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One of the most persistent car insurance myths suggests that red cars attract higher premiums because they're associated with aggressive driving, or that brightly coloured vehicles cost more to insure. But what does the evidence actually show? Let's examine the facts.
One of the most persistent car insurance myths suggests that red cars attract higher premiums because they're associated with aggressive driving, or that brightly coloured vehicles cost more to insure. But what does the evidence actually show? Let's examine the facts.
In the UK, your car's colour has no direct impact on your insurance premium. Insurance providers don't request information about your vehicle's colour when calculating quotes. Whether you own a vibrant red sports car or a silver family hatchback, the factory paint finish itself won't influence your insurance costs.
This misconception has persisted for decades, but insurers rely on statistical analysis and actuarial data rather than assumptions. Premiums are calculated using proven risk indicators, and vehicle colour simply doesn't qualify as one.
You can choose your car colour based purely on what you like, without worrying about insurance costs. The factory paint finish has zero impact on your premium.
Insurers look at factors that genuinely predict the likelihood and cost of claims:
Your driving history: Your age, experience, and any past claims or driving convictions have a major impact on your premium.
The car's make and model: A high-performance sports car costs more to insure than a small city car, regardless of colour. Every car is assigned to an insurance group from 1 (cheapest) to 50 (most expensive) based on repair costs, safety features, and theft statistics.
Where you live: Urban areas with higher accident and theft rates typically mean higher premiums than rural locations.
Your no claims bonus: Building up claim-free years can save you up to 70% or more on your premium.
Security features: Cars with approved alarms, immobilisers, and tracking devices may qualify for lower premiums.
Insurance premiums are based on proven risk factors like your driving record, the car's insurance group, your location, and your claims history – not the colour of your car.
While your car's original factory colour doesn't affect insurance, changing that colour does. A custom paint job or vinyl wrap is considered a modification, and you must declare it to your insurer.
Custom paintwork can increase your premium because it:
Even decals and large stickers are technically modifications that should be declared. Failing to tell your insurer about any modifications – including custom paintwork – can invalidate your insurance, meaning they won't pay out if you need to make a claim.
While colour itself doesn't matter, some studies suggest black cars are involved in more accidents – but this is likely because black is one of the most popular car colours in the UK, so statistically more black cars are on the road.
Darker colours may also be harder to see at night, though insurers don't factor this into premiums. The lack of visibility is a practical consideration for safety rather than an insurance pricing factor.
With so many factors affecting your insurance cost, it's worth taking the time to compare quotes. Different insurers weigh these factors differently, so shopping around can help you find better value – whether you drive a red car, a blue car, or any other colour under the rainbow.
The good news is you can choose your car colour based purely on what you like, without worrying about insurance costs. Just remember: if you later change that colour with a custom paint job, let your insurer know straight away.
Find the best deal regardless of your car's colour. Compare quotes from multiple UK insurers via Brumble.
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