• Stay Safe on the Road: Winter Driving Tips for the Police Family

    Stay Safe on the Road: Winter Driving Tips for the Police Family

    This article was published on 24 Nov 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Winter brings its own set of driving challenges, with darker days, slippery roads, and unpredictable conditions. As someone in the Police community, safe driving may come naturally to you, but it’s still a good opportunity to share these reminders with family members who may not face such conditions every day.

    Winter Car Essentials

    A little preparation goes a long way during the colder months. Before you head out, take a few minutes to check your car and make sure it’s winter-ready.

    1. Check your fluids and battery

    Regularly check your oil levels, battery health, and lights to ensure everything is in good working condition. Batteries can struggle in cold weather, so make sure yours is fully charged and consider a professional battery check if it’s more than a few years old.

    2. Be ready for frost and ice

    Keep de-icer and an ice scraper in your glove compartment – and a spare set in your boot just in case. Remember to never pour boiling water onto your windscreen as it can crack the glass.

    3. Check your tyres

    Good tyre grip is vital for safe winter driving. Use the 20p coin test: insert the coin into your tyre’s tread grooves — if you can see the coin’s outer band, it’s time for new tyres. If in doubt, get your tyres professionally checked.

    4. Check wipers and screen wash

    Replace worn wiper blades and use a winter-grade screen wash with a higher concentration to prevent freezing. You’ll use it more often in winter, so top it up regularly.

    5. Pack a winter emergency kit

    Be prepared for unexpected delays or breakdowns. Your emergency kit should include:

    • A shovel
    • High-visibility vest and warning triangle
    • Torch and spare batteries
    • Blanket and warm clothing
    • Jump leads
    • First aid kit
    • Don’t forget some snacks or chocolate!

    Many garages offer winter car checks, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re unsure.

    Before you set off

    Planning ahead makes a big difference in winter driving safety.

    • Check the weather forecast and road updates before you travel.
    • Allow extra time for your journey to account for poor conditions or delays.
    • Avoid driving tired – fatigue contributes to many winter accidents. Take regular breaks and share the driving where possible.
    • Keep valuables out of sight – especially important during the festive season when gifts and shopping are in your car. Store them safely in the boot.

    Check your breakdown cover

    Breakdowns are more common in winter, so it’s worth double-checking your breakdown cover before the cold weather hits. Make sure you know what level of assistance you have – especially if you regularly travel long distances or in rural areas.

    Car Insurance and Breakdown Cover for the Police Family

    At Police Mutual, we offer both car insurance and breakdown cover exclusively for serving or retired Police Officers, Police Staff, and their families.
    You won’t find us on comparison websites – because we’re here just for the Police community.

    Find out more: Visit our insurance pages or call 0151 242 7640 for further details.

    Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Breakdown Cover (Police Mutual Rescue) is provided by ERS.

    Alex Mculty

  • Common Causes of Vehicle Breakdowns and How to Prevent Them

    Common Causes of Vehicle Breakdowns and How to Prevent Them

    This article was published on 17 Nov 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Vehicle breakdowns can happen at any time – day or night, weekday or weekend. While there’s never a good time for your car to stop working, knowing the most common reasons can help you prepare, prevent issues, and get back on the road faster.

    In this guide, we’ll cover the top causes of car breakdowns and what you can do to reduce the risks.

    1. Battery Problems

    A flat or faulty battery is one of the most common reasons for a breakdown. Causes include:

    • An old or failing battery
    • Short, infrequent journeys that don’t allow for a full recharge

    Prevention tips:

    • Consider charging your battery overnight every few weeks
    • Replace your battery every 3-5 years, depending on usage

    2. Alternator Issues

    The alternator recharges your battery and powers your car’s electrical systems.

    Warning signs:

    • Flickering battery light
    • Dim headlights
    • Potentially, slower than normal windscreen wipers

    Unfortunately, alternators can’t be maintained, but spotting early warning signs helps avoid sudden failure.

    3. Starter Motor Failure

    The starter motor draws power from the battery to start the engine when the car ignition is switched on.

    There’s little you can do to avoid starter motor issues, but regular servicing can help catch problems before they worsen.

    4. Tyre and Wheel Damage

    Punctures, blowouts, or damage can happen anytime—often caused by debris or under-inflated tyres.

    Prevention tips:

    • Check tyre pressure and tread regularly, ideally when you make a stop to refuel
    • Keep a spare wheel or puncture repair kit in your car
    • Ensure tyres meet MOT standards year-round

    5. Misfuelling

    Every year, thousands of drivers put the wrong fuel in their cars. It’s easily done. Petrol mistakenly goes into diesel cars more often, as the petrol nozzle fits easily into a diesel filler neck.

    If you misfuel:

    • Do not start the car
    • Avoid turning the ignition (it primes the fuel pump)
    • Call your breakdown provider or garage for specialist help

    6. Electrical Problems

    Modern cars have increasingly complex electrical systems. Faults can affect everything from your headlights to the infotainment system.

    Tip: Other than replacing bulbs, leave electrical issues to a professional mechanic who can run diagnostics safely.

    7. Low Oil Levels

    Oil lubricates engine parts and prevents overheating. Running low can cause severe engine damage – even complete engine failure.

    Prevention tips:

    • Don’t rely only on the oil warning light
    • Use the dipstick regularly to check oil levels

    8. Lost Keys

    Locked out or lost keys? You’re not alone. Newer cars often use microchipped keys, designed to make them harder to steal, but makes replacements trickier.

    Tip: Keep a spare key at home, and if stranded, call your breakdown provider, car dealer or specialist locksmith.

    Breakdown cover that keeps you moving from £61.60 per year.

    Provided by ERS, Police Mutual Rescue unlike the AA or RAC, doesn’t have a fleet of branded vans, but utilises UK wide recovery specialists to rescue you 24/7 when your car breaks down.

    UK cover comes with:

    • Misfuelling cover
    • Lost keys and lock assistance
    • Home assistance
    • Onward travel provision should your car not be repairable

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    For full policy cover details including any exclusions, please call 0151 242 7640 or visit our breakdown page.

    Police Mutual Rescue (Breakdown Cover) is provided by ERS (Syndicate 218 at Lloyds).

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    Sarah Blair

  • Electric Car Incentives: Is Now the Right Time to Make the Switch?

    Electric Car Incentives: Is Now the Right Time to Make the Switch?

    This article was published on Mon 29 September 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming more mainstream, many UK drivers are asking: Is now the right time to make the switch? From government grants to lower running costs, there are plenty of reasons to consider going electric. In this article, we’ll explore the current incentives, practical benefits, and how Police Mutual can support you with car insurance tailored to your needs.

    Why Consider an Electric Car?

    Electric cars offer a range of benefits that go beyond environmental impact:

    • Lower running costs – Electricity is generally cheaper than petrol or diesel, and EVs require less maintenance.
    • Clean Air Zone exemptions – EVs are often exempt from charges in low-emission zones.
    • Government grants – While some schemes have ended, others still offer support for home charging installations.

    Current Incentives for UK Drivers

    There are numerous electric car incentives available:

    In July 2025 the government launched an Electric Car Grant to support the transition to zero emission vehicles and incentivise sustainable automotive manufacturing. The grant provides up to a max. of £3,750 off new cars.

    The EV Chargepoint Grant offers up to £350 off the cost of installing a home charger, available to anyone who owns and lives in a flat or rents and lives in a residential property.

    Many employers now offer EVs through salary sacrifice, allowing you to lease a car at a reduced cost while saving on tax and National Insurance.

    If you’re still working and considering an EV as a company car, the Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rate is significantly lower for electric vehicles compared to petrol or diesel models.

    Is It the Right Time for You?

    Switching to an electric car is a personal decision, but with fuel prices remaining high and the UK’s plan for all cars to be 100% zero emission by 2035, now could be a smart time to make the move.

    Protect Your EV with Police Mutual Car Insurance

    Whether you’re already driving electric or just starting your journey, having the right insurance is essential. Police Mutual car insurance is designed with the police community in mind, giving you peace of mind and reliable cover.

    For more information about Police Mutual car insurance and how you would benefit, visit our Car Insurance page here or call 0151 242 7640

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash

    Sarah Blair

  • Protect Your Car From Theft

    Protect Your Car From Theft

    This article was published on 18 Aug 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Did you know that over 61,000 vehicles were reported stolen in the UK in 2024? That’s the equivalent of seven cars stolen every hour, according to DVLA data obtained by What Car?  While this represents a modest 6% decrease from the previous year, the figures remain alarming.

    As members of the Police family, you may be more aware than most, but even the most security-savvy among us can benefit from a refresher or know someone who could use a few practical tips.

    Keyless Cars: A Modern Threat

    Keyless entry systems have become a popular convenience for drivers and unfortunately, an easy target for criminals.

    One major contributor to the rise in vehicle thefts is relay theft, where thieves amplify the signal from your key fob to unlock and start your vehicle, even when the keys are inside your home.

    Here are some simple but effective steps, as recommended by Thatcham Research, to help protect keyless vehicles:

    • Check for software updates. Speak to your dealer about any digital security updates available for your vehicle.
    • Turn off your fob’s signal. Some keyless fobs can be disabled when not in use – ask your dealer if this applies to your car.
    • Store your keys safely. Keep fobs away from entry points and consider using a signal-blocking pouch or box to prevent signal relay.
    • Be alert. Watch for suspicious activity in your area and report anything unusual.

    General Car Threat Prevention Tips

    Even if your car doesn’t have keyless entry, here are some essential precautions you should always take:

    • Always lock up. Even if you’re stepping away for just a minute, shut windows and lock all doors.
    • Don’t leave your car running unattended. It only takes seconds for a thief to drive away.
    • Hide your belongings. Keep valuables out of sight or, better yet, out of the car entirely.
    • Park smart. Choose secure, well-lit, or monitored areas whenever possible.
    • Use visible deterrents. Devices like steering wheel locks or gear shift locks can make your car less appealing to thieves.
    • Consider added tech. Fit your vehicle with an alarm, immobiliser, or tracking system – these may even help lower your insurance premium.

    Protecting Your Parking Space

    Don’t overlook the security of your driveway or parking area. Here are a few additional ways to enhance protection:

    • Install a home CCTV system. Affordable and effective, these can deter theft and provide valuable evidence.
    • Use motion-activated lights. A well-lit area makes your car a less tempting target.
    • Be cautious with key storage. Avoid leaving keys in obvious places like hooks near the front door or in view when you’re out and about.

    Remember, the more layers of security you have, the less appealing your car is to thieves.

    Car Insurance Tailored for the Police Family

    At Police Mutual, we understand the unique needs of serving and retired Police Officers, Staff, Specials, and their families. Police Mutual Car Insurance is designed with you in mind.

    Learn more about our Car Insurance offering here or call 0151 242 7640 to speak with our friendly team.

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Joanne Palmer

  • MOT vs Service: What’s the Difference and Why it Matters

    MOT vs Service: What’s the Difference and Why it Matters

    This article was published on 1 August 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    When it comes to car maintenance, two terms often cause confusion: MOT and car service. While they might seem similar, they serve very different purposes. So why not take a read of the Police Mutual guide to understand the differences and keep your vehicle safe, legal, and running smoothly.

    What is an MOT Test?

    An MOT test is a legal requirement in the UK for most vehicles over three years old. It’s an annual inspection that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the government.

    Think of it as a pass/fail test. If your car doesn’t meet the required standards, it fails the MOT and must be repaired before it can be driven again (except to a garage for repairs or a retest).

    What’s checked during an MOT?

    • Brakes and tyres
    • Lights and indicators
    • Windscreen wipers and washers
    • Exhaust emissions
    • Seatbelts and horn

    You can’t legally drive without a valid MOT certificate (unless you’re on your way to a pre-booked test or repair), and doing so could invalidate your car insurance.

    What is a car service?

    A car service is a routine maintenance check recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Unlike an MOT, it’s not a legal requirement—but it’s essential for keeping your car in good condition and avoiding unexpected breakdowns.

    Types of car service

    • Interim service (every 6 months or 6,000 miles)
    • Full service (annually or every 12,000 miles)
    • Major service (every 24 months or 24,000 miles)

    Typical service tasks include:

    • Oil and filter changes
    • Brake fluid top-up
    • Engine diagnostics
    • Battery testing
    • Suspension and steering inspection

    Why you need both

    Skipping a service because your MOT is up to date is a bit like skipping a health check because you feel fine. One checks for problems; the other helps prevent them.

    Regular servicing can help you:

    • Avoid costly repairs
    • Improve safety and performance
    • Extend your vehicle’s lifespan

    And when it comes to insurance claims, a well-maintained car can make the process smoother.

    Now what about Car Insurance?

    If you don’t have car insurance with us, why not get a quote?

    Unlike many insurance policies, you can spread the annual cost into monthly payments at no extra cost, letting you budget over the long term. There is also no need to wait for your renewal – switch today and you’ll receive cancellation fees up to the value of £125 that might be charged by your existing insurer.

    For more information about our car insurance and how you would benefit, visit our Car Insurance page here or call 0151 242 7640

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    Sarah Blair

  • Top Tips for Cheaper Motoring

    Top Tips for Cheaper Motoring

    This article was published on 19 June 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Top tips for cheaper motoring

    According to NimbleFins,[1] in 2025, the average cost of running a car in the UK is over £3,350, per year.  Find out how you could potentially reduce how much your car costs you.

    Reduce servicing costs

    Although garage servicing costs can be high, you may be able to save money on servicing by shopping around. But this doesn’t mean avoiding getting your car serviced. Minor repairs left to get worse may become very expensive to repair. Also, stick to the servicing intervals recommended by the car manufacturer and always keep a full service history to help maintain the value of your car.

    Take care of your tyres

    You can prolong your tyres’ life by taking proper care of them:

    • Ensure that they are correctly inflated as over or under-inflated tyres aren’t only dangerous, they will wear out more quickly and will increase your fuel consumption.
    • Check the tread for any foreign matter such as stones that might have lodged there.
    • Consider having your wheels aligned; badly aligned wheels can double tyre wear rate.

    While it’ll save you money by making your tyres last as long as possible, you must never drive on damaged tyres. Tyres must not have less than the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm across the central three quarters of the width of the tyre, with many experts recommending a minimum of 3mm.

    Clear out your car

    Many people use their car boots as a dumping ground for all manner of items. The heavier your load, the more fuel you will use – which will make a big difference over time.

    Think about your driving style

    The way we drive can make a huge difference to fuel consumption. Fuel-Economy.co.uk [2] are one of many websites that provide a fuel calculator, free of charge. You may be able to calculate yours here, but please note that any information is only provided as a guide.

    Every car has an optimal fuel efficiency typically around 30 mph to 50 mph, which is dependent on vehicle type. Increasing your cruising speed from 55 mph to 75 mph can raise fuel consumption as much as 20%!

    Other ways in which you can improve your fuel efficiency are:

    • Drive smoothly, accelerate and decelerate gently.
    • Avoid unnecessary braking by keeping a reasonable distance from the car in front and reading the road.
    • Avoid unnecessary stopping and starting in queues – try to keep your car rolling but avoid slipping the clutch.
    • Change gear sooner but avoid labouring the engine.
    • Reduce the amount you use your air conditioning as it can increase your fuel consumption. However, be sure to stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations about running it periodically.
    • Electrical loads increase fuel consumption, so turn off your heated rear windscreen, defoggers and headlights. Of course, only if safe to do so.
    • If your car is modern and has start-stop technology, make sure it’s activated. This will help reduce fuel consumption when you’re sat in a queue.

    Keep your car aerodynamic

    Car manufacturers make big efforts to improve the aerodynamics of their design to reduce drag and improve fuel economy. But if you leave roof bars and roof boxes on when you’re not using them, you won’t be helping your fuel economy.

    Reduce CO2 to keep car tax down

    If you’re looking to buy a new car, opt for one with low CO2 emissions and you’ll pay a lower first year rate in Vehicle Excise Duty. You’ll find CO2 emissions information on the car’s V5C registration document.

    Cars such as electric vehicles which emit ZERO CO2 used to be fully exempt from vehicle tax, in year 1 and subsequent years, but this changed from 1 April 2025. Vehicle Excise Duty is now payable on these types of vehicles. You can find more information at [3] GOV.UK Vehicle tax rates

    For cars, the first year’s charge can range from £10 to £5,490 dependent on the level of emissions. The second time the vehicle is taxed, and subsequent years, the standard rate is currently £195.

    Vehicles with a list price of more than £40,000

    You have to pay an extra £425 a year if you have a car with a list price of more than £40,000.

    You do not have to pay this if both of the following apply:

    • you have a zero emission vehicle
    • the vehicle was registered before 1 April 2025

    The list price is the published price of the vehicle before it’s registered for the first time. It’s the price before any discounts are applied.

    To calculate your vehicle tax rate, use the Vehicle Certification Agency’s calculator.

    Winter-proof your car

    It might be a little early to be thinking about autumn and winter, but these are the worst times of year for car breakdowns and insurance claims. Ensuring that that your car is ready to cope with the winter months, could help avoid inconvenient and potentially costly events later on. Below are just a couple of suggestions:

    • Lights – Make sure that lights are clean and working as a dirty head light can severely reduce your ability to see the road in front. 
    • Screenwash – It is always dangerous to drive with a dirty windscreen, but even more so with the low winter sun when there is a high risk of being dazzled in the mornings and late afternoons. Keep your windscreen clean at all times and ensure that your screenwash is topped up regularly.
    • De-icer – De-ice before you set off. Make sure that you remove ice from your windows and mirrors before you set off, so allow a little extra time for doing so. Keep de-icer and an ice scraper handy.
    • Battery – Car batteries are heavily used in the winter months, so ensure that yours is in good condition. If you haven’t changed it recently, get it checked out and replace it before it lets you down.
    • Winter tyres – Not compulsory in the UK, but they are in several other European countries, so think about this if you are travelling abroad. Winter tyres are made using a different compound which gives a better grip in the cold and uses a different tread pattern which is safer when driving on snow. They are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, and may well be worth considering.

    Now what about Car Insurance?

    If you don’t have car insurance with us, why not get a quote?

    Unlike many insurance policies, you can spread the annual cost into monthly payments at no extra cost, letting you budget over the long term. There is also no need to wait for your renewal – switch today and you’ll receive cancellation fees up to the value of £125 that might be charged by your existing insurer.

    For more information about our car insurance and how you would benefit, click here or call 0151 242 7640

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS.

    [1] NimbleFins – Average Cost to Run a Car UK 2025

    [2] Fuel-Economy.co.uk Fuel Calculators

    [3] GOV.UK Vehicle tax rates

    Chris Morey

  • Car & Home Insurance – How do you Make Sure you get the Best Value for your Needs Compared to the Cost?

    Car & Home Insurance – How do you Make Sure you get the Best Value for your Needs Compared to the Cost?

    This article was published on 29 May 2025. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us.

    Price increases and rising inflation are putting a lot of pressure on household finances. Many people are actively reviewing their finances and cutting back or eradicating expenditure where possible to make savings.

    Payments and prices will come under the spotlight. But it’s not always a case of searching out the lowest cost, you need to consider your personal needs and the value you want your policy to provide.

    Take insurance premiums for example. Car insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, but home insurance isn’t. So, at the extreme, someone could risk not insuring their home to save outgoings. But what a risk! Damage to the house structure or loss of home contents could be incredibly expensive to redress.

    So, how could you manage the amount you pay for your insurance whilst making sure it is still adequate for your needs? Options to look at could include opting to pay a higher excess in the event of a claim, or not covering your home contents for accidental damage. When considering options like this you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs that might arise in the event of a claim. For example, consider if you could afford to pay the higher excess in the event of a claim, or how you would replace items subject to accidental damage if you decided not to take that level of cover out with your policy. 

    Some insurance policies may promote a lower headline cost, but either not include certain elements that you personally would find useful or need, or make you pay extra for elements that you want to make use of.

    Examples include:

    • You might want to consider a car insurance policy that provides a courtesy car. If as a result of a claim your car needs to go in for repairs you would need to make arrangements to remain mobile for the period that your car is being repaired.
    • You might want to consider a home or car insurance policy that doesn’t charge to make changes during the time you hold the policy with the insurer. Changes you may need to make during the year could include mileage changes, address changes, insured driver changes and provision of duplicate documents. If your job or occupation changes, you might need to change your home or car insurance cover, for instance, if you become self-employed and work from home. If your policy charges for amendments these can add costs to your original premium paid.
    • You may want to review what policy extras you actually need, being mindful that you would need to consider how you would cover any additional costs arising if you decided to exclude policy add-ons.
    • Specialist Police car insurance policies may or may not include protection for officers travelling to or from work in their car whilst carrying official kit such as their Police Uniform. If you are a serving officer, you may want to make sure your policy covers you for this.

    So, it pays to look beyond the headline cost and get a policy that works for you and your specific needs.

    Reviewing your policy could make sure you have a policy that meets your individual needs and help reduce the chances of you being hit with any unexpected costs.

    If you are reviewing your insurance premium costs as part of your household finances review, you may be interested to know that you don’t need to wait until your renewal date to review and switch your insurance policy.

    Even if you took out an annual policy paid upfront as a lump sum, you may be able get a refund on some of your premiums and switch to a new insurer of your choice. However, some insurance companies may apply a cancellation charge for moving away from them during the term of the policy. You can help protect yourself from these charges by moving to an insurer that will pay some or all of the cancellation fees charged by your old insurer.

    If you move your car or home insurance to Police Mutual, any cancellation fees charged by your old insurer up to a maximum of £125 will be paid. So you can move straight away without waiting till renewal time. To give you an idea of cancellation charges, the average cancellation charge levied in 2024 (after the 14-day cooling off period) for car insurance was £55,[1] and while there are no official figures for home insurance in 2024, it’s usually between £25 and £50, according to NimbleFins.[2] Your existing policy documents should tell you what your exact cancellation charge would be.

    You can check out Police Mutual Car & Home Insurance here.

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS and Police Mutual Home Insurance is provided by Bspoke Underwriting Ltd.

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    [1] Average Cost to Cancel UK Car Insurance (2024) | NimbleFins

    [2] Home Cancellation Fees| NimbleFins

    Joanne Palmer

    ,

  • Electric Vehicles – A Quick Guide

    Electric Vehicles – A Quick Guide

    This article was published on 9th December 2024. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    With the UK Government pledging to reinstate the 2030 ban on the sales of new internal combustion engines (ICE) or put more simply, petrol and diesel cars/vans, we thought it would be a good idea to give you a quick guide on electric vehicles (EV).

    What is an Electric Vehicle (EV)? 

    The Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology official description is: 

    Electric Vehicles use electric motors to drive their wheels. They derive some or all of their power from large, rechargeable batteries. The distance an EV can drive between recharges is known as its range. 

    Let’s have a look at the different types and some of the names you might have heard of: 

    • All-electric EVs – where the battery is the only power source. The range (distance they can travel) will vary, according to driving style, terrain and the use of auxiliary equipment such as heating/air conditioning. 
    • Plug-in Hybrids (PHEVs) – can switch between running on electricity, petrol or diesel. They typically have a smaller battery, and therefore a lower battery powered range of between 10-40 miles. However their maximum range is equivalent to a petrol or diesel car. Both Plug-in Hybrid and all-electric EVs are recharged by plugging them in to the electricity grid.
    • Hybrids (HEVs) – which do not plug in, such as the Toyota Prius, have a much smaller battery which is recharged while driving. HEVs can drive in electric mode for a few miles and then revert to using petrol or diesel.
    • Fuel Cell Vehicles – generate their own electricity on-board from a fuel such as hydrogen, and do not need to plug in to the electricity grid to recharge. Re-fuelling is similar to a petrol or diesel car.

    Which type of EV is best for me? 

    This is a personal choice and will be dependent on a number of factors including, affordability, the type and distance of journeys you make and charging infrastructure where you live. 

    According to a UK Government report, 99% of car journeys in England are under 100 miles, so most could be made by an EV without needing to recharge. 

    How much do EVs cost? 

    Currently EVs cost more to buy than a comparable petrol or diesel vehicle. While they have less mechanical parts than a conventional vehicle, battery prices are a substantial cost. Many modern EVs use lithium-ion batteries and it takes a lot of time and effort to turn raw lithium into something that can be used. Some manufacturers offer incentives and lease plans for the battery, so include this in your car purchase research. 

    As EVs become more popular and manufacturers produce more vehicles and models, plus technology improvements, prices are anticipated to reduce. 

    Vehicle range 

    While vehicle range isn’t an issue with hybrids, as they will run on petrol and diesel, in addition to electric, vehicle range has always been a concern for drivers. It’s therefore encouraging to hear that according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the average electric range for new EVs launched in 2023 was nearly 300 miles, compared to 210 miles in 2020. Of course, some of this will be reflective of the driving conditions, roads and the way you drive, plus use of aircon and technology within the vehicle.

    Charging points 

    The term “range anxiety” describes a very real fear of running out of battery and knowing where to charge it up. 

    While you can have a charger fitted at home, clearly there will be times when you need to recharge when out and about. 

    The good news is that, the number of charging points is increasing. According to Zap Map the number of charging points grows by the day and at the end of October 2024, there were 71,459 electric charging points across 36,060 charging locations (UK only). This represents a 38% increase in the total number of charging devices since October 2023. 

    In October 2024, 1,025 new charging devices were added to the Zap-Map database. You can view local ones to you or your journey at zap map live – you might not have even known they were there!

    What about insuring your EVs 

    Do I need specialist insurance? The simple answer is no. Whilst you can buy specialist insurance for your EV, most major insurers now cover electric cars. 

    Does it cost more to insure an EV? 

    This can depend on the EV you choose, but according to wepoweryourcar.com, on average, insurance is more expensive than petrol and diesel vehicles in the UK.  

    This could be linked to expensive parts, higher repair costs and the availability of garages with qualified mechanics. While electric cars have fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, some components like the lithium-ion batteries are very expensive to repair if damaged.  

    As EVs become more commonplace this may change, but also remember that electric cars may benefit from other savings, such as congestion charges and zero vehicle road tax, but it is worth noting that from April 2025, EVs will pay Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). 

    Car insurance from Police Mutual

    Police Mutual Car Insurance offers policies for a range of EVs. You don’t need to buy a special EV policy and you can get a quote in the usual way. 

    You can either call us on 0151 242 7640 or go online at policemutual.co.uk/car 

    Police Mutual Car Insurance is provided by ERS. 

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Financial Services Register No. 114942. Registered in England & Wales No.1073408. Registered office: Brookfield Court, Selby Road, Leeds, LS25 1NB. 

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored. 

    WC CI WEB 0003/0004 v 2 29.11.24

    Joanne Palmer

  • Breakdowns – Let’s Take a Look at Some of the Common Reasons

    Breakdowns – Let’s Take a Look at Some of the Common Reasons

    This article was published on Thu 25 Jun 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    Vehicle breakdowns can occur literally on any day of the week, or hour of the day to any owner of any car. Of course, there is never a good time to have a breakdown, but we share some of the most common reasons for a breakdown and what you can do in some cases, to prevent them.

    Battery

    Perhaps the most common cause of a breakdown is a flat or faulty battery. It could happen for a variety of reasons such as a faulty or old battery or simply that you don’t go on enough longer journeys where the battery gets a longer charge.

    Charging the battery overnight every so often may help and it’s worth remembering that batteries don’t last for ever and you may need to replace every couple of years.

    Alternator

    The alternator recharges the battery using power from the engine and also provides power to the car’s electrical components.

    Unfortunately there is no way to maintain an alternator but warning signs to look out for include a flickering battery warning light, dimmed headlights and potentially slower than normal windscreen wipers.

    Starter Motor

    The starter motor uses electricity from the battery to turn and start the engine when the car ignition is switched on.

    There isn’t much you can do to avoid issues with your starter motor, although regular maintenance checks may prevent problems.

    Tyre and Wheel Damage

    A tyre could burst due to debris on the road or because of under-inflation.

    Under-inflation can cause tyres to overheat, so it’s good practice to check your vehicle’s tyre pressure and tread condition when you fill up with fuel.

    While it’s a condition of the annual vehicle MOT, It’s also a good idea to regularly check you have a serviceable spare wheel or a temporary puncture repair kit in the car.

    Misfuelling

    Thousands of drivers a year put the wrong fuel in their cars. It’s easily done. Most misfuelling errors are motorists putting petrol in a diesel car as the petrol nozzles easily fits in the wider diesel filler neck.

    If you have misfuelled your car, the most important thing is not to start your car. Even turning the ignition is enough to prime the fuel pump and pull fuel into the system. If you can, move your car away from the pumps, but remember don’t start the engine. Call your breakdown or car insurer (if covered) so they can then advise or send out a specialist to help.

    Electrical problem

    Your car’s electrical system includes a range of circuits controlling everything from the engine management system to the headlights and even the info system and stereo. As cars, get more technical, the chances of having a problem become more common.

    Other than simple fixes for broken bulbs, it’s better to get a trained mechanic to run a full analysis of the electrical system and advise you on next steps.

    Loss of oil

    Low oil levels can not only damage your engine by causing overheating but can even result in the engine seizing completely as the oil lubricates the engine parts, reducing potentially damaging friction.

    While most cars have a “low engine oil” warning light, it’s best not to rely on this and complete a regular manual check of the vehicle using the oil dipstick, normally located in the engine compartment.

    Lost Keys

    If you lose your key or lock it inside your car, you’re going to need help to get back in. While it’s a good idea to keep the spare in a safe place at home, this won’t always help you if you are miles away.

    Many newer cars have micro-chipped keys, designed to make them harder to be stolen, but which means you will have to contact a main car dealer for your car or call out a specialist.

    Breakdown cover that keeps you moving from £56 per year.

    Provided by ERS, Police Mutual Rescue unlike the AA or RAC, doesn’t have a fleet of branded vans, but utilises 425 UK recovery specialists, on hand 365 days a year*, to rescue our members when they breakdown.

    UK cover comes with:

    • Misfuelling cover
    • Lost keys and lock assistance
    • Assistance at home and within 1/4 mile
    • Onward travel provision should your car not be repairable

    For full policy cover details including any exclusions, please call 0151 242 7640 or visit our website.

    *Information provided by ERS, March 2020.

    Police Mutual Rescue (Breakdown Cover) is provided by ERS (Syndicate 218 at Lloyds).

    PMGI Limited, trading as Police Mutual, is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct

    Authority. Registered in England and Wales No. 1073408. Registered office: Alexandra House,

    Queen Street, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6QS.

    For your security, all telephone calls are recorded and may be monitored.

    Joanne Palmer

  • Exclusive FAO and AO Discount on Car and Home Insurance

    Exclusive FAO and AO Discount on Car and Home Insurance

    This article was published on Wed 08 Apr 2020. At the time of publishing, this article was true and accurate, however, over time this may have changed. Some links may no longer work. If you have any concerns about this please contact us

    ou have probably seen the new offers for discounted home and car insurance.

    This online discount is a limited offer – the Home Insurance discount runs until 23 April 2020 and the Car Insurance discount ends on 30 June 2020.

    You can take advantage of these offers PLUS your usual FAO/AO discount.

    To get both discounts you’ll need to follow these 3 simple steps;
    1. Get a Home and/or Car quote online at policemutual.co.uk
    2. Make a note of the quote reference(s)
    3. Email the quote reference(s) to info@pmas.co.uk stating you’re an FAO or AO

    One of our insurance experts will then ensure your FAO/AO discount is also applied. We’ll then contact you as soon as we can to confirm your fully discounted quote price.

    The online discount is applied to the basic premium when you buy a new car or home policy. The FAO/AO discount is then applied to the online discounted premium. The discounts are not available on optional extras and minimum premiums apply. The online offer only applies during the policy period and will not apply at renewal; the renewal price may be higher. The online discount will be automatically applied to your quote and will apply on all quotes taken before midnight on 30 June 2020 for car insurance and 23 April 2020 for home insurance, however can be withdrawn at any time.

    Please note your standard FAO/AO discounts of 20% off your Home Insurance and 10% off your Car Insurance will continue, on telephone quotes, after the online discounts have finished, if you remain in the role.

    Joanne Palmer

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