What factors affect the cost of car insurance?

Car insurance premiums have fallen sharply this year.
But you will not necessarily benefit from this trend if you simply auto-renew with your existing insurer.
To ensure you get the best possible deal, it is crucial to shop around and compare the policies available from a wide range of insurance companies.
Other factors that affect how much you pay include, of course, the car you drive. Every passenger car built to UK specifications is assigned to one of 50 insurance groups, based on factors such as engine size, and using research conducted by the Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre - commonly known as Thatcham.
The higher the group, the higher the insurance premiums you will have to pay, which is why you should check which group a particular model is in at before deciding to buy it.
Your age and experience behind the wheel, claims history (including whether you have a no-claims discount) and occupation will also have an impact on the premiums you pay - as will your postcode and where you park your car at night.