How to Change Car Insurance
Whether you’ve found a cheaper deal or your circumstances have changed, knowing how to change car insurance is key to saving money and staying properly covered. The good news? Switching or updating your policy is easier than most people think.
Key points
Reasons You Might Want to Change Car Insurance
- You’ve found a better deal elsewhere
- You’re unhappy with your current provider’s service
- Your personal details (like address or job) have changed
- You’re buying a new car
- You want to add or remove drivers from your policy
How to Switch Car Insurance Providers
- Compare Quotes Online: Use comparison tools to find the best deal. Make sure you’re comparing like-for-like cover. You can compare car insurance quotes on our site.
- Check Cancellation Fees: If you’re mid-policy, your insurer may charge a cancellation fee and retain part of your premium.
- Purchase Your New Policy First: Never cancel your old policy before you’ve bought the new one. You don’t want to be uninsured for even a day.
- Cancel Your Existing Policy: Contact your current insurer to cancel your policy. You’ll usually need to confirm this in writing.
- Receive Your Refund (if applicable): If you’ve paid annually and cancelled early, you might be due a partial refund (minus admin fees).
How to Make Changes to an Existing Policy
If you don’t want to switch insurers but need to update your details, just contact your current provider. Most allow updates online or by phone.
Common changes include:
- Changing your car
- Updating your address
- Modifying your occupation or annual mileage
- Adding/removing named drivers
Note: Changes may affect your premium or trigger an admin fee.
Can I switch car insurance at any time?
Yes, but you may have to pay cancellation fees if you’re mid-policy. Renewal is usually the best time to switch.
Will switching affect my no-claims bonus?
No, as long as there’s no break in cover, your no-claims bonus should transfer to the new policy.
Do I need to tell the DVLA when I change insurers?
No, your insurer will update the Motor Insurance Database (MID) for you.
Can I change my car on my policy mid-term?
Yes, but your premium may go up or down depending on the new vehicle. This is more likely to happen if the new vehicle is in a higher insurance group.
In Summary
- You can change car insurance any time, but check for cancellation fees
- Always buy your new policy before cancelling the old one
- Use renewal time as a chance to compare car insurance quotes and save
- You can update most details mid-policy through your provider
Changing your car insurance doesn’t have to be a hassle, and it could save you a decent chunk of money if done right.
Compare 110+ Providers if You’re Considering a Change
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