Car insurance · Plain-English guide
Car insurance renewal: four checks before you pay
A renewal can look close to last year's price while the cover, excess or payment costs have changed. Compare like with like before you accept it.
Reviewed 9 September 2026 · 3-minute read
The simple checklist
Do these in order
- Check the cover level and compulsory plus voluntary excess.
- Remove add-ons you do not need—but keep anything genuinely valuable to you.
- Compare the annual total if monthly payments include interest or fees.
- Make sure job title, mileage, address, drivers and car use are accurate.
- Set the new policy to start before the old one ends. Never leave an uninsured gap.
Quick answers
People also ask
Do I still need to compare car insurance at renewal?
Yes. FCA rules prevent your insurer from charging more than an equivalent new customer through the same channel, but another insurer may still offer better value or more suitable cover.
What should I compare besides the car insurance price?
Compare the same cover level, compulsory and voluntary excess, add-ons, payment fees and total annual cost. A cheaper quote can be worse value if it removes cover you need.
Should I let my car insurance auto-renew?
Do not rely on auto-renewal without checking the new premium and cover. Arrange replacement cover before cancelling so there is never an uninsured gap.
Check the official guidance
Official rules on home and motor renewal pricing.
FCA: general insurance pricing rules ↗One bill. One decision.
Still unsure?
Use the free Square Peg Check for a clear route: stick, negotiate, cancel or compare.
Take the Square Peg CheckCompare car insurance routes →Get the weekly email →This guide is general information, not personal financial advice. Prices, rules and eligibility can change. Check the latest terms before acting.