Getting car insurance is a necessary nuisance for many of us…especially if we drive a flash car like an Aston Martin!

But no matter what you drive, it’s definitely worth putting in some time and effort as you can get some good deals and save yourself a small fortune each year.

Here’s what you can do to help yourself:

• Shopping around

Spend a few hours comparing car insurance deals online and you soon realise that you can save whether you are renewing or buying for the first time.

Comparison websites, such as Confused.com, uSwitch.com, moneysupermarket.com, insurance.co.uk and Tescocompare.com are worth looking at.

You should check them out every year as the best deals can change every month!

• Quote massaging

Your job could have more than one description; for example, a “solicitor” is also a “lawyer”. Testing different legitimate job descriptions, or "quote massaging" (looking at the different ways in which you can legitimately describe your job so you can 'massage' your quote to get a more competitive price), when you apply for car insurance could save you up to hundreds of pounds.

• Adding a second named driver

Adding an older second named driver (a parent, for example) to your policy could save younger drivers a further 15%. There is no need for this person to ever drive your car.

• Not pimping your ride

Research from comparison website BeatThatQuote.com indicates that modifying your car (like lowering the suspension or adding a rear spoiler) could add up to 171% to the cost of cover.

• Protecting your ride

Car insurers bump up prices if they think your car is vulnerable. If possible, park your car in a garage or a driveway. Also install a Thatcham-approved alarm and immobiliser.

• Not claiming under £500

Most claims knock two years off your no-claims discount; wiping out very substantial savings of up to 70% in your car insurance policy price. Experts advise you to avoid claiming for any damage under £500.

• Considering bundled insurance

Some new cars come with free insurance for a year or more. This could be a significant selling point. But don’t fall into the trap of renewing the bundled cover when it expires without first comparing other deals. 

• Taking a course

Completing a Pass Plus course could cut your car insurance premiums; sometimes by 30% or more which would cover the course cost of £100 to £150.

So, whether you are renewing or buying for the first time, providing you do a bit of homework, you can cut the cost of your car insurance!