Bloody car insurers

[shewhocan]

Agggg. Can someone help me see a way out of this?

We pay (with a household name) pretty expensive car insurance, including for a replacement car of equivalence. Our car has to be repealed and will be gone a week or so. We have three kids all in isofix car seats (the new generation ones, so belting them
In is not an option).

Car was picked up today and replacement also delivered. DH spoke to them last week as they were struggling with getting us a 7 seater. We said 5 is fine our only need is 3 isofixes. No problem they say. Lady who dropped off also reiterated three isofixes. I've come to fit car seats ahead of various appointments tomorrow and there are only bloody isofix points for two seats. DH is away on business and too late to get anyone here to look after one of the kids.

I've spoken to car rental company who are arguing it's equivalent. Any bright ideas ? Any recommendation for a good insurer who takes these things seriously ?

I think you'll struggle to find an insurer who will guarantee you a car with three isofix points. They can, unfortunately, only work with what is available. Did you check the car when it arrived as your needs were so specific? You could reject the hire car and ask for yours to be returned (I'm assuming the repairs can wait as you waited for a suitable car) or ask for an alternative car seat to be supplied?

Why has the car been ‘repealed’?

Oh, think you mean ‘repair’. If so is it a none fault claim? Because if that’s the case, sort out the replacement 7 seater by your own means and claim it back.

Call your insurer, ask if you can organise this yourselves and send them the bill. This will only work if it's a non-fault claim (generally speaking).
If your insurer is picking up the bill you're likely to be out of luck - your policy booklet will outline the terms of the replacement car but it's very likely to say there are no guarantees.