Running a car is a necessity for many people. But the average annual cost of comprehensive cover and car maintenance have increased rapidly.
We asked our corporate partner Liverpool Victoria General Insurance (LV=) what you need to consider if you want to cut back on car costs in 2025.
Make the most of your RCN membership discount
RCN members get a 5% exclusive discount* on LV= Car insurance, providing one of the highest quality offerings on the market. (*RCN member discount versus general public prices on LV.com and through the call centre.)
Reduce your mileage
Even if you’re a great driver, the more you drive, the higher the chance you’ll be involved in an accident. So, while it’s likely that there will be times when driving is essential, if you’re able to trim the number of miles you clock up each year, you could make savings on the cost of your insurance.
Bundle your policies
If you have more than 1 car in your household, consider insuring them all under 1 policy. With LV= you can insure up to 6 cars and 12 drivers under 1 policy and receive your RCN member discount.
You can add all cars at the same time, schedule some for later or add them in afterwards. Plus, you can choose the cover level and specific optional extras you’d like for each car.
Check your existing policy
Make sure you think about details, such as adding another driver or ensuring your job details are correct, when you get your quote.
Make sure your policy is up to date
Once you have taken out an insurance policy, it’s important you tell your insurer about any changes. It’s not just your vehicle you need to consider. Have you changed your name, address or registration plate recently? If you’ve changed where your vehicle is kept, that could have an impact on your premium, too.
Give your car some TLC
Prevention is cheaper than cure. So, make the time for the simple car maintenance jobs: check the condition, tread and pressure of your tyres every fortnight. Ensure your oil and screen wash levels are topped up; and regularly test all your lights.
Use professionals where required
Where necessary, get major problems seen to promptly by a professional mechanic. If your car’s not roadworthy, you’re more prone to accidents.
Look after your windscreen in freezing temperatures
Use an ice scraper to clear your windscreen. Avoid the temptation to use everyday items – such as a credit card – to remove ice, as you could end up damaging the glass. Check your wipers regularly to make sure they're in good condition and are not damaging your windscreen.
Act quickly if you have a chipped windscreen
If you spot a chip, get it repaired as soon as possible to save time, money and an environmental impact in the long run. Repairing a windscreen chip under your LV= policy only costs you £20, whereas to replace it could cost you between £95 – £190, depending on your vehicle.
