Auto Insurance Lab
Auto Insurance Lab is an independent educational resource for people comparing car insurance, preparing for a policy purchase and organising records after a collision, theft, repair issue or other incident. We explain common terms in plain English so drivers, families and small businesses can prepare better questions before contacting an insurer.
Use the Auto Policy Excess Calculator to compare two example policies using your own premium, excess and possible claim figures.
Start with the vehicle and the driver
Insurance comparisons should begin with accurate details about the vehicle, drivers, use, location, annual mileage, security arrangements and intended trip. A low price is not useful if the policy does not match the vehicle or the way it is used. Read the current wording, definitions, eligibility conditions and exclusions before relying on a quotation.
What our guides cover
Our research pages explain voluntary and compulsory excesses, comprehensive and third-party cover, no-claims discounts, windscreen and breakdown sections, theft records, accident documentation, repair estimates and questions to ask before changing a policy. We also cover practical recordkeeping for families and small businesses with more than one vehicle.
Keep an incident file
For a collision, theft or repair issue, keep a dated timeline, photographs, incident references, receipts, recovery details and communications with the relevant provider. Do not post registration documents, driving-licence details, payment information or personal contact details publicly.
Read exclusions as carefully as benefits
Check how the policy treats named drivers, vehicle modifications, business use, commuting, overnight parking, keys, personal belongings, repairs, courtesy vehicles and notification deadlines. If a term is unclear, ask the insurer or a qualified adviser before relying on the cover.
Auto Policy Excess Calculator
Compare two example auto policies using your own figures. The calculator estimates annual premium plus the excess you could pay if the entered loss became one covered claim. It does not quote insurance or predict a claim decision.
The estimate uses: annual premium + possible claims × the lower of the entered loss and excess. It ignores exclusions, limits, taxes, repair rules, vehicle value, no-claims effects and policy-specific definitions. Read the current wording before buying cover.
Educational information only
Auto Insurance Lab does not sell insurance, underwrite policies or decide whether a claim will be accepted. Our articles and calculator are general educational information and are not financial, legal or mechanical advice. The calculator does not guarantee savings, cover or a claim result. Always read the current policy wording and obtain advice about your own circumstances.
Explore the Lab
Use the guides to prepare questions, organise records and compare the features that matter to your vehicle and driving needs. Review the site Disclaimer and Privacy Policy before sending a general enquiry.