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Hi Märt,
We didn't use the tether strap in the Volvos. Reading through the car seat manuals, I think I recall that the tether straps were optional - better to use them, but not disallowed if you don't. Since I felt the Volvos were safer without than some other cars would be with the tether, we didn't use them. (We also couldn't not afford to replace any cars just to make it work with the car seat.
I'm trying to recall about using the Britax in the side (not center) position. I think I may have done it once or twice, and don't recall any particular problem. We keep it in the middle primarily because the middle is supposed to be safer. Also, I can see her better in my rear view mirror. (I can tip the mirror down and watch her, watching cars through the "night" reflector in the mirror, and so keep an eye on both.)
The biggest problems I've had along the way are two. First, the Graco seat (that replaced the Britax) does not have the same little twist-lock on the shoulder belt, and MUST use the D-clip to secure the belt. This D-Clip is a pain, difficult and awkward to use, and I would consider a different seat to avoid having to use this. Second, it happens with alarming frequency that a rear seat passenger (not the toddler) will exit the vehicle from the right rear location, and accidentally release both the right rear and the center (car seat) seat belt. At that point, the car seat is not secure, and this dangerous condition can go undetected for a while. I now check regularly, but it's alarming nonetheless. (Regular rear seat passengers include the 17 year-old older sibling, and sibling's friends.) If I was buying a new car, I would definately target one with the LATCH system to avoid this problem.
For our next car, we are considering a Volvo XC-70, with the built-in booster seats. ;-)
Roger
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