Seat belt retractor lock not working? Non existent in Australia?

[Seano]

Your child seat should have seat belt clamps that may be able to grasp the belt itself....this negates the need for a locking retractor to some extent. Only our Subaru has the locking belt function...not the VW. You could purchase a replacement from Autoliv or Klippan if you are really concerned.

In rear facing mode, the seats do shift sideways a lot more than you might expect. It is a function of how the seats are mounted into the car. To minmise, put your weight onto the seat whilst pulling the belt tight...and then clamp the seat to the belt if you can.

If you are concerned then I suggest that you take your van to a licenced restraint inspection station and have them look over your installation...our local one charges $40...cheap piece of mind.