Sometimes you need a little extra protection for things that aren't covered by your car insurance. That’s where add-ons come in, they can cover things like breakdowns, legal fees, or even losing your car keys. In this guide we'll explain what the most common add-ons are.
What are car insurance add-ons?
You can buy car insurance add-ons (also known as optional extras) to protect things that may not be covered in your car insurance policy. For example windscreen protection or breakdown cover. These aren’t typically included as default, so if you want them, you’ll need to add them and pay a bit more.
How will I know what’s included or is an extra?
When you get a car insurance quote, you’ll see a breakdown of what’s included as standard and what you’d need to pay extra for. If you're ever unsure what's already included, your best bet is to check directly with the insurer before you commit. Better safe than sorry!
Are car insurance add-ons worth it?
It depends! Some add-ons can save you money in the long run or if you find yourself in a bit of a pickle. For example breakdown cover or legal protection. But if you already have similar cover elsewhere, you might be paying for something you don’t need.
What optional extras can I get?
Here’s a list of the most common car insurance add-ons and what they actually do.
| Car insurance add-on | What's covered? |
|---|---|
|
If you’re in an accident that wasn’t your fault, this covers legal costs to help you claim compensation. It can also cover legal fees if someone takes action against you.
|
|
|
Pays out if you or your passengers are seriously injured or killed in a car accident.
|
|
|
If your windscreen gets chipped or cracked, this covers the repair or replacement.
|
|
|
Protected no claims
|
If you’ve built up a no-claims bonus, this lets you make a set number of claims without losing your discount. Handy if you’ve been driving claim-free for years.
|
|
If you ever need to make a claim, you’ll usually have to pay an excess first. This cover reimburses you for that cost. It's worth considering if you’ve chosen a high excess to keep your insurance premium down.
|
|
|
This lets someone else like a partner or family member, drive your car under your insurance.
|
|
|
You can choose different levels of support from roadside repairs and home start assistance to national recovery and onward travel, covering costs like a hire car or accommodation if needed.
|
|
|
This extends your insurance so you’re covered when driving in Europe.
|
|
|
Similar to European cover, but check the details—some policies include worldwide cover too.
|
|
|
If you're in an accident this provides a temporary car so you can still get around while yours is in the garage being repaired.
|
|
|
Child seat cover
|
Even if a child seat looks fine after an accident, it might not be safe to use again. This cover pays for a replacement.
|
|
Misfuelling cover
|
If you accidentally put petrol in a diesel car or vice versa this add-on covers the cost of draining and cleaning the fuel system.
|
|
Personal belongings cover
|
Covers your stuff if it’s stolen from your car or damaged in an accident up to a certain amount.
|
|
This helps cover the cost of getting new key if you lose them.
|
|
|
Uninsured driver cover
|
If an uninsured driver hits you, this covers the damage to your car without affecting your no-claims bonus.
|
cookie usage