Many South African drivers stay with the same car insurer year after year without reviewing their policy. While loyalty can be rewarding, it might also mean missing out on better coverage, improved customer service, or lower premiums. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to change your insurer, here are clear signs to look out for—plus what to do next.
1. Your Premiums Keep Increasing Without Reason
Car insurance premiums may rise annually, especially due to inflation or changes in your risk profile. But if you haven’t made claims, changed vehicles, or altered your driving habits, and your premiums still go up, it’s worth investigating. Some insurers increase rates automatically over time, hoping customers won’t notice. In contrast, others reward safe driving and offer discounts for loyalty.
Before making a switch, compare current offers. For example, comprehensive car insurance from newer or more competitive providers might offer better value with the same or even enhanced benefits.
2. Poor Customer Service or Claims Experience
The true value of insurance is only revealed during a claim. If your current insurer took too long to process your claim, denied it unfairly, or offered poor customer service, it’s a red flag. Reading online reviews and asking friends or family about their experiences with different providers can give you useful insight.
A company like Miway Insurance, for instance, is known for its digital-first approach and efficient claim-handling process—factors that should matter when evaluating insurers.
3. Your Needs Have Changed
Life doesn’t stand still—and neither should your insurance policy. Whether you’ve moved to a safer neighbourhood, now park your car in a garage, or drive fewer kilometres due to remote work, your risk level may have changed. These changes should ideally result in a lower premium. If your current insurer isn’t adjusting to your new lifestyle, another provider might offer more flexible solutions.
Likewise, if you’ve bought a new car or added a second vehicle to your household, switching to a multi-car policy with another insurer might bring savings.
4. You’re Not Getting Rewards or Discounts
Many insurers now offer incentives for things like good driving, low mileage, or bundling policies (such as car and home insurance). If your insurer isn’t offering loyalty rewards, cashback, or usage-based discounts, you’re potentially leaving money on the table.
Modern providers use telematics and mobile apps to assess your real-time risk and offer tailored premiums. If your insurer is still using outdated models, it might be time to move on.
5. Lack of Optional Add-Ons or Flexibility
Do you need car hire after an accident? Windscreen repair without affecting your claim history? Extended coverage for hail damage or load-shedding-related incidents? If your current insurer lacks optional add-ons that suit your situation, switching to a provider that offers customisation makes sense.
Comprehensive car insurance should give you more than just basics—it should offer protection tailored to your lifestyle and vehicle use.
How to Switch Car Insurers Without Stress
If you’ve decided it’s time for a change, follow these steps:
- Compare Quotes: Use reputable sites or contact insurers directly to compare not just prices, but also benefits, exclusions, and customer service ratings.
- Check for Penalties: Ensure your current insurer won’t charge a cancellation fee or require advance notice.
- Overlap Your Coverage: Don’t cancel your existing policy until your new one is confirmed. A gap in coverage can leave you exposed.
- Notify Your Previous Insurer: Submit a formal cancellation and get confirmation in writing.
Switching car insurers can save you money, offer better protection, and give you peace of mind—especially when you choose a reliable provider like Miway Insurance that combines digital convenience with trusted service.