Everything You Need to Know about Insuring a Classic Car
Classic cars aren’t just vehicles but investments, passions, and often treasured pieces of automotive history. Whether you’re restoring a vintage car or taking pride in a well-preserved collector’s item, protecting your car with the right insurance is essential.
However, insuring a classic vehicle differs slightly from covering a daily driver. From what qualifies as a classic to what’s included in your policy, there are a few key points to understand.
Here’s everything you need to know about classic car insurance, including how to get the best cover and keep your premiums affordable.
What Counts as a Classic Car?
There’s no single definition of a "classic car," but insurers typically consider a vehicle to be classic if it’s:
- Over 15 to 25 years old (depending on the insurer),
- Maintained in good condition, and
- Not used for daily commuting or business purposes.
Some insurers may offer classic car policies for younger vehicles if they are rare, limited edition, or historically significant. Always check with your broker to confirm eligibility.
What Does Classic Car Insurance Cover?
Classic car insurance policies are typically customised to cater to enthusiasts and collectors. A typical policy might include:
Agreed value cover – Unlike standard car insurance (which pays market value at the time of loss), classic car policies often allow you and your insurer to agree on the vehicle’s value beforehand.
Limited mileage policies – Because most classic cars aren’t used daily, you may get a lower premium by restricting your annual mileage.
Laid-up cover – If your car is kept off-road and isn't driven, you can insure it against theft, fire, and accidental damage for a lower price.
Cover for spare parts and tools – Useful if you maintain or restore your vehicle yourself.
Event cover – If you take your car to shows or exhibitions, this may be included or added to your policy.
Options on how to Lower Your Classic Car Insurance Premium
Limit Your Mileage
Insurers may offer lower rates if you commit to driving under a set number of miles annually (e.g., under 3,000 or 5,000 miles).
Add Extra Security
Installing alarms, immobilisers, tracking devices, or storing your vehicle in a locked garage can significantly reduce your premium.
Avoid Modifications
Customising your vehicle can increase your premium, especially if the changes affect the car’s value or performance. If you do modify your car, be sure to inform your insurer.
Build Your No Claims Discount (if applicable)
Some specialist insurers offer no-claims bonuses on classic car policies, which can help reduce costs over time.
Need Help Finding Cover?
Servicing your needs is second nature to us at NLIG. We understand that classic cars deserve specialist care and attention. Whether you own one classic car or an entire collection, we can help you find tailored insurance that safeguards your investment with trustworthy advice.
For a personalised quote or to review your current classic car insurance, call us today on 01992 703 300 or email insurance@nlig.co.uk
Our business is your protection.