• Electric Vehicles – a quick guide

    Electric Vehicles – a quick guide

    This article was published on 9th December 2024. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    With the UK Government pledging to reinstate the 2030 ban on the sales of new internal combustion engines (ICE) or put more simply, petrol and diesel cars/vans, we thought it would be a good idea to give you a quick guide on electric vehicles (EV).

    What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)? 

    The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology official description is: 

    Electric Vehicles use electric motors to drive their wheels. They derive some or all of their power from large, rechargeable batteries. The distance an EV can drive between recharges is known as its range. 

    Let’s have a look at the different types and some of the names you might have heard of: 

    • All-electric EVs – where the battery is the only power source. The range (distance they can travel) will vary, according to driving style, terrain and the use of auxiliary equipment such as heating/air conditioning. 
    • Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) – can switch between running on electricity, petrol or diesel. They typically have a smaller battery, and therefore a lower battery powered range of between 10-40 miles. However their maximum range is equivalent to a petrol or diesel car. Both Plug-in Hybrid and all-electric EVs are recharged by plugging them in to the electricity grid.
    • Hybrids (HEVs) – which do not plug in, such as the Toyota Prius, have a much smaller battery which is recharged while driving. HEVs can drive in electric mode for a few miles and then revert to using petrol or diesel.
    • Fuel Cell Vehicles – generate their own electricity on-board from a fuel such as hydrogen, and do not need to plug in to the electricity grid to recharge. Re-fuelling is similar to a petrol or diesel car.

    Which type of EV is best for me? 

    This is a personal choice and will be dependent on a number of factors including, affordability, the type and distance of journeys you make and charging infrastructure where you live. 

    According to a UK Government report, 99% of car journeys in England are under 100 miles, so most could be made by an EV without needing to recharge. 

    How much do EVs cost? 

    Currently EVs cost more to buy than a comparable petrol or diesel vehicle. While they have less mechanical parts than a conventional vehicle, battery prices are a substantial cost. Many modern EVs use lithium-ion batteries and it takes a lot of time and effort to turn raw lithium into something that can be used. Some manufacturers offer incentives and lease plans for the battery, so include this in your car purchase research. 

    As EVs become more popular and manufacturers produce more vehicles and models, plus technology improvements, prices are anticipated to reduce. 

    Vehicle range 

    While vehicle range isn’t an issue with hybrids, as they will run on petrol and diesel, in addition to electric, vehicle range has always been a concern for drivers. It’s therefore encouraging to hear that according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the average electric range for new EVs launched in 2023 was nearly 300 miles, compared to 210 miles in 2020. Of course, some of this will be reflective of the driving conditions, roads and the way you drive, plus use of aircon and technology within the vehicle.

    Charging points 

    The term “range anxiety” describes a very real fear of running out of battery and knowing where to charge it up. 

    While you can have a charger fitted at home, clearly there will be times when you need to recharge when out and about. 

    The good news is that, the number of charging points is increasing. According to Zap Map the number of charging points grows by the day and at the end of October 2024, there were 71,459 electric charging points across 36,060 charging locations (UK only). This represents a 38% increase in the total number of charging devices since October 2023. 

    In October 2024, 1,025 new charging devices were added to the Zap-Map database. You can view local ones to you or your journey at zap map live – you might not have even known they were there!

    What about insuring your EVs 

    Do I need specialist insurance? The simple answer is no. Whilst you can buy specialist insurance for your EV, most major insurers now cover electric cars. 

    Does it cost more to insure an EV? 

    This can depend on the EV you choose, but according to wepoweryourcar.com, on average, insurance is more expensive than petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK.  

    This could be linked to expensive parts, higher repair costs and the availability of garages with qualified mechanics. While electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, some components like the lithium-ion batteries are very expensive to repair if damaged.  

    As EVs become more commonplace this may change, but also remember that electric cars may benefit from other savings, such as congestion charges and zero vehicle road tax, but it is worth noting that from April 2025, EVs will pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). 

    Car insurance from Police Mutual

    Police Mutual Car Insurance offers policies for a range of EVs. You don’t need to buy a special EV policy and you can get a quote in the usual way. 

    You can either call us on 0151 242 7640 or go online at policemutual.co.uk/car 

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS. 

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. 

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored. 

    WC CI WEB 0003/0004 v 2 29.11.24

    Joanne Palmer

  • Protect your car from theft

    Protect your car from theft

    This article was published on 23 Sep 2021. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Car theft is unfortunately as rampant as ever with almost 20,000 more vehicles stolen in 2020 than 2019.[i] As members of the Police family this stat might not come as a surprise and neither can the following advice in this article. But there’s no harm in refreshing your knowledge or sharing this with family or friends who could benefit.

    According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Crime in England and Wales for the year ending September 2020 report[ii], there has been an increase in the number of vehicle-related theft offences. Although the report does not highlight any sole reason, many media reports believe that after many years of improved security measures on cars, a contributing factor may be an increase in the number of cars which have keyless entry.

    If you have a car with keyless entry, you might find the following security tips provided by Thatcham Research, the motor insurers’ automotive research centre, useful:

    • Contact your dealer and talk about the digital features in your car. Have there been any software updates you can take advantage of?
    • Check if your keyless entry fob can be turned off. If it can, and your dealer can also confirm this, then do so overnight.
    • Store your keys away from household entry points. Keeping your keyless entry fob out of sight is not enough – thieves only need to gain proximity to the key to amplify its signal.
    • Be vigilant and keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your neighbourhood.


    Even if you don’t have a vehicle with keyless entry you can take the following simple steps to help deter opportunist car thieves:

    • Make sure your car is secure before you leave it, even if you just need to leave it for a few minutes. Always shut the doors and windows and lock your car.
    • Never leave your car running unattended and always remove the keys from the ignition.
    • Never leave any personal items on display. It takes thieves seconds to smash a car window and steal your property.
    • Use secure car parks ideally with monitored barriers or park in busy well-lit areas.
    • Use a visual and physical deterrent such as a steering wheel or gear shift lock.
    • Think about installing an audio alarm or get an electronic engine immobiliser fitted, if it doesn’t come as standard.
    • A tracking system can be an excellent investment and if fitted along with the other devices might result in a lower insurance premium.

    You might also want to consider upgrading the security for your drive or parking space. There are many small home CCTV systems which needn’t cost the earth, and it could help catch someone who does try to steal your car. A motion sensor activated security light may also put thieves off.

    The more layers of protection you can add the less appealing your car will be to criminals.

    And last, but by no means least, make sure that your car keys are not left in an obvious place such as a key hook by the front door or in sight when you are out and about, as this is an easy place for would-be thieves to look.

    Police Mutual provides car insurance for serving or retired Police Officers and Staff, Specials and their families. For more information about our Car Insurance and how you could benefit, click here or call 0151 242 7640.

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    [i] https://www.rivervaleleasing.co.uk/blog/posts/most-stolen-cars-uk-theft

    [ii] https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/datasets/natureofcrimevehiclerelatedtheft

    Joanne Palmer

  • Breakdowns – Let’s take a look at some of the common reasons

    Breakdowns – Let’s take a look at some of the common reasons

    This article was published on Thu 25 Jun 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Vehicle breakdowns can occur literally on any day of the week, or hour of the day to any owner of any car. Of course, there is never a good time to have a breakdown, but we share some of the most common reasons for a breakdown and what you can do in some cases, to prevent them.

    Battery

    Perhaps the most common cause of a breakdown is a flat or faulty battery. It could happen for a variety of reasons such as a faulty or old battery or simply that you don’t go on enough longer journeys where the battery gets a longer charge.

    Charging the battery overnight every so often may help and it’s worth remembering that batteries don’t last for ever and you may need to replace every couple of years.

    Alternator

    The alternator recharges the battery using power from the engine and also provides power to the car’s electrical components.

    Unfortunately there is no way to maintain an alternator but warning signs to look out for include a flickering battery warning light, dimmed headlights and potentially slower than normal windscreen wipers.

    Starter Motor

    The starter motor uses electricity from the battery to turn and start the engine when the car ignition is switched on.

    There isn’t much you can do to avoid issues with your starter motor, although regular maintenance checks may prevent problems.

    Tyre and Wheel Damage

    A tyre could burst due to debris on the road or because of under-inflation.

    Under-inflation can cause tyres to overheat, so it’s good practice to check your vehicle’s tyre pressure and tread condition when you fill up with fuel.

    While it’s a condition of the annual vehicle MOT, It’s also a good idea to regularly check you have a serviceable spare wheel or a temporary puncture repair kit in the car.

    Misfuelling

    Thousands of drivers a year put the wrong fuel in their cars. It’s easily done. Most misfuelling errors are motorists putting petrol in a diesel car as the petrol nozzles easily fits in the wider diesel filler neck.

    If you have misfuelled your car, the most important thing is not to start your car. Even turning the ignition is enough to prime the fuel pump and pull fuel into the system. If you can, move your car away from the pumps, but remember don’t start the engine. Call your breakdown or car insurer (if covered) so they can then advise or send out a specialist to help.

    Electrical problem

    Your car’s electrical system includes a range of circuits controlling everything from the engine management system to the headlights and even the info system and stereo. As cars, get more technical, the chances of having a problem become more common.

    Other than simple fixes for broken bulbs, it’s better to get a trained mechanic to run a full analysis of the electrical system and advise you on next steps.

    Loss of oil

    Low oil levels can not only damage your engine by causing overheating but can even result in the engine seizing completely as the oil lubricates the engine parts, reducing potentially damaging friction.

    While most cars have a “low engine oil” warning light, it’s best not to rely on this and complete a regular manual check of the vehicle using the oil dipstick, normally located in the engine compartment.

    Lost Keys

    If you lose your key or lock it inside your car, you’re going to need help to get back in. While it’s a good idea to keep the spare in a safe place at home, this won’t always help you if you are miles away.

    Many newer cars have micro-chipped keys, designed to make them harder to be stolen, but which means you will have to contact a main car dealer for your car or call out a specialist.

    Breakdown cover that keeps you moving from £56 per year.

    Provided by ERS, Police Mutual Rescue unlike the AA or RAC, doesn’t have a fleet of branded vans, but utilises 425 UK recovery specialists, on hand 365 days a year*, to rescue our members when they breakdown.

    UK cover comes with:

    • Misfuelling cover
    • Lost keys and lock assistance
    • Assistance at home and within 1/4 mile
    • Onward travel provision should your car not be repairable

    For full policy cover details including any exclusions, please call 0151 242 7640 or visit our website.

    *Information provided by ERS, March 2020.

    Police Mutual Rescue (Breakdown Cover) is provided by ERS (Syndicate 218 at Lloyds).

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct

    Authority. Registered in England and Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House,

    Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    Joanne Palmer

  • Exclusive FAO and AO Discount on Car and Home Insurance

    Exclusive FAO and AO Discount on Car and Home Insurance

    This article was published on Wed 08 Apr 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    ou have probably seen the new offers for discounted home and car insurance.

    This online discount is a limited offer – the Home Insurance discount runs until 23 April 2020 and the Car Insurance discount ends on 30 June 2020.

    You can take advantage of these offers PLUS your usual FAO/AO discount.

    To get both discounts you’ll need to follow these 3 simple steps;
    1. Get a Home and/or Car quote online at policemutual.co.uk
    2. Make a note of the quote reference(s)
    3. Email the quote reference(s) to info@pmas.co.uk stating you’re an FAO or AO

    One of our insurance experts will then ensure your FAO/AO discount is also applied. We’ll then contact you as soon as we can to confirm your fully discounted quote price.

    The online discount is applied to the basic premium when you buy a new car or home policy. The FAO/AO discount is then applied to the online discounted premium. The discounts are not available on optional extras and minimum premiums apply. The online offer only applies during the policy period and will not apply at renewal; the renewal price may be higher. The online discount will be automatically applied to your quote and will apply on all quotes taken before midnight on 30 June 2020 for car insurance and 23 April 2020 for home insurance, however can be withdrawn at any time.

    Please note your standard FAO/AO discounts of 20% off your Home Insurance and 10% off your Car Insurance will continue, on telephone quotes, after the online discounts have finished, if you remain in the role.

    Joanne Palmer

    , ,

  • Tips for winter driving

    Tips for winter driving

    This article was published on Mon 07 Oct 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Driving on the roads can be tricky at the best of times, but the winter months can add to this with shorter daylight hours, poor driving conditions, busy roads, distracted drivers, and even a few pedestrians you need to watch out for. To help you avoid some of the more common motoring problems and be more prepared as bad weather hits, we’ve put together a few handy hints to help you and your family. Many of these may come as second nature to you, but it might be handy to share with your family.

    Winter essentials for your car

    It’s important to give your car a regular check and with busy lives, it’s something that we can all easily forget.

    • Check your oil levels and battery, and make sure that your lights are in good working condition.

    • Don’t get caught out by the early morning and late night frost. Buy yourself a new supply of de-icer and keep it in your glove compartment along with an ice scraper, it’s sensible to keep a back-up supply in the boot as well. Remember, never pour boiling water onto your windscreen as it can scratch or crack the glass.

    • It’s really important to check your tyres to ensure you’ve got all the grip you need. A simple way to test this is by using a 20 pence coin. Just insert the coin into the main tread grooves of your tyres. If the coin’s outer band is no longer visible then your tread is above the legal limit. Look online for more safety guidance and get your tyres tested by a professional if you’re unsure.

    • Check your wiper blades for wear and tear and don’t forget that you’ll also need a higher concentration of screen wash in winter to compensate for the colder temperatures. Make sure to check your screen wash level regularly too, as you’ll be using it a lot more than in the summer!

    • Think about packing an emergency kit for your car, especially if you’re going on a long journey. Possible items could include a shovel, high-visibility vest, reflective warning sign, torch, blanket, jump leads, extra warm clothing, first aid kit and don’t forget some snacks or chocolate!

    Many garages offer winter checks for your car, so if in doubt about what you should check, seek some help.

    Prepare for your journey

    • If you can, plan your journey in advance and check for any roadworks or closures, and updates on the weather forecast. With shorter daylight hours, there’s potential for delays and accidents, so also remember to allow extra time for each journey.

    • Driving in these conditions can be very tiring and some road accidents are caused by driver tiredness, so make sure that you take plenty of rest breaks and if possible share the driving with someone else.

    • Finally, if you are carrying personal possessions in the car, try and keep them out of sight in the boot. This will become increasingly important as we approach the festive season, with presents and gifts carried in the car.

    Check your breakdown cover

    No one wants to breakdown at any time of the year, but they are commonplace in the winter months, so it will be worth checking if you have cover and, if you do, what level of cover you have.

    Good time to check if you are fully covered with your car insurance or have an individual breakdown policy?

    Car Insurance just for the Police family

    Police Mutual car insurance isn’t for everyone. If you look on price comparison website, you won’t find us. Why? Because our car insurance is exclusively for serving or retired Police Officers, Staff and their families.

    Car insurance renewal not due?

    No worries. You can switch to us anytime as we pay the cancellation fee that might be charged by your current insurer, up to £125.

    Breakdown Cover

    You can also purchase Breakdown cover for your vehicle with optional European cover from Police Mutual.

    For more information about our car insurance and breakdown cover, click here or call 0151 242 7640.

    Police Mutual car insurance is provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc.
    Police Mutual Rescue (Breakdown Cover) is provided by ERS (Syndicate 218 at Lloyds)
    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office:

    Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6QS.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    Chris Morey

  • Latest: Top tips for cheaper motoring

    Latest: Top tips for cheaper motoring

    This article was published on Mon 12 Aug 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Top tips for cheaper motoring

    According to Kwik-Fit, an average car can set its owner back close to £5,000 per year*.  Find out how to reduce how much your car costs you.

    Reduce servicing costs

    Although garage servicing costs can be high, you may be able to save money on servicing by shopping around. But this doesn’t mean avoiding getting your car serviced. Minor repairs left to get worse may become very expensive to repair. Also, stick to the servicing intervals recommended by the car manufacturer and always keep a full service history to help maintain the value of your car.

    Take care of your tyres

    You can prolong your tyres’ life by taking proper care of them:

    • Ensure that they are correctly inflated as over or under-inflated tyres aren’t only dangerous, they will wear out more quickly and will increase your fuel consumption.
    • Check the tread for any foreign matter such as stones that might have lodged there.
    • Consider having your wheels aligned; badly aligned wheels can double tyre wear rate.

    While it’ll save you money by making your tyres last as long as possible, you must never drive on damaged tyres. Tyres must not have less than the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm across the central three quarters of the width of the tyre, with many experts recommending a minimum of 3mm.

    Clear out your car

    Many people use their car boots as a dumping ground for all manner of items. The heavier your load, the more fuel you will use – which will make a big difference over time.

    Think about your driving style

    The way we drive can make a huge difference to fuel consumption. (You may be able to calculate yours here.)

    Every car has an optimal fuel efficiency typically around 30 mph to 50 mph, which is dependent on vehicle type. Increasing your cruising speed from 55 mph to 75 mph can raise fuel consumption as much as 20%!

    Other ways in which you can improve your fuel efficiency are:

    • Drive smoothly, accelerate and decelerate gently.
    • Avoid unnecessary braking by keeping a reasonable distance from the car in front and reading the road.
    • Avoid unnecessary stopping and starting in queues – try to keep your car rolling but avoid slipping the clutch.
    • Change gear sooner but avoid labouring the engine.
    • Reduce the amount you use your air conditioning as it can increase your fuel consumption. However, be sure to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations about running it periodically.
    • Electrical loads increase fuel consumption, so turn off your heated rear windscreen, defoggers and headlights. Of course, only if safe to do so.
    • If your car is modern and has start-stop technology, make sure it’s activated. This will help reduce fuel consumption when you’re sat in a queue.

    Keep your car aerodynamic

    Car manufacturers make big efforts to improve the aerodynamics of their design to reduce drag and improve fuel economy. But if you leave roof bars and roof boxes on when you’re not using them, you won’t be helping your fuel economy.

    Reduce CO2 to keep car tax down

    If you’re looking to buy a new car, opt for one with low CO2 emissions and you’ll pay a lower first year rate in Vehicle Excise Duty. You’ll find CO2 emissions information on the car’s V5C registration document.

    Cars such as electric vehicles which emit ZERO CO2 are totally exempt from vehicle tax, in year 1 and subsequent years.

    For cars with higher emissions than zero, the first years charge can range from £10 to £2,135 dependent on the level of emissions. The second time the vehicle is taxed, and subsequent years, the standard rate from 1 April 2019 is £145.

    Cars with a list price of more than £40,000 are subject to an additional charge of £320 for five years after the first year.

    To calculate your vehicle tax rate, use the Vehicle Certification Agency’s calculator.

    Winter-proof your car

    It might be a little early to be thinking about autumn and winter, but these are the worst times of year for car breakdowns and insurance claims. Ensuring that that your car is ready to cope with the winter months, could help avoid inconvenient and potentially costly events later on. Below are just a couple of suggestions:

    • Lights – Make sure that lights are clean and working as a dirty head light can severely reduce your ability to see the road in front. 
    • Screenwash – It is always dangerous to drive with a dirty windscreen, but even more so with the low winter sun when there is a high risk of being dazzled in the mornings and late afternoons. Keep your windscreen clean at all times and ensure that your screenwash is topped up regularly.
    • De-icer – De-ice before you set off. Make sure that you remove ice from your windows and mirrors before you set off, so allow a little extra time for doing so. Keep de-icer and an ice scraper handy.
    • Battery – Car batteries are heavily used in the winter months, so ensure that yours is in good condition. If you haven’t changed it recently, get it checked out and replace it before it lets you down.
    • Winter tyres – Not compulsory in the UK, but they in several other European countries, so think about this if you are travelling abroad. Winter tyres are made using a different compound which gives a better grip in the cold and uses a different tread pattern which is safer when driving on snow. They are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, and may well be worth considering.

    Now what about Car Insurance?

    If you don’t have car insurance with us, why not get a quote from us?

    Unlike many insurers, there are no hidden extras when you insure with Police Mutual and if you switch to us, Police Mutual will pay the cancellation fee that might be charged by your current provider, up to the value of £125.

    For more information about our car insurance and how you would benefit, click here or call 0151 242 7640

    Police Mutual car insurance is provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.

    For you security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    * Figure includes finance costs or depreciation. Kwik-Fit survey June 2018.

    Chris Morey

    ,

  • Young driver car insurance: things to consider

    Young driver car insurance: things to consider

    This article was published on Fri 03 May 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    A pivotal moment in most young adults’ lives is the day you pass your driving test. All your hard work has paid off and you’ve got more freedom than ever before. But if paying for all the lessons wasn’t expensive enough, once you pass you’ve got the cost of your car insurance to deal with.

    The cost of insurance is based on the level of risk there’s expected to be. The perceived higher risk results in a higher price. Younger drivers are seen to be high risk because of their lack of experience. Statistics from THINK! do show that a fifth of newly-qualified drivers suffer an accident within the first year of passing their test [1]. Other factors that can impact the cost of young drivers’ insurance includes:

    The car you drive

    A car’s age, value, engine size, and potential cost and time of repairs all contribute to the calculation of premiums. Newer, more powerful cars will typically be more expensive to insure.

    Who are you

    Where you live, your age, your occupation and if you’ve got a no claims free driving history can all affect how much you can end up paying.

    Your level of cover 

    Reduced cover doesn’t always mean a reduced price. In reality, third-party cover is generally more expensive. Research shows that this is because people who take out third-party policies are more likely to make a claim than those on fully comprehensive cover [2].

    Opting for comprehensive cover shows your insurer that you are more responsible, so it can be cheaper after all.

    Your excess

    Excess is the amount of money you must pay towards a claim made on your policy before the insurance company picks up the bill. The larger the amount you are prepared to pay in the event of a claim will reduce the cost of your premium. Make sure you choose an excess that you’re sure you can afford to pay if it calls for it.

    Reducing the cost of your insurance

    Research shows that for the average young driver as much as 10% of your whole yearly salary can be swallowed up by the cost of your car insurance. [3] That’s money that could be better spent on enjoying being able to drive. So what could you do to keep down the price?

    Your car

    After all those years of waiting to drive your own car it can be really tempting to get something fast and flamboyant. But what you gain for looking good, you’ll have to pay more for to insure. Again it all goes back to perceived risk. Cars with more power are seen as a risk and more likely to be involved in an accident or as a target for thieves. A more modest vehicle might not be as impressive but will be much cheaper to insure.

    Make safety a priority

    There’s a few things you can do to keep your car secure that will help ease your car insurance price and give you peace of mind too. Park your car in your garage if you can, or at least off the road overnight. It could also make a difference if you invest in some security devices like an alarm, tracker and immobiliser.

    Add mum or dad to your policy

    Including a more experienced driver to your policy could lead to cheaper insurance. Even if they don’t drive your car very often, adding someone older with a claim free history and no points on their licence could help! Be aware of ‘fronting’ though. Putting them as the main driver instead of a named driver is illegal and will mean an insurer could reject any claims you make.

    Get a black box

    Young people are stereotyped as a risk and therefore more costly to cover. Black boxes allow for young drivers to be judged on their own driving ability instead. Once installed in your car the box would monitor your driving and the results will be used to determine your price at renewal. If you drive safely it could save you money.

    All part of the service

    At Police Mutual we agree that it’s only fair that younger drivers are judged on how safe they are behind the wheel and not their age. That’s why we’ve carefully chosen to work with More Th>n and their Smart Wheels telematics black box technology to offer Young Driver Insurance. More Th>n’s black box technology offers younger drivers the chance to get a lower premium and to build a no claim discount in claim free years. Find out more and how to get your quote here:

    Young Driver Car Insurance is provided by More Th>n. Visit our legal page for further details.

    Sources:

    1 https://www.think.gov.uk/campaign/road-whisperer/

    2 https://www.moneysupermarket.com/car-insurance/third-party-only/

    3  https://www.abi.org.uk/news/news-articles/2018/02/cost-of-car-insurance-now-gobbles-up-10-percent-of-a-young-drivers-average-salary/

    Chris Morey

    ,

  • Top tips for buying a new car

    Top tips for buying a new car

    This article was published on Fri 01 Mar 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    If you are thinking about buying a new car it’s important that you make the right choice and get the best possible deal available. A new car represents a considerable investment, so before you part with your hard earned cash, check out our tips on buying a new car.

    The best time to buy: buying at the right time can help you get a great deal. Most dealers have targets to meet and these are generally based on quarterly sales. Meaning that the end of March, June, September and December could be a good time to buy as dealers may be more willing to negotiate.

    Get a final price: some dealers display prices which do not include the additional costs associated with buying and registering a new car such as delivery and number plates. Ask the dealer for a full and final breakdown of ‘on the road’ costs for the car before committing to any purchase.

    Consider optional extras carefully: when looking at optional extras for your car think carefully about whether you really need them and what difference they are making to the purchase price – especially if you are paying for your car with finance. Try to stick to added extras that could add to the resale value of your car such as parking sensors or built in sat nav.

    Look at pre-registered options: to help meet their sales quotas, dealers sometimes buy new cars themselves. These cars are classed as ‘pre-registered’ and can be offered for sale with significant discounts. If you are considering this option, remember that the cars records will show the dealer as the first registered owner of the car. Choosing this option could mean that you get all the benefits of a new car at a discounted price.

    Take a test drive: there is no better way to get the feel of a new car than taking for a test drive. If you are considering different cars from different manufacturers then this can be a great way to compare them. As well as how the car drives, remember to check what the passenger space is like and if children’s car seats can easily be fitted.

    Check out the warranty before signing: your new car will usually come with a warranty from the manufacturer. The period and terms of cover differ between dealers so make sure that you review this before committing to the car purchase. Some dealers offer extended warranties at additional cost, don’t be pressured into buying this until you have checked out exactly what’s covered and for how long.

    Part-exchanging? Do your research: if you’re planning to part exchange your current car, go online and get an idea of your car’s value based on its age, condition and mileage. This will give you a benchmark to compare against the price offered by the dealer. You may be able to get more by selling your car privately but this can be time consuming and stressful when compared to part exchanging.

    Car Insurance: car insurance can be expensive so remember to shop around for the best deal.

    Ensure that you also review the benefits of the policy to ensure that it meets your personal needs – e.g. that it includes business insurance if you require it for business travel.  

    Don’t forget to check the amount of voluntary and compulsory excess that apply to the policy as this is the amount you agree to pay upfront if you make a claim. It’s wise to make sure these are affordable should the worse happen.

    To find out more about Police Mutual car insurance and to get a quote click here.

    Research your finance options: most dealers will offer a number of finance options which may include hire purchase loans and lease agreements. When considering car finance be aware of any fees and charges that apply and remember to compare the rate of interest as these can vary widely.

    Alternatively, arranging a personal loan from an independent provider separately from your car purchase could allow you to shop around for the most favourable terms available to you.

    We’ve teamed up with Neyber, our trusted partner to offer loans to the Police family.

    So if you’re looking to purchase a new car – Neyber may be able to help with a personal loan.

    Rates from 3.9% to 18.9%

    All loans are subject to status and acceptance by Neyber

    • Simple online application
    • Money could be in your account within one working day of loan approval
    • Fixed monthly repayments by direct debit
    • Make overpayments or early repayment of the loan free of charge
    • Neyber rated ‘excellent’ on Trustpilot

    Representative example

    You could borrow a loan amount of £9,000 with a monthly repayment of £222.07 over a term of 48 months at a 8.9% (fixed) rate of interest per annum. Administrative fees are £0. Total amount repayable is £10,659.56. This is equivalent to 8.9% APR Representative.

    Important things you need to know

    Police Mutual is acting as a credit broker. Neyber Limited is acting as lender for purposes of entering into a consumer credit agreement. Rates depend on loan amount, term and your individual circumstances and may differ from the Representative APR.

    All loans are subject to status and acceptance by Neyber.

    Please note, loans are not currently available for PSNI members and their families.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS. Neyber Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 718709. Registered address: 1st Floor, 3 Finsbury Avenue, London, EC2M 2AR. Company registered number: 08806631

    Chris Morey

    ,

  • Buying a used car: how to make the most of your budget

    Buying a used car: how to make the most of your budget

    This article was published on Fri 01 Mar 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    One of the benefits of buying a used car is that sellers and dealers are often fairly flexible on price.

    Remember to do your research before you buy as the more knowledge you have about the car the better your negotiating position will be.

    1. Get expert advice: use one of the motor industry publications such as What Car or Parkers to check the market rate for the model of car you’re purchasing. You can also compare the pros and cons of various car models such as fuel economy, ride quality and fixtures and fittings.

    Consider using the DVLA’s vehicle enquiry service to see what details they hold on the car and the Government’s MOT history check tool to make sure everything is as you expected.

    Once you have decided on a car to buy, it’s advisable to order a HPI check to make sure it’s not stolen or has any outstanding finance on it.

    2. Consider the costs of running your car: before you buy a car it’s wise to get an idea of what it’ll cost to keep on the road.

    3. MOT: cars over 3 years old need to pass an MOT each year at an authorised test centre. The cost of the test varies dependant on the vehicle, up to a maximum cost of £54.85*. Remember to shop around as you can often get a cheaper test price deal.

    4. Car Tax: most UK drivers need to pay car tax, however some cars and electric cars are exempt. You can find out how much it’ll cost and about any exemptions on the gov.uk website.

    5. Car Insurance: car insurance can be expensive so remember to shop around for the best deal.

    Ensure that you also review the benefits of the policy to ensure that it meets your personal needs – e.g. that it includes business insurance if you require it for business travel.

    Don’t forget to check the amount of voluntary and compulsory excess that apply to the policy as this is the amount you agree to pay upfront if you make a claim. It’s wise to make sure these are affordable should the worse happen. To find out more about Police Mutual car insurance and to get a quote click here.

    6. Breakdown cover: this will provide you with cover should the car breakdown. Some policies also include roadside assistance and recovery. You may already have this cover with your car insurance or packaged bank account, so remember to check before you buy.

    7. Fuel: fuel is not cheap so it’s worth considering buying a car with low fuel consumption.

    8. Servicing & repairs: getting a car serviced regularly can save you money in the long run and make sure that the car runs efficiently. When you are looking for your new car remember to check out the service history before you buy.

    9. Explore your finance options: it’s important to stay within your budget, so work out what you can afford each month and how long you want to be making monthly repayments. If you are thinking about taking out a loan there are a number of different options available. If you are buying from a dealership, you may be offered finance direct from them. Alternatively, arranging credit from an independent provider separately from your car purchase could allow you to shop around to find a loan with the most favourable terms for you and negotiate on the price of your car.

    Remember:

    • Make sure you find out the total cost of the debt when comparing different loans and methods of car finance
    • Find out if there are any restrictions for paying off the debt early and what charges will apply
    • Check how flexible it is. For example if you want to sell the car before the end of the loan term

    We’ve teamed up with Neyber, our trusted partner to offer loans to the Police family.

    So if you’re looking to purchase a used car – Neyber may be able to help with a personal loan.

    Rates from 3.9% to 18.9%

    All loans are subject to status and acceptance by Neyber

    • Simple online application
    • Money could be in your account within one working day of loan approval
    • Fixed monthly repayments by direct debit
    • Make overpayments or early repayment of the loan free of charge
    • Neyber rated ‘excellent’ on Trustpilot

    Representative example

    You could borrow a loan amount of £9,000 with a monthly repayment of £222.07 over a term of 48 months at a 8.9% (fixed) rate of interest per annum. Administrative fees are £0. Total amount repayable is £10,659.56. This is equivalent to 8.9% APR Representative.

    Important things you need to know

    Police Mutual is acting as a credit broker. Neyber Limited is acting as lender for purposes of entering into a consumer credit agreement. Rates depend on loan amount, term and your individual circumstances and may differ from the Representative APR.

    All loans are subject to status and acceptance by Neyber.

    Please note, loans are not currently available for PSNI members and their families.

    *correct as at March 2018 – https://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/blog/how-much-does-an-average-MOT-cost

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS. Neyber Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register number 718709. Registered address: 1st Floor, 3 Finsbury Avenue, London, EC2M 2AR. Company registered number: 08806631

    Chris Morey

    ,

  • What affects your car insurance price?

    What affects your car insurance price?

    This article was published on Fri 01 Feb 2019. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    If you’re a regular reader of newspaper money pages or online articles, you’ll have no doubt come across the topic of rising car insurance prices making an appearance now and then. Recently there has been frequent mentions that prices are on the rise, with Brexit, rising fraudulent claims and increased technology, amongst others.

    Although car insurance prices can vary due to a number of reasons, we thought it would be handy for you to know some of the factors that could affect the price you receive – from age and driving experience to where you live and your claims history – we give you the lowdown on what could drive your price.

    We take a look the factors that affect the price that you’re quoted:

    Your age and driving experience

    As you get older and you’ve held your driving licence for longer, you’re considered to be more experienced on the roads. Some believe that statistically you’re less likely to be involved in an accident so you can expect to pay a lower price.

    Younger drivers, aged between 17 and 25, typically face paying the highest premiums. All is not lost; if you have a careful young driver in your family then MORE TH>N SM>RT WHEELS might be just the ticket!

    Older drivers are seen to be a higher risk because the chance of you being involved in an accident increases in later life.

    Your job

    Your career might mean that you spend more time driving your car for business use or you use it to commute to work during the week. It’s important you select the right level of cover and that you provide an accurate estimated annual mileage.

    Two similar job titles can provide two very different prices so make sure to be as accurate as you can when entering your job title.

    Where you live

    If you live in a built-up area where the risk of accidents is generally greater, then you’ll pay more for your car insurance. It might be a well-known accident blackspot or have a dangerous road junction in your town, or you could live near a road with high levels of vehicle crime.

    It can vary between nearby postcodes. A car owner who lives on a busy main road may have to pay higher prices because more accidents have been reported there than in the cul-de-sac round the corner.

    Your claims history

    If you’ve made a claim within the last five years this will have an impact on the price quoted.

    Your car

    A little run about is not only cheaper to run but also cheaper to insure for most people. A larger engine or newer car is typically more expensive to repair. They are also more attractive to car thieves so you can expect to pay more to insure it.

    Alarms, immobilisers and other built-in security devices may help reduce your premium. Thatcham Research, the motor insurers’ automotive search centre, has some handy tips on their website.

    Points on your driving licence

    If you have points on your driving licence, this will have an affect on the price quoted.

    The type of cover

    You’d think that the higher the level of cover you go for, the more you’ll pay but this isn’t always the case. It’s worth checking the price for each level of cover on offer as well as making sure the one you select meets your needs.

    Increase your excess

    You can reduce your premium by increasing the voluntary excess to an amount you’re able to pay on top of the compulsory excess if you need to make a claim.

    Your gender

    This used to be a factor, but in 2012 the EU ruled that companies could no longer consider your gender when providing a quote for a product or service so this no longer affects your price.

    It’s not all about you…

    It’s also important to remember that your insurance policy doesn’t just provide cover for your car – it’s also there to protect other road users against accidents you might cause.

    Police Mutual offers car insurance for serving or retired Police Officers and Staff, Specials and their families. For more information about our car insurance and how you could benefit, click here or call 0151 242 7640

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House, Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire, WS13 6QS. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    MORE TH>N SM>RT WHEELS Young Driver Car Insurance: via an introduction by PMGI Limited to MORE TH>N. MORE TH>N is a trading name of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Plc.

    Royal & Sun Alliance plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Registered office: St Mark’s Court, Chart Way, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1XL. Financial Services Register No. 202323.

    Chris Morey

    ,