There are five things you should consider, according to the expert
Drivers have been given tips on how to get cheaper car insurance policies (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
A motoring expert has shared tips on how to bag cheaper car insurance as premiums are set to rise this year. Motorpoint says there’s five things you can do to make sure you are not overpaying when it comes to renewing your policy.
Its resident driving expert, Tim Rodie explained: “Car insurance is something all drivers must have. While insurance premiums are heavily influenced by how long it’s been since you claimed on your insurance, if you have any points on your license and a whole range of other factors, there’s still a few things you can do to make sure you aren’t overpaying in 2026.”
Here, in his own words, he has explained all the things you should consider.
1. Double check your job title
Mr Rodle said: “Tweaking your job title on your insurance application can save you money on your premiums. Provided you don’t lie about your profession and it’s still accurate, a change to the phrasing can sometimes give you a discount. Money Saving Expert’s car insurance job picker can help you out when choosing the best job title to use when applying for insurance. If you’re unsure about what words to use, for example trying to decide between ‘manager’ or ‘officer’, it’s best to check with your insurer which will work best.”
2. Use the 20–27-day rule
Mr Rodle said: “Shopping around for your car insurance 20 to 27 days before your renewal date will give you the cheapest quotes. Not only does it give to time to shop around but it’s what insurers call the ‘sweet spot’, as it shows them that you’re a responsible and organised driver not leaving things to the last minute.
“I’d recommend avoiding auto-renewing as you’ll generally find a better deal by switching providers or renegotiating. If you give yourself a few weeks before you need a new policy, you’ll have plenty of time. Keep in mind the cost of renewing your insurance can increase steeply the closer you get to its end date, forcing drivers to pay more than needed due to having left it too late.”
3. Park off-road
Mr Rodle said: “With your regular parking spot being one of the factors insurers look at to determine how at risk your car is of theft or damage, parking in a secure place can help to decrease your insurance premiums. This means if you have access to a garage or drive, you could find yourself paying less than if you needed to park on the road outside your house because you may be seen as lower risk compared to someone parking on the street. Insurers will also check your areas crime rates to give a more accurate picture.
“Make sure to double check with your insurer what their car parking definitions are. Each insurer interprets them differently which can impact your premiums. They’ll also check your areas crime rates as this can have an impact on your quote.”
4. Use a black box app
Mr Rodle said: “Not just reserved for new drivers, a black box can be a brilliant way to improve your driving habits and save money on insurance.
“Even better, it’s no longer a physical box that needs installing. Apps like RAC Black Box can collect your driving data through your phone, making it a really easy option for drivers wanting to find ways to reduce their premiums. You just need to display responsible driving habits to receive a good score. If you use a black box app, you’ll benefit from regular tips and feedback to help you improve your driving habits.
“Just like a regular black box, the impact on your premiums isn’t instant and can take around a year of data collection to impact your insurance costs.”
5.Choose who to add to your policy wisely
Mr Rodle said: “Who you add to your insurance policy as a named driver is something insurers look at carefully when deciding your premiums. For young drivers, it’s best to add older relatives with a clean, long-term driving history. If you have a spouse or partner, add them if they have a good driving history to lower your risk. Generally, anyone with a clean license, meaning no claims, points or convictions in five or more years, is good to have on your side. The named driver should use the car less than the main driver or you’ll be ‘fronting’, which is illegal.
“Insurers also value drivers with professions deemed as lower risk, like teachers or civil servants, to help keep down premiums. If no-one ticks the boxes of a lower risk driver, it may be worth leaving them off your insurance just in case, as some jobs like construction workers can be seen as higher risk.
“If you’re unsure of who to add to your policy, your provider can offer advice on the best option for you.”
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