A Guide to Keeping Car Costs Down

It's human nature to want to protect the things that are valuable and important to us. But whilst prevention may be better than the cure a lot of the time, sometimes life's little mishaps are simply unavoidable, which is why many people put measures in place to cover themselves should an unfortunate incident take place.

Countless people across the country rely on their cars to get from A to B. Whether they live in the country and need to get to work or they have simply become accustomed to the freedom that having private motorised transport brings, a car is certainly one thing that many people could not do without.

But there are many expenses attached to sustaining a car. There is the road tax, petrol, MOT, general maintenance costs and, of course, car insurance. So cars can be rather expensive items to keep on the road, but with a little know-how and financial savvy it is possible to minimise the monthly motor outlay.

Car insurance premiums, for example, are one of the easier expenditures to manage and it all starts before the car is even purchased. The one golden rule to remember is that insurers will base their premiums on perceived risk. For instance - fast cars with powerful engines are usually more expensive to cover, whilst soft top cars often carry heavier premiums as they are easier for thieves to break into.

It's also worth considering adding an older, more experienced driver to the car insurance policy, especially if the other driver is young and has only recently passed their driving test. However, it's important not to claim someone as the main driver when they're not; this is known as 'fronting' and is a form of insurance fraud which could invalidate the policy.

Another good way of keeping car insurance costs down is to consider driving less. Some car insurance providers will reduce the premium costs if the driver agrees to an annual mileage cap; the theory being the less time spent on the road then there is less chance of being involved in an accident. This may be a good idea for households with two cars, one of which is used sparingly.

Ultimately though, the best car insurance premiums are usually offered to those with a good track record on the roads. And whilst there are useful hints and tips that can certainly help to lower the costs in the short-term, there is no getting away from the fact that safe drivers who are careful to avoid getting on the wrong side of the law will ultimately receive the most favourable car insurance prices.

Victoria Cochrane writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.