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If you're getting a car insurance quote, you'll be asked how many miles you drive each year. But what's normal? Understanding average mileage can help you give a more accurate answer – and potentially save money on your insurance.
14 November 2025
The UK Average Is Lower Than You Think
In 2024, the average car in the UK travelled 7,100 miles per year. That's quite a drop from 20 years ago when cars covered around 9,100 miles annually. British drivers are using their cars less, mainly because we're doing far less business travel than before.
Interestingly, the type of fuel your car uses makes a difference. Diesel drivers cover about 8,300 miles per year on average, while petrol car owners drive just 6,200 miles. Electric and hybrid vehicles sit somewhere in the middle, with battery electric cars averaging 8,292 miles annually.
Why Your Mileage Matters for Insurance
When insurers work out your quote, they use your annual mileage as one of the key factors. The logic is simple: the more time you spend on the road, the higher your chances of having an accident.
However, it's not always straightforward. Some research shows that very low-mileage drivers (those covering 5,000-6,000 miles) can end up paying more than drivers doing 11,000-12,000 miles per year. This happens because insurers sometimes see very low mileage as a sign of inexperience.
Getting Your Mileage Right
It's really important to give an accurate mileage estimate. If you underestimate by a lot, your insurance could be cancelled or a claim refused. If you overestimate, you'll likely pay more than you need to.
Not sure how many miles you do? Check your MOT certificate – it shows your mileage from last year. Or track your driving for a typical week and multiply by 52 to get a yearly figure.
Compare to Find the Best Deal
Different insurers treat mileage differently when setting prices. Use the free comparison tool to check quotes from leading UK insurers – even small differences in how they calculate your premium could save you money. It takes just minutes to compare and you might be surprised at the savings available.
Whether you're a low-mileage driver or rack up the miles for work, getting the right cover at the right price starts with an accurate mileage estimate and smart shopping around.
Sources
NimbleFins - Average Car Mileage UK (2024)
https://www.nimblefins.co.uk/cheap-car-insurance/average-car-mileage-uk
Fleet News - EV mileage increase as petrol and diesel vehicles drive fewer miles (March 2024)
https://www.fleetnews.co.uk/news/ev-mileages-increase-as-petrol-and-diesel-vehicles-drive-fewer-miles
By Miles - Why are low mileage drivers charged more? (January 2024)
https://www.bymiles.co.uk/insure/magazine/research-low-mileage-drivers-pay-more-for-car-insurance/
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