there are two ways to use a car seat ..without the base all you do is run the seat belt across the seat into the little slots on the side. the middle seat is usually the most secure and stable

my car is a 02 and I don't have the clips either. I have the seat with the base buckled into the middle back. It works great

I have the clips in my car but i dont use the base because the part thats facing the front seat isnt secure and I could push up on it and it will go up a foot off the seat! I even followed the directions. I just use my carseat. I more comfortable with that.

I bought this special security clip at Babies are us! It is so wonderful. If you want the name of the clip, I can look a little later. It wasn't that expensive but really helps!!

The safety 1st car seats are the best option for the security of the children. The kids should be seated rear facing in the back seat. This helps them in not getting injured at the time of accidents.
http://www.dependable-car-seats.com/car-se at-reviews.html