Insurance basics
Compare car insurance UK online
General points to weigh up when comparing car insurance online in the UK, from price and cover to excess, customer service and discounts.
Comparing car insurance online is a sensible way to see what different policies offer before you commit. A side-by-side look makes it easier to find cover that fits your needs at a price you are comfortable with. These are the main things to consider.
What to look at when comparing car insurance
1. Price
The cost of the policy is usually the first thing people look at. Comparing prices from more than one provider helps you see whether a quote is reasonable. Make sure the quotes you compare are for the same level of cover, the same drivers and the same excess, otherwise the figures are not really comparable.
2. Cover
Check what each policy does and does not cover. In the UK there are three main levels:
- Third party only, which covers damage or injury you cause to other people and their property.
- Third party, fire and theft, which adds cover if your own car is stolen or damaged by fire.
- Comprehensive, which also covers damage to your own car.
Look at the excess, which is the amount you pay towards any claim, and at any extra benefits such as a courtesy car, windscreen cover or legal expenses.
3. Customer reviews
Feedback from other customers can give you an idea of the service you can expect, especially when it comes to making a claim.
4. Customer service
Think about how easy each provider is to deal with: when they are available, how quickly they respond and how willing they are to help. This matters most when something has gone wrong.
5. Discounts
Many providers offer discounts in some circumstances, for example for a clean driving record, for insuring more than one car on a multi-car policy, or for taking more than one product with them.
Taking your time
When comparing car insurance online, it is worth taking the time to look carefully at each policy and provider, so you end up with the cover you need at a price that works for you. You can check that any firm you deal with is authorised on the FCA register.
Kompare doesn't currently offer quotes for car insurance. If you drive a van, a taxi or run a motor trade business, you can see the cover we do help with on our how we work page.