Trouble with Carsets

I have always heard you shouldn't be able to fit more than two fingers between the strap and their chest. Have you tried checking that way rather than trying to pinch?

My only other suggestion is just to make sure that you have the straps at the proper level for where their shoulders are. Rear-facing babies should have the straps coming out from below their shoulders; forward facing babies should have the straps coming from above their shoulders. If the straps aren't in the right holes, the height might make it so you can't pull them tight enough.

you probably have it in the wrong shoulder notches. The holes where the straps go through to the back. They should not be higher than his shoulders. If you re adjust that, then the straps would fit more snuggly.

Do you have a fire station or police station close by? or can you stop at one on the way some where? They will be more than happy if a officer is free, to help you get the seat correct.

Do it the easy way....call your local Law Enforcement Agency or Hospital and ask if they have a Certified Car Seat Inspector. They can tell you what is wrong and if you go alone they will probably fix it for you ;)

I always buckle, then pull up on the straps just above the legs until it is snug. Then I adjust the chest clip until it is in the proper position (armpit level) and pull up on the straps right at the shoulder level, then pull the slack until it is properly snug.

Like others mentioned, if the straps are not in the right slot height, it will be difficult. It's the same with the chest clip... If it's too low or too high when you try to pull, it can be hard.

Just try to work any slack up toward the shoulders, THEN pull it snug.

By pinching, they mean horizontally. You will always be able to pinch it vertically. I just mention that because I've seen the confusion over that before.

If you are able to fold/pinch it horizontally, then perhaps you're using the wrong slots. When rear facing, most seats require the straps to be below the shoulders, or exactly level with shoulders, but not above.

If you're already using the lowest slots and the straps are still too loose, the seat doesn't fit your child.

Take it to your trooper barracks and have them install and adjust. I never do it myself because I want it done right. It is amazing how they get them in. Better safe than sorry.

Check the back. If there's anything interfering with the path of the belts, it won't be tight. What brand do you have? It might help to know.