks to make the journey less stressful and more enjoyable. Check details on two cup holders.

Materials

The main components of the booster seat, such as the seat base, are typically made of plastic and energy-absorbing foam, while the seat belt guides and attachment points are typically made of metal.

The booster seat may also have a fabric cover that is designed to provide a comfortable and supportive surface for the child to sit on. This cover may be removable and machine washable, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Overall, the Graco TurboBooster is designed to be durable and safe, while also providing a comfortable and convenient solution for transporting your child.

5. Safety Rating and Crash Tests

Is Graco TurboBooster Safe to Use?

When it comes to buying your child’s last booster car seat, you should expect nothing less than a safe, comfortable ride. The Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat delivers on both fronts.

Whilst I’d always recommend that parents stick to a car seat that has passed the crash tests under the federal safety standards, the Graco TurboBooster meets or exceeds the FMVSS 213 and earns a 4-star rating for overall safety in NHTSA’s 5-star rating system.

It’s important to note that while the Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat has received good safety ratings, it’s still important to use the booster seat correctly and to follow all safety guidelines, including those outlined by the manufacturer. Proper use of the booster seat can help ensure that your child is protected in the event of a crash.

It’s also important to regularly check the condition of the booster seat and replace it if it shows any signs of wear or damage. The wear and damage are the major reasons for a Graco TurboBooster to expire, especially if it has gone through a severe or middle crash.

Is Graco TurboBooster without LATCH safe?

The Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat without LATCH is safe to use. The LATCH is just one installation method. It’s not necessary to use that for installing a booster seat. As a matter of fact, the best way to install Graco TurboBooster (and other booster seats) is by using the seat belt.

Following the manufacturer’s instructions and having the Graco TurboBooster installed correctly is more important than choosing an installation method.

6. Performance

Graco TurboBooster Weight and Height Limits

Like all booster seats on the market, the Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat is designed for big kids 4 years or older. The minimum weight requirement is 40 pounds, increased from 30 pounds for previous siblings. The manufacturer changed this bottom weight limit to obey the US state’s child safety seat laws – booster seats only are used for kids at least 40 pounds.

The top weight limit keeps the same – up to 100 pounds. What inherits from older models is also the top height limit. The kid can use the Graco TurboBooster until they’re 57 inches tall.

Related Information:

Weight and Height Limits of All Car Seat Types

Age Range

What age is Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat for?

The Graco TurboBooster is designed for children who have outgrown their 5-point harness forward-facing car seat and are ready for a booster seat. Like other booster car seats, it is typically recommended for children who are at least 4 years old and who weigh between 40 and 100 pounds until they reach the top 57-inch height limit.

If you’re wondering how much weight can Graco TurboBooster hold, please make sure your kid weighs from 40 to 100 pounds.

That’s a weight range for most booster seats or booster mode in 3 in 1 car seats. The 57-inch height limit of the Graco TurboBooster seat is the same as other booster seats on the market, while the minimum height may be a bit different. The 38-inch is the minimum height for Graco TurboBooster. That means, as long as your kid reaches this height, it’s okay to move it to the TurboBooster seat. However, it’s strongly recommended to keep a kid in a 5-point harness car seat for as long as possible. See also the best car seats with a 5-point harness for up to 100-120 pounds.

The 40-100 pounds weight and 38-57 inches height capacity make Graco TurboBooster a good car seat for 7 years old. Of course, you can also use it at the kid’s 5 years of age. The later, the better!

It is important to note that the Graco TurboBooster is designed for use with a vehicle seat belt and is not equipped with a LATCH system. The seat belt should fit the child properly, crossing the shoulder and lap, and be snug against the child’s body.

It is always best to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and follow the recommendations of your child’s pediatrician to determine the best time to transition your child from a car seat to a booster seat. In general, children should use a booster seat until they are tall enough to fit properly in a seat belt without the assistance of a booster seat.

Stages

Among the three stages (rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster), the Graco TurboBooster can be used only for the booster stage. That’s the last stage before a child stops using a car seat.

How long your kid can use the Graco TurboBooster is determined by the size of your kid (on the condition that no crash happens to this backless booster car seat). As long as the little passenger is not exceeding the top weight limit of 100 pounds or height limit of 57 inches, they are safe to use the Graco TurboBooster.

Airplane

Is Graco TurboBooster safe to use on planes?

It’s better not to use the Graco TurboBooster seat on a plane because this backless booster car seat CANNOT be installed using the lap-only belt. However, there is only a lap belt for protection on most planes.

In most US states, the government has written this booster seat requirement in the local car seat laws – booster seats should be installed with a lap-shoulder belt. If not, there should be reminders that follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for to use of the car seat. You may find that the statement that only car seats with a 5-point harness may be used for protection on the plane.

Further Information

12 Tips to Know to Take a Car Seat for Air Travel

Graco TurboBooster Expiration Date/ Lifespan

How long is Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat good for

All car seats are designed with a limited usable time. So does the Graco TurboBooster. According to the manufacturer, this backless booster car seat has a lifespan of as long as 10 years. See also when Graco car seats expire.

However, the real usable lifetime of a Graco TurboBooster depends on several factors, including the frequency of use, the conditions in which it is used, and how well it is maintained. Generally, booster seats are designed to last several years and can be used for multiple children as long as they are in good condition and have not been involved in a crash.

It’s important to inspect the booster seat regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed seat belts, cracks in the plastic, or loose parts. If you notice any issues, it’s best to replace the booster seat as soon as possible to ensure that your child is protected.

Further Information

What do to with expired car seats

Warranty

The warranty for the Graco TurboBooster will vary depending on the specific model and country of purchase. Typically, Graco offers a limited one-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period of time after purchase.

The length of the warranty may vary, but it is typically one or two years from the date of purchase. And it’s better to register the car seat the very first time you receive it and decide to keep it.

In general, a warranty can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment in a Graco TurboBooster, and it’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of the warranty in case you need to make a claim in the future.

7. Graco TurboBooster Installation

How to Install Graco TurboBooster

The Graco TurboBooster has no LATCH connectors, so the only available installation method is to use the vehicle seat belt. If so, installing the Graco TurboBooster is a straightforward process that can be done in a few simple steps:

Place the booster seat on the vehicle seat: Choose a spot in the back seat of the vehicle that is away from active airbags. The center of the back is considered the safest position for a car seat. If there is a lap-shoulder belt in that spot, place the booster seat on it and make sure it is level.

Secure the seat: Use the lap-shoulder seat belt to secure the booster seat in place. Make sure the seat belt is threaded through the designated path on Graco TurboBooster and that the belt system is tight against the seat.

Adjust the seat belt: Make sure the seat belt fits properly across the child’s lap and shoulder. The lap belt should fit low and snug across the hips, and the shoulder belt should fit snug across the chest.

Check the installation: Once the seat is installed, give it a good tug to make sure it is secure. Check the seat belt for proper fit, and make any necessary adjustments.

It’s important to always read the manufacturer’s instructions in the user manual and follow their guidelines for installing the Graco TurboBooster. Make sure the seat is properly installed and securely fastened before each use to ensure the best possible protection for your child.

Can I install Graco TurboBooster with LATCH connectors

No, the Graco TurboBooster does not come equipped with LATCH connectors and cannot be installed using the LATCH system. The Graco TurboBooster is designed to be installed using the vehicle seat belt, and it should be used with a seat belt that fits the child properly.

The seat belt should be threaded through the designated path on the booster seat and tightened against the seat so that it fits the child properly across the lap and shoulder. Before each use, it’s important to check the installation and make sure the seat belt is tight and the booster seat is secure.

Can I install a Graco TurboBooster with a lap belt?

No, it’s required by the child safety seat laws that booster seats should be installed using the lap-shoulder belt. The Lap-only seat belt is not able to keep the Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat tight and secure in the car.

Graco TurboBooster Manual

The user manual is the most important thing you need to make sure it’s included in the package. You should always read the user manual before starting to install and use it for riding your child.

The user manual of Graco TurboBooster is stored at the bottom. There is a book icon to let you know the place under the seat pad.

It’s okay to read the Graco TurboBooster manual once you get the car seat, but not that convenient to check the instructions after you install the car seat and store the manual. This usually happens if you need to switch the car seat from one vehicle to another.

But you can always find the Graco TurboBooster manual online for easy access at any time. Here is the link for you to download the Graco TurboBooster manual PDF from the manufacturer’s official website.

9. Specification and Comparison

Brand
Brand	Graco
Type
Suitable for	Big kids 4 years or older
Positions	Forward-facing
Design
Portability (1-10)	9. Lightweight and compact
Weight (lb.)	5.1
Weight limits (lb.)	40-100
Height limit (inch)	57”
Dimension	15 x 16 x 8.5″ DWH
Cup holder	Two
Performance
Age Range	4-10 years old
Stage	3rd
Installation	Seat belt
Headrest Positions	None
Recline Positions	None
Airplane	No
Lifespan	10 Years
Extra Features	None

Graco TurboBooster Booster Car Seats Comparison

Graco might have the most car seats on the market. This manufacturer loves to differentiate the car seats with slightly different features and has released a lot of car seats. See all Graco car seats.

For example, there are now several Graco TurboBooster seats found on the market when the backless model is reviewed. They are:

Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat (Currently Reviewed)
Graco TurboBooster highback booster
Graco TurboBooster LX backless booster with LATCH
Graco TurboBooster LX highback booster with LATCH
Graco TurboBooster Grow highback booster (with LATCH)
Graco TurboBooster LX backless booster with Affix LATCH
Graco TurboBooster Stretch 2 Fit booster seat (with LATCH)
Graco TurboBooster 2.0 highback booster
Graco TurboBooster 2.0 backless booster

It’s easy to know the slight difference between the Graco TurboBooster booster seats: Some with LATCH connectors; some with highback and backless modes.

In the comparison table below, I’ll take Graco TurboBooster highback booster seats for example. They all can be switched to backless mode.

Car Seats Comparison	TurboBooster	TurboBooster LX with LATCH	TurboBooster 2.0	TurboBooster Stretch2Fit	TurboBooster Grow
MSRP	$59.99	$89.99	$59.99	$99.99	$149.99
Weight limits (lb)	40-100	40-100	40-100	40-110	40-120
Height Limits	Up to 57 in	Up to 57 in	Up to 57 in	Up to 57 in	Up to 60 in
Headrest Positions	6	6	6	9	7
Includes Body Support	-	-	✓	v	✓
Breathable Fabrics	-	12 Positions	12 Positions	Safe+ 12 Positions	Safe+ 12 Positions
Cup Holder	✓	✓	✓	✓	✓
LATCH	-	✓	-	✓	✓
Dimensions DWH (in.)	15 x x 26.5	10.5 x x25.4	9.1 x 16.7 x 29.4	17.3 x 19.7 x 27.2	17.3 x 19.7 x 27.2
Car Seat Weight (lbs)	9	9.8	9	11.7	11.7

9. FAQs on Graco TurboBooster Booster Car Seats

Does the Graco TurboBooster have a Latch system?

That depends on the specific models of the Graco TurboBooster series while there are now nine highback and backless booster car seats in this group.

The Graco TurboBooster backless booster seat in this review post does not have a LATCH system. But there are five Graco TurboBooster booster car seats featuring a Latch system:

Graco TurboBooster LX backless booster with LATCH
Graco TurboBooster LX highback booster with LATCH
Graco TurboBooster Grow highback booster (with LATCH)
Graco TurboBooster LX backless booster with Affix LATCH
Graco TurboBooster Stretch 2 Fit booster seat (with LATCH)

And it’s easy to recognize which Graco TurboBooster has a LATCH system. Check if the front of the seat has a short adjustable strap (near the right cup holder) or not. If it has, that Graco TurboBooster probably comes equipped with the LATCH connectors. It’s better to confirm this information by reading the product description or consulting with the manufacturer.

How much weight can Graco TurboBooster hold?

All nine Graco TurboBooster booster car seats have a capacity of at least 100 pounds. Some models may hold heavier and bigger kids around 110 pounds or 120 pounds.

The Graco TurboBooster Stretch2Fit is able to fit a kid around 110 pounds; while the Graco TurboBooster Grow is good for kids at most 120 pounds (in the RightGuide Seat Belt Trainer mode).

Does Graco TurboBooster expire?

Yes, all car seats are designed with a limited lifespan. The Graco TurboBooster backless booster car seat is not an exception.

Luckily, the Graco TurboBooster booster car seats have the longest usable time among the car seats – 10 years. So you don’t need to worry about its expiration date before your kid outgrows the car seat.

However, you should not insist using a Graco TurboBooster booster car seat if it was used in a crash event.

Does Turbo Boost make a difference?

Yes, but very slight differences can be found between the Graco Turbo Booster car seats. Check our comparisons of the nine Graco TurboBooster booster seats.

What is the minimum height for Graco Turbobooster?

If you’re confused about the minimum height for Graco TurboBooster, remember that the 43-inch is the most commonly seen height requirement for a booster seat.

And the 43-inch is also the minimum height for Graco TurboBooster booster car seats. You can find this information in the product description. If not, then check again in the user manual.

Can you use Graco TurboBooster LX without Latch?

Absolutely. You can always use Graco TurboBooser LX with or without the LATCH system.

The LATCH connectors are helpful for an easy installation, but they’re not necessary to install and use the Graco TurboBooster LX, even though it comes equipped with a LATCH system.

For example, if you choose to place and install the Graco TurboBooster LX in a spot where there is no anchor to connect to the LATCH in Graco TurboBooster LX, then you don’t need to use the LATCH at all. This usually happens in the center of the back seat, which is considered the safest place for car seat installation.

In the Graco TurboBoooster LX manual (downloadable in PDF from the Graco website), the manufacturer reminds parents to remove and store the LATCH connectors if they’re not in use.

Does Graco TurboBooster have anchors?

There are five models in the Graco TurboBooster series that have anchors for installation. They are:

Graco TurboBooster LX backless booster with LATCH
Graco TurboBooster LX highback booster with LATCH
Graco TurboBooster LX backless booster with Affix LATCH
Graco TurboBooster Grow highback booster (with LATCH)
Graco TurboBooster Stretch 2 Fit booster seat (with LATCH)

How do you anchor a Graco TurboBooster?

If you choose to install a Graco TurboBooster booster car seat with the LATCH connectors, follow below steps to anchor it:

1. Place Car Seat Forward-Facing in Back Seat of the Vehicle. Place forward-facing in vehicle seat. The bottom of the seat should sit as flat as possible on the vehicle seat.
2. Extend the Lower Anchor Straps. For easier installation, extend the lower anchor straps to their maximum length by pressing the button on the front of the base and pulling out on the straps.
3. Attach Lower Anchor Connectors to Vehicle’s
Lower Anchors. Lower Anchor straps should not be twisted.
4. Tighten the Lower Anchor Straps. Remove all the slack from the lower anchor straps by pushing on the booster and pulling straps in the front of the booster. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to align the lower anchors with the slots in the base to get a good
install. The bottom of the seat should sit as flat as possible on
the vehicle seat.
5. Thread the Vehicle Seat Shoulder Belt Through Seat Belt Guide on the Headrest.

What if my child is too heavy for a booster seat?

Most booster seats have a top weight limit of as high as 100 pounds. Some may be higher, 110 pounds or 120 pounds. If your child is too heavy for a booster seat, it’s better to change to a booster seat or a 5-point harness car seat with the highest weight limit – 120 pounds, according to our experience and research data.

Are boosters without LATCH safe?

Of course. The LATCH is a kind of connector that is used to install a car seat. LATCH connectors are not related to the safety rating. But proper installation is also the deciding factor to ensure your kid is safe in the car seat. So if you choose to use LATCH connectors for car seat installation, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions in the car seat manual.

Graco TurboBooster Review – Best Booster Car Seat for Kids over 4 Years Old