Keep Your Car Insurance on Track: The Mileage Myth Buster
MoneySuperMarket’s own mileage maestro Alicia Hempsted has a warning light on: if your yearly mile count isn’t spot‑on, you’re risking a cascade of bad buzz – invalid policies, denied claims, and a thumb‑full of hidden fees. Trust us, no one wants that.
Why Mileage Matters
- It’s the insurance gurus’ secret sauce for risk calculations.
- Under‑reporting might give you a sweet lower quote at first, but it can come back to bite you later.
- Over‑reporting inflates your bills like a greedy landlord.
What Happens When You Guess Wrong
- Even a few hundred miles off can tick up your premium.
- A few thousand miles miscount might leave you uninsured and head‑long to the penalty chair.
- Claims can get denied if the insurer suspects your numbers are “off the mark.”
Alicia’s Take
“Your mileage may sound trivial, but a big under‑estimate? That’s a straight line to policy cancellation and a cash‑burning claim denial.” She adds, “Fortunately, eyesight on mileage is a quick win—get it right, and you could pocket up to £414 saved, otherwise you’re paying for the wrong track.”
Ready to Get It Right?
MoneySuperMarket has kicked off a Mileage Calculator Tool that lets you estimate your yearly miles from everyday trips. Treat it as a friendly compass rather than a crystal ball.
When to Hit “Update”
- Moving houses, switching offices, or shifting to home‑office vibes—share the scoop with your insurer.
- Some insurers back you with a refund if your new numbers line up better.
- If you’re a 20,000‑mile‑per‑year superstar, you’re flagged as higher risk; telematics or cutting non‑essential drives can keep the price reasonable.
Pro Tips to Keep Cover (and Savings) Intact
- Use the Mileage Calculator to cut guesswork.
- Be honest in quotes—they’re the only honest piece of the game.
- Keep insurers in the loop about any driving habit changes.
- Telematics (black box) policies unlock savings for long‑haul lovers.
Check your mileage, stay honest, and save—so when the road takes you on a surprise trip, you’ll be covered and pleasantly surprised, not embarrassed.
