Frequently Asked Questions

Price comparison allows you to evaluate different options for products and services. You should always compare various motor-related offerings, ensuring you find the best deals for you. It's a straightforward way to potentially save time and money.

Absolutely! We prioritise your privacy and security. Our website uses advanced encryption technologies to protect your personal information.

Brumble works with QuoteZone to provide you with insurance quotes. Simply enter your details, and the quote tool will provide you with tailored comparisons. The platform aggregates offers from various providers, ensuring you get the best options. It's quick, easy, and free!

Yes, Brumble is a trusted introducer service. We partner with reputable providers to ensure you receive accurate information. Our goal is to empower you with the best choices.

Right now, we introduce you to providers that can facilitate insurance quotes. We'll soon be adding support for car finance, loans, warranties, EV support and much more. Our aim is to simplify your decision-making process. Explore our services to find what suits you best.

There are three main types of car insurance in the UK. Third party only is the minimum legal cover and pays for damage you cause to other people and their property. Third party fire and theft adds protection if your car is stolen or damaged by fire. Comprehensive car insurance offers the highest level of cover, including damage to your own vehicle even if the accident was your fault.

Many factors influence how much you pay for car insurance. Your age, driving experience, and claims history all play a role. The type of car you drive matters too, as vehicles in higher insurance groups cost more to cover. Where you live, where you park overnight, your annual mileage, and even your job title can affect your car insurance quote. Adding named drivers or choosing a higher voluntary excess can help lower your premium.

Third party car insurance only covers damage you cause to other vehicles, property, and injuries to other people. It won't pay out for repairs to your own car. Comprehensive car insurance covers everything third party does, plus damage to your own vehicle from accidents, vandalism, and weather. Despite offering more protection, comprehensive cover is often cheaper than third party only because insurers see it as a sign of a lower-risk driver.

Yes, you must declare all car modifications to your insurer. This includes performance upgrades like engine tuning or exhaust changes, as well as cosmetic modifications such as alloy wheels, tinted windows, or body kits. Even small changes like dash cams or parking sensors should be mentioned. Failing to declare modifications could invalidate your car insurance policy and leave you unprotected if you need to make a claim.

Your no claims bonus, sometimes called no claims discount, is a reward for claim-free driving. Each year you don't make a claim, you build up another year of bonus, which reduces your car insurance premium. Most insurers offer up to five or more years of no claims discount. You can protect your no claims bonus for an extra fee, which allows you to make a limited number of claims without losing your discount. Your NCB can usually be transferred between insurers when you switch.

Driving other cars cover, known as DOC, is not automatically included on most car insurance policies. If your policy does include it, you'll typically only have third party cover when driving someone else's vehicle. You'll also need the owner's permission. Never assume you're covered to drive another car without checking your policy documents first. If you regularly drive other vehicles, consider adding them as a second car or taking out a separate short-term car insurance policy.

If you're involved in a car accident, stop at the scene and exchange details with the other driver, including names, addresses, and insurance information. Take photos of any damage and note down what happened while it's fresh in your mind. You must report the accident to your insurer even if you don't plan to make a claim. If anyone is injured or the other driver doesn't stop, you'll need to report the accident to the police within 24 hours. Your insurer will guide you through the car insurance claims process.

Comparing car insurance quotes can save you hundreds of pounds each year. Every insurer calculates risk differently, so prices vary widely for the same driver and vehicle. Your renewal quote from your current insurer is rarely the cheapest option. By comparing quotes from multiple providers, you can find the best car insurance deal without spending hours getting individual quotes. Always compare policies on the same level of cover to make sure you're getting like-for-like protection.

The best time to compare and buy car insurance is around three weeks before your renewal date. Insurers often offer their most competitive quotes during this window. Leaving it until the last minute can mean higher prices, while buying too far in advance may not give you access to the best deals. Set a reminder to start comparing car insurance quotes 21 days before your policy expires. Never let your car insurance auto-renew without checking if you can get a better price elsewhere.

Brumble connects you with a powerful car insurance comparison tool that searches leading UK providers in minutes. Simply enter your details once and you'll see competitive quotes from a wide panel of insurers. The comparison shows you clear, like-for-like prices so you can understand exactly what each policy covers. The service is completely free to use and there's no obligation to buy.

Fully comprehensive car insurance is the highest level of cover available for UK drivers. It protects you against damage to other people's vehicles and property, just like third party cover. But it also covers your own car if it's damaged in an accident, even if the accident was your fault. Comprehensive policies typically include protection against theft, fire, vandalism, and weather damage too.

A comprehensive car insurance policy usually covers third party liability, accidental damage to your own vehicle, theft, fire damage, vandalism, and weather-related damage like floods or storms. Most policies also include windscreen repair or replacement, personal accident benefits, and limited cover for personal belongings stolen from your car. Some insurers include European driving cover as standard.

Not always. In many cases, fully comprehensive car insurance can cost the same or even less than third party only cover. This is because insurers see drivers who choose comprehensive policies as lower risk. They're protecting an asset, which suggests more careful driving. Always compare actual quotes rather than assuming third party will be cheaper.

Even with comprehensive cover, there are exclusions. Your policy won't cover you if you're driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Deliberate damage to your own vehicle isn't covered, nor is general wear and tear or mechanical breakdowns. Driving for business purposes usually isn't included unless you've added it to your policy. Always check your policy documents for the full list of exclusions.

Third party fire and theft insurance covers damage you cause to others, plus theft and fire damage to your own car. Fully comprehensive cover includes all of this, plus accidental damage to your own vehicle regardless of who was at fault. Comprehensive also typically covers vandalism, weather damage, and windscreen repairs. For drivers with cars worth more than a few thousand pounds, comprehensive usually offers better value.

Yes, most car finance agreements require you to have fully comprehensive car insurance. This applies to PCP, HP, and lease agreements. The finance company has a financial interest in your vehicle until it's paid off, so they need to know it's protected against damage, theft, and write-offs. Check your finance agreement for specific insurance requirements.

Excess is the amount you pay towards any claim on your comprehensive policy. There are two types. Compulsory excess is set by your insurer and is usually between £100 and £300. Voluntary excess is an amount you choose to pay on top of that. Choosing a higher voluntary excess lowers your premium, but means you pay more if you need to make a claim. Pick an amount you could comfortably afford.

Not automatically. Driving other cars cover, known as DOC, used to be a common feature but most insurers have removed it from standard policies. If your policy does include it, you'll typically only have third party cover when driving someone else's vehicle. Never assume you're covered to drive another car. Check your certificate of motor insurance to see exactly what's included.

There are several ways to reduce your comprehensive car insurance premium. Comparing quotes from multiple insurers is the most effective way to find a better price. You can also increase your voluntary excess, improve your car's security with an approved alarm or tracker, reduce your annual mileage, and build up your no claims bonus. Parking in a garage or on a private driveway can also help lower your quote.

Brumble connects you with a comparison tool that searches over 130 UK car insurance providers in minutes. Simply enter your details once and you'll see comprehensive car insurance quotes from a wide panel of insurers. The results show you prices and cover levels side by side so you can make an informed choice. The service is free to use with no obligation to buy.

Car insurance for young drivers costs more because of risk statistics. Drivers aged 17 to 19 make up just 1.5% of UK licence holders but are involved in 9% of serious and fatal accidents. Young drivers are more than twice as likely to be killed or seriously injured on the roads compared to drivers aged 30 to 59. Insurers base their prices on this claims data, which is why premiums are higher for new and inexperienced drivers.

The average car insurance cost for a 17 year old in the UK is between £2,000 and £3,000 per year for comprehensive cover. Prices vary depending on where you live, the car you drive, and whether you choose a black box policy. Male drivers in urban areas typically pay more. Choosing a car in a low insurance group and comparing quotes from multiple insurers can help bring costs down.

Black box insurance, also called telematics, uses a small device fitted to your car or a smartphone app to monitor how you drive. It tracks your speed, braking, cornering, and the times you drive. Safe drivers can save between 20% and 40% on their premiums compared to standard young driver policies. It's a popular choice for young drivers looking to prove they're responsible behind the wheel.

The cheapest cars for young drivers to insure are small, low-powered vehicles in insurance groups 1 to 5. Models like the Toyota Aygo, Peugeot 108, Citroen C1, Kia Picanto, and Volkswagen Polo 1.0 are among the most affordable to insure. Avoid performance versions like the Ford Fiesta ST or Vauxhall Corsa VXR, which sit in insurance groups 29 and above and can cost over £3,000 per year to insure.

Yes, being added as a named driver on a parent's policy is often cheaper than buying your own. It typically costs between £300 and £800 per year. However, you won't build your own no claims bonus this way. Be careful to avoid fronting, which is when a parent is listed as the main driver but the young person actually drives the car most. Fronting is insurance fraud and can lead to your policy being cancelled and claims rejected.

Not always. Many young drivers assume third party only cover is the cheapest option, but comprehensive car insurance is often the same price or even cheaper. This is because insurers see drivers who choose comprehensive policies as lower risk. Always compare actual quotes for both cover levels rather than assuming third party will save you money.

There are several ways to reduce car insurance costs as a new driver. Choose a car in a low insurance group. Consider black box insurance to prove safe driving. Add an experienced named driver like a parent to your policy. Limit your annual mileage. Park in a garage or on a driveway rather than the street. Pay annually instead of monthly to avoid interest charges. Taking a Pass Plus course after passing your test can also qualify you for discounts of up to 35% with some insurers.

Pass Plus is a post-test driving course offered by the DVSA that covers motorway driving, night driving, and other skills not included in the standard test. Some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 35% for drivers who complete the course. Not all insurers recognise Pass Plus, so it's worth checking whether the insurers you're comparing offer a discount before signing up.

Research suggests the best time to buy car insurance is around 20 to 26 days before you need cover to start. Buying too early or leaving it until the last minute can both result in higher prices. Never drive without insurance in place as it's illegal and can result in prosecution, fines, and penalty points. Set a reminder to start comparing quotes three weeks before your policy start date.

Brumble connects young drivers with a comparison tool that searches over 130 UK car insurance providers, including specialists offering competitive rates for ages 17 to 25 and black box policies. Simply enter your details once and you'll see quotes from a wide panel of insurers in minutes. The service is free to use with no obligation to buy.

Insurers typically class a car as a performance vehicle if it has over 200 brake horsepower, sits in insurance group 20 or above, or can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 6 to 7 seconds. Cars with performance badges like ST, GTI, Type R, AMG, M Sport, or RS are usually included. Sports car designs like two-seater roadsters and coupes also fall into this category, even if the power output is more modest.

Performance car insurance costs more for several reasons. Repair costs are significantly higher because of specialist parts, powerful engines, and advanced technology. High-performance cars are also more attractive to thieves, with models like the BMW M3 and Audi RS consistently among the most stolen vehicles in the UK. Statistically, performance cars are more likely to be involved in accidents due to higher speeds and the skill required to handle more powerful vehicles.

Yes, you must declare all modifications to your insurer. This is a legal requirement under the Road Traffic Act. Failing to declare modifications can void your policy entirely, meaning any claims will be rejected and you could face prosecution for driving without valid insurance. This applies to performance upgrades like engine remaps, exhausts, and suspension changes, as well as cosmetic modifications like alloy wheels, body kits, and window tinting.

Modified car insurance typically costs 20% to 50% more than insuring a standard vehicle, depending on the type and extent of modifications. Performance modifications like engine remaps, turbo upgrades, and exhaust changes usually have the biggest impact on premiums. Security modifications like Thatcham-approved trackers and alarms can actually reduce your premium by 5% to 15%. Specialist insurers often offer better rates for modified cars than mainstream providers.

Agreed value insurance means you and your insurer agree on your car's value when you take out the policy. If your car is written off, you receive that agreed amount rather than whatever the insurer decides the market value is at the time of the claim. This is particularly important for modified performance cars, rare models, or classic sports cars where the true value might not be reflected in standard market valuations.

Standard car insurance policies do not cover track day use. If you plan to take your performance car on circuit, you'll need either a policy that includes track day cover, a separate single-day track insurance policy which typically costs between £80 and £200 per event, or a track day add-on to your main policy. Always check your policy documents before driving on a circuit as any damage would not be covered under a standard policy.

Specialist performance car insurers can be 30% to 40% cheaper for modified vehicles compared to mainstream providers. They also offer benefits like agreed value policies, better understanding of modifications, limited mileage discounts, and track day cover options. However, for factory-standard performance cars driven by older drivers with clean records, mainstream insurers can sometimes be competitive. Always compare quotes from both specialist and standard insurers.

There are several ways to lower your performance car insurance premium. Install a Thatcham-approved tracker, which can save 10% to 20% and may be required for cars valued over £50,000. Park in a locked garage rather than on the street. Limit your annual mileage if you use the car as a weekend vehicle. Take an advanced driving course like IAM RoadSmart for discounts of 10% to 25%. Pay annually to avoid interest charges on monthly payments, and build up your no claims bonus over time.

Security devices approved by Thatcham Research can reduce your performance car insurance premium. Category 1 and 2 alarms and immobilisers, Category 5 and 6 GPS tracking devices, and Category 3 steering wheel locks all help lower costs. Parking in a locked garage saves an average of £200 to £500 per year compared to street parking. Storing your keys in a Faraday pouch to prevent relay theft is also recommended, as keyless entry theft accounts for around 90% of high-value car thefts.

Brumble connects you with a comparison tool that searches over 130 UK car insurance providers, including both mainstream insurers and specialists who understand performance and modified vehicles. Simply enter your details once and you'll see quotes from a wide panel of insurers in minutes. Whether your car is factory standard or heavily modified, the service helps you find cover that protects your investment. It's free to use with no obligation to buy.

Black box car insurance, also called telematics insurance, uses technology to monitor how you drive and adjusts your premium based on your actual driving behaviour. A small device fitted to your car or a smartphone app tracks things like your speed, braking, acceleration, and the time of day you drive. Safe drivers can earn significant discounts, making it a popular choice for young and new drivers facing high premiums.

A black box uses GPS and motion sensors to track several aspects of your driving. It monitors your speed and whether you stay within limits, how smoothly you accelerate and brake, how you handle corners, and what time of day you drive. Most systems also track your total mileage and the types of roads you use. This data is sent to your insurer and used to calculate a driving score that affects your premium.

Safe drivers with black box insurance typically save between 20% and 40% compared to standard car insurance policies. For a 17 year old facing premiums of around £2,500, this could mean savings of £700 to £1,000 per year. The exact amount depends on how safely you drive and how well you score on speed, braking, and avoiding late-night driving. Poor driving scores may result in little or no discount.

Most black box insurers use a scoring system where higher scores mean better discounts. A score of 90 or above is typically considered excellent and earns the maximum discount of up to 40%. Scores between 75 and 89 are classed as good driving and earn moderate discounts of 15% to 30%. Scores below 60 are considered higher risk and may result in no discount or even a premium increase at renewal.

Yes, most black box policies allow you to drive at night, but journeys between 11pm and 5am are typically scored more harshly. This is because statistics show 40% of serious accidents involving young drivers happen during these hours. Some budget telematics policies have complete curfews during this time. If you regularly work night shifts or drive late, check the specific terms of any policy before buying.

Most black box policies include a mileage cap, typically between 7,000 and 10,000 miles per year. If you exceed your limit, you'll usually be charged for additional miles at a rate of around 10p to 20p per mile. Some insurers let you buy extra mileage upfront at a lower rate. Significantly exceeding your limit without paying could result in your policy being cancelled, so keep an eye on your mileage throughout the year.

For most young drivers, black box insurance is worth considering. Young drivers face the highest car insurance premiums in the UK, often between £2,000 and £3,000 per year. A telematics policy lets you prove you're a safe driver and earn discounts that wouldn't otherwise be available based on your age alone. Research shows telematics users also have 20% to 30% fewer accidents in their first year of driving.

Yes, the GPS in a black box means your insurer can see where you drive. However, UK insurers must comply with data protection regulations and can only use this information for calculating your premium and helping recover your car if it's stolen. Insurers cannot share your location data with third parties without your consent. If you're uncomfortable with location tracking, app-based telematics may feel less intrusive than a fitted device.

A black box is a physical device fitted to your car, usually behind the dashboard or in the diagnostic port. It works independently and doesn't require your phone. A telematics app uses your smartphone's GPS and sensors to monitor driving instead. Apps are more convenient because there's no installation appointment, but they require your phone to be charged and the app running while you drive. Some drivers find fitted devices more reliable.

Brumble connects you with a comparison tool that searches over 130 UK car insurance providers, including leading telematics insurers alongside standard policies. This lets you compare black box quotes against traditional insurance side by side to see which offers better value for your circumstances. Simply enter your details once and you'll see quotes in minutes. The service is free to use with no obligation to buy.

Brumble's helpful guides are free articles designed to help UK drivers make smarter decisions about car insurance, car finance, and motoring costs. Each guide is written in plain English and covers a specific topic in detail, from understanding insurance groups to tips for reducing your premium. Our aim is to give you the information you need to save money and avoid common mistakes, all in one place.

Our guides are written by people with real experience in the UK motor finance and insurance industry. We focus on accuracy and clarity, using trusted sources and up-to-date data to make sure the information is reliable. Every guide is designed to be easy to understand, even if you have no background in insurance or finance.

Yes, all of Brumble's helpful guides are completely free to read. There's no registration required and no paywall. We believe everyone should have access to clear, trustworthy information about car insurance and motoring costs without having to pay for it or hand over personal details.

Our guides cover a wide range of car-focused topics. You'll find information on how car insurance works, what affects your premium, the cheapest cars to insure, how telematics and black box insurance works, and tips for young and new drivers. We also cover practical topics like paying car tax, understanding no claims bonus, and how modifications affect your insurance. New guides are added regularly.

We take accuracy seriously. Our guides reference official sources, industry data, and regulatory information where relevant. We include links to sources so you can verify the information yourself. We also update guides when rules or prices change to make sure the content stays current and useful.

Yes, that's one of the main reasons we created them. Our guides explain the factors that affect your premium and give practical tips for reducing costs. Whether it's choosing a car in a lower insurance group, understanding how your postcode affects your quote, or deciding if black box insurance is right for you, our guides help you make informed choices that could save you hundreds of pounds.

Absolutely. Many of our guides are written specifically with new and young drivers in mind. We explain things from the ground up without assuming any prior knowledge. If you've just passed your test or you're helping a family member get their first car insured, our guides will walk you through what you need to know in straightforward language.

No, our guides are for information and education only. We don't provide personal financial advice or make recommendations about which policy or product you should buy. The information helps you understand your options so you can make your own informed decisions. If you need advice tailored to your personal circumstances, you should speak to a qualified financial adviser.

We add new guides regularly based on what UK drivers are searching for and asking about. We also update existing guides when there are changes to regulations, insurance pricing trends, or other relevant developments. Our goal is to build the most useful collection of car-focused information for UK drivers.

Brumble earns a commission when you compare car insurance quotes through our partner platform and go on to purchase a policy. This doesn't cost you anything extra. The guides are part of our mission to help UK drivers make better decisions, and we keep them free because we believe access to good information shouldn't depend on your budget.