HealthyCar.org — Why We Need HealthyCar.Org

Everyone knows that cars are a major source of air pollution. But most people don't know that it isn't only what comes out of tailpipes that's the problem, but what's inside cars as well. "New car smell" for example, comes from toxic chemicals being released from plastics, foams and fabrics used to make steering wheels, dashboards and seats.

These chemicals are inhaled or ingested by drivers and passengers through dust and air, potentially causing allergic or other acute reactions or even long-term health impacts such as birth defects,

impaired learning, liver toxicity and cancer. Since the average American spends more than 1.5 hours in a car every day, toxic chemical exposure inside vehicles is becoming a major source of potential indoor air pollution.

Child car seats also contribute to the problem. They are made with some of the same chemicals as car parts, and also off-gas inside the car.

The good news is that some cars and car seats are better than others. Toxic chemicals are not required to make indoor auto parts or cars seats, and some manufacturers have begun to phase them out. HealthyCar.org tested over 200 of the most popular 2006 and 2007 model vehicles in the U.S. In each vehicle, 15 different components were sampled including: steering wheel, shift knob, armrest/center console, dashboard, headliner, carpet, seat front, seat back, seat base, hard door-trim, soft door-trim, body sealer, wiring, window seal and wheel weights. Chemicals tested that are of primary concern include bromine (associated with brominated flame retardants); chlorine (indicating the presence of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC and plasticizers); lead; and heavy-metal allergens.

HealthyCar.org also tested over 60 popular child car seats for the same chemicals. The major components of the car seats were tested, including the seat cushion, foam backing, seat base, seat belt clip and sun shade (when available).

Now, for the first time ever, car and car seat buyers can search by model and class or comparison shop to learn which products contain the largest and smallest amounts of potentially toxic chemicals. Not only will this site allow you to make safer choices, but it will also make manufacturers more accountable for the materials they use.

It is important to always use a child car seat, no matter what rating it received at HealthyCar.org.

In addition to toxic chemicals, consumers might also want to consider other issues, such as fuel-economy and safety, when considering a vehicle purchase. . Visit the resources page to find links to other helpful vehicle and car seat shopping tools.