Are you wondering how much you should be paying for car insurance in South Africa? Car Insurance in South Africa Generally Costs between R200 and R2000+. Car insurance typically falls into two main categories: Third-Party and Comprehensive Insurance. Go here to see car insurance prices by model.

  • Third-Party Car Insurance: This is generally the most affordable option, covering damages to other vehicles and property in an accident where you’re at fault. The price range for Third-Party Car Insurance usually falls between R200 to R500+ per month.
  • Comprehensive Car Insurance: This offers extensive coverage, including damages to your vehicle and others, theft, fire, and other risks. The cost for Comprehensive Car Insurance in South Africa ranges from R800 to R2,000+ per month, depending on the value and type of your vehicle, among other factors.

Want to know more about the cost of car insurance? 

How Car Insurance Cost is Typically Calculated

When it comes to car insurance, the cost is often based on the value of your car. Let’s break down how this calculation typically works for both third-party and comprehensive insurance using a rate per R100,000 of vehicle value.

Third-Party Insurance Cost

For every R100,000 of your car’s value, the insurance rate for third-party coverage is:

  • Minimum Rate: R100 per (0.1% of R100,000)
  • Maximum Rate: R200 up to (0.2% of R100,000)

Examples:


2018 Volkswagen Polo Vivo Hatch 1.4 Comfortline (Value: R155,010)

  • Third-party insurance from R155 to R310

2003 Toyota Hilux 2400D LWB (Value: R129,995)

  • Third-party insurance from R130 to R260 

Comprehensive Insurance Cost

For comprehensive insurance, the rate is higher:

  • Minimum Rate: R300 per  (0.3% of R100,000)
  • Maximum Rate: up to R900 per (0.9% of R100,000)

Examples:

2018 Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 Double Cab 4×4 Raider Auto (Value: R573,009)

  • Comprehensive Insurance from R1,720 to R5,160

2008 Volkswagen Polo 1.6 Comfortline (Value: R119,995)

  • Comprehensive Insurance from R360 to R1,080

Please note that these figures are just estimates. For a precise and personalised quote based on your specific circumstances and vehicle, we strongly encourage you to request a quote.

Factors That Influence the Cost of Car Insurance

The cost of your car insurance is influenced by several factors. Here’s a breakdown of what insurance companies typically consider:

  • Type of Vehicle: Luxury, sports cars, and newer models may have higher insurance costs due to higher repair or replacement costs.
  • Driving Record: A history of accidents or traffic violations can lead to higher premiums.
  • Location: Living in urban areas with higher traffic and theft rates often results in higher insurance rates.
  • Vehicle Storage: Storing your vehicle in a locked garage or secure parking can lower insurance costs due to reduced theft risk.
  • Usage of Vehicle: More frequent use or using your car for commuting can increase insurance costs.
  • Security Features: Cars with safety and anti-theft features like alarms and immobiliser and tracking devices  might qualify for lower rates.
  • Insurance History: Your past interactions with insurers, including claims history and coverage gaps, can affect current rates.
  • Age and Gender of the Driver: Younger and male drivers, especially those under 25, typically face higher insurance rates.
  • Chosen Deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can reduce your premiums, but increases out-of-pocket costs in a claim.
  • Coverage Type and Limits: More extensive coverage options and higher limits typically increase the cost of insurance.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your car insurance and find ways to manage your costs effectively.

Determining Your Car Insurance Needs

Choosing the right car insurance can be a balancing act between coverage and cost. Let’s compare Third-Party, Fire and Theft insurance with Comprehensive insurance to help you decide which is best for your needs.

Third-Party, Fire and Theft Insurance

Pros:

  • Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than comprehensive insurance.
  • Basic Coverage: Covers damage to other people’s property and your vehicle for fire and theft.
  • Peace of Mind: Provides a middle ground between minimal and extensive coverage.

Cons:

  • Limited Protection: Does not cover damages to your car in accidents you cause.
  • Riskier for High-Value Cars: May not provide sufficient coverage for more expensive vehicles.

Best For: This option is ideal if you want more than the basic third-party coverage but don’t need full protection. It’s suitable for older or less valuable cars where the cost of comprehensive insurance may not be justified.

Comprehensive Car Insurance

Pros:

  • Extensive Coverage: Covers damages to your car and others’ in accidents, theft, fire, vandalism, and weather-related damages.
  • Greater Security: Ideal for protecting higher-value cars.
  • Additional Perks: Often includes extra features like roadside assistance.

Cons:

  • Higher Costs: More expensive than third-party, fire and theft insurance.
  • May Be Unnecessary for Older Cars: For older, low-value vehicles, the cost may outweigh the benefits.

Best For: Comprehensive insurance is best if you have a newer or more valuable car, or if you want maximum protection and peace of mind. It’s also advisable if you rely heavily on your vehicle for daily commuting or if you live in an area with high traffic or crime rates.

Quick tips for Saving on Car Insurance

  • Reassess Car Hire Coverage: Remove if not needed and use alternative transport to reduce premiums.
  • Choose Third-Party Insurance: Opt for this more affordable option if comprehensive insurance isn’t in your budget.
  • Install Safety Features: Add alarms or tracking devices to lower premiums.
  • Utilise Low-Mileage Discounts: Eligible for cars driven under 15,000km/year.
  • Bundle Insurance Policies: Combine vehicle and home insurance for discounts.
  • Reconsider All-Risk Coverage: Remove items always at home from all-risk coverage, as they are covered under home insurance.
  • Opt for Higher Voluntary Excess: Increase excess to reduce monthly premiums.
  • Consult with Local Pros Partner: Get personalized advice for cost-effective insurance solutions.

Visit Compare Car Insurance for the Lowest Car Insurance Quotes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Insurance

What is the difference between Third-Party and Comprehensive Insurance?

Third-Party Insurance covers damages to others’ property in accidents you cause, while Comprehensive Insurance covers both others’ and your vehicle for a variety of risks including accidents, theft, and natural disasters.

Can I change my insurance policy once it’s active?

Yes, most insurance companies allow you to modify your policy. However, it’s best to check the terms and conditions or speak with your insurer for specific details.

Does car insurance cover theft?

Comprehensive insurance typically covers theft, but Third-Party Insurance does not. If theft coverage is a priority, consider opting for Comprehensive Insurance.

How can I lower my car insurance premiums?

You can lower your premiums by choosing a higher deductible, maintaining a clean driving record, installing security features in your car, and sometimes by improving your credit score.

Are older cars cheaper to insure?

Generally, yes. Older cars often have lower values, leading to cheaper insurance rates. However, very old or classic cars might need special insurance at different rates.

What factors affect my car insurance rate?

Factors include your car’s make and model, age, driving history, location, usage frequency, security features, insurance history, and chosen coverage and deductibles.

Is it mandatory to have car insurance in South Africa?

In South Africa, it’s not legally mandatory to have car insurance, but it’s highly recommended to at least have Third-Party Insurance for financial protection.

What is a deductible in car insurance?

A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket in a claim before your insurance covers the rest. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your premiums.

Does car insurance cover damage from natural disasters?

Comprehensive insurance usually covers damage from natural disasters, but Third-Party Insurance does not.

Can I insure a car that’s not in my name?

It’s possible, but policies vary. Some insurers require the policyholder to be the registered owner of the car. Always check with the insurer for their specific rules.