For an easier reference, she’s just coming into size 6 shirts, size 5s often still fit. The Nautilus was on the second to highest position, graco travel system much to my surprise. The seat would last her in harness mode for probably another year, until she’s moving from a size 6 to about a size 7.
She would have had probably another two years, maybe a little longer in high back mode. The LX 3-in-1 car seat is a forward facing only combination car seat that functions as a 5 point harness, high back booster, and backless booster. Other, similar versions of this seat include the Nautilus 65 DLX and Nautilus 80 Elite. With a huge weight limit of 120 pounds, this is one convertible seat you won’t be replacing anytime soon. In fact, you may never need to buy any other safety seat till your little champ becomes a big boy. Sort of in the same line as installing the car seat into the car is installing your child into the car seat.
In a 2015 Toyota Camry and a 2011 Mercedes E350 wagon the installs were nearly instantaneous and very easy, which is how the Nautilus has installed since it was released. The cubbies and cupholder that have been on the seat since it first came out are still there, and still a child favorite. The fit in all modes is generally good in the Nautilus. Graco has traditionally has good belt fits for nearly all size kids. The Nautilus is a little more hit and miss, but with this model (newly turned 6 years old, 45″, 48 pounds) the belt fit was ideal. I have used a Nautilus with my older daughter and the fit was great on her.
To go from high back to backless mode on the Nautilus, once again hinge the seat back with the red buttons pushed back at the hips. When those are sticking up, at the very back of the backless portion there are two more red buttons. Squeeze them together and pull the backless portion away from the high back portion. If you need an all-in-one seat that will provide great value for your money, then the Nautilus LX 65 will make a great choice. It comes loaded with a lot of features you are likely going to enjoy. The major difference between both models can be seen in the harness and LATCH system.
Now, admittedly, it’s not quite as easy as it sounds. But with an extra five to ten minutes, the instructions in the manufacturer manual, and a bit of patience, you’ll have a fully-functional car seat in no time. I had a harder time trying to get the cover on it than actually putting the car seat itself together. Our model is six years old, 45 inches tall, and 48 pounds.