Millions could be paying more than they think for their car insurance
Customers paying extra to pay by direct debit and for set up fees, adjustment fees, cancellation fees and even renewal fees
NFU Mutual, which does not charge any extra fees, analysed data from Defaqto and found only 9 of 321 products – 3% – don’t charge any extra fees
Data from 321 insurance products shows that millions of people in the UK could be paying extra fees for their car insurance.
NFU Mutual, which does not charge any extra fees, analysed data from Defaqto and found that only 9 of 321 products – just 3% – do not charge any extra fees to customers.
Data table
Number of products – 321
Number of products charging a fee of some kind – 312 (97%)
Charge
Number of products charging
Percentage of products charging
Highest fee
Average fee
Direct debit
306
95%
n/a
n/a
Set-up fee
146
45%
£350
£58
Adjustment fee
239
74%
£175
£39
Cancellation fee
289
90%
£400
£57
Cooling-off cancellation fee
165
51%
£400
£42
Renewal fee
133
41%
£100
£47
Telematics disconnect and removal fee
14 (out of 62 products)
23%
£100
£68
Telematics documentation fee
2 (out of 62 products)
3%
£60
£60
Telematics missed appointment fee
14 (out of 62 products)
23%
£60
£51
The most common fees charged are direct debit fees, with 95% of products charging customers more to spread payments throughout the year, and cancellation fees, which are present in 90% of products.
The average cancellation fee is £57, with the highest charge a massive £400, which includes a broker fee and a charge for installing the related telematics device.
Adjustment fees are also charged in over three quarters of car insurance products, reducing the ability of consumers to make changes to their insurance without incurring costs. The highest adjustment fee was £175, which includes a broker fee and a charge for installing a new telematics device, with the average fee coming in at £39.
Well over 40% of products charged set-up and renewal fees, effectively penalising customers for setting up insurance. From products which charge the fees, the average set-up cost is £58 and the average renewal fee is £47.
Many insurance providers – 51% of products analysed – also charge customers for cancelling during the 14-day cooling-off period. This cooling-off period is a legal requirement during which a customer can cancel their policy for any reason. However, over half of insurance products charge customers to do this, at an average of £41 and reaching £400 at the higher end, with this covering cancellation, a broker fee and the cost of installing the related telematics device.
With so many car insurance products charging for common things, with the average fees representing not-insignificant amounts, customers could find themselves on the hook for substantial costs on top of their insurance premiums.
Wendy Yeomans, car insurance expert at NFU Mutual, said:“With the cost of living crisis hitting all our pockets, it’s more important than ever to keep on top of our budgets.
“Many households have cancelled media subscriptions or altered their buying habits to keep spending under control, but many will not be aware they are paying the equivalent of this in extra fees for their car insurance.
“Extra fees like this, which many consumers aren’t aware of, make budgeting more difficult and effectively mean the prices many pay for their car insurance creep up beyond what they expected.
“That is why, at NFU Mutual, we are proud to say we don’t charge any extra fees at all, nor do we penalise customers for paying in the way that suits them best – whether this is a monthly direct debit, lump sum or by cheque.”
The average cost of car insurance is now £776, after increasing by £119 (18%) in the past 3 months alone
● Council tax and energy tops the list of the most expensive household bills, costing Brits £984 and £964 respectively, on average(1).
● But drivers are still seeing savings, despite big price hikes, according to further research by Confused.com. Motorists who shopped around and switched in the past 3 months saved £63, on average, with only 9% reporting a cheaper renewal price year-on-year.
● Why are prices rising? Confused.com experts suggest an increase in claims and consequently the cost of claims are rapidly rising. This would account for the unprecedented high increases in car insurance costs.
● Confused.com issues advice to drivers on how to reduce car insurance costs as 2 in 5 (40%) Brits call on insurers to do more to keep prices lower.
A staggering increase in the average cost of car insurance places it as the third most expensive household bill, new data has revealed.
Motorists are now paying £776 for their car insurance, following a £119 (18%) increase in prices over the past 3 months, on average. That’s according to the latest (Q2 2023) car insurance price index, powered by WTW.
Based on more than 6 million quotes over the quarter, it’s the most comprehensive car insurance price index for comprehensive policies. According to the data, prices are now £222, or 40%, more expensive than they were 12 months ago, on average. This makes it the biggest price increase on record. And to put into context how quickly prices have increased, the average premium is 49% more expensive than 2 years ago, in comparison.
These steep increases mean that car insurance costs are close to the expensive rates people are paying for council tax and energy, according to further research. A survey of 2,000 UK drivers(1) found that the average council tax bill is £984 per year, and £964 for energy. And that’s in addition to other expensive essentials, such as food and home entertainment.
That’s as research shows the average UK driver is spending:
● £1,022 on food shopping
● £690 on home entertainment services such as broadband and TV subscriptions.
Are all drivers seeing price increases?
Although some drivers saw some savings, most drivers are feeling the effects of these price hikes. While this may look bleak to drivers, especially during a financially turbulent time, research also shows that there are savings to be made. According to the additional research, only 9% of UK drivers had a cheaper renewal price last quarter (April – June).
This proves that myths surrounding the regulations implemented by the Financial Conduct Authority in January 2021 aren’t true. Following the changes, many drivers believed they wouldn‘t get a more expensive renewal price.
But as the research proves, this isn’t the case. In fact, almost 2 in 3 (59%) saw their price increase, by £52, on average. This is despite almost a third (31%) having no driving convictions, and a further third (32%) having at least 1 year’s no-claims bonus on their policy.
However, many people trusted that they could find a better price, with almost half (46%) going on to switch providers. Of these, almost 2 in 3 (64%) used a price comparison site and saved £63 on their original price, on average.
It’s a similar picture for those who saw a cheaper price, which averaged at just £34 less than the previous year. Two in 5 (40%) went on to buy with another provider, with 1 in 2 (50%) using a price comparison site and also saved £63, on average.
It seems buying a new car insurance policy right now may sound unaffordable. But figures prove that drivers can still save money compared to the renewal price their current insurer is offering.
Why are prices increasing?
It’s clear from the data that prices are increasing for all drivers, whether they choose to renew or buy a new policy. But why are prices rising so significantly?
One of the biggest expenses for insurers is claims. During the pandemic, fewer cars were on the road. As a result, the industry saw a reasonable drop in prices to reflect the reduction in claims being made. But now, research suggests normal driving habits have resumed. This could mean insurers are having to pay out for more claims than they were 2 years ago.
But the important fact here is that the cost of these claims has increased significantly for insurers. Like with many other businesses, this is arguably down to the shift in inflation rates reported over the past 18 months.
And this, as a result, has driven up the cost of repairs and maintenance, which in the event of a claim, is covered by the insurer. This is especially true for newer cars, and many used cars that are in high demand. In fact, the Association for British Insurers (ABI) reported a 33% uplift in the cost of vehicle repairs last quarter.
We’re also seeing that used cars are holding their value more in the current climate. This means that payouts for write-offs or total losses are costing insurers more to cover. Similarly, new cars as well as electric vehicles are much higher in value than before due to more expensive features and upgrades coming as standard. This means paying out to replace a new car is costing insurers more.
What does this mean for drivers?
While the average cost of car insurance in the UK has reached £776, there are some drivers that will be paying significantly more than this. The price paid varies quite a bit, based on a drivers’ gender, location and age.
For example, the average premium for male drivers is now £827. This has increased by £236 (40%) in the last year, and £125 (18%) in the past 3 months. In comparison, female drivers are now paying £690, following a £198 (40%) increase year-on-year, and £107 (18%) over the quarter. This brings the average gap between them to £137.
Similarly, a driver’s location has a huge bearing on their price, with some now paying over £1,000 for their car insurance. A £299 (42%) increase in prices in Outer London has put the average premium in the region at £1,003 – the first time it has reached over £1,000 since the index began. However, Inner London remains the most expensive region in the UK, with the average driver now paying out £1,257.
As expected, prices have risen across all UK regions, but some are still paying a considerable amount less than others. For example, the average insurance cost in the South West is only £509, despite a £136 (36%) increase over the year.
And in most cases, prices are at their most expensive on record for each region, with the exception of Manchester and Merseyside. The average car insurance cost in the region is now £965, making it the most expensive region outside of London. However, this is still £48 (-5%) less than the highest price paid on record (Q4 2011).
A driver’s age also determines how much they pay, with younger drivers bearing the brunt of the biggest car insurance costs. Steep increases means that drivers aged between 17 and 19 are paying out more than £2,000 for their policies, on average. In particular, 18-year-olds are paying the most, with the average premium now £2,404.
This is followed by 19-year-olds, who are paying £2,097, and 17-year-olds who are paying £2,088. At the other end of the scale, drivers around retirement age benefit from the cheapest prices. In fact, for 69-year-olds, the average premium is just £413, in comparison, with drivers aged 61 and over all paying in the £400 bracket.
Why are some drivers paying more than others?
While it may seem unjustified for some drivers to be paying out such hefty prices compared to others, this all comes down to the risk.
For example, male drivers typically have a higher risk profile than women, as they statistically drive more miles and more expensive cars. This puts them at an increased risk of a payout for insurers, as they have to account for the cost of covering a higher value car.
Claims frequency is the biggest explanation for why drivers pay more, and when it comes to location, it’s typically the more populated areas that see the biggest prices. This is because these areas have more cars on the road, higher traffic levels and therefore a higher risk of accidents and claims.
And when it comes to age, younger drivers who are typically less experienced pay more as they’re at a higher risk of making a claim. However, as they build up their driving experience and their no-claims, they should see their costs reduce over time.
How can drivers save money?
With the cost of living crisis continuing to hit Brits in the pocket, it’s clear car insurance is quickly becoming another hefty expense for drivers.
It’s no surprise, then, that 2 in 5 (40%) motorists are calling on insurers to do more to make the cost of car insurance more affordable. In fact, 1 in 4 (25%) claim they’re having to drive less due to the rising costs.
And 1 in 5 (20%) are finding the overall cost of driving too difficult to manage. With the average car insurance price now £772, the overall cost of motoring has reached almost £2,000. That’s as research shows the average UK driver is spending an additional £720 on fuel per year, and £455 on other car maintenance costs.
However, according to Confused.com’s fuel price index, the average price of petrol dropped to 143.3p in June, from 174.5p in August last year. Similarly, the price of diesel is just 145.5p compared to an eye-watering 187.1p, which drivers were paying last November. This goes to show that there are still some areas of motoring where drivers are saving money.
But just because car insurance prices are increasing, doesn’t mean that motorists have to pay more than they need to for their policies.
Experts at Confused.com have identified some key ways for drivers to take a few pounds off their insurance price, without making any significant changes to the way they drive.
● Be accurate with your mileage – Generally, the more miles you drive, the more likely you are to have an accident and make a claim. This means the higher your mileage, the more you pay for your car insurance. So, driving fewer miles can be a great way to save money on your car insurance policy. But don’t assume that a low mileage always means low prices. If you barely drive at all, your insurance company could see that as a risk as well.
● Increase your voluntary excess – Increasing your voluntary excess can help you get cheaper car insurance, but you need to make sure you can afford to pay it, if you need to claim.
● Pay for your car insurance annually – If you can afford it, paying for your insurance in one go rather than monthly is one way to get cheaper car insurance. That’s because insurance companies always charge interest for spreading the cost of your cover over the year.
● Enhance your car security – The harder it is to steal your car, the less of a risk it is. This usually means cheaper car insurance. There are several ways to improve your car security including:
○ Installing a Thatcham-approved car alarm or immobiliser, if it doesn’t already have one
○ Adding secondary levels of security like a steering lock.
○ Parking overnight in a secure, well-lit car park.
Louise Thomas, motor expert at Confused.com car insurance comments:“Car insurance has quickly become one of the biggest expenses for drivers. If prices continue at this rate then there’s no doubt drivers could be priced off the road, as they battle with other rising costs too.
“But what we do know is that many drivers were able to save some money when it came to renewal. And shopping around was the key to this. Even if prices were cheaper for them, the price they saw online was still significantly cheaper.
“Although this isn’t all drivers can do to save money. We always advise drivers to take a look at the details of their policy and make sure they’re accurate before committing to a price. Updating your mileage, or considering additional security could easily bring your price down.
“In the current climate we want to help drivers do all they can to make their insurance more affordable. But we know the key to this will be shopping around and seeing what the best price out there is. It’s a competitive industry and we’re confident that switching will result in savings.
“This is why we offer a guarantee to beat your renewal, or pay you the difference, plus £20. In this scenario, you don’t pay more, and you gain more cash!”
– As Harry Potter arrives on Netflix, experience its iconic locations in real life with a beautiful Highlands road trip
– There are six magical locations to explore, including Glen Etive, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Loch Morar
– The Harry Potter road trip takes 7 hours 54 minutes to complete by car
As the fifth most popular filming location in Europe, Scotland has provided a beautiful backdrop for countless Hollywood blockbusters over the last few decades.
Harry Potter is perhaps the most famous and beloved of these film series to shoot scenes north of the English border, with stunning Highland scenery featuring across each of the eight exciting instalments.
And, as this franchise has arrived on Netflix and reignited the nation’s love for all things Potter, fans can visit its most iconic filming locations, as Macklin Motors has curated the ultimate road trip route of Scotland for Potterheads.
Taking 8 hours to complete by car, this road trip is perfect for Harry Potter fans who want to feel the magic of their favourite scenes, while taking in beautiful Scottish landscapes at the same time.
The journey starts in the astonishingly beautiful valley of Glen Etive, before driving just over half an hour to Rannoch Moor’s Insta-ready autumnal shades, both of which featured in the Deathly Hallows.
The next stop is Steall Falls, the second highest waterfall in Great Britain, a popular beauty spot that made an appearance in the adrenaline-pumping dragon chase scene in the Goblet of Fire.
Drive 40 minutes further and drivers will find the most iconic Harry Potter filming location in Scotland: Glenfinnan Viaduct. Potterheads will certainly recognise this stunning railway viaduct from the Chamber of Secrets’ unforgettable flying car sequence.
The penultimate stop on the road trip route is Loch Morar, which eagle-eyed fans will immediately recognise as Hogwarts Lake from the Prisoner of Azkaban. Then, a long drive across the Scottish Highlands will reveal the very last filming location on the map: Black Rock Gorge. This stoic cavern featured in the Goblet of Fire, taking centre stage during the Triwizard Tournament.
A Macklin Motors spokesperson commented:““Whether for a bank holiday weekend or a week in the Summer holidays, finding the perfect holiday destination for the entire family is always a tricky task.
“With our Harry Potter road trip, we want to provide the best of both worlds for kids and parents alike, touring beautiful Highland hotspots with a magical twist. Plus, at just under eight hours in total, drivers can complete this road trip in a day or take their time with it throughout their holiday in Scotland.
“So, pack the car with snacks, ready your family’s favourite playlist, and set off on a bewitching adventure around Scotland’s stunning scenery.”
For more filming location road trips around Scotland and to find the Google Maps route for this road trip, visit the Macklin Motors blog.
Learners are now paying 215% more for driving lessons than they did thirty years ago, with more young people being excluded from getting behind the wheel due to financial pressures.*
Now car insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk are calling for more regulation for the cost of learning to drive.
This comes after many simply cannot afford the expense as young people are estimated to pay over £2500 to get their licence.
Credit – Shutterstock
Quotezone.co.uk has researched the average amount of money a learner today will end up paying from start to finish.
Before even getting behind the wheel, learners in the UK must apply for a provisional driving licence, costing them £34 to apply online or £43 by post.
Next, the biggest expense, is finding a driving instructor suitable and getting enough practice in to take the test.
The Government’s ‘Ready to Pass’ campaign claims that the average learner will take 45 hours of lessons with their instructor plus 22 hours of private practice.**
Taking into account that the average 1 hour lesson costs £30, learners are expected to fork out £1,350 to pay instructors.***
Paying to actually take the driving test is another expense learners cannot avoid – pupils must pass both the theory test (£23) and the practical test (£62 for weekday tests rising to £75 on the weekend).****
Additional fees at the test-taking stage include paid-for apps to practise theory test questions, and many driving instructors will also require payment for learners to use the car when taking their test.
Overall, learners are now paying £2707 to learn to drive, not including the cost of more driving lessons and more tests if they are unsuccessful after the first try.
Every year around 1.6 million nervous Brits buckle up to sit their practical driving test, and the pass rate as a whole falls just shy of 50% – dropping to 46% on average for female drivers.
Comparatively, reports show that learners in the 1980s and 90s paid an average of just £10 an hour – meaning lessons alone are costing pupils today £900 more.
Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “Learning to drive is a rite of passage and the worry is young people aren’t getting the option to learn, as the rising costs are making it unaffordable.
“More regulation on the cost of driving lessons and other mandatory fees would help young people get out on the roads and also help ensure they don’t cut corners.
“Having a more affordable pathway to learn to drive will also encourage pupils to take their time before booking a test and in turn help reduce the growing driving test backlog seen across the country.”
Learners also have to tax and insure the vehicle and indeed the vehicle cost itself if they don’t have access to a family car, it’s beginning to make driving unattainable for young drivers.
As a price comparison site, Quotezone.co.uk is designed to help young drivers find competitive costs by comparing products and exploring alternative options such as black box or telematics products.
Half-term is here and if you’re looking for something to do to keep the kids entertained, Goodbye Car has created a superhero-themed road trip, that’s also EV-friendly!
Regardless of whether you’re a Marvel or DC fan, our next road trip takes you through some of the most recognisable filming locations from your favourite superhero movies.
It’s around 449 miles long and will take you just over 10 hours in total (assuming you’re not taking the Batmobile!)
First up is St Abbs, a sleepy fishing village in Scotland which you might not initially associate with the Avengers! The village was used as the backdrop for New Asgard, Thor’s Home in Tønsberg. Make sure to take a selfie at the village sign, which reads ‘St Abbs twinned with New Asgard’ in a special nod to the movie.
If we started at New Asgard, it only seems logical that we also visit Old Asgard on our superhero road trip. Durham Cathedral in North East England played host to some of the Asgard scenes in the Avengers: Endgame movie, notably the scene when Rocket slaps Thor out of his panic attack.
3. Dale Street, Manchester, England
Movie: Captain America: The First Avenger | Scene: Heinz Kruger crash | Address: Manchester’s Northern Quarter
Manchester’s Northern Quarter was chosen as the backdrop for the car crash scene with Heinz Kruger during Captain America: The First Avenger. The scene was filmed on Dale Street specifically, which was also where they shot the secret lab found inside the Brooklyn Antiques Shop.
4. Wollaton Hall & Deer Park, Nottingham, England
Movie: The Dark Knight Rises | Scene: Wayne Manor | Address: Nottinghamshire, NG8 2AE
Leaving Marvel for a second, the next stop on our road trip is Wollaton Hall & Deer Park in Nottingham, although it’s perhaps better known as Wayne Manor in The Dark Knight Rises. The hall and grounds feature throughout the movie.
The hall isn’t Nottinghamshire’s only connection to Batman though. It’s believed the 13th Century village of Gotham inspired DC Comics.
5. Millennium Footbridge, London, England
Movie: Guardians of the Galaxy | Scene: Alien City bridge | Address: Thames Embankment, London
Despite its futuristic aesthetic, some of the locations featured in Guardians of the Galaxy are actually inspired by London landmarks. The Alien City skyline features a bridge that’s akin to the Millennium Footbridge, while the space-age-looking Lloyd’s Building is also included.
6. Piccadilly Circus, London, England
Movie: Wonder Woman 1984 | Scene: Max Lord broadcast | Address: W1B 5DQ
The final stop on our superhero road trip takes you to Piccadilly Circus in the heart of central London. Fans of Wonder Woman 1984 will recognise this location from the movie when Max Lord’s global broadcast reached the city. Thankfully, Wonder Woman was on hand with her Lasso of Truth to interfere with Max’s message.
Owners of electric vehicles are being told how they could save up to £1000 a year under the government’s latest plan to install smart charging across the UK.
Electric car experts at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk have researched how EV drivers can save money on their energy bills or make a profit from the National Grid under the new electric vehicle smart charging action plan.
The new government scheme sets out to unlock the potential of smart electric vehicle charging, helping owners of electric vehicles to save hundreds each year on their energy bills.
With the cap on the Energy Price Guarantee set to increase by 20% in April 2023, electric vehicle drivers will be able to minimise their spendings on energy bills.
The government states that the smart charging scheme plans to let motorists charge their EVs when the electricity is cheaper or cleaner.
Drivers can also use the electricity stored in their EVs to power their own homes, allowing them to benefit significantly from lower energy bills.
The scheme will also allow consumers to sell the electricity from their vehicles back to the National Grid for profit.
Bill payers who do not have an EV can also benefit from more sustainable and cheaper energy prices – reducing the demand when electricity is used on the grid from EV drivers will help contribute to reducing energy prices for everyone.
This new smart charging landmark initiative reports to use the latest energy innovations to deliver benefits to EV drivers as the country works towards its zero emissions target on UK roads.
With the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars being introduced in 2030, the smart charging plan aims to further encourage more drivers to make the switch to electric.
The report states that the average electric vehicle driver could save around £200 a year, and a high mileage driver £1000 a year, with the introduction of smarter charging across the UK.
The government is aiming to make smart charging commonplace for EV drivers by 2025 – further initiatives like smart lamppost charging on the street will help make this move happen.
To further the smart charging scheme, £16 million will be invested into these innovative technologies which will harness the potential of the new way of charging.
Alongside smart lampposts, projects to enable domestic appliances to be able to merge into a whole smart energy system, like heat pumps, charge points and batteries, which will also be funded.
Tim Alcock at LeaseElectricCar.co.uk said: “It’s a great win for EV drivers – under the new smart charging scheme you may save up to £1000 on energy bills.
“The government has announced that this scheme will allow you to use electricity to power your homes, energy which is otherwise stored in your vehicle, as well as being able to sell back electricity to the National Grid to make some money.”
He said that it’s good news for those who don’t own an electric vehicle too.
Mr Alcock added: “By reducing the demand for electricity, such as pumping electricity from EVs into the home, this will in turn help contribute to lowering the overall demand and costs for bill payers across the country.
“As we head towards an increase of the energy price cap, the smart charging scheme is a positive step forward for the country to help reduce costs for all consumers.
“Investment into the smart energy system is also going to help EV drivers in the long run too. Smart lampposts and merging domestic appliances into the system will help make smarter charging easier for motorists.
“This recent announcement gives the electric vehicle industry hope that the right infrastructure is being put in place as the country moves towards the ban of new petrol and diesel cars in just seven years time.”
For more on the smart charging scheme and to find out further benefits for EV owners, head over to https://leaseelectriccar.co.uk/
Motorists have been told to maintain their vehicles if proposed changes to MOTs come into force.
Experts from Quotezone.co.uk have warned drivers to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy after proposals to extend the period between tests.
The proposals have come via a consultation jointly published by the Department for Transport (DfT) and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), affecting cars, motorbikes and vans.
Currently, all new vehicles must be tested after they reach three years old, to ensure they do not present a danger to other road users.
But if the new proposals are adopted, this period will be extended to four years, in line with many other countries across Europe.
Advances in technology and the increase in popularity of EVs and hybrid cars mean new vehicles are less likely to need major attention at three years old.
They also suggest that the period between MOT tests could also be extended from one year for newer vehicles.
While the experts from Quotezone.co.uk welcome the chance for drivers to create savings, safety must always be the number one priority and both the government and the motorists themselves have a duty to ensure their cars, vans and motorbikes are safe to operate.
Many countries across Europe have the four year policy, and the proposals would bring Britain in line with countries like Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.
Government analysis shows less frequent MOT tests could save UK drivers around £100 million per year.
Quotezone.co.uk did a sample survey in Northern Ireland – where all vehicles must be tested at a dedicated MOT centre – putting the system under increasing pressure to clear the pandemic backlog. 43% of drivers were said to be waiting over 3 months for an available test date and 59% were driving on the road pass their test due date.
These proposed changes may alleviate some issues but it’s important to remember 1 in 10 vehicles fail their MOT first time, under the proposal these vehicles would now be on the road for an additional year which some experts fear may increase the number of unsafe vehicles on our roads.
Quotezone.co.uk Founder Greg Wilson has said: “These proposals to have less frequent MOT tests is likely to put the onus on the driver to more regularly maintain the vehicle and ensure its roadworthy.
“Whilst of course money saving benefits are great in this economic climate, getting into an accident or driving an unsafe car could result in costs far bigger than a £40 MOT.
“There are several routine checks which drivers can do at home to help their vehicle stay in a safe and roadworthy condition.”
Quotezone.co.uk has provided checks you can make on your car:
Check tyres:
Before setting off, it is important to check for any cuts or wear. It is also good to check if the tyre pressures are appropriate for the load and condition of the tyres. The minimum and legal limit for tread depth of the tyres is 1.6mm – drivers can insert a 20p into the tread to double check, the tyre thickness should be more than the first line on the coin.
Check lights:
You need to make sure your indicators, hazard lights, headlights, fog lights, reverse lights and brake lights all work. Having any of these not working or in a temperamental condition could put you, passengers and other motorists at risk.
Check brakes:
The braking system needs to be in good working order. If the car pulls to one side when applying the breaks then this indicates an issue. Look at the handbrake too and ensure it works well, especially on an incline. If you have alloy wheels, it could be possible to do a visual inspection of the brakes without actually removing the wheel.
Check fluid levels:
Keep your screen wash topped up so you can clean dirt off your windscreen and ensure you have good visibility and top up break fluid and oil.
Check mirrors:
All mirrors must be secure and free of cracks. If they need replacing you can normally find ones for your car model online, but stay clear of self-adhesive types as these are not durable.
Check windscreen and wipers:
Ensure there is no damage to your windscreen. A chip or crack that exceeds 40mm will actually result in a failed MOT test. On top of the windscreen, the wipers and washers should be functional to ensure good visibility at all times.
Drivers have been warned that stopping distances will be at least double during the wettest months of the year posing a serious threat to all road users.
Motoring experts at LeaseCar.uk have urged motorists to follow six simple steps when driving in wet conditions to reduce the risk of accidents from occurring.
October to January are typically the wettest months in the UK and motorists should be aware that the highway code advises drivers to drive according to the road conditions as tyres will have less traction in wet conditions.
Image credit: Pexels
Drivers can more easily feel the lack of grip in the ice and snow of winter but in the wettest autumn months modern car tyres will grip the road effectively in the wet until they lose grip under hard braking often taking drivers by surprise.
Stopping distances are worked out by adding the thinking distance and the braking distance, which can vary depending on the road conditions and the condition of the car.
At 60mph total stopping distance is around 75 metres but in the wet this doubles to 150m – approximately the height of the Blackpool Tower.
Checking parts of the vehicle such as the condition of the brakes and tyres can help reduce stopping distances while managing the space to the car in front will make sure drivers have room to stop safely in the wet.
A spokesperson from LeaseCar.uk said: “It’s important for drivers to be aware that stopping distances will at least double in the wet.
“As we enter the wettest months in the UK it’s vital that motorists manage their speed and distance to the car in front to prevent any serious accidents.
“Motorists only need to visualise the height of the Blackpool Tower to better understand the distance they will need to safely stop their vehicle during the wettest months.
“Drivers should regularly check the condition of their vehicle paying particular attention to the brakes and depth of tyre tread as stopping distances will increase significantly in the wet if either are in poor condition.”
Here are the six simple measures drivers should take to reduce the risk of having an accident in the wet as recommended by LeaseCar.uk:
Monitor tyre tread
Not only do stopping distances double in the wet, but threadbare tyres will grip the road even less meaning even greater distances before drivers can safely stop their vehicles. Tyre tread can easily harden in cold weather which can lead to further loss of control.
Regularly check brake condition
If you’re noticing a delay in the car slowing after pressing the brake pedal there’s a high chance that the car has worn brake pads or the brakes have developed a fault. In the wet it’s crucial that the brakes work as they should otherwise already large stopping distances increase further.
Manage the distance to the car in front
One good guide to follow is the two-second rule in the dry which involves picking a stationary object by the side of the road and counting the seconds between the car in front passing the object and you passing it. In the dry two seconds is the minimum time recommended. In the wet this increases to four seconds. If you are within four seconds in the wet, then give yourself more space to brake safely.
Cautious driving
Wet conditions means less grip on the road. Driving at slower speeds and braking in a controlled way will help keep the car balanced in the wet and you in control. It’s also best to not press too hard on the accelerator to prevent the likelihood of the car skidding and the wheels from spinning on the wet tarmac.
Check headlights are working
One of the most important checks to make is ensuring the headlights are in full working order. During the darker months having faulty lights can make it more difficult to calculate a safe stopping distance to the car in front.
Take regular breaks
With the weather getting darker earlier during the autumnal months driving requires greater levels of concentration and can be more draining. It’s important to regularly rest at services to keep energised while driving as tiredness can increase the chances of an accident due to delayed reaction times.
Drivers are being warned to check their car components to ensure their vehicle survives the harshness of winter weather.
Motoring experts fromLeaseCar.uk are urging drivers to follow their winter vehicle survival guide by checking the engine’s coolness and monitoring oil levels to ensure their safety on the road.
With heavy rain and snowstorms expected over the next few months, the coldness of winter weather can worsen the condition of car components quicker.
Driving in winter can already be quite a challenge for motorists, but following this guide can help to ensure motorists are protected and don’t have to worry about their car breaking down.
Tim Alcock fromLeaseCar.uk said: “Winter can be one of the toughest times for drivers on the road as the disruptive change in weather can damage a vehicle’s durability.
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“Winter-proofing your car by regularly checking tyre pressure and knowing what to look out for when the car battery is damaged can not only prevent you from serious harm but other drivers too.
“This useful guide will help motorists prepare for the winter cold and which noticeable red flags to look out for when hitting the roads.”
Here is LeaseCar.uk’s winter vehicle guide to keep safe and protect your car:
1. Tyres
In colder weather, tyre pressure tends to drop drastically and if you notice your car starting to sway, this could be down to underinflation. Tyre pressure decreases every 10 degrees, so it’s vital to check the levels every two weeks and inflate when needed, otherwise it can lead to difficulties when braking and accelerating.
2. Oil
Oil tends to thicken in chilly temperatures, which can make it difficult to pump through the engine. It’s recommended to use 5W30 oil in winter to help with thinning the oil to ensure the car runs smoothly.
3. Car battery
Turn on the car for a few minutes before setting off to decrease the chances of the batteries stalling. Once the temperature drops, less power will be omitted which can make it difficult to start the vehicle up in the cold winter mornings. If the problem repeatedly happens, immediately take it to a mechanic, as it could mean the battery has broken from the cold and will need replacing.
4. Bulbs
As the days get darker throughout winter, make sure the front lights and brake lights are fully working before setting off on your journey. Lights not only give us a clear view of the road but they ensure we’re visible to other drivers. Failure to check your lights can lead to a fixed fine if your brake lights aren’t working; if broken visit the nearer garage as soon as possible.
5. Heating
The feeling of warming up in the car when the weather is freezing outside is indescribable, however it can become quite easy for the heating to stop working during these conditions. This will mean there is a fault with the engine coolant, which could be blocked or even worse, a leak, which would mean it needs to be taken in for repairs.
Drivers are being warned about the worsening condition of roads across the UK as recent data reveals that 90% of insurance claims come from potholes.
Experts from leading price comparison website Quotezone.co.uk are calling on the government and local councils to not let the pothole problem get even worse.
With a long winter of bad weather ahead motorists will run an increased risk of damaging vehicles by driving over potholes if UK roads are not properly maintained.
Spending on road maintenance has almost halved since the financial crisis just over a decade ago, and the recent cost-of-living crisis has further reduced potholes on the priority list.
Even temporary pothole fixtures – which involves filling the hole with a form of asphalt treatment – have also decreased by almost half in some counties.
There are also claims from members of the public that councils are not properly inspecting potholes that have been reported online.
Several county councils have admitted that filling in potholes is no longer a priority as a result of the rising cost of living, with less funding for UK highways.
And with an expected bad weather spell to last well into the New Year with rising levels of snow, ice and rain – it will no doubt make potholes even worse.
With a combination of bad weather and lack of funding, the UK is likely sitting on a disaster waiting to happen and the pothole problem may soon get out of hand.
With nine in 10 insurance claims coming from pothole incidents, Quotezone.co.uk are calling for councils and the government to urgently act on what is a UK-wide problem.
Data shows that the worst pothole affected area in the UK by far is Northumberland, with over 180,000 potholes reported over four years, followed by Cornwall and Kirklees in West Yorkshire.
Newcastle, Liverpool and Suffolk also have some of the worst potholed roads in the UK as well as Fife and Glasgow in Scotland, and Newry, Mourne & Down joined by Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon in Northern Ireland.
Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk said: “We all know how bad it can be to drive down roads which are full of potholes, and unfortunately the problem does not seem to be going away.
“With a massive 90% of insurance claims coming from pothole related incidents, most of us have had damage caused by a pothole, or know someone that has.
“We are expecting a winter of extreme weather and with spending on road maintenance on the decline, we could expect to see a significant increase in pothole related claims.
“This will make UK roads more dangerous for all road users, so we’d encourage local authorities and the government to act now ahead of the worsening weather and make a start on fixing the UK’s pothole problem.”
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