Just got my car insurance renewal through...

[Traci66]

Last year my insurance was £249, I have made no claims etc, my renewal came through today and if I stay with the AA it is going up to £470 or I can switch to an alternative insurer, which they have provided where the sum will be £373. Why the big hike in price?

[ummmm]

They always do it hoping people will stay with them. Mine went up by £168. I just went on a comparison website and got a cheaper quote.

[stokemaveric]

try compare.com traci

[Traci66]

Ummmm, believe me I am going to be looking on comparison websites.

[sunny-dave]

Usual rip-off - insurance companies always jack up the price for existing customers (hoping that inertia will stop you switching).

Bung your details into confused.com (I use them but 'other comparison sites are available') and see what offers are out there.

[ummmm]

And it takes minutes. All I had to do when I switched was email a copy of my no claims bonus within 28 days.

[starone]

These comparison sites are marvellous. I have changed my house insurance for the past two years and both times got the same cover for half the price. Plus a very nice meerkat.

[ummmm]

I used compare the market and I didn't get a meerkat :-(

[Traci66]

Pooh, will I get a meerkat if I use compare the Market?

[ummmm]

So it said on the advert.

[jno]

be careful, they might send you an opera singer instead.

Once you have got a quote from someone else, ring the AA up and invite them to match it; they may well do so rather than lose a customer.

[jake-the-peg]

If you've not passed a substantial birthday, had any convictions, moved house, changed car had a health issue or added someone else to the policy then I'd call them up and ask them because although policy prices keep going up that's nearly doubling!

They may have made an error

[TheNovice]

don't just use the compare sites as many don't quote via them. Surf the net, there are plenty of cheaper options out there. I believe the Farmers Union do cheap(er) quotes as do a company called Adrian Flux. Shop around!!

[shoota]

Adrian Flux are very good - especially with slightly unusual cars, classics, kit cars etc.

[starone]

If you used compare the market you will have been given a number to quote. When you decide on which insurer to deal with make sure they have the number and then sit back and wait. You will get a form to fill in via your email, and eventually you will get your meerkat. Takes a little while.

[Sipowicz]

My meerkat was covered in spots. Pimples!

[Traci66]

Just been on compare the market and got quoted £211.63. That is much better and yes, I get a free meerkat!!!

[Saki]

My meerkat was full of indentations. Dimples!

[mccfluff]

btw you can sell the meerkats on ebay

[Sipowicz]

I've seen a few dressed as nuns. Wimples!

[woofgang]

those compare sites wind me up. You put in what you want then it comes up with a load of "cheap offers that AREN'T what you want