More than 10 million motorists across Britain could be paying too much for their car insurance by simply letting their policies roll over automatically, according to new data.
The research shows that 18.5 per cent of British drivers allow their car insurance to renew automatically without exploring alternative options or comparing prices.
The findings reveal that 13.1 per cent of those questioned acknowledged they let their policies renew without examining other available deals.
An additional five per cent reported they typically remember to compare prices only after their insurance has already renewed.
Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailing motoring@gbnews.uk
Millions of drivers could be paying too much for their car insurance, according to new data
|GETTY
Nearly a quarter of respondents reported waiting until their renewal date before comparing options and frequently changing providers to secure better rates.
Almost one in three adopt an even more strategic approach, researching alternatives well before their renewal deadline to secure optimal pricing.
Tom Banks, car insurance specialist at Go.Compare, highlighted the financial context behind these findings.
He said: "While the cost of car insurance may have come down in Q1 of 2025, it's still 22 per cent more expensive than it was in the same time period in 2023."
Car insurance prices are still far higher than they were in 2023
| GETTYThe expert emphasised that comparison shopping represents a straightforward method for reducing expenses, noting that millions who permit automatic renewal could be forfeiting potential savings.
"Insurance providers regularly adjust how they price risk, so the insurer who offered you the best deal last time might not offer the most competitive one this time around," Mr Banks explained.
Personal circumstances often change within a year, meaning automatic renewal might result in inadequate coverage or unnecessary expense despite its convenience.
Drivers are being urged to "take a few minutes" to reduce their car insurance costs, as it could "make a big difference".
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- Keir Starmer must keep petrol Range Rover as 'blast protection cannot be achieved' with an electric car
- M6 traffic: Drivers warned of long delays on major motorway after 'overturned lorry' caused huge fuel spill
- Labour 'delivers on promise' with 35 eligible cars for EV grant - full list including Ford, Toyota & more
Mr Banks added: "Start looking at least three weeks before your renewal date - purchasing your car insurance policy 26 days before the renewal date is a great way to save money. You could end up paying 30 per cent more if you leave it till the same day."
He cautioned against assuming brand loyalty yields benefits, noting that remaining with one provider doesn't guarantee improved rates or coverage.
Go.Compare stressed the importance of maintaining accurate personal information and driving records to prevent excessive charges.
For annual mileage calculations, the car insurance expert suggested reviewing previous MOT certificates.
Younger motorists could be missing out on car insurance savings at the greatest rate
| PARegarding payment methods, the expert revealed that monthly instalments cost around 57 per cent more than annual payments.
Surprisingly, comprehensive coverage often proves more economical than basic options, with third-party only policies costing a third more than comprehensive alternatives.
Male drivers demonstrate a greater tendency towards automatic renewal, with just under a quarter allowing their policies to continue without comparison, while only 14.6 per cent of female motorists follow this pattern.
Age plays a significant role in renewal behaviour, with those between 25 and 34 years old showing the highest rate of automatic renewal.