Counting the cost of car vandalism

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Motorists counting down the days until they can drive away their new motor are reminded that doing some homework before they buy can save them a fortune. While many will spend months deciding what make and model to buy, very few take the car insurance group classification into account, which will affect their car insurance premium.

Drivers intending on buying a new car are urged to take their time to search the car insurance market and drive a hard bargain to find a competitive car insurance policy. UK motorists who simply renew with their existing insurer or take up the first quote they are given are likely to be wasting hundreds of pounds.

Each year the factors that affect your car insurance - age, address, type of car and occupation, are likely to change and therefore so is the insurer that is capable of offering you the best product for the best price.

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Simple rules to save on car insurance

• Be sure to shop around for car insurance quotes before accepting the renewal price offered by your existing insurer.

• By searching the market you should find a competitive premium and a relevant (not just cheap) policy that covers you for the things that matter to you. Don't just consider the price alone as quality of the insurance is also very important especially when it comes to making a claim.

• Motorists must always compare policies on a like for like basis. Read the policy carefully to ensure you have cover for all eventualities.

• Consider the excesses and exclusions carefully. A cheaper policy may be hiding a high excess and limited cover. Some insurers no longer included 'Driving Others Cars' as standard while other do not include a courtesy car. If you drive regularly drive abroad check the European cover limit. Some car insurance polices include this cover as standard, others may charge you an additional fee.

• Car insurers often offer better discounts if you choose to buy your car insurance policy online.

• Respect the rules of the road. Drive carefully, avoid claims and convictions and you will build up your no-claims bonus. In return, insurers will reward you with lower premiums.

• Keeping your car secure will help to drive down your car insurance premiums. If you have access to a garage, make the effort to use it rather than parking your car on the roadside. Alarms and immobilisers will act as a deterrent to thieves. Always remove detachable stereos and valuable items from the vehicle.

• Pay your premium in full each year if you can afford to. This way you will avoid the high APR's that many insurers charge for monthly instalments.

• Inform your insurer if your annual mileage is low. If you use your car to commute to work, expect more expensive premiums.

• Younger drivers should avoid buying expensive high performance cars. Instead they should invest in a smaller cheaper car to start with. This way they can build up their no-claims discount and benefit from cheaper premiums later on.

• Never twist the truth when getting a quote for your car insurance. Insurers can refuse to settle a claim if the information you have initially provided them with is found to be untrue.

• You must remember to keep your insurer up to date of any changes in your driver profile. You are obliged to inform your insurer of any convictions, changes of address or modifications to you vehicle - all of which can affect the premium you pay.