Category: Blog

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Getting your car serviced is often on a list of things we all forget about. We usually only go to a mechanic if there’s an issue. When we think of getting our car serviced, we think of its costs. On the other hand, we must remember that getting your car serviced is essential as it will save you money in the long run. It can find any minor issues before they become large and costly ones.

Not only that, but having full service on your car can increase the second-hand value of the car as the new owner will know it’s in perfect condition to purchase. Depreciation is one of the high driving costs, so this could help put some value back on your car.

If you are a new driver, you may not have gotten a car serviced before, so this is a new process for you. We have a few tips for getting your car serviced for new and experienced drivers.

How Often Should a Car be Serviced?

Most road users are unsure when to get their car serviced, so they leave off doing it for another few months. Most cars will tell you if a car service is needed. How is this? Well, if a flashing light appears on your dashboard, it’s time to get it checked over. Your car manual is also great to read up on when your car needs a service. 

Usually, you should service your car after 12,000 miles. If you are driving over 20,000 miles a year, you should get a service every six months to avoid any issues and fix wear and tear. 

When is the Best Time to Get a Car Serviced?

If it has been over a year since your last service, then it’s time to get it booked for a service. Even if your car has low mileage, it’s worth checking. You should get your car serviced more regularly if you cover high mileage. The more you use the car, the more issues you may face. An annual service is the best way to go.

If your car is under warranty and runs out in the next few months, you should get it serviced before it runs out. It will save you money if there are any issues.

What is Performed in a Car Service?

Various checks can be performed on your car, depending on how much mileage the car has done. There are three types of service that are carried out:

• Minor
• Full 
• Major

Minor Service

A minor service typically checks basic elements such as coolant, brake fluid, oil and anti-freeze levels. The mechanic will check your brake pads to see if they work effectively. Other checks that may be made are:

• Tyre Thread Depth 
• Windscreen Wipers
• Lights 
• Indicators

If there are issues with anything in the minor service, the garage will notify you, and they may have to repair or replace a part of the car. 

Full Service

The full service includes all elements of a minor service, which we have covered and some extras. The mechanic will check new areas in a full service, such as the engine to see if it is running correctly, the battery, suspension and steering checks. Usually, a full service will be done if you have an NCT coming up. 

How often do you get your car serviced?

Major Service

A major service includes everything above. Some parts may need to be replaced, such as:

• Brake Discs
• Timing belt
• Cultch

It will cost you more but will increase your car’s price in the long run and avoid any future issues.

Price of a Car Service 

A car service depends on a range of things, such as your car’s size, model and the dealership carrying out the service. A general service can cost anywhere from €80 to €130. It’s always good to shop around and compare garages’ prices to get the best deal on your car service. 

Are There Any Tasks I Can Do To Look After My Car?

There are a few basic servicing tasks that you can carry out regularly to keep your car’s condition in top shape. If you are a mechanic, you can go a few steps further than this, but here are a few tips for all of us who don’t know much about how a car works. 

Make Sure Your Oil is Topped Up

You should always keep your oil topped up. It’s good practice. It can help avoid any engine problems and overheating issues. It also saves you money because a garage may charge you for premium oil during a service. 

 

 

Regularly Monitor Tyre Pressure

Monitoring your tyre pressure regularly is important. It will keep you safe on the road. It will also help you spot an over-inflated or under-inflated tyre which can wear out the tyre faster. We don’t want to pay for a new set of tyres. 

Check your tyre pressure every few weeks. You will find the recommended tyre pressure for your car in your car’s manual. It is normal for your front and rear wheels to need a different pressure, so be aware of it. 

Replace Fluids

Just like you are monitoring your oil levels, you should keep on top of other fluid levels such as engine coolant, windscreen washer fluid and brake fluid. They should all be checked and topped up at regular intervals. If you don’t know where to find parts to check the fluid level, there will be a diagram in your car’s manual. 

How Long Does a Car Service Take?

The time taken for a service depends on which service you booked. A minor service typically takes an hour and a half. A full service takes 3 to 4 hours, and a major service takes between 3 and 4 hours. 

Following the tips and advice above should help to improve your car’s performance and lifespan, however, in case the unfortunate does happen, it’s important to have insurance you can trust. For a quick, secure car insurance quote, reach out to one of our trusted KennCo Insurance advisors on 01 409 2600, or click here for a secure online quote.

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Are you in the market for a new car but want to sell your old one? Selling a car yourself may seem daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. You may need to figure out where to start if you haven’t done it before. 

We have several tips for selling a car privately to ensure a smooth transaction. There are a lot of cars for sale, so you’ll want to price yours attractively, have all your documents and have it in perfect condition. 

There are many online marketplaces to help advertise your car online and communicate with prospective buyers. When selling privately, you will have to create an excellent advert for your car. Below are multiple tips for selling a car privately:

Ensure it’s Ready to be Sold

Your car should be in excellent condition to be sold. This means it should be clean, in working order, and without damage.

Clean the Car

We have all heard horror stories from friends or family where they have gone to view a car privately, and the car was filthy. If the car isn’t clean or in decent condition, it may raise questions about you as a seller. A prospective buyer may think you might have neglected to maintain and service the car too. Most potential buyers will walk away if they see a dirty car, which could be interior or exterior. You will want to buy a car that is clean and looks in perfect condition. 

Your first step so should be to give your car a thorough clean. Sounds like an obvious step, but some sellers neglect to do it. You should get the car valeted by a professional if it is filthy. Going forward, it will make a huge difference when you want to sell the car privately. It will look much more attractive in the advert photos. 

 

 

 

Cosmetic Damage

After cleaning the car, you may want to get any minor cosmetic damages fixed, such as scratches or kerbed wheels. It’s up to you to get this done. It may not be worth it if you sell the car for a low price. On the other hand, fixing all the cosmetic damage can increase the car’s worth. 

 

 

Get a Service

The car should be in perfect working order when selling it. Nobody wants to purchase a car which is damaged. You should book your car into a local garage for a service. It may also increase the price of the car.

Gather All Documents

The potential buyer will want to trust you, so have all your documents ready. We always recommend keeping a folder of receipts and print-outs showing your car’s history. 

Calculate a Price 

As we know, depreciation is the number one factor for valuing your car to sell it. You should be focusing on what someone will pay for the car rather than what you paid in the first place. If you need help with how to value your car, check out the price of similar make and models online. 

Once you have a price in mind, you will have to consider where you want to advertise the vehicle online. There are lots of online car marketplaces in Ireland. They may charge a fee for putting up the ad, so make a comparison and see which one you prefer.

Advertise Your Car

After you’ve decided on a platform to advertise your car, you will have to do a few things to create the perfect ad for your car. The better the quality of the ad, the higher your chances are of selling it. 

Taking Photos

Take several photos of varying angles of the car. You should only take photos in daylight and, if possible, in good weather.

 

 

 

You will need to take photos of all parts of the car, including:

• Interior
• Exterior
• Under the bonnet
• Inside the boot
• Steering wheel
• Dashboard
• Infotainment system

You should also take photos of the whole car from close up and all in the frame. It will help give potential buyers an idea of your car’s condition. However, you don’t need to take photos of every tiny scratch.

Have you ever sold a car privately?

Writing Your Advert

Most online platforms will autofill details such as your car’s make and model once you enter your registration number. However, you should check that all the information is correct. You may also have the option to add a more detailed description, and you should always add it in if possible. Just explain the car’s general health and history. 

You’ll need to be honest about the car. There’s no point wasting your or a potential buyer’s time if you leave out key details. If there is an issue the buyer will need to fix, then let them know. 

Viewings of the Car

Next, you will need to arrange viewings with potential buyers who want to view the car. You may want them to view the car at your home for convenience. 

The potential buyer may bring someone who knows more about cars, so don’t be alarmed. They want to ensure the car is as you say it is. 

Give the potential buyer time to look around the car on their own. They don’t want you hovering over them watching. Just don’t leave the keys with them. 

Test Drives

Test drives are an essential part of buying and selling a car. If someone is interested in your car, they will likely want to give it a test drive to see how it feels on the road. 

Your car must be taxed if you are going on a test drive. The potential buyer must also have insurance that covers them to drive the car. You can offer to drive them around in the passenger seat if they don’t. It’s not the same as driving, but it gives them an idea of how it performs. 

Agreeing on a Price

The potential buyer will likely want to negotiate a lower price. You should consider this before you meet them. 

Always have a maximum amount you’re willing to take the car for. Leave the buyer to handle the negotiation side of it. Be confident in your negotiation and only take a price you’re comfortable with. 

Taking Payment

Always ensure you get the payment before handing over the keys or documents. It could mean waiting until you have the cash in hand or seeing the transaction in your online banking. 

Cash is the best way to go when selling a car privately. Double-check the amount you are given. Be wary of any fake notes. 

Completing the Sale 

Finally, you have sold your car, and all the hard work is complete. It’s now time to complete all the paperwork. You will want to print off a receipt for both you and the buyer. 

Your receipt should include the following:

Registration number 

• Make and model 
• Mileage done
• Price agreed
• Sold note on the receipt

Print a copy each and get both signatures on the receipts. It acts as proof of purchase. There are several templates online to create a receipt.

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A lot of people are making the switch to Electric Vehicles, but they can be quite expensive. People may not switch to EVs in the next few years for many reasons. The best option, then, is to buy a fuel-efficient car. That then leaves you with a question, what are the most fuel-efficient cars in Ireland?

Rising fuel prices have brought focus on fuel-efficient cars. It may depend on the driving you do. Of course, electric vehicles are the most fuel-efficient cars, but we will look at both traditional and hybrid vehicles for this article. 

The search for the most fuel-efficient cars will have you check out the miles per gallon (mpg) the vehicle drives to see how fuel efficient the car is. Mpg measures how far the car can travel on a single gallon of petrol or diesel.

5 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars in Ireland

Take a look at some of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market in Ireland:

Peugeot 208 – 73.6mpg

The 2nd Generation Peugeot 208 has retained its crown as the most economical car on sale in the UK. The 1.5 Litre BlueHDi diesel engine has a claimed fuel economy figure of 73.6mpg. Its petrol counterpart uses 58.9mpg. They are both excellent compact cars which are ideal for regular short drives.

Citroen C3 – 70.6mpg

The engine found in the Citroen C3 is almost identical to the newer Peugeot 208, so they are very close in performance. On the other hand, the Citroen C3 uses more fuel which may be down to its larger bodywork. The C3 measures 70.6mpg. However, you shouldn’t notice any differences in your daily driving. Comfort is key in the C3.

Skoda Octavia – 68.2mpg

The Skoda Octavia is a popular car in Ireland and offers excellent build quality and space. The Octavia is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine. The Octavia claims a fuel economy figure of 68.2 mpg. It is one of the most fuel-efficient family cars. It has decent power, which will perform well on motorways.

Seat Leon – 65.7mpg

The Seat Leon uses the same engine as the Skoda Octavia, but it is less fuel efficient than the Octavia. The WLTP figures claim it can run up to 65.7mpg. It is a powerful 2.0-litre diesel engine which has good in-gear acceleration. 

Suzuki Swift – 59.7mpg

The Suzuki Swift has a 59.7mpg fuel consumption figure for the 82bhp Swift. This Suzuki Swift is a mild hybrid with a 1.2-litre petrol engine assisted by an electric motor-generator unit. It doesn’t have a large enough battery to run on electric only, but it does help improve the car’s fuel consumption. It is an excellent option for someone with a budget. 

Conclusion

These are some of the most fuel-efficient cars in Ireland. Consider your driving needs, and remember to drive efficiently when you have the car to save more on fuel. To be fuel efficient, it doesn’t have to be a brand-new 2023 car. There are fantastic second-hand car choices too, which are fuel efficient. 

How important is fuel efficiency when choosing a new car?

Fuel Efficient FAQs

How is fuel efficiency measured?

Fuel efficiency is measured in miles per gallon (MPG) for fuel-powered cars and kilowatt-hours per 100 miles (kWh/100 miles) for electric cars. The higher the number, the more fuel-efficient the car is.

How can I make my car more fuel-efficient?

There are several ways to make your car more fuel-efficient, including:

• driving at a steady speed
• using the correct oil and tire pressure
• keeping the car well-maintained
• using eco-driving techniques

Are there any government incentives for purchasing a fuel-efficient car in Ireland?

Yes, several government incentives and tax breaks are available for purchasing a fuel-efficient car in Ireland. These include the SEAI grant, the electric vehicle grant, and the VRT relief. They are mostly for drivers purchasing EVs.

What is a fuel-efficient car?

A fuel-efficient car is a vehicle that is designed to use less fuel and emit fewer emissions than traditional vehicles. This can include hybrid and electric cars and vehicles with efficient internal combustion engines.

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Having a flat battery can be a nightmare when you have a busy day planned. Jump starting a car is a quick and handy way to start a car with a flat battery. Be careful when using jump leads as they can cause damage to both cars and people if not used correctly. 

We recommend giving breakdown assistance a call and leaving it to professional mechanics. If you don’t have time to wait for them to come out, here are some tips on how to jump start a car using jump leads. 

What do you need 

• Pair of jump leads
• A vehicle with the flat battery 
• A vehicle with a fully charged battery (Do not use a hybrid or electric car as it can cause damage)
• Gloves and goggles (Extra safety)

How to Use Jump Leads Safely

It may be your first time using jump leads, so there are a few safety precautions you should take. 

 

 

 

Jump start in a safe environment

• Remove any clothing that is dangling, such as a scarf. It has the potential to get caught in the moving engine parts, which is a considerable hazard.
• Do not allow any naked flames, such as a cigarette, near the battery.
• Remove any metal, such as rings and other jewellery. Do not let any metal touch the car battery. Doing so has the potential to cause a spark and possibly explode the battery. 

Give the battery and jump leads a check

• Never jump start a battery that looks damaged or is leaking
• Don’t use damaged jump leads
• Immediately stop using jump leads if they get hot

Safely removing the jump leads

Never remove the jump leads when the car is still running. If you do, it could cause serious damage to the car.

Guide to jump starting a car

1. Line up the cars

• Line up the car with the fully-charged battery so it faces the car with the flat battery. Leave space so that you can open both bonnets. 
• Turn off all electrical systems/devices. 

2. Connect red jump lead

• Put your gloves and goggles on now for extra safety.
• Attach the red (positive) jump lead to the battery’s positive (+) terminal on the working car. 
• Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive (+) terminal on the flat battery. 

3. Connect black jump lead

• Attach the black (negative) jump lead to the negative (-) terminal on the working battery. 
• Connect the other end of the black jump lead to an earthing point. An earthing point is an unpainted metal on the engine block/chassis. It must be away from both the flat battery and fuel system. Check the car manual to see if your car has a specific earthing point.

4. Start car with the working battery

• Keep the engines of both cars off for around 5 minutes. 
• Start the car with the working battery. Let it run for over 1 minute. 

How comfortable are you with jump-starting a car?

5. Start car with the flat battery

• Turn on the engine. If it doesn’t start within a 5-minute time frame, wait and try again. 

6. Allow both cars to run

• Finally, when the car is running again, allow both car engines to run for 10 minutes. 
• Remove cables in reverse order. Check the order below to safely remove the cables. Ensure you don’t let the clamps touch metal as you remove them. 

Order of removal

1. Black lead connected to the car with a flat battery off.
2. Black lead connected to the car with charged battery off.
3. Red lead connected to both cars off.
4. Disconnect all leads from the car.

7. Restart the car

• After all leads are disconnected, turn on the engine and see if it will start up again. 
• Leave it running for 20 minutes, then take it on a drive for around half an hour. Only then should you park it. You have now finished the process, and your car battery should now be fully charged. 

That was seven simple steps on how to jump start your car. If unfortunately, your car battery does die, you now know how to get it fully charged in no time.

 

 

Jump Start Car FAQs

What should I do after I jump started the car?

If you have successfully jump started the car, you will need to recharge the battery again fully.

To charge the battery, you will have to drive for a duration of 30 minutes. If you have a portable car battery charger, you could use that to top up the charge on your battery. 

How often should I replace a car battery?

Batteries usually last 5-7 years. You should only replace a car battery if it shows any deterioration signs.

If the battery is struggling and is over 5 years old, you should get it checked by a mechanic. 

Why don’t you connect the black jump lead to the negative terminal?

Never connect the black jump lead to the flat battery’s negative (-) terminal. Failure to follow this instruction could result in an explosion. 

How long does it take to jump start a dead battery?

Typically it takes a dead battery five minutes. In harsher weather conditions, this could take up to 30 minutes. 

Can jump starting your car damage it?

It could damage your car if you do not jump start it correctly. For example, putting the clamps on the wrong terminals could damage parts or even cause a fire. 

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Several factors affect car insurance. When insuring your car, you will be asked if your car has any modifications. An insurer sets a policy price for your vehicle and considers the chance of it being stolen or involved in an accident. 

Car modifications can have a significant impact on your policy prices. Your insurer may feel there’s a higher risk of your car getting in an accident than with no modifications. Modifications that affect a vehicle’s performance are more likely to increase the price you pay. 

You must tell your insurer of any modification to your car, which must be completed at a professional garage. 

Do I Need To Declare Every Modification?

There are essentially two categories of car modifications. Some modifications enhance your car’s performance or appearance, and you must declare any of these modifications to your insurer. Without declaring these modifications, it could cause your insurance to be invalidated, and your claim refused if you’re in an accident.

There is no point in beating around the bush to ensure you must be as truthful and detailed as possible. You will avoid an increase in your policy premium due to “unforeseen risk”.

What Modifications Will Not Affect My Insurance?

Any car modifications that increase the security of your car will not affect your insurance. Extra locking devices, for example, can reduce the risk of theft or accident in your vehicle. It could even help decrease the cost of your policy.

Installing winter tyres will not affect your car as they help improve your handling in challenging winter conditions such as snow and ice. 

As you can see, while these modifications do not affect the price of your insurance, it’s still important to declare them.

Have you ever made modifications to your car?

What Modifications Could Invalidate My Insurance?  

Essentially any modification that results in you breaking the law will cause your insurance to be invalidated. This includes:

• Under car neon lights
• Illegal changes to wheels 
• Sound modifiers
• Tinted windows that restrict more than 70% of sunlight

Is it Mainly Young People Making Car Modifications?

You would think it’s all young drivers modding their cars, but you would be surprised. Older drivers are known to install parking sensors to help them park safely in space. 

 

As you can tell, it’s not something that would negatively impact your insurance as it’s trying to reduce the risk of a crash.

 

What Should I Do If I Modify My Car?

If you want to modify your car, it’s best to talk to your insurer before you do it rather than after. Something minor, like paintwork, could raise your premium. So you will want to know the outcome of your modification before getting it done. 

It only impacts your insurance if you do not let your insurer know. It may cause complications if you make a claim and they find undeclared modifications on your car.

If you have further questions about Car Insurance in general or with KennCo, we have compiled all our FAQ’s to help you. If you still have a query, our agents are on 014092600 to assist you over the phone.

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Being involved in a car accident is a stressful time for any driver, whether you’re at fault or not. If it’s your first time, you may be unsure of the correct procedure to follow. 

1. Stop at the Scene

Failing to stop at the scene of a car accident is an offence in Ireland. You are required by law to stop your vehicle at the scene of the accident, no matter how minor the accident is. For safety reasons, you should turn on the hazard lights and turn off the engine. If it is safe to do so you should step out of your vehicle and stand in a safe place.

2. Swap details with the other driver

Exchange names, phone numbers and addresses with the other driver. If there is not any serious damage or injuries and the accident is undisputed, then you do not need to call the Gardaí. If you hit an unoccupied car, you should leave your contact details on the car so that the owner can contact you. It is also advised that you take note of the insurance details of the other car, regardless of who is at fault. Taking some pictures of the accident, and damage to vehicles is also helpful when reporting an accident.

3. Contact Emergency Services

The gardaí and an ambulance should be called immediately if anyone is injured. A warning triangle should be placed on the road to warn other drivers of the obstruction ahead while you are waiting for emergency services to arrive.  

If a car accident occurs on a busy road, you may need to call the gardaí to direct traffic if your car is blocking the road. 

If you are involved in an accident where the gardaí are unable to attend, you should report the incident to your local garda station within the next 24 hours if possible. 

4. Make a Note of the Details

While you are still at the scene of the accident, take note of details such as:

• registration number
• car model
• contact details of the other driver
• road signs/lines
• traffic conditions
• speed zone
• any visible damage to you and the third parties vehicle
• time of the day
• weather conditions
• witness contact details 
• direction of travel

Again, if possible, you should also take photographs of any damage and skid marks on the road. 

5. Inform your Car Insurance Company

Ring your insurance company as soon as you can to inform them of the incident, even if you are not at fault. By informing your insurance company early, you will be able to provide accurate information regarding the accident while you have a clear memory of the accident. Claims can be made years after an accident has occurred so it is better to have your details on record as early as possible. KennCo’s claim number is 014092600. 

 

6. What if I Don’t Make a Claim?

If you are not planning on claiming on your insurance you should still inform your insurance company as soon as possible. The other vehicle(s) or passengers of the other vehicle(s) may still make a claim on your insurance without you knowing. There are two instances where you may choose not to claim. The first is if you decide to pay for the damage for the repairs yourself. The second instance is if you want to keep your no claims bonus intact if you do not have ‘no claims bonus protection’ on your policy.

How prepared are you to handle a car accident?

Car Accident FAQs

Do I need to report a car accident to the Garda if there are no injuries or significant damage?

In Ireland, you must report all accidents to the Garda if they result in injury, death, or significant damage to property. If the accident involves only minor damage and no injuries. In that case, you are not required to report it to the Garda. However, you should still exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident and consider contacting your insurance company.

What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver doesn’t have insurance, you should still follow the steps outlined above to report the accident to the Garda and exchange information with the other driver. You may also consider contacting your insurance company to report the accident and see if you are covered for damages. In Ireland, it is illegal to drive without insurance, so the other driver could face legal consequences for driving without insurance.

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Buying an electric car in Ireland is becoming increasingly popular as people actively try to reduce their carbon footprint. In 2021 the sales of electric vehicles doubled to the previous year, according to new data from the Society of Irish Motor Industry (SIMI). The rise in sales is a positive for car manufacturers looking to switch to electric vehicles in the coming years.

Buying an electric car may be new for drivers, and they may be unsure of what to look for and what not to look for in an electric car. So, if you’re looking to make the switch today, you should be fully informed before making any purchase. That’s why we have answered some popular questions about electric cars.

Should I Buy a New or Second-Hand Electric Car?

Nowadays, there are numerous electric car choices, from the Audi e-Tron to the Tesla Model 3. There are brilliant options out there for every driver.

Electric cars have been around for a while, and there are good choices for buyers looking to get second-hand electric cars. As with buying any second-hand car, you have to be aware of the car’s history. You should carefully check the car’s battery and warranty before purchasing. If there are any issues with the car battery, it could be a problem for you, and a new battery could be expensive, especially if you’re out of warranty. You should have a mechanic look over the car to see everything working.

Will I Save Money Switching to an Electric Car?

Although electric cars are more expensive, they are much cheaper to run than petrol or diesel cars. There is less wear and tear on electric cars as there are fewer moving parts. While you are saving money on fuel costs, you will see an increase in your electricity bill, but it still costs much less than fuel.

The government scheme provides a grant of up to €600 towards purchasing and installing a home charger unit. Grants are also available for installing a home charger unit for Irish electric vehicle owners. You can find more details on the SEAI website.

Your motor tax bill will also be significantly reduced, as, in Ireland, the road tax is calculated by the emissions level of your vehicle. An electric vehicle falls into the lowest motor tax bracket, just €120 a year.

Are There Grants Available For Electric Cars?

Ireland has incentivised drivers to shift towards electric vehicles by offering grants and toll incentives. A maximum grant of €5,000 is available for new electric vehicles when purchased privately. The vehicles must cost over €14,000 to receive the grant, and the EV must be on their approved list. For more details on the grant, read more.

Should I Buy an Electric Car or a Hybrid?

Many people may consider the step from a petrol or diesel car to an electric one a big move. Many drivers purchase a hybrid model as a stepping stone to buying an electric car. This can make the transition a little easier.

If you go for a hybrid model, you will still need a home charger, so you should find a suitable area to install one. Hybrid models will not require as much power, but they will still need to take some fuel.

What Electric Car Should I Buy?

You should consider many factors for choosing the right electric car for you. You should think about what features you need to have in the car. Do you want an electric car with lots of new technology, or do you not mind? It will cost more for extra features, but it’s up to your preference.

What are you using your car for? Will it be for short commutes or long commutes? If you’re not travelling much, you could purchase the Nissan Leaf, which has a range of 149 miles, whereas the Tesla Model S Plaid edition can go a whopping 400 miles.

Have a Recharge Plan

You should know how you will charge your electric vehicle before purchasing one. Are you installing a home charger or not? We recommend installing a home charger as it makes the process easier for you and your commutes. Are there public charging stations nearby if you don’t plan to install a home charger? For example, you will need to know where it is and where there are charging stations near your work. If they’re busy, you will need to think of backup stations. We recommend installing a home charger so you’re fully charged before every commute.

What is your biggest barrier to buying an electric car in Ireland?

Bottom Line

Swapping a petrol or diesel car to an electric car can be daunting for first-time buyers with all the factors you need to consider. You should not be intimidated by the switch but be excited.

Of course, not everyone will want to buy an electric car, but there are lots of great benefits that come with owning an electric car. The industry has come a long way, and more electric models are available.

Popular Electric Cars in Ireland

Hyundai Kona Electric: This electric SUV has a range of up to 484 km on a single charge and is equipped with fast charging capabilities.

Renault Zoe: The Renault Zoe is a small electric hatchback with a range of up to 395 km on a single charge. It is also available with fast charging capabilities.

Nissan Leaf: The Nissan Leaf is a compact electric hatchback with a range of up to 385 km on a single charge. It is also available with fast charging capabilities.

Volkswagen e-Golf: The Volkswagen e-Golf is a compact electric hatchback with a range of up to 201 km on a single charge.

Kia e-Niro: The Kia e-Niro is an electric SUV with a range of up to 455 km on a single charge. It is also available with fast charging capabilities.

 

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Buying your first car can be expensive, especially when you’re young, and it is a significant moment in your life.

You put in all the hard work with lessons and your test, and it’s time to have your own car and more independence.

It is an exciting time for first-time buyers, and you may want to rush to buy a car. We outline several factors and stores you should consider to save money along the process. 

Save Up

You will have to pay interest on any car loan repayments when purchasing a car. We recommend that you save money before buying to put more money on a down payment so you’re not borrowing as much. It will save you much more money in the long run. 

Budget 

Before shopping around, most buyers will have a set budget in their heads that they can afford. It would help to consider what you could afford and the different loan options available. You don’t want to overborrow as there are still other car costs, such as insurance, running costs and maintenance. You also have to consider other bills, such as your rent, and factor all these things into your budget. 

Car/Engine Size

If you’re buying your first car, you are probably either a learner driver or a young driver with little experience. For this reason, you are better off purchasing a vehicle with a smaller engine size.

You will also need to consider what occasions you will use the car. Are you using it for long daily commutes or for driving locally?

These factors will all impact your decision on what engine size to decide on. 

New or Used Car

You also need to consider if you are going to purchase a new car or a used car. New vehicles depreciate their value by almost 11% the second they leave the dealership. The car will, of course, depreciate its value year on year, so it will be worth a lot less a few years later.

If you decide to purchase a used car, then that vehicle has already depreciated, so you’re not necessarily losing much money on the vehicle.

You will save a lot of money buying a car a few years earlier than purchasing a new one. Especially for your first car, it may be challenging to fund purchasing a new car from a dealership. 

Look Around For a Car 

It’s time to shop for your car now that you have decided the budget and the type of car you’re looking at. You can view cars from any dealership near you or look at websites that sell new or used cars.

 

We would always recommend getting some advice or an experienced driver as they will have experience in driving and purchasing cars and can help you spot any issues. When buying a car, you should look out for the following:

• What is the mileage
• The car has a valid NCT
• The car has been serviced
• Any damage on the car
• The car is fit to drive
• If the air-con, radio, locks and other elements of the car are working
• Has the car had many previous owners
• Has the car ever been in a crash
• Is this the cars original paintwork

Buy From a Dealer

We recommend purchasing your car from a dealer rather than a private seller. It is a much safer option. There are many reasons to buy from a dealership which include:

• More reliability when purchasing from a dealership
• They are more responsible sellers
• They offer a guarantee when you purchase a vehicle
• They will handle all paperwork, such as change of ownership
• They provide more legal protection 
• They usually provide a valid NCT, new tyres or other benefits when you purchase with them.

Test Drive

Before you purchase a car, it’s essential to test drive it. Before you set off in the car, ensure you’re insured to drive it.

You should give it a good test drive on some back roads rather than just driving it up and down the road. How does it feel to drive?

Are the gear changes smooth? Test the brakes. Drive at speed to see how it handles on a motorway.

Are there any noises when driving the car? When you come back from the test drive, ask the salesperson if you have any questions or worries. You don’t want to purchase the car and immediately have to fix an issue. 

Car Expenses

Based on the car you want to purchase, you can estimate your monthly spending on the vehicle.

This will help you decide if it’s in your budget or not. To calculate this, you should look at the following:

• Motor Tax
• Petrol/ Diesel cost
• Maintenance
• Insurance

Financing options

Most people will not have the money upfront to purchase the car. You will need a loan to pay for the car, and you should shop for the best loan payments. Most people will call their local Credit Union to get a car loan, as they offer very competitive interest rates. 

Some garages may even offer you finance as part of the package, but you will likely end up paying more than you would with your local bank or credit union.

This is why it’s always a good idea to keep savings in your credit union. If they see that you save and have the money, you will have no problem acquiring the loan you require.

Car Insurance

Driving in Ireland is a legal requirement to have car insurance. You should already have a general quote for the car you have been looking at to see if you can afford it. You can get a car insurance quote online at our website here if you are purchasing your first car. 

What was the most important factor when you bought your first car?

Learn To Maintain Your New Car

Now that you have purchased your new car and have insurance, it’s time to keep it in good condition. It would help if you learned the following:

• How to change a tyre
• How to check the oil
• How to check coolant levels
• How to check your tyre pressure

What Are Some Good First Cars For New Drivers?

The following cars are perfect for new drivers as they are cheap, safe and easy to drive. The list below are some great cars:

• VW up!
• Kia Picanto
• Ford Fiesta
• Seat Ibiza
• Hyundai i10
• Volkswagen Polo
• Opel Corsa

To get a quote for your new car online, visit our car insurance page here. 

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If your car unexpectedly breaks down, you must have the appropriate equipment to get your car back on the road as safely and quickly as possible. Many auto stores around Ireland now sell compact emergency car kits. But if you want to ensure that you’re fully covered in a breakdown or accident, it might be worth putting together your own kit.  Here’s a list of items you can include in your emergency car kit.

First Aid Kit

Depending on your car model, your car may come with a first aid kit already included. It is usually found in the back of the car, under the passenger seat or in the glove compartment. If not, purchasing one to store in your car is a good idea. Having a first aid kit isn’t just convenient in the event of an accident; it’s also helpful to have it for non-car related accidents or cuts when you’re away from home.  

Jump Leads 

If you forget to turn off your lights or leave another power source running, you may find that your car won’t start. Using jump leads, you can recharge your battery using another car and get back on the road in minutes. Don’t forget that if your battery is completely flat, you should leave your car running for about 45 minutes to recharge your battery fully. 

Torch

Always keep a torch in your car. They don’t take up much space but may come in handy if your car breaks down at night. Whether you need to inspect the damage, or a flat tyre or make yourself more visible in the darkness, a torch is a must-have. 

Portable Phone Charger

If your car breaks down, the last thing you need is for your phone battery to die too. Keep a portable phone charger in your car so that you can call for breakdown assistance or help no matter where you are. 

Hi-Vis Vest

If your car breaks down or you’re involved in an accident, you must have a hi-vis vest available if you need to stand on the roadside or outside your car. Wearing a hi-vis vest increases your visibility to other drivers and gives them additional warning that there is a hazard ahead. 

Car Warning Triangle 

In many European countries, it is required by law to carry a warning triangle in your car at all times. Warning triangles are used when your car breaks down and should be placed approximately 200 metres before a road hazard to give other drivers enough time to slow down.

If you’ve got a car on the road, why not call KennCo  for a car insurance quote today on 01 409 2600. If your car breaks down, follow these tips. 

Do you have an emergency kit in your car?

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Insurance fraud costs the industry in Ireland over €200 million every year. It doesn’t just have an impact on insurance companies; it also results in car insurance increases for drivers too. 

What is Insurance Fraud? 

Insurance fraud presents itself in many different forms. Whether it’s exaggerating injuries to receive higher compensation or providing inaccurate information to receive a cheaper premium, they are all considered as fraud and may result in a prosecution. The number of fraudulent car insurance claims has increased in recent years which have been a contributing factor to the rising cost of insurance in Ireland. 

Types of Car Insurance Fraud

Non-Disclosure

Non-disclosure is where an applicant either purposely or accidentally omits details about their car or their driving history. This may range from something small such as where you park your car at night to failing to disclose that you were involved in a car accident. 

By not disclosing details about your driving history it may bring down the cost of your car insurance premium, but in the event of a claim, your insurance policy may become invalid and you may also be liable to prosecution. 

Fronting

Fronting is pretending that someone else is the main driver of a car in order to bring down the car insurance premium. 

Car insurance can be expensive for new drivers who haven’t built up a no claims bonus or who have never had a policy in their own name before. In many instances, adding a named driver to a policy can bring down the cost of car insurance.

However it is illegal to name someone else as the main driver on a policy where you will be driving for the majority of the time. Drivers are often unaware that this is fronting and that it is illegal. In many instances, parents buy a car insurance policy in their own name, and add their child as a named driver. However, if their child drives the car more frequently than their parents, they need to have a policy in their own name. 

Insurance companies are usually made aware of the situation when the named driver is involved in a collision and they investigate the situation further. This can lead to claims not being paid out or a prosecution for the driver for driving without insurance. 

False Injury Claims

In recent years the number of fraudulent claims has increased. This has had a knock-on effect on the cost of insurance in Ireland. This has especially been the case with injury claims where claimants either make up or exaggerate their injuries in order to receive more compensation. 

Whiplash claims are 5 times higher in Ireland than in the UK and have become a major problem for the insurance industry. This is due to the difficulty in disclaiming dishonest claims and the high payout amounts for such injuries. 

Staged Accidents

This involves claiming for an accident that never actually happened or was staged in order to receive compensation. This is usually done by moving a car that has already been damaged to a fake crash site. The insurer then pays the bill for the repairing costs. 

Car Insurance Fraud FAQs

What is car insurance fraud in Ireland?

Car insurance fraud in Ireland is any attempt to deceive an insurance company into receiving a benefit or payment that is not rightfully due. This can include providing false information on an insurance application, staging an accident or theft, or exaggerating the extent of damages or injuries to receive a larger payout.

How common is car insurance fraud in Ireland?

It is difficult to accurately determine the prevalence of car insurance fraud in Ireland, as many instances may go undetected. However, it is a problem that affects the insurance industry globally, and insurance companies in Ireland take steps to prevent and detect fraudulent activity.

What are the consequences of car insurance fraud in Ireland?

Committing car insurance fraud in Ireland is a criminal offence and can result in fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record. In addition, if an individual is found to have committed insurance fraud, their insurance policy may be voided, and they may have difficulty obtaining coverage in the future.

How can I protect myself from car insurance fraud in Ireland?

There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from car insurance fraud in Ireland:

• Only do business with reputable insurance companies and brokers
• Make sure to accurately and fully disclose all relevant information on your insurance application.
• Do not exaggerate the extent of damages or injuries in the event of an accident.

If you’re aware of any insurance fraud, please report it to insurance confidential on 1890 333 333. 

How concerned are you about insurance fraud?