Overview

• MoneySavingExpert’s analysis of 1.2 million quotes identifies a 20–27-day pre-renewal window that yields the cheapest rates, peaking at 26 days before expiry
• Insurers’ actuarial models treat last-minute renewals as higher risk, causing quotes to spike sharply in the final two weeks and in some cases double
• Association of British Insurers data shows the average UK car-insurance premium fell by £60 year-on-year to £562 in April–June
• MoneySavingExpert recommends using its Compare+ tool to shop multiple quotes and negotiate renewal offers, reporting haggling success rates above 70% for major providers
• Reader anecdotes include one driver saving over £450 and another cutting £689 annually by timing quotes and switching policies