When it comes to car insurance, choosing the right provider is crucial for securing the best coverage at competitive rates. In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into 1st Central Car Insurance, exploring its history, the variety of policies it offers, the extent of coverage, associated benefits, and how it stacks up against competitors. Whether you're a new policyholder or considering a switch, this article aims to provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
1st Central Car Insurance
Founded in 2008, 1st Central is a notable player in the car insurance industry, offering various policies, including third-party, fire and theft, and comprehensive cover. As part of the First Central Group, it has earned accolades such as Insurance Provider of the Year at the MoneyAge Awards and holds the prestigious ServiceMark from the Institute of Customer Service. Let's delve into the intricacies of 1st Central car insurance to understand its offerings, coverage, and benefits.
What 1st Central Car Insurance Offers
1st Central provides a range of car insurance policies catering to different needs. Here are some of the key offerings:
1st Central Value:- Basic comprehensive insurance, available as an online-only service.
- Affordable option with the flexibility of online management.
- Telematics (black box) policy for drivers aged 17 to 29.
- Tracking driving habits for potential premium reduction.
- Mid-tier comprehensive policy available online.
- Comparable coverage to 1st Central Connect without the telematics device.
- Comprehensive cover with motor legal protection.
- Additional coverage for legal expenses in case of an accident.
- Comprehensive policy with RAC breakdown cover.
- Replaces legal expenses with breakdown cover.
Additional Offerings:
- Multi-car insurance: Offers a discount on additional cars, up to a maximum of £250.
Cover Options Provided by 1st Central:
1st Central Value Covers:- Injury to other people
- Damage to other people's property
- Fire damage
- Theft
- Accidental damage to your car
- New car replacement
- Medical expenses
- Hotel expenses
- Courtesy car cover
- Child car seat cover
- Key cover
- Driving abroad
- Driving other cars
- Injuries to other people
- Damage to other people's property
- Fire damage
- Theft
- New car replacement
- Audio and visual equipment
- Key cover
- Driving abroad
Benefits of 1st Central Car Insurance
1st CENTRAL focuses on car insurance, offering competitive pricing and a range of features. Some notable benefits include:
- Class-A courtesy car for insured repairs.
- Uninsured Driver Promise.
- New replacement car for cars less than 12 months old.
- 90 days of European cover.
- Key cover and in-car entertainment coverage.
Comparison with Competitors
Here's how 1st Central compares to other car insurance providers:
| Provider | Overall Rating | Third-Party, Fire and Theft Rating | Comprehensive Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Central | 4.4 stars | 5 stars | 5 stars |
| Direct Line | 3.7 stars | 3 stars | 5 stars |
| People's Choice | 1.4 stars | 4 stars | - |
| Hastings Direct | 4.1 stars | 4 stars | 5 stars |
| Admiral Insurance | 4.4 stars | 4 stars | 3 stars |
| Aviva | 4.0 stars | 3 stars | - |
| AXA | 4.3 stars | - | 4 stars |
| LV= | 4.5 stars | 3 stars | 5 stars |
| esure | 3.1 stars | 4 stars | - |
| Ageas | 4.1 stars | - | 5 stars |
| NFU Mutual | 4.4 stars | - | 5 stars |
Conclusion
While 1st Central provides a variety of policies, it's essential to note that most comprehensive plans offer similar coverage. The company has received acclaim for its five-star Defaqto rating and positive Trustpilot reviews, particularly in handling claims. The flexibility to opt for online-only policies may appeal to those seeking cost savings without compromising coverage. When considering 1st Central, it's crucial to align the specific policy offerings with your needs and preferences.