Finding cheap car insurance takes a bit of research and planning, but it’s very possible if you know where to look and what factors affect your premiums. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to help you get the best deal:
1. Compare Multiple Quotes
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Use comparison websites (like Compare the Market, Go Compare, Confused.com, Money Supermarket) to get multiple quotes quickly.
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Check direct insurers too (some companies like Direct Line don’t appear on comparison sites).
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Review not just the price but also policy features and excess amounts.
💰 2. Choose the Right Level of Cover
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Third Party Only (TPO): Minimum legal cover, often not the cheapest because it’s usually chosen by high-risk drivers.
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Third Party, Fire and Theft (TPFT): Adds protection for fire damage or theft.
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Comprehensive: Includes cover for your own car. Surprisingly, comprehensive can be cheaper than TPO or TPFT because safer drivers tend to choose it.
⚙️ 3. Adjust Your Excess
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Voluntary excess is what you pay if you make a claim.
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Increasing your voluntary excess can lower premiums, but make sure you can afford it if you need to claim.
🕒 4. Time Your Purchase
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Buying insurance about 3–4 weeks before renewal often gives lower prices than buying last minute.
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Renewing on time (not letting your policy lapse) can help maintain your no-claims discount.
🧾 5. Build Your No-Claims Bonus
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Each claim-free year earns you a no-claims discount (NCD).
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The more years you build, the lower your premium becomes.
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You can pay a small fee to protect your NCD once you’ve built it up.
📍 6. Review Your Details Carefully
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Job title and occupation affect your premium—choose the most accurate and lowest-risk description.
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Mileage: Be realistic; lower annual mileage generally means lower risk.
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Parking location: A secure garage or driveway is cheaper than street parking.
👥 7. Add Named Drivers
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Adding an experienced, low-risk named driver (like a parent or partner) can lower your premium.
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Avoid “fronting”—putting someone else as the main driver if they’re not. It’s illegal and can void your policy.
🚗 8. Consider a Black Box or Telematics Policy
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These monitor your driving habits (speed, braking, time of day).
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Safe drivers can get big discounts, especially young or new drivers.
🎁 9. Look for Discounts
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Many insurers offer discounts if you:
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Pay annually instead of monthly
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Have multiple policies with the same company (multi-car, home+car)
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Are a member of certain clubs or professional groups
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📌 10. Avoid Unnecessary Extras
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Breakdown cover, legal cover, courtesy car, etc., can add to the cost.
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Only pay for extras you genuinely need.
✅ Quick Checklist Before You Buy
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Compare at least 5–6 insurers
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Try comprehensive even if you expect it to be more
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Adjust voluntary excess
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Add a responsible named driver
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Pay annually if you can
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Build and protect your NCD
