Autism Car Seats & Harnesses
Many autistic children find car journeys hard. Some unbuckle the harness or climb out of their seat, some slip down under the seatbelt, and some need a calmer, more supported seat to travel safely. On this page you'll find the autism car seats and car harnesses for autistic children that our specialist team recommends most often, with free assessments and fitting to help you choose.
Supplying NHS trusts, councils and charities across the UK
Free specialist assessments · Council & charity orders on a PO · Help with funding
Which autism car seat or harness is right for your child?
Start with what happens on your journeys. Every child is different, so we always recommend an assessment before you buy.
My child undoes the buckle
A Magnetic Harness can only be released with a magnetic key, so children can't open it themselves. For a 5-point harness seat, a Buckle Cover or Chest Clip may be enough.
My child slips under the seatbelt or escapes their booster
The Magnetic Harness with Axkid Nextkid high back booster adds a front-fastening harness to a booster seat, keeping your child secure and upright.
My child is older or larger but still needs a 5-point harness
The IPAI-MINI and IPAI-MAX are R129-approved special needs car seats with a full harness, and the Voyager suits children up to 36kg (around 11 to 12 years).
Getting in and out of the car is a struggle
The IPAI seats have an optional swivel that turns up to 90 degrees towards the door, which can make transfers calmer and easier.
My child also needs postural support
KIDSFLEX seats are set up around each child's postural needs, so we'll assess your child first.
Car seats and harnesses we recommend for autism
Magnetic Harness
Additional restraint for passengers who may otherwise open regular harness buckles. Available in small, medium and large.
View productMagnetic Harness with Axkid Nextkid High Back Booster
Used in a high back booster to give stability and security for children who escape their car seats. Buckles at the front for easier fitting.
View product
Voyager Additional Needs Car Seat
Enhanced support and safety for children with additional needs. Suitable up to 36kg, roughly 11 to 12 years of age.
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Hernik IPAI-MINI Special Needs Car Seat
Rehab car seat with full European R129 approval and an optional swivel that rotates up to 90 degrees.
Guide price: from around £1,900
Hernik IPAI-MAX Special Needs Car Seat
The larger IPAI rehab seat, R129 approved, with an optional swivel that rotates up to 90 degrees.
Guide price: from around £2,500
Hernik KIDSFLEX R129 Edition Special Needs Car Seat
Rehabilitation seat for children who also need postural support, crash-tested to R129. Three sizes, up to 100kg.
Guide price: from around £3,000
Guide prices are for the seat only. Your final price depends on the size, supports and accessories your child needs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best car seat for an autistic child?
There isn't one seat that suits every autistic child. Children who unbuckle usually need a harness they can't release, such as the Magnetic Harness. Children who need more support, or who are too big for a standard harnessed seat, may suit a special needs car seat like the IPAI or Voyager. A free assessment is the best way to find out.
My autistic child keeps undoing their seatbelt. What can I do?
A car harness for autistic children, such as the Magnetic Harness, stops children releasing the buckle themselves. For seats with a 5-point harness, a Buckle Cover or Chest Clip can also help. Our team can show you the options at a free assessment.
Can a charity pay for an autism car seat?
Yes, many families have their child's seat funded by a charity or grant, and we can provide the quote they'll need. See our charity directory and funding guide.
Not sure which is right for your child?
Every child is different. Our specialist team offers free one-to-one assessments to look at your child's postural, medical and behavioural needs, and fit the seat correctly in your vehicle.
Ordering for a council, school or charity?
We supply councils, NHS teams and charities across the UK and can invoice your organisation against a purchase order. Tell us what you need and we'll send a quote.
Need help paying for a seat?
Many families have their child's seat funded by a charity or grant. Read our funding guide, or browse our charity directory.
Related: ADHD · Behavioural needs · PICA
Read our Additional Needs Car Seat Guide · See all additional needs products
