Car subscriptions are growing in popularity across the UK as a flexible alternative to traditional car ownership or leasing. Whether you’re subscribing for a few months or longer, one question often comes up:
Do I need to take out a fully comprehensive insurance policy for a subscription vehicle?
In most cases, yes — you do.
Unless your subscription provider includes insurance as part of your package (which some do), you are responsible for insuring the vehicle yourself, and this must be on a fully comprehensive basis.
Here’s why that matters — and what could go wrong if you don’t.
Why Fully Comprehensive Insurance Is Required
Car subscription vehicles remain the property of the provider. As the temporary driver, you are expected to protect their asset — and that means having the highest level of insurance cover.
Fully comprehensive insurance covers:
Third-party liability (damage to other vehicles, property or injuries)
Damage to the subscription vehicle (even if you’re at fault)
Fire, theft and vandalism
Windscreen and bodywork damage (depending on the policy)
Providers insist on this level of cover because anything less — such as third-party or third-party, fire and theft — does not protect their vehicle.
What Happens If You Don’t Insure the Vehicle Properly?
1. Your Subscription Could Be Terminated Immediately
Failing to provide valid fully comprehensive cover is usually a breach of the subscription contract. Providers have the right to cancel your agreement, collect the vehicle, and potentially charge early termination or recovery fees.
2. It Could Affect Your Credit Score
Car subscription contracts often include financial agreements. Early termination or defaulting on the terms (such as failing to insure the car) could be reported to credit reference agencies, potentially affecting your credit score and ability to finance or lease vehicles in future.
3. You’d Be Liable for All Repair Costs
If you’re involved in an accident and do not have fully comprehensive insurance, you may be personally liable for the full cost of repairs to the vehicle, even if the damage was minor.
And if the vehicle is written off or stolen? You could be expected to cover the entire value of the car — which could run into the tens of thousands of pounds.
Don't Risk It – Compare Insurance Quotes with Einsure
If your car subscription does not include insurance, it’s your responsibility to take out suitable cover before you drive away. At Einsure, we make this process simple.
Use our comparison tool to:
Find fully comprehensive policies from trusted UK providers
Adjust your excess, mileage, and cover options
Get the best price for the level of protection you need
Remember: not all policies will cover subscription vehicles automatically, so check the wording carefully or speak to your insurer directly to confirm the vehicle type is accepted.
Final Thought
Car subscriptions offer flexibility, convenience, and freedom — but only if you’re properly insured. Failing to take out a fully comprehensive policy not only puts you at financial risk, it could also lead to contract termination and credit implications.
If your provider doesn’t include insurance, take control and compare fully comprehensive policies today with Einsure.uk— so you can enjoy your car subscription with complete confidence.
Is a Car Subscription Right for You?
If you’re weighing up whether a car subscription is the right choice, here are some of the key advantages and potential drawbacks to consider:
Pros of Car Subscriptions
No long-term commitment – Ideal for those who want flexibility without being tied into a multi-year lease or finance deal.
Low initial outlay – No large deposits or upfront payments required; typically just a simple monthly fee.
Great for expats or overseas visitors – Avoids the need for UK credit history or permanent residency.
Perfect for new starters and probationary employees – Businesses can offer a vehicle without locking into a long-term fleet contract.
All-inclusive options available – Some providers include maintenance, tax, servicing, and breakdown cover in the monthly cost.
Quick turnaround – Vehicles are often available within days, rather than weeks or months.
Cons of Car Subscriptions
Higher monthly cost compared to long-term leases – The flexibility comes at a price, especially for premium models.
Mileage limits may apply – Exceeding the agreed mileage can result in additional charges.
Insurance often not included – You may need to arrange your own fully comprehensive insurance, unless otherwise specified.
Limited customisation – Unlike owning or leasing, you typically can’t modify the vehicle or choose factory options.
A car subscription is a practical solution for many — particularly those who need short-term mobility, are new to the UK, or simply want a car without long-term strings attached. Just make sure you’re insured correctly, and you can drive with peace of mind.
Need fully comprehensive insurance for your subscription vehicle?
Start comparing quotes today at Einsure.uk and get covered with confidence.