M&S Money reveals the courtesy car myth

Around two thirds (62%) of drivers believe their insurer will provide a replacement car if theirs is written off or stolen, according to research from M&S Money. However, only one in five policies include this benefit as standard – what is known in the industry as a ‘total loss courtesy car’.

While many appear to be over confident about their insurance, they are also unaware what they’re covered for, with 8% of drivers admitting they are unsure whether they get a replacement car if theirs is off the road.

Many whose insurance does not include a replacement car would struggle if their cars were out of action, with over a third (36%) saying they would find it difficult to keep on the road. Only a quarter (28%) have another car they could use, and a further quarter (24%) would have to borrow a car or pay to hire one.

Commenting on the findings, Brendan Cook, Chief Executive of M&S Money, said; “It’s alarming that so many motorists believe that they will get a courtesy car whatever happens to theirs, when this usually happens only when a car is being repaired. Those unfortunate enough to have their car written off or stolen are left high and dry by most insurers.

“We designed M& S Car Insurance to keep our customers on the road, providing a free hire car for 14 days – even if their car is a total loss. This underlines the importance of shopping around for the best cover, rather than just the cheapest deal.”

M& S Car Insurance includes other added? value extras as standard, such UK and European breakdown cover for the customer, not just the car, and free Keycare with up to £1,000 towards new keys, locks and locksmith services if keys are lost or stolen.