Car seat help

We registered for a safety first 3-1 convertible car seat when I was pregnant. It was meant to be used when she grew out of her infant model. My little girl is almost 10 months old and upon installation I realized that the straps have a very difficult time loosening and tightening both. 🙄

The company offered a replacement but going through their reviews I guess it’s a completely normal problem for almost all their options.

She hasn’t outgrown her infant seat yet, thankfully...But I do need to find a reliable and affordable car seat 😭