Other ways of cutting your car insurance bill

Aside from the various car insurance options that you can choose to accept or decline – and which will therefore increase or reduce the price of your motor cover – there are other steps you can take that will impact on the cost of your policy.

Here are some of them:

Mileage – Many insurers’ policies are based partly on an estimate of the mileage you travel each year. When they send you a renewal quote, it is based on the estimated mileage you originally gave them.

So, for example, if you change jobs and have a shorter commute you should inform your insurer of a new estimated mileage as this could save you cash.

Learner drivers – Insurers always like to have additional proof that you are a competent driver. Extra lessons with the Pass Plus scheme can cut motor insurance premiums by as much as 35%.

Motorists who pass an `advanced driver` course can also see their premiums reduced. Think seriously about it: one single course fee could cut your future car insurance bills for years to come.

Marriage – Married men attract lower premiums than single men. This is not necessarily an invitation to marry simply in order to reduce your car insurance costs.

But it is worth noting that there are a number of other financial advantages to being married, not least of which is no inheritance tax and similar benefits.

Car security – A car alarm, immobiliser or tracker makes it less likely that your car will be stolen and therefore should reduce your premium. If you do fit such security devices, make sure that they are approved by your insurer. It is worth calling your insurer to see which ones will cut your car insurance quote the most.

Don`t speed or commit other traffic offences – The higher the number of speeding and other offences, the more expensive your car insurance is likely to be.

Modifications – New wheels, seats, colour changes and adding a spoiler are all changes that could add significantly to your premium. To pay as little as possible, keep modifications to a minimum.

Avoid monthly premiums - Most insurers charge a fee for this service. The fee ranges from 13% up to 29% APR. You can avoid this by taking out a credit card with an introductory interest-free offer. We do recommend however that you read our guide to credit cards before you consider making an application.

Consider who to put as the main insured driver – If you have one car in your family, drive it equally and you have more penalty points than your spouse, putting him/her down as the main driver with you as a named driver on the policy could also cut your bill.