Many factors influence the premium for your Motor insurance policy. Your insurer will have asked you many questions whilst producing your quote – some of which will affect your premium and some will not. Below we discuss the key variables that are within the policyholder’s control

*Consolidating policies: By insuring a number of vehicles with the same insurer, or by trying to take out home and life insurance through your car insurer, you may be able to secure a ‘Multi Policy’ discount

* Location: A big influence on the cost of your auto insurance is where you live. The chance of your car being broken into or stolen is a key concern for the insurer. More urban areas traditionally facing greater risk of theft and therefore tend to be more expensive than countryside location

* Deductibles:  By agreeing to pay a greater deductible on each claim you can reduce your auto insurance premiums.

* Your Vehicle: The cheaper and slower your vehicle the lower your premiums are likely to be. If you are looking to buy a new vehicle make sure you fully consider the cost of insurance – you may be able to buy the car but can you afford to run it?

* Mileage: You can control your insurance premiums by restricting your annual mileage. However, be aware that if you exceed the restricted number of miles your rates will increase.

* Parking: Where you park your vehicle overnight is also very important to the insurers. If it is kept in a locked garage, you may be offered a lower premium than if you leave it unattended in the street

* Security: Security devices that prevent or hinder theft may also reduce your premium. Common examples include alarms and immobilizers.

* No Claims Discount: Drive safety and be aware of other drivers to avoid having claims. Many auto insurance companies offer claim free discounts.

* Advanced driving skills: By taking an advanced driving course you may also be able to reduce your premiums. You should also think about take a driving course if you received a moving violation ticket so that you can have the violation removed from your record avoiding a price hike in your auto insurance premium

* Your Age: The older you are, the less likely you are to make a claim. As a result insurance companies charge lower premiums for more mature drivers

One final piece of advice, a large percentage of car insurance is now sold on the Internet. That is because it is convenient and cheap.