It's the annual chore every driver dreads: car insurance renewal. But what if a simple timing trick could save you hundreds of pounds? We put Martin Lewis's famous advice to the test.
The 23-Day Rule Explained
Money saving expert Martin Lewis has long advocated a specific strategy for drivers seeking cheaper cover. He recommends getting quotes around 23 days before your current policy expires. This isn't random advice; it's based on a peculiarity within the insurance system where prices can fluctuate wildly based on how far in advance you look.
Insurers apparently view those who search for new quotes closer to their renewal date as a higher risk, leading to inexplicably higher premiums. By acting approximately three weeks before your policy ends, you can potentially access significantly lower rates.
Putting the Theory to the Test
Having used this method successfully the previous year and halving the insurance bill, our journalist had the date marked in the calendar. The process involves entering your details on comparison websites at this strategic time to capture the best possible price.
This approach highlights what many would call an unfair and wild west aspect of the insurance industry. Two identical drivers with the same car and history could be quoted hundreds of pounds apart simply based on the date they decided to shop around.
A Surprising Outcome and Key Takeaway
This year's experiment yielded a pleasant surprise. The renewal quote from the existing insurer was actually lower than the previous year's premium and slightly better than any competing offer found on comparison sites.
While this meant staying with the current provider was the most cost-effective and hassle-free option, the research provided invaluable peace of mind. It confirmed that the driver wasn't overpaying and was, in fact, getting a good deal.
The key lesson remains: always check you're getting the best price. Even if your renewal quote seems reasonable, you won't know for sure unless you compare. The diary is already marked for November 2026, ready to deploy Martin Lewis's clever trick once again.
