As motoring costs slide ever upwards, drivers are searching for more ways to cut the price of their car insurance. swiftcover.com has discovered that drivers can help reduce their premiums by opting for standard models, rather than ‘hot hatches’. Opting for a sporty model instead of a standard version of the same car can cost more than twice as much to insure, even for experienced drivers.
A 30 year old man driving a VW Golf GTi would shell out over £1,000 compared to under £500 for the more standard Golf S. Because of their higher performance, insurance claims figures show that hot hatches and sports models are more likely to be involved in accidents, cost more to repair and more often fall prey to thieves, all of which pushes up the premiums for even the safest of drivers. In fact ‘hot’ models cost on average £500 a year more to insure than more standard versions of the same vehicle.
So don’t choose a new car based solely on looks and engine capacity - it can leave you paying out considerably more. In particular, thinking about different models or cheaper cars can help keep insurance premiums lower and more affordable for younger drivers, helping to build up a no claims bonus to keep costs consistently low.
Friday, 26 February 2010
Monday, 1 February 2010
Buying a Second Hand Car
Times are tight and even with the Government offering you money to ditch your old banger, buying a brand new car can blow the budget for many people. Buying a second hand car could save you a load of cash – despite a heavy decline in new car sales over the last couple of years, used car sales have remained strong in comparison – but beware because you could also end up buying into a headache. Almost one in five people have experienced problems after buying a used car, according to the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), with the used car market consistently featuring amongst the top of all consumer complaints to the OFT over the past three years.
So the key to getting the right car at the right price is to do your research first. Ask your friends and read up with car magazines or online at sites like www.autotrader.com and www.autocar.co.uk. Try and decide what make and model of car you are after so you can find out as much about it as possible and also ensure you are not tempted by something unsuitable, such as buying a sports car when you’re really in the market for a family motor.
Ask some important questions about the model you’re after: Is it reliable? How much does it cost to maintain? What mechanical problems does it suffer from? How much fuel does it use and how expensive it is to insure?
To find out what you should be paying for a used car, look up its ‘Book’ price. This is a guide price telling you what the motor industry would pay for a particular kind of car, as well as the price a private buyer should expect to shell out. The Book will also include variations based on higher and lower mileages, as well as the condition of the vehicle. This kind of information will ensure you don’t pay over the odds for your new car.
The best know guides are Parkers and Glasses which you can view online at www.parkers.co.uk or www.glass.co.uk. If a car is well above the Book price, you’re likely to get a raw deal, but beware if the price is a lot cheaper – if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Don’t be afraid of asking for some help if you don’t know your way around an engine – ask a friend to check the car for you, or invest in an independent car check to make sure you are getting a good deal, such as those offered by the AA. You might also want to get a credit check or an HPI check – these cheap checks will identify whether there is any outstanding finance on the car, or whether it has been written off. Check the car’s V5 registration document and service log, and make sure the car’s VIN or engine number matches that on the registration document.
You can also have a look at our video guides as www.youtube.com/swiftcover - the bottom line is get as much information as possible to ensure you buy a bargain, not a banger.
Monday, 7 December 2009
Swift Learners
This month, we’re looking at what a great business can do to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
There are over 44,000 driving instructors in the UK, so it can be difficult for driving instructors to distinguish themselves, especially when they are competing against well established, national schools such as BSM and the AA. However, driving instructor Jon Reynolds has implemented a number of innovative ideas which have set his school apart. Jon, who owns and runs Jon Reynolds Driving School, has been a driving instructor for the past six years, and has taken steps to ensure that his business remains ahead of the pack. Since under-17s are only allowed to drive cars on private land, Jon hired out a private military road system to hold a series of lessons where younger drivers can learn to drive safely. The lessons proved to be a huge success, and Jon is now planning to offer this service to other young would-be drivers in the area.
He has also taken advantage of new technology available to driving instructors: using special cameras fitted to his car Jon can film the lesson, which allows pupils to review their driving after the lesson and look out for more subtle mistakes that might go unnoticed at the time, giving added value to the classes. Jon has also used the footage taken from the car as a resource for other learner drivers, as well as putting it onto his website that pupils can access for free.
Jon said:“Offering unique services does make the business stand out, but more importantly they help me to make sure that my pupils learn to drive as safely as possible. People are more likely to come to a driving school that has advanced facilities, as they recognise that these will help learners succeed. My pass rate, which is one of the highest in the country, confirms that these techniques can make a world of difference when combined with careful teaching, so it’s no wonder that they attract new learners.”
You can find out more about Jon Reynolds Driving School here.
There are over 44,000 driving instructors in the UK, so it can be difficult for driving instructors to distinguish themselves, especially when they are competing against well established, national schools such as BSM and the AA. However, driving instructor Jon Reynolds has implemented a number of innovative ideas which have set his school apart. Jon, who owns and runs Jon Reynolds Driving School, has been a driving instructor for the past six years, and has taken steps to ensure that his business remains ahead of the pack. Since under-17s are only allowed to drive cars on private land, Jon hired out a private military road system to hold a series of lessons where younger drivers can learn to drive safely. The lessons proved to be a huge success, and Jon is now planning to offer this service to other young would-be drivers in the area.
He has also taken advantage of new technology available to driving instructors: using special cameras fitted to his car Jon can film the lesson, which allows pupils to review their driving after the lesson and look out for more subtle mistakes that might go unnoticed at the time, giving added value to the classes. Jon has also used the footage taken from the car as a resource for other learner drivers, as well as putting it onto his website that pupils can access for free.
Jon said:“Offering unique services does make the business stand out, but more importantly they help me to make sure that my pupils learn to drive as safely as possible. People are more likely to come to a driving school that has advanced facilities, as they recognise that these will help learners succeed. My pass rate, which is one of the highest in the country, confirms that these techniques can make a world of difference when combined with careful teaching, so it’s no wonder that they attract new learners.”
You can find out more about Jon Reynolds Driving School here.
Thursday, 26 November 2009
Weather the winter with Swift Relief’s tips for safer driving
Winter is well and truly here. Driving to and from work in the dark is the norm, and the recent floods are a vivid reminder of the severe weather conditions we may experience over the next few months.
With these hazardous driving conditions in mind, it’s no surprise that insurance claims rise around 21 per cent during winter, compared to the rest of the year. But, there’s plenty we can do to ensure we’re driving safely. For instance, before embarking upon a long journey in bad weather, simply calling friends or relatives to let them know where you’re going and when you’re due to arrive, means they can get in contact or raise the alarm if you don’t turn up.
Planning ahead before you leave is key. If conditions are really bad, consider whether the journey is absolutely necessary. If you do have to travel, check the weather so that you’re aware of any severe conditions on the way and try to stick to major roads if it looks precarious. The AA and Highways Agency carry real time information to help you plan your route, so check ahead of departure and get information on avoiding nasty traffic jams at the same time.
Making sure your car is as ready for winter is also important. Although the legal minimum tread depth for tyres is 1.6mm, having at least 3mm tread depth during winter months will give you better grip on the road in wet and icy conditions. Properly inflated tyres give the best traction, so make a trip to the air pump at your local garage too.
Remember to top up your anti-freeze, engine oil and screen wash and keep your petrol tank topped up too to avoid getting stranded. You should also check your lights are working properly and to carry a set of spare bulbs in the boot in case you need to replace one en route. If you can afford it, a winter service will help make sure your car is in the best condition.
Snow storms trapped some drivers for a long time earlier this year, so carrying a few winter essentials on board is extremely worthwhile. Should the worst happen at least you’ll have some creature comforts.
Keep some suitable winter clothes or a blanket in your car to keep you warm if you do break down and stock up on snacks. Carrying some water and high-energy nibbles in your car will keep you going if you breakdown or are stuck for long periods without nearby services.
Charge your mobile phone before you head out or purchase an in-car charger to ensure you’re not faced with a dead battery in an emergency. It’s also worth investing in a flash light, basic tool kit and first aid kit so you can easily deal with minor issues. Jump leads and a tow rope are helpful in case you have a flat battery or get stuck in the snow.
Failing to clear your windscreen properly of snow and ice not only seriously restricts your visibility, it can land you a fine of up to £1,000. So make sure your windscreen, windows and mirrors are fully de-iced before you set off on frosty mornings. And use a proper ice-scraper to clear your windscreen rather than a credit card or CD case, which can cause scratches on your windscreen. A de-icing solution can help, but avoid pouring boiling water onto your windscreen as this will refreeze quickly and can result in your windscreen cracking.
And keep an eye on your windscreen during the winter as the harsher conditions can cause tiny chips to turn into costly cracks. Most insurance companies will cover the cost of getting a chip fixed, but if it turns into a crack it’s likely you’ll have to pay your excess and lose your no claims bonus to get it fixed.
For more tips on winter driving click here.
Tuesday, 20 October 2009
Swift Relief from traffic jams and road rage
Avoiding stress on the roads could be as simple as making eye contact, according to research by author and automotive expert Thomas Vanderbilt. In his book ‘Traffic’, which looks at how we drive and why, Thomas suggests that the more interaction drivers have with each other, the better and safer driving can be.
He says that if you make eye contact with other drivers, they are more likely to cooperate and share the road with you safely - it’s certainly something to try the next time you are trying to edge your way out of a busy junction, for example.
Vanderbilt’s book suggests that most of us feel hidden and safe in our cars, which can mean we have less consideration for our fellow road users and could lead to impolite and potentially dangerous behaviour behind the wheel. However research has shown that when drivers are more exposed - such as with the roof down in a convertible, or just by having the window open - they are more tolerant of other road users and less likely to get angry or beep their horns.
Research from Colorado State University also suggests that another way to avoid road rage is to steer clear of drivers with car stickers. Researchers say that stickers and other ways of decorating your car are ‘territorial markers’, used by drivers to show that their cars – and the road they are travelling on – is their territory. The research found that as a result, these drivers are quicker to get angry or aggressive behind the wheel and become annoyed with other road users.
So, for Swift Relief on the roads, try catching someone’s eye to beat the jams, open the window to cool down your road range down in more ways than one, and shun car stickers if you want to avoid sticky situations with territorial drivers.
He says that if you make eye contact with other drivers, they are more likely to cooperate and share the road with you safely - it’s certainly something to try the next time you are trying to edge your way out of a busy junction, for example.
Vanderbilt’s book suggests that most of us feel hidden and safe in our cars, which can mean we have less consideration for our fellow road users and could lead to impolite and potentially dangerous behaviour behind the wheel. However research has shown that when drivers are more exposed - such as with the roof down in a convertible, or just by having the window open - they are more tolerant of other road users and less likely to get angry or beep their horns.
Research from Colorado State University also suggests that another way to avoid road rage is to steer clear of drivers with car stickers. Researchers say that stickers and other ways of decorating your car are ‘territorial markers’, used by drivers to show that their cars – and the road they are travelling on – is their territory. The research found that as a result, these drivers are quicker to get angry or aggressive behind the wheel and become annoyed with other road users.
So, for Swift Relief on the roads, try catching someone’s eye to beat the jams, open the window to cool down your road range down in more ways than one, and shun car stickers if you want to avoid sticky situations with territorial drivers.
Friday, 18 September 2009
Going green
Nearly seven out of ten drivers say the cost of motoring has increased in the last 12 months, according to research by swiftcover.com, a situation reflected by the AA’s Running Cost tables, which suggests that the average cost of running a car has soared in 2009. According to the AA the annual cost of running a car now ranges from £1,965 for a small city car, up to a whopping £10,316 for a top of the range diesel. It’s no wonder that drivers are now trying to cut the costs of motoring more than ever, with 64% of motorist telling swiftcover.com that the increasing cost is primarily down to higher road and fuel taxes.
As petrol costs currently average 106.3p/litre according to the fuel comparison site petrolprices.com, many of us are all looking for ways to cut our fuel consumption and save some extra cash. One option is go green, as environmentally friendly cars are not only better for the world; they are more economical as well. But it’s not just fuel saving that can be had by going green.
The lower a car’s CO2 emissions, the less road tax you have to pay. Hybrids such as the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius emit less than 120g of CO2/km, meaning a cheap £15 annual road tax bill. It’s not just hybrid drivers who can save, as drivers of any car with emissions of less than 140g/km will only have to stump up £100 per year for road tax. So if you’re in the market for a new car, it’s worth looking at small diesels and vehicles with stop-start technology that actually switch off the engine when you are stopped – such as at traffic lights – and switch it on again seamlessly when you drive off.
Hybrid drivers are also exempt from the London congestion charge and in some London boroughs, such as Richmond, residents who drive eco-friendly cars can park for free, saving up to £110 a year.
On top of that, drivers of smaller, more efficient cars will usually get cheaper insurance. swiftcover.com, for example, offers hybrid drivers an additional 10% discount on their premium.
For drivers who aren’t planning on switching their cars any time soon there are other ways to save. Keeping your boot clutter free, ensuring your tyres are properly pumped up, avoiding racing starts from the traffic lights and changing gear at the right time can also help shave pounds off your fuel bill.
As petrol costs currently average 106.3p/litre according to the fuel comparison site petrolprices.com, many of us are all looking for ways to cut our fuel consumption and save some extra cash. One option is go green, as environmentally friendly cars are not only better for the world; they are more economical as well. But it’s not just fuel saving that can be had by going green.
The lower a car’s CO2 emissions, the less road tax you have to pay. Hybrids such as the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius emit less than 120g of CO2/km, meaning a cheap £15 annual road tax bill. It’s not just hybrid drivers who can save, as drivers of any car with emissions of less than 140g/km will only have to stump up £100 per year for road tax. So if you’re in the market for a new car, it’s worth looking at small diesels and vehicles with stop-start technology that actually switch off the engine when you are stopped – such as at traffic lights – and switch it on again seamlessly when you drive off.
Hybrid drivers are also exempt from the London congestion charge and in some London boroughs, such as Richmond, residents who drive eco-friendly cars can park for free, saving up to £110 a year.
On top of that, drivers of smaller, more efficient cars will usually get cheaper insurance. swiftcover.com, for example, offers hybrid drivers an additional 10% discount on their premium.
For drivers who aren’t planning on switching their cars any time soon there are other ways to save. Keeping your boot clutter free, ensuring your tyres are properly pumped up, avoiding racing starts from the traffic lights and changing gear at the right time can also help shave pounds off your fuel bill.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
Innovation, perspiration and dedication
This month, the Swift Awards visited Macclesfield, Newport, Kingston upon Thames and Inverness, and discovered some truly outstanding businesses. What the team really noted, however, was the variety of businesses thriving despite the recession: taxi companies, florists, fish and chip shops to name but a few are flourishing due to their dedication to providing great services. However, of the 17 winners two businesses really stuck out, one for its innovation, and the other for its dedication to excellence.
Trevor Daniel, manager of the online company TaxiRoute hit upon a fantastic idea when he developed a program to calculate the cost of a taxi fare between two places. Customers who want to find out how much they should be paying for a taxi journey simply go to TaxiRoute’s website and enter the addresses of their origin and destination, and the site comes back with a guide to how much the customer should pay as well as contact details for local taxi firms. Best of all, because the site charges taxi companies to advertise on the site, it’s able to offer the service to customers for free, as well as potentially saving them money on the fare.
On the other side of the spectrum, we discovered Ti22 Vehicle Services, an independent vehicle detailer in Newport. Vehicle detailers carefully restore cars’ interiors and exteriors, aiming to leave the car ‘better than new’. James Walker, the business’ owner, explains what makes Ti22 different: “We’re the only vehicle detailer in Wales to be authorised by Swissvax, a specialist vehicle wax provider whose seal of approval is the industry’s benchmark. Also, because Ti22 has its own secure premises, owners can feel comfortable leaving their pride and joy with us.”
What really makes Ti22 stand out is a passion for cars. James is immensely proud of what he does as he truly cares about the cars he’s restoring. So much so that he’s been rewarded with the opportunity to restore some truly incredible cars such as a 20 year old Porsche 911 and a TVR Tuscan. Check out his work here.
Although the two businesses are in completely different industry sectors, what they have in common is a devotion to providing the best possible service to customers, making them perfect Swift Award winners. These businesses have gone out of their way to leave their customers satisfied.
Trevor Daniel, manager of the online company TaxiRoute hit upon a fantastic idea when he developed a program to calculate the cost of a taxi fare between two places. Customers who want to find out how much they should be paying for a taxi journey simply go to TaxiRoute’s website and enter the addresses of their origin and destination, and the site comes back with a guide to how much the customer should pay as well as contact details for local taxi firms. Best of all, because the site charges taxi companies to advertise on the site, it’s able to offer the service to customers for free, as well as potentially saving them money on the fare.
On the other side of the spectrum, we discovered Ti22 Vehicle Services, an independent vehicle detailer in Newport. Vehicle detailers carefully restore cars’ interiors and exteriors, aiming to leave the car ‘better than new’. James Walker, the business’ owner, explains what makes Ti22 different: “We’re the only vehicle detailer in Wales to be authorised by Swissvax, a specialist vehicle wax provider whose seal of approval is the industry’s benchmark. Also, because Ti22 has its own secure premises, owners can feel comfortable leaving their pride and joy with us.”
What really makes Ti22 stand out is a passion for cars. James is immensely proud of what he does as he truly cares about the cars he’s restoring. So much so that he’s been rewarded with the opportunity to restore some truly incredible cars such as a 20 year old Porsche 911 and a TVR Tuscan. Check out his work here.
Although the two businesses are in completely different industry sectors, what they have in common is a devotion to providing the best possible service to customers, making them perfect Swift Award winners. These businesses have gone out of their way to leave their customers satisfied.
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