Compare Car Insurance Ireland

Compare Car Insurance Ireland

Compare car insurance Ireland is an insurance comparison engine for Irish residents. Our mission is to find you the cheapest car insurance policy. We recommend that you compare like with like when reviewing online car insurance quotes. Ensure you understand the benefits and criteria of each policy as this may vary depending on the insurance provider. The insurance industry in Ireland is fiercely competitive as a result you may be able to get a much better deal by shopping around.

We have drawn up a list of cheap car insurance tips below for you to review, which we hope will help reduce your insurance premium. Please also read our glossary of terms; this will give you a better understanding of how the policies differ and what is and what is not covered. Motor insurance quotes are generally based on type of car, engine, location, driving history, age and annual mileage. Compare motor insurance prices today in Ireland for great deals!

Cheap Car Insurance

Review our article on cheap car insurance below. We hope that these tips will help you find the most competitive car insurance quote. It is essential to know what to look for when buying car insurance. This guide should give you a better understanding on ways that you can reduce your premium.

Policy downgrade

If your vehicle is older than 10 years you could look at downgrading your car insurance policy from comprehensive to a third party fire & theft policy. The amount you save may not be significant however it may be worth looking at.

Bus, Luas or train

You may be eligible to avail of a discount if you take alternative transport to and from work rather than using your car. In some circumstances the insurance provider may request evidence of a travel pass or tax saver commuter ticket.

Motor insurance excess limit

If you increase the excess limit on your car insurance policy this may help to reduce your premium. The excess limit is the amount you must pay towards the costs of the claim, this criteria may vary from insurer to insurer.

Multi cover discounts

You may get a discount of up to 10% if you purchase your car and home insurance through the same insurance company. Always read the terms and conditions carefully.

Add your spouse

You may wish to consider adding your partner, wife or husband to your motor policy as this may reduce the price of your premium.

Spouse’s vehicle

You may qualify for a discounted premium if your partner, husband or wife has a car insured in his or her own name or uses a company car.

Your occupation

If you have recently changed your job or career to a role that involves less driving this may help reduce your insurance premium. Certain occupations are categorised as high risk, mainly those that involve a lot of annual mileage compared to a job working in an office.

Value of your vehicle

Ensure you cover your car for the correct value, as this will affect the cost of your annual premium. If you have over valued your car you may be paying too much alternatively if you have undervalued your car this may give rise to issues in the event you need to make a claim. As little as a €1,000 difference in the value of your motor may put you into a higher threshold category, if you are in doubt please give us a call and we will be delighted to help with your query.

Step back bonus

What is a step back bonus? “Step back bonus” is a benefit that you can add to your motor insurance policy that may allow you to retain a portion of your “no claims bonus” in the event you need to make a claim. Criteria may vary depending on the insurance companies terms and conditions. If you decide against this additional benefit it may reduce your car insurance premium. Although we would suggest you add the “step back bonus” to your policy as it may save you money on your premium should you need to make a claim in the future.

No claims discount

The higher the number of years your motor policy remains claims free the better chance you have of availing of a cheaper premium compared with someone that has made a number of claims over the past few years. If you are considering switching you insurance, ensure the new provider will accept your full no claim discount.

Car alarm

Vehicles with immobilizers and alarms may get a discount compared with those without. If your car does not have an alarm we would recommend getting one fitted by an approved garage.

Garage, driveway or public street

Some insurance providers may offer a discount on your premium if you park your vehicle in a secured garage rather than on a public street. Review the options to see how much you can save.

Type and model of car

If you are in the market for a new or used car we would suggest shopping around before purchasing as your insurance premium will be based on the size of the engine and price of the car.

Buy online

Consider buying online as some insurance providers may offer discounts for web based sales. Always read the terms and conditions carefully.

Shopping around

The best way to reduce your motor insurance premium is to shop around. Ensure you are comparing like with like and always read the terms and conditions carefully. We hope you found our car insurance tips useful and informative.

Car Insurance Ireland

We recommend that you review the glossary of terms and the motor insurance Frequently Asked Questions below before taking out an insurance policy. These FAQ’s should provide information, which will enable you to make a better and more informed decision before purchasing car insurance.

Can I get a quote for car insurance online?

Yes simply complete all sections on the online proposal form and select the tab “Quote Me”. Should you have any questions please phone and we will do our best to help.

How soon will I be insured to drive?

Provided the insurance proposal has been approved and payment has been made, cover can be put in place immediately.

How do I complete the online application form?

Please answer all questions and disclose material facts. Any information that may influence the insurance companies approval of your application is a material fact. This information will be used to calculate the car insurance premium. Please note your policy will be cancelled if you do not disclose all material facts and information.

When will the insurer send out my insurance Disc and Cert?

The insurance company will send out the policy schedule, insurance disc and cert within 7 working days of purchase. The insurer will require a signed proposal and confirmation of your no claims discount.

How do I make a claim?

When you purchase a policy the claims number will be displayed on your documents. Alternatively you can contact the insurance provider directly and ask to be put through to their claims department.

What should I do if somebody wishes to claim from me?

Contact your insurance provider directly to go through the details.

Do I receive a replacement car in the event my car is damaged and is being repaired?

Insurers will generally offer a replacement car while your vehicle is being repaired, however this will depend on the insurance company. Always read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you understand the criteria.

If I accidentally crash my car or it is a write off, how much do I receive?

Depending on the type of policy you will receive the current market value for your car less the excess amount.

What is car insurance excess?

In the event you need to make a claim, you will have to pay an excess amount towards the cost. This will be outlined in your policy, excess limits generally range from €100 to €500.

What is a no claim discount?

For every year that you do not submit a claim you will get a discount, generally up to 5 years.

Is there cover that will protect the no claims discount?

Yes cover is usually available, this benefit can be added to your policy for an extra premium.

What do I need to do if my car is stolen? 

You need to contact both the insurance company and the Garda as soon as possible with details.

What is breakdown assistance?

This cover is generally available when your car breaks down or will not start. You will need to contact the insurance company, they will send out a mechanic to take a look at your vehicle. If they are unable to repair your car they will tow it to the nearest garage and help you to complete your journey. Always read the terms and conditions carefully, as criteria may vary from insurer to insurer.

Are lost keys covered?

This will depend on the type of policy you have. If your keys were stolen from your house by burglars most insurance companies will contribute towards the cost of replacing the locks on your car. Always read the terms and conditions carefully.

If my keys are in the ignition and my car is stolen am I covered?

No, if the keys were left unsecured or unattended there will be no cover.

Can I drive somebody else’s car?

This will depend on the level of cover you have in place.

What type of claims are excluded?

Wear and tear, routine mechanical faults, loss in value, tyre damage or punctures, parking fines, clamps and Garda fines, speeding fines are not covered.

What is window screen cover?

Windscreen cover is generally included automatically under Comprehensive policies and can usually be added for an additional premium to Third Party Fire and Theft policies. This benefit will cover damage or breakage to your windows. Remember to read your policy wording carefully.

What do I do if I am involved in an accident?

You will have to report the incident to the Gardai immediately. Take a note of the other vehicles registration number. Remember to exchange names, address, car insurance policy number, driving license details and the names of any witnesses to the accident. If you have a smart phone or camera take pictures for your own records should the insurance company or Garda require them for the claim. Notify the insurance company as soon as possible and disclose all details of the accident. If you receive third party correspondence, all letters and notices must be sent directly to the insurance company. It is advised that you do not enter into talks or return correspondence until first talking to your insurance company.

Can I add someone to my policy?

Yes, but conditions and limits may apply. Call the car insurance provider directly to find out what details are required.

What if I am refused motor insurance?

If you are refused car insurance by 3 or more insurers you can contact the Declined Cases Committee of the Irish Insurance Federation. They will provide you with details in relation to your options.

Car Insurance Online

We have outlined some motor insurance definitions to help you when reviewing car insurance quotes online. There are 3 main types of car insurance policies. You will need to consider the type of policy that best suits you, this will depend on a number of factors such as value and age of the vehicle and the cover level required.

Third Party Insurance is the minimum legal requirement and will generally insure you for claims resulting from another party due to damage caused by your car. This includes damage to the third parties car, their property and personal injury. This level of insurance will not cover damage or theft to your car. If you are in an accident you will have to pay the damages and repairs sustained by your car yourself. This type of policy may suit you if the following circumstances apply as it may reduce the car insurance premium:

• Cars with a low market value.

• Young drivers under the age of 25.

• No driving or claims history.

• Living in a high risk area.

Third Party Fire & Theft Insurance will generally insure you for the above benefits plus damage to your vehicle for theft and fire.

And finally Comprehensive Insurance, this is the widest level of insurance available. Fully comprehensive cover may be worth your while if your car is valued at €2k or more. Comprehensive car insurance will vary depending on the insurance company but most will offer the following benefits:

• Breakdown assistance.

• Glass and window screen cover.

• Damage or theft to personal belongings – items stolen from a locked glove compartment or boot.

• Cover for driving other peoples cars once you have their permission and cover for a courtesy car in the event your car is being repaired by a garage or mechanic chosen by the insurance company.

Thank you for visiting our Car Insurance Comparison Website, we hope that you were able to find the best value cover at a competitive price. Safe driving!