9 Ways to Save on Car Insurance

January 22nd, 2023

Comments Feed

You’ve found the car you want, and you’re ready to close the deal – except for one thing – you’re concerned about insurance costs.

We can hardly blame you. Amid the pandemic and all, insurance premiums have leapt over recent years. Not to worry though, here are 9 tips to save on your insurance.

1. Nominate the right drivers on the policy

Adding a more experienced, secondary driver can lower the cost of your premium, provided that driver has a no-claims history and good rating. Younger drivers however, are viewed as an insurance liability. While some niche insurers can offer them better options, generally their inclusion raises prices.

2. Use an insurer that meets your needs

Whether you: drive low kilometres; own a vintage car; are a young driver; or live in a certain region – no one insurer suits all. Some operate: on a kilometre basis; specialising in classic cars; by pricing better for certain locations; or by offering discounts to those restricting under 25’s from driving.

3. Research

Before renewing or switching policy, shop around – comparison sites such as iSelect or Compare the Market offer easy comparisons. With loyalty bonuses no longer as common as before, and ratings transfers more widespread, it’s easier to change providers and save hundreds. Failing that, ask about promotions or for a better deal! Though do be wary of any promotion’s duration – premiums often increase thereafter.

4. Pay up front and bundle insurance products

Paying the policy in full will save you money compared with monthly instalments, however, be wary of any surcharges for card payments. Some insurers offer lower premiums when bundling insurance products (multiple cars, home and contents, bike, boat, etc.)

5. Consider your coverage

If you own a newer car, comprehensive is more fitting whereas older cars are more suited to third-party property or third-party fire and theft insurance. Increasing your excess or omitting coverage for items covered elsewhere can reduce your premium. Furthermore, insuring your vehicle prior to purchase, and ensuring coverage does not lapse, will place you in good stead. Items stolen from a car generally aren’t covered, while some extras (roadside assistance) can be sourced externally.

6. Alter the car’s value

Depending on the insurer, adjusting the policy to a lower (agreed) value can help. Market value is typically based on the insurer’s findings, so if you need to dispute this appraisal, source your own quotes and provide good maintenance records.

7. Maintain a clean driving history

Your insurance rating determines the premium you pay – some insurers have a no-claims discount, but incidents drive up prices – even if the car was driven by a friend, and potentially if you weren’t at fault. Some insurers may wave the first at-fault incident but this is rare.

8. Maintain accurate details

While some may be tempted to omit details on past claims or change info on the car’s storage, should a claim arise, insurers generally probe further into your details and you risk forfeiting all your coverage – don’t do it!

9. Read the policy

Not only do exclusions between insurers vary (unroadworthy/modified vehicles; non-covered drivers; incidents involving drugs/alcohol; etc.) but there are considerable differences in coverage to consider. That might include a higher excess for drivers returning from having their license suspended, or even excluding cover altogether.