Passing your test is an amazing feeling, offering the freedom to explore the country without supervision.

However, new drivers often face high insurance costs due to their lack of experience. To minimise expenses, choose a car with a low insurance rating, which leads to lower premiums.

Below, we've listed 8 of the cheapest cars to insure for new drivers in 2026 to help you get on the road without spending a fortune.

If you’re under 20 years old, insurance companies will penalise you even more for your lack of experience. The cars below are perfect for travelling to and from college or school and road trips with friends.

We’ve also listed some guideline insurance prices based on a 17-year-old driving while living at home with parents. Remember that your insurance quotes will vary greatly depending on personal circumstances.

Here are some of the cheapest cars to insure for 17-year-olds and young drivers in 2026:

1. Ford Fiesta - Group 2 - £1,500 per year

One of the most common first cars and cars for young people, the Ford Fiesta is a legendary supermini, having been produced since 1976 right up until 2023. There’s been plenty of innovation, changes and improvements over the years.

For a great used bargain, check out the Mark 6 model, years 2008 - 2016, which came with cruise control, electric windows and A/C on the mid-range to high-end models such as Titanium.

2. Renault Twingo - Group 2 - £1,450 per year

Renault excels at making small city cars, and the Twingo was its smallest car in production for a long period. Designed to be made for people who need slightly less space than the Clio, its clever packaging and design meant it actually had almost as much interior passenger space as one.

Because of its small engine, high safety rating and low cost, the insurance group is only level 2, meaning it's very cheap to insure, and will help bring the price of new driver insurance down.

3. Vauxhall Corsa - Group 2 - £1,470 per year

The Corsa is another young driver favourite and has been since its release in 1993. This is due to its compact size, low maintenance and running costs. The new Corsa is no different but is no longer the smallest car in the Vauxhall lineup.

If you’re lucky enough to be buying a new car for your first one, Vauxhall offers great zero percent interest deals, and the cars come fully loaded with Apple CarPlay, cruise control and more.

Even though it’s built on the same platform as the VW Up!, surprisingly the Mii is cheaper to insure. This may be because the insurance groupings are based on risk and statistics rather than just car type.

Subjectively, the Mii does have better styling and a better-designed interior, which is another reason to opt for it over the VW Up! It also comes with more equipment as standard such as 16” alloys, and a DAB radio playing through a 6-speaker sound system.

5. Volkswagen Polo - Group 1 - £1,250 per year

The Volkswagen Polo is a perfect pick if you want a small car with high ratings. It’s also pretty cheap to insure, meaning you can zip from A to B in a popular car without high costs.

Polos with 1.0-litre engines fit into Group 1 insurance classifications — the lowest group. So, make sure you’re looking at 1L variants before you purchase. Other perks of a Polo include a big boot, space for four adults, internal soundproofing, and lots of comforts.

6. Hyundai i10 - Group 1 - £750 per year

If you’re really keen to get a good price, a Hyundai i10 is another excellent choice. This car fits into the Group 1 insurance bracket, and you can get deals where you only have to pay £750 per year. Awesome.

This car is often overlooked as it’s not the most trendy. However, with a high-quality interior, a five-year warranty, and plenty of space, it’s worth considering. Only the 1.0-litre engine version qualifies for Group 1 insurance. This is slower but fine if you drive mainly around towns or cities.

7. Kia Picanto - Group 1 - £800 per year

Another Group 1 option, the Kia Picanto, can be insured for as little as £800 per year. It’s another small car without any high-tech extras, but it’s ideal for those who have just passed their tests.

Though the Picanto is small, there’s enough cabin and boot space for comfortable driving experiences. The interior is also surprisingly high-quality compared to the price. You even get a seven-year, 100,000-mile warranty, meaning you’ll be covered for longer than the Hyundai i10.

8. Volkswagen Up! - Group 1 - £900 per year

Volkswagen is a fantastic choice for new drivers, not only with the Polo but also the Up. With a 1L engine, this minimalist model comfortably sits into Group 1 and saves you money. Of course, a 1L engine isn’t fast, but this is a compromise you might have to make for cheaper insurance!

The Up has a surprising amount of room, including a generous boot. Pair that with a smooth drive and a more attractive look, and you’ve got a strong contender for a first car.

Cheap Cars to Insure for Older First-Time Drivers

Even though many people learn to drive as soon as possible, at age 17 or 18, we know that it’s not always possible or required for some people until later in life. Therefore, we’ve also compiled a list of ideal first cars for older drivers, who may need space for families and work duties.

These would also be great for foreign nationals who’ve recently moved to the UK, as insurance costs for expats can be considerably higher.

Here are the lowest insurance cars for new drivers in 2026:

1. Skoda Octavia - Group 13 - £1,150 per year

 popular saloon or estate car is a good choice for those looking for low insurance. The relatively low power but great safety features mean the insurers don’t deem them a high-risk vehicle.

Perfect for a family, they have plenty of room for 4 people and luggage, the estate being ideal for carrying a dog, bikes or just doing tip runs. The infotainment is up there with the sister car, the Volkswagen Passat, but at a lower price point.

2. Kia Sorento - Group 12 - £1,070 per year

Whilst the 2.2 diesel Sorento doesn't have the smallest of engines, its low insurance group means it's still relatively economical to insure. The SUV platform would suit someone who prefers a high driving position too.

Kias have become a great choice for those wanting peace of mind too, with their 7-year warranty as standard, and reputable dealer network.

3. Mazda 6 Estate - Group 16 - £1,320 per year

Another roomy estate, the Mazda 6 is a slightly bigger offering than the Octavia but is still in a low insurance group - meaning affordable cover. The boot is cavernous at over 520 litres, and the 2.2 diesel engine has plenty of grunt too.

We think the Mazda interiors of recent years are some of the most stylish out there, easily competing with the harsh lines of VW and BMW interiors, and being more subtle than Mercedes.

4. Vauxhall Combo Life XL - Group 12 - £1,240 per year

If practicality is your main concern, a car based on a van would probably be ideal. The Combo Life is just that, with 7 spacious seats and windows in what was a Combo Van floor plan and drivetrain.

A clever folding mechanism and the removal of the rear row of seats result in an enormous amount of space, perfect for hauling furniture, pets or other large items. The Combo Life comes well equipped too, with a touchscreen navigation system as standard, with a DAB radio and Bluetooth connectivity.

At first, the Seat Ibiza looks like it should be in the first half of the list. It’s a smaller car with a lower-power engine that may suit some younger drivers. However, it’s also great for older drivers who don’t need a larger vehicle or extra power.

The Seat Ibiza is in insurance Group 2, so it has very affordable costs. It also has a stylish look, plenty of space for passengers, and a touchscreen infotainment system with the possibility of full smartphone integration. Don’t skip this option if you’re a city or town driver!

Other Ways New UK Drivers Can Lower Their Insurance Costs

Alongside looking for the cheapest car to insure for 17-year-old, here are some additional ways to secure affordable insurance.

Why is insurance so expensive for new drivers in the UK?

Car insurance is expensive for new drivers in the UK because insurers see them as higher risk. With little or no driving history, insurers have less data to predict how safely a new driver will behave on the road.

Statistically, younger and inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents, which leads to higher claim costs. It might feel unfair at first, but as you spend time on the road and drive safely, your premium will be lower.

Other key factors that increase prices include:

So, remember that it’s not the car alone that drives the cost. Rather, it’s the risk profile of the driver combined with limited experience.

Which car brands are cheapest to insure in the UK?

Some car brands consistently appear in lower insurance groups due to lower repair costs and lower theft risk. They also tend to have higher safety ratings. 

Other factors that lead certain brands to be more affordable include smaller engines, simple trims, and high availability of parts.

Typically, the cheapest brands to insure for new drivers include:

What is the best first car for new drivers in the UK?

The best first car is usually one that balances low insurance costs, reliability, safety, and ease of driving. 

The “best” option ultimately depends on budget and your driving needs, but small hatchbacks with modest engines remain the safest starting point.

Popular choices for first-time drivers include Volkswagen Up, Toyota Aygo, Skoda Citigo, and the Kia Picanto. These cars are typically inexpensive to insure and maintain. They also tend to sit in lower insurance groups, making them ideal for building a no-claims history.

What is the best car size for a new driver?

For most new drivers, smaller cars are the best choice. Compact 1L vehicles are easier to control and manoeuvre,  especially in busy urban environments.

Small hatchbacks are generally preferred because they offer:

Supermini-sized cars (such as the VW Up or Toyota Aygo) are often ideal for first-time drivers in 2026. Larger cars can be harder to judge and usually come with higher insurance costs.

Many new drivers accidentally increase their insurance costs by making avoidable mistakes when setting up their policy. Bumper recommends brushing up on the new driver blunders before you take to the wheel!

Getting the setup right from the start is one of the easiest ways to keep insurance affordable. So, keep the list above handy as a checklist before you commit.

The Conclusion On Cars For First-Time Drivers With Cheap Insurance

Navigating high insurance costs can take the excitement out of passing your test — but it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. Hopefully, this blog has inspired you and helped you find your first car.

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Cheap Cars To Insure For New Drivers: Young And Old (2026)

There are a few important things to keep on top of when owning or driving a car. Ensuring your car is MOT’d, taxed and insured is something every driver should know how to do.

With modern technology, there’s no excuse either, all you need is an internet connection and your car's registration number. The service for checking your road tax expiry also offers useful information about your MOT status, too.

Thankfully the gov.uk website has a quick and easy service for checking car tax, anyone can use it to check any car registration:

Why You Need to Check If Your Car is Taxed

Having car tax, or Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) to use its official name, is a legal requirement to drive on UK roads.

The punishment for not taxing your car depends on how and when you are caught, but it can range from a £100 fine to criminal convictions and vehicle seizure.

Vehicle tax (VED) varies depending on a few factors, mainly CO₂ emissions, fuel type, and when the car was first registered. 

Newer, higher-emission vehicles generally cost more, while electric vehicles may be exempt or lower rated. You can check exact rates for 2026 using the GOV.UK vehicle tax calculator.

Car tax (VED) is a government charge for using the road, while insurance is a legal requirement that covers damage or liability in an accident. You must have both to drive legally in the UK.

A different service must be used to check if your car is insured: the 

 database. To check if your car is insured, follow these steps:

Can I Find Out if My Car Insurance Has Run Out?

Yes, you can check if your car insurance has expired by using the 

. You can also check your policy documents or contact your insurer directly if you’re unsure of the end date.

If you’ve forgotten your insurer, check your email inbox for policy documents or bank statements for monthly payments. You can also use askMID, which will confirm whether your car is insured but not always the insurer name. 

Can’t find anything? If needed, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau can help you trace your policy provider.

What Happens if You Forget Who Your Car Insurance Is With?

If you forget your insurer, don’t panic. This information is relitively easy to find.

If you still can’t find it, the Motor Insurers’ Bureau can help you identify your provider so you can renew or update your policy before it ends.

Having a car insurance policy is a legal requirement to drive on public roads in the UK. You must have a minimum of third-party cover. This ensures that if you are involved in a collision, the other party will be able to claim against your insurance company for their losses.

Driving without insurance is a serious offence, and comes with a range of punishments starting at a £300 fine and 6 penalty points.

There’s no one answer for cheap car insurance. 

The cheapest insurance for Brits in 2026 depends on factors like age, driving history and accidents, location, and vehicle type. Generally, smaller engine cars, safe driving records, and higher voluntary excess can reduce costs. 

Comparing quotes from multiple providers is the best way to find the lowest price, and we recommend that you set aside some time to compare options before making a financial commitment.

What Is the Minimum Car Insurance Coverage?

In the UK in 2026, the legal minimum is third-party insurance. 

Third-party insurance covers damage or injury you cause to other people, vehicles, or property, but not your own car. Many drivers choose higher levels like third-party, fire and theft or comprehensive cover for greater protection.

Bumper recommends that you research the main types and compared them to your own budget and needs before making a final decision.

 is an annual test of roadworthiness, carried out by qualified personnel at an approved MOT station. To check how long your MOT is valid, follow the steps below:

Can I Find Out Where a Car Has Been MOT’d?

Yes, you can see where a car’s MOT tests were carried out using 

The MOT history checker shows the test centre name, location, and full MOT history for a vehicle. This can help you verify a car’s background, especially when buying a used vehicle.

Having a valid MOT certificate is required to tax a vehicle, and driving without either is a serious offence. The MOT checks all the safety aspects of your car, including tyres, suspension and more.

You should be aware of when your MOT is due to expire in advance, as you can book at test up to 30 days early, this allows you time to fix any faults.

No, the MOT is still required every year for most vehicles in the UK once they are over three years old. 

There has been discussion about changing the rules, but at present in 2026 there is no change in legislation. Driving without a valid MOT can lead to fines and penalty points. It may also invalidate your insurance, so it’s not worth the risk.

How to Avoid Fines, Penalty Points or Vehicle Seizure when Driving

It may seem like a lot, but there are only really a few things to remember:

If you do these 4 things, and maintain a good standard of driving, there is no reason to worry about fines or penalty points!

If you find yourself forgetting about your car’s MOT or insurance renewal until the last minute, here are a few tips on how to remember for the future:

Can I Check Who Owns a Vehicle in the UK?

You cannot freely look up a vehicle owner due to data protection laws. 

However, you can request information from the DVLA if you have a valid reason, such as an accident or legal issue. In 2026, this usually involves a formal application and a fee.

What Details Can I Find With a UK Car Check?

A UK car check can reveal key information such as MOT history, tax status, mileage records, outstanding finance, write-off status, and whether the vehicle has been stolen. 

It’s commonly used when buying a used car to avoid hidden issues. Bumper always recommends that users complete a car check and request a full service history when purchasing a used car.

If your MOT is due soon, consider using Bumper’s 

 for any additonal work. Split the cost of work between £60 and £5,000. Apply online and choose from 1000s of trusted repairers.

Is My Car Taxed & Insured? How To Check

Is My Car Taxed & Insured: How To Check

Fuel injection was often seen on high-performance and luxury cars from as early as 1940, but since the late 90s, every run-of-the-mill car uses it.

Like any other car part, a fuel injector will need a replacement after a few years of use or if it starts to malfunction.

Keep reading to learn more about fuel injector replacement costs in 2026 and signs to look out for if yours is failing.

 average cost of replacing a fuel injector in the UK is from £120 to £160.

The actual cost depends on your car's number of fuel injectors, its type, and your location. The table below provides price guides for replacement injectors by manufacturer in 2026.

How long does it take to replace a fuel injector?

Replacing a fuel injector typically takes between 1 and 3 hours.

The final time depends on the vehicle and engine type. On some cars, injectors are easy to access and can be swapped quickly. On others, especially modern engines with tighter layouts, it may take longer due to the need to remove additional components. 

Diesel engines can also require more time because of higher system pressure and more complex injector setups.

Fuel injectors are devices that deliver precise amounts of petrol or diesel directly into the combustion chamber using electricity.

These are located on top of the engine and often hidden by covers, they function similarly to spark plugs. Replacing carburettors, fuel injectors improve fuel economy and power by using a magnetic coil to control the timing and flow of fuel through a small orifice.

Overall, fuel injectors pump fuel into the engine and reduce your car’s emissions. You don’t want this to fail!

The injector seal and O-ring are crucial to the proper functioning of fuel injectors, they form a tight seal around the injectors making sure no fuel vapour leaks out, and no air is able to get in.

Injector seal replacement costs around £50.

Replacing an injector seal is inexpensive, but you'll need a mechanic to handle the labour, which can increase the cost due to their expertise and time.

Fuel injectors are vital components that can occasionally face issues due to contaminants or ageing seals.

Over time, impurities in fuel may clog the injectors, causing performance problems. Additionally, rubber seals can dry out and leak.

Regular maintenance helps keep these components in top shape, ensuring smooth engine performance.

If the thought of forking out for a car repair is worrying you, then why not consider Bumper. Bumper lets you split the cost with a 

 that you can repay monthly with 0% interest.

This may be less if the car has been left unused for large periods of time because the seals in the injectors will age faster if not used.

There are some factors that affect the lifespan of a fuel injector, such as fuel quality

 fuel filter replacement routines and the type of vehicle.

Does supermarket fuel cause injector issues?

It's often claimed that supermarket fuels are inferior to branded ones like Shell or BP, potentially causing poor engine performance and lower MPG.

However, there is no evidence supporting that supermarket fuels are worse than branded options. Therefore, it's unlikely that they cause increased wear or defects in fuel injection systems.

Signs your fuel injectors need to be replaced

Failing injectors can cause prominent symptoms, but it’s critical to note that these issues may also result from other faults. Here are signs your fuel injector needs to be replaced:

If your engine feels rough or stalls at idle, partially blocked fuel injectors might be the cause.

If your engine stalls during acceleration, it may be due to inadequate fueling from a faulty pump, blocked fuel filter, or damaged injectors.

Blocked or underperforming injectors reduce engine power and efficiency. Poor injectors can also cause over-fueling if they don't close properly.

What can be mistaken for a bad fuel injector?

Several issues can mimic the symptoms of a faulty fuel injector. 

Sensor faults, such as a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor, can also cause similar running issues. 

Because symptoms overlap, proper diagnostics are important before replacing injectors unnecessarily, and Bumper urges owners never to assume the cause of the problem.

There’s more than one type of fuel injector service, and which you book depends on the issue with your car.

A skilled mechanic can guide you to the right service. However, we’ve listed the main ones to help you workout which fits your car’s needs:

Yes, mildly clogged fuel injectors can often be cleaned rather than replaced. Fuel additives designed for injector cleaning can help remove minor deposits when added to the tank. 

For more stubborn blockages, professional cleaning using specialised equipment may be required. 

However, severely clogged or damaged injectors usually need replacement, as cleaning may not fully restore proper spray patterns or performance.

Can injectors be cleaned without removing them?

Yes. There are a few different products available that can help to clean your injectors without the need to remove them.

Modern engines are complex with multiple covers, making injector removal costly. However, products like Redex, which dissolve carbon deposits when added to your fuel tank, can help clean injectors without removal.

These products may address minor issues, but consulting a mechanic is advisable.

Fitting fuel injectors involves depressurising the fuel system, removing the fuel rail, disconnecting the old injectors, and installing new ones with fresh seals before reassembling everything. 

While the steps may sound straightforward, the process can be complex and varies by vehicle, especially on modern engines or diesel systems with high pressure. 

If you don’t have mechanical experience, it’s strongly recommended to leave this job to a professional, as mistakes can lead to leaks or safety risks.

What fuel injectors are right for my car?

The right fuel injectors depend on your car’s make, model, engine type, and fuel system. You can find this information in your owner's manual or by talking to a qualified mechanic.

Always match OEM specifications or approved equivalents to ensure proper fit and performance, as using incorrect injectors can cause poor running or damage.

Since September 2021 the standard for petrol sold in the UK has changed, whereas previously it contained 5% ethanol, it now contains 10% ethanol.

For older cars, higher ethanol levels in fuel can potentially degrade rubber and metal components in the fuel system, including injectors.

While there's no concrete evidence that E10 petrol directly affects injectors, it's wise to use the 

 and follow its advice to avoid potential issues with your fuel system.

Diesel injectors are most commonly damaged by contaminated fuel and poor-quality diesel. 

Water or debris in the fuel system can cause blockages or wear internal components, and running the tank very low can also draw in sediment, increasing the risk of damage. 

Over time, normal wear and carbon buildup can reduce injector performance, especially if servicing intervals are missed. Bumper suggests sticking to your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. 

Replacement is generally worth it, but it depends on the car’s age, value, and the severity of the issue. 

If the vehicle is relatively modern or high-value, replacing faulty injectors can restore performance and fuel efficiency — often making it a worthwhile expense. However, on older or low-value cars, the cost of parts and labour may outweigh the benefit of booking them in. 

Bumper suggests that if multiple injectors are failing, drivers should consider the total repair cost versus the car’s market value before deciding.

Final thoughts on fuel injector replacement costs

Understanding the costs associated with fuel injector replacement is crucial for managing your vehicle’s maintenance budget and for keeping your car running smoothly.

Injector seal replacements are quite affordable, though professional labour can affect the total cost. The good news is that with regular maintenance and early issue detection, you can keep expenses down and ensure your engine runs like a dream!

Split the cost of repairs at no extra cost

 solution that lets you split the cost of car repairs into interest-free monthly repayments. Enter your registration and postcode to find a service partner. You can apply for up to £5,000.

How much does a fuel injector replacement cost?

Fuel injector replacement cost

How often do you consider your car's steering system? Most drivers take it for granted until it fails.

Don't worry if you're experiencing this issue right now. We're here to help with steering rack replacement costs.

We'll also cover other factors influencing the price, such as labour costs and parts availability. By understanding more about what goes into replacing a steering rack, you can help extend your car's lifespan and avoid more expensive repairs. Keep reading to find out more about costs in 2026.

How much is a steering rack replacement cost in the UK?

The average steering rack replacement cost in the UK is

The cost of replacing a steering rack varies by vehicle make and model, as well as labour hours. We’ll break these down in this article.

You should also compare prices from multiple mechanics to find the best rate. If you're experienced, consider doing some of the work yourself to save on labour costs. But don’t attempt this if you’re a newbie!

Split the cost into monthly payments at thousands of reliable repairers with Bumper 

Steering rack replacement cost by car make

We've rounded up the average costs for replacing the steering rack depending on your car make. Use these as a rough estimate for your costs in 2026.

Steering rack replacement cost per UK region

Isobel Coughlan

Content Writer

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