Latest News and Articles
See below the list of our latest news and articles from our BLOG on the Einsure website:
Top 3 Security Devices That Could Help Protect Your Car and Support Lower Insurance Risk
Car security is about more than just peace of mind. While no security device can guarantee a lower car insurance premium, certain measures can help reduce the risk of theft or damage — something insurers often consider when assessing overall risk.
If you’re looking to better protect your car, the following three security devices are widely used by UK drivers and are commonly associated with reducing vehicle crime.
Below, we explain what each device is, how it works, why insurers care about it, and who it may be most suitable for.
1. Steering Wheel Locks
What is a steering wheel lock?
A steering wheel lock is a physical security device that attaches to the steering wheel, restricting movement and preventing the car from being driven normally.
How does it work?
The lock physically blocks steering rotation, making the vehicle difficult to manoeuvre even if access is gained. Most models are quick to fit and remove.
Why insurers care
Insurers often view visible physical security devices positively because they:
- Act as a strong visual deterrent
- Reduce opportunistic theft
- Increase the time and effort needed to steal a vehicle
While a steering wheel lock will not automatically reduce your premium, it can support a lower-risk profile, particularly for vehicles commonly targeted by thieves.
Who it’s best for
- Cars parked on the street overnight
- Older vehicles without modern immobilisers
- Drivers wanting a simple, visible deterrent
View steering wheel locks on Amazon
2. OBD Port Protectors
What is an OBD port protector?
An OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port protector is a locking cover that secures the diagnostic port inside your vehicle, helping prevent unauthorised access.
How does it work?
The protector physically blocks access to the OBD port, making it harder for thieves to use electronic devices to programme new keys.
Why insurers care
Vehicle theft increasingly involves electronic methods rather than forced entry. Measures that reduce electronic theft risk are therefore relevant to insurers.
OBD port protection can help:
- Reduce key cloning risks
- Add protection beyond factory-fitted systems
- Disrupt common electronic theft techniques
Who it’s best for
- Keyless entry vehicles
- Cars parked in public or shared areas
- Drivers concerned about electronic theft
View OBD port protectors on Amazon
3. GPS Vehicle Trackers
What is a GPS vehicle tracker?
A GPS tracker uses satellite positioning to monitor a vehicle’s location in real time. Some trackers are professionally installed, while others are portable or plug-in devices.
How does it work?
The tracker sends location data to an app or monitoring service. Alerts may be triggered if the vehicle moves unexpectedly.
Why insurers care
Trackers are often associated with improved recovery rates after theft, which can reduce overall claim costs.
Some insurers may ask about tracking devices when assessing cover for higher-value or specialist vehicles.
Who it’s best for
- Higher-value vehicles
- Cars parked in higher-risk areas
- Drivers wanting added recovery support
View GPS vehicle trackers on Amazon
Do Security Devices Reduce Car Insurance Premiums?
Security devices do not guarantee lower car insurance premiums. However, insurers assess overall risk, and effective security measures can support a lower-risk profile.
Different insurers consider security features in different ways, particularly for vehicles at higher risk of theft.
Key Takeaways
- Security devices can help reduce theft and damage risk
- No device guarantees cheaper insurance
- Visible and electronic security measures both matter
- Insurers assess overall risk, not individual products
Frequently Asked Questions
Do security devices guarantee cheaper car insurance?
No. Security devices do not guarantee lower premiums, but they may help reduce overall risk.
Are steering wheel locks worth using?
Yes. They act as a strong visual deterrent and can discourage opportunistic theft.
Do insurers care about OBD port protection?
Some insurers are increasingly aware of electronic theft methods and may view additional security positively.
Is a GPS tracker required for standard cars?
Usually not. Trackers are more commonly associated with higher-value vehicles.
Should I tell my insurer about added security devices?
Yes. Always keep your insurer informed so your policy details remain accurate.
Motability Scheme Changes Explained:
What’s Changing, What’s Staying the Same, and What It Means for You
The Motability Scheme has played a crucial role in supporting independence and mobility for disabled people across the UK for decades. By allowing eligible individuals to lease a car, scooter, or powered wheelchair using their mobility allowance, the Scheme has helped hundreds of thousands of people access work, healthcare, and everyday life.
From late 2025 onwards, a series of changes will affect vehicle availability, lease costs, and how the Scheme operates in the future. While Motability has confirmed that its core mission remains unchanged, these updates represent a significant shift for both current and prospective customers.
Below, we explain what’s changing, what’s staying the same, and how these updates could affect you.
Why the Motability Scheme Is Changing
Like many large-scale, government-linked programmes, the Motability Scheme must adapt to economic pressures, policy priorities, and rising operational costs.
Reforms announced following the 2025 UK Budget are intended to improve the long-term sustainability of the Scheme, while continuing to deliver essential mobility support to disabled people.
Government ministers have also highlighted the need to focus spending on core mobility needs and reduce what they describe as overly generous subsidies in certain areas. These changes form part of a broader effort to balance fairness, value for money, and long-term viability.
Further information about eligibility, benefits, and how the Scheme operates can be found directly on the official Motability website.
Premium Car Brands Removed From the Scheme
One of the most noticeable changes is the removal of several premium vehicle manufacturers from the Motability price list for new lease applications.
Which brands are affected?
New leases will no longer be available for vehicles from brands such as:
- Audi
- BMW
- Lexus
- Mercedes-Benz
- Alfa Romeo
Motability has explained that this decision is designed to prioritise practical, reliable, and cost-effective vehicles that better align with the Scheme’s purpose.
What about existing customers?
- Orders placed before the change was announced will still be honoured
- Current leases on premium vehicles will continue until the agreed end date
Tax Changes Affecting Motability Leases
Two major tax changes will affect the cost structure of Motability leases from 2026.
VAT on Advance Payments
From July 2026, VAT will apply to Advance Payments on Motability vehicles. Previously, these payments were VAT-free for customers using qualifying disability benefits.
This means vehicles requiring an Advance Payment are likely to become more expensive upfront. Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) are expected to remain exempt from this change.
Insurance Premium Tax (IPT)
Insurance Premium Tax will also apply to the comprehensive insurance included within Motability lease packages.
While IPT already applies to most UK insurance policies, Motability customers have historically been exempt. Whether this additional cost is absorbed by the Scheme or passed on to customers will influence overall lease pricing.
More detail on Insurance Premium Tax and how it applies to UK insurance products is available via GOV.UK guidance on Insurance Premium Tax.
These tax reforms form part of wider fiscal changes expected to generate significant public savings over the coming years.
Changes to Lease Extension Rules
From mid-December 2025, long-term lease extensions will no longer be routinely available.
What’s changing?
- Extensions will typically be limited to around six months
- Approval criteria will be stricter
- Long extensions of up to two years will no longer be standard
This reflects improvements in vehicle supply and a strategy to keep the Motability fleet newer, more efficient, and environmentally improved.
If a longer extension was agreed before the deadline, it will still be honoured under the original terms.
A Long-Term Shift Towards British-Built Vehicles
Motability has also announced a long-term ambition to increase the proportion of British-built vehicles on the Scheme.
By 2035, the aim is for around half of all Motability vehicles to be manufactured in the UK. This aligns with wider government objectives to support domestic manufacturing, create jobs, and encourage investment in the UK automotive industry.
While this transition will take time, it represents a strategic shift in how the Scheme sources its vehicles.
What’s Staying the Same
Despite the upcoming changes, several important elements of the Motability Scheme remain unchanged.
- Existing leases are protected – customers can continue using their vehicles until the end of their agreement
- A wide range of practical vehicles remains available – many models still require no or low Advance Payments
- Support for wheelchair users continues – funding for adaptations and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles remains a priority
- The core mission remains – supporting independence and mobility for disabled people stays central to the Scheme
What This Means for Current and Future Customers
If you’re already on the Motability Scheme or considering applying, it’s important to plan ahead.
- New applications for premium brands are no longer available
- Advance Payments may increase once VAT applies from July 2026
- Lease extensions will be shorter, so early planning is essential
- A broad range of everyday, accessible vehicles remains available
The Wider Debate Around the Motability Scheme
These changes have sparked wider debate about affordability, fairness, and sustainability.
Supporters argue the reforms protect the Scheme’s future and ensure funding is focused where it’s most needed. Critics raise concerns about reduced choice and rising costs for disabled people.
As with many social programmes, finding the right balance between financial sustainability and individual need remains a complex challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motability Scheme Changes
Will my current Motability lease be affected?
No. Existing leases will continue unchanged until the end of the agreed contract.
Can I still order a premium brand car through Motability?
No. New applications for premium brands have been removed, but orders placed before the change will still go ahead.
When will VAT be added to Advance Payments?
VAT is expected to apply from July 2026. Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles are expected to remain exempt.
Will insurance still be included in Motability leases?
Yes. Comprehensive insurance remains included, although Insurance Premium Tax will now apply.
Are lease extensions still available?
Yes, but extensions will usually be limited to around six months and subject to stricter approval criteria.
Is Motability still supporting wheelchair users?
Yes. Funding for adaptations and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles remains a key priority.
BMW i5 Saloon & Touring: An Electric Executive That Still Feels Like a BMW
Electric cars are getting smarter, faster and quieter – but they don’t always feel engaging. BMW’s i5, however, sets out to prove that efficiency and driving enjoyment don’t have to be mutually exclusive. After spending time with both the i5 Saloon and the i5 Touring, across city streets, motorways and some of the UK’s best driving roads, it’s clear this is an electric car done the BMW way.
Two body styles, one clear identity
Both the Saloon and Touring tested here use BMW’s eDrive40 setup, delivering 250kW of smooth, instant power from an 84kWh battery. On paper it sounds very “EV”. On the road, it feels reassuringly familiar.
The i5 accelerates cleanly, settles quickly and carries itself with confidence. There’s no drama, no noise – just a sense that the car is working with you rather than trying to impress you.
Saloon: flowing roads and easy miles
The i5 Saloon spent its time leaving Belper, stretching its legs along the A52 towards Ashbourne, then looping back through the quieter roads around Turnditch before returning to base. These mixed roads highlighted the Saloon’s strengths: excellent ride quality, controlled body movement and steering that always feels measured and accurate.
Despite being fully electric, the Saloon never feels disconnected. It’s calm when cruising and composed when pushed, making it an ideal long-distance companion.
Touring: built for longer journeys
The Touring was given the longer route – up the M1 towards Leeds, across the M62 into Manchester, then back to Belper via the Cat and Fiddle. This is where the estate body style really shines.
Motorway driving is serene, with impressive sound insulation and a relaxed driving position. Yet on the more challenging roads, the Touring remains stable and predictable, proving that practicality doesn’t come at the cost of driver confidence.
Rear-seat space was a hit with the kids, and the boot offers the kind of versatility that makes day-to-day life easier. If you need space, the Touring is the obvious choice.
Interior technology that works
BMW’s curved display dominates the cabin, blending the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster into one clean, modern layout. Apple CarPlay integration is particularly impressive, spreading naturally across the screens and making navigation, media and calls effortless.
Everything feels solid, well-finished and thoughtfully designed – tech that enhances the driving experience rather than distracting from it.
Comfort, range and real-world usability
Both versions of the i5 deliver outstanding comfort, even over long distances. Range anxiety never entered the conversation, and charging stops were easy to plan around daily use.
The overall impression is of a car that fits seamlessly into modern life while still offering a sense of premium engineering and control.
The verdict
The BMW i5 Saloon and Touring show how electric cars can retain character. They’re refined, practical and genuinely enjoyable to drive. The Saloon suits those who value sleek design and balance, while the Touring adds space and flexibility without compromise.
Most importantly, behind the wheel, you always know it’s a BMW – just one that happens to run on electricity.
Flexible access via car subscription
The BMW i5 Saloon and Touring are available through Cocoon Vehicles on a flexible car subscription, starting from just one month, with additional savings available on subscriptions of 90 days or more.
What’s included:
Maintenance and servicing
Road tax
Manufacturer warranty
Breakdown assistance
All you need to do is charge the vehicle and arrange fully comprehensive insurance.
How to Protect Your Car From Key Hacking: Essential Advice for UK Drivers
Modern vehicles offer impressive convenience through keyless technology — but they also bring new security risks. Electronic car theft, often known as key hacking, is now one of the fastest-growing methods used by criminals across the UK. Understanding how these attacks work can help you protect your car and avoid the stress, cost and insurance implications of theft.
Below, we break down the three most common types of key hacking and the practical steps you can take to stay secure.
1. Key Jamming (Signal Blocking)
Key jamming usually happens in public places such as supermarket car parks, motorway services or petrol stations. When you press your key fob to lock your car, thieves may use a jammer that blocks the signal — meaning your car never actually locks. Once you walk away, the vehicle is left unsecured.
If criminals gain access, they may attempt to start the car by connecting to the onboard diagnostic (OBD) port and manipulating the security system.
How to prevent key jamming:
Always check your vehicle is locked — look for flashing indicators, folding mirrors or try a door handle.
Use an OBD port lock to make electronic tampering harder.
Stay alert when locking your vehicle in busy car parks.
Insurance note:
If your insurer believes the vehicle was left unlocked, a claim may be affected, so always double-check your car has locked correctly.
2. Relay Theft (Keyless Entry Attacks)
Keyless entry is convenient, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable features when it comes to car theft. Relay attacks typically involve two criminals: one captures the signal from your key (often through a wall or from inside your home), while the other uses a receiver to “relay” that signal to your car.
The vehicle believes the key is nearby, unlocks automatically, and can often be started and driven away within seconds.
These thefts are increasingly common in residential areas, though they can also occur in public car parks.
How to protect against relay theft:
Disable keyless entry in your vehicle’s settings if you don’t need it.
Store your keys in a Faraday pouch (RF-blocking) to stop criminals from capturing the signal.
Keep keys away from doors and windows to reduce the chance of signal interception.
Protect spare keys in the same way.
Insurance note:
Many UK insurers now specifically mention relay theft in their policy documents. Using a signal-blocking pouch is often recommended as a recognised preventative measure.
3. Attacks on Vehicle Wiring
Some criminals bypass both the key and electronic systems by accessing the car’s wiring, sometimes through headlights, wheel arches or bumpers. With specialist equipment, they can manipulate the wiring to disable alarms and unlock the vehicle.
This method is more targeted and often used on high-value cars.
How to reduce risk:
Use visible security devices, such as high-quality steering wheel locks. These act as strong deterrents and slow thieves down.
Park in secure, well-lit areas where possible.
Consider additional aftermarket security, such as tracking systems or professionally installed immobilisers.
Insurance note:
Cars with added security features may qualify for lower premiums, and tracking devices can significantly improve recovery chances after a theft.
Why Prevention Matters for Your Insurance
Car theft not only causes inconvenience and emotional stress — it can also affect your insurance premiums and claims:
Insurers may request proof of forced entry or evidence that reasonable security measures were taken.
Some policies may require the use of secure key storage for keyless vehicles.
A stolen vehicle claim could lead to higher premiums at renewal.
Taking simple precautions now can help protect your car, your no-claims discount, and your long-term insurance costs.
How to get in touch with Parking Eye
We get messages from clients all of the time, asking us for details on how to get in touch with Parking Eye. Whether you’ve received a ticket that you’d like to appeal or you’d like to pay a fine. But before we get on to it, lets have a quick look who Parking Eye is:
Who Is ParkingEye?
ParkingEye Ltd is one of the UK’s largest private parking management companies. They operate parking systems for supermarkets, hospitals, retail parks, and other private landowners.
Their technology uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to record vehicles entering and leaving car parks. When a car stays longer than the permitted time or breaches terms and conditions, ParkingEye can issue a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) to the registered keeper’s address.
While these fines aren’t criminal offences like council-issued penalties, they are civil charges – and they can be enforced through the courts if ignored.
How to Contact Parking Eye
ParkingEye can be difficult to reach directly, but there are a few ways to contact them:
By post:
ParkingEye Ltd
PO Box 117
Blyth
NE24 9EJ
(Always send correspondence by recorded or special delivery.)
By phone: 0330 555 4444 (for payments only).
By email: info@parkingeye.co.uk (responses may be limited).
They also have an online chat service and a web contact form, though response times can vary.
Do I Have to Pay a ParkingEye Fine?
You don’t necessarily have to pay straight away. If you believe the fine was wrongly issued, you have the right to appeal.
However, there are deadlines: ParkingEye usually gives you 28 days from the date on the notice to appeal.
If you intend to challenge it, don’t pay the fine while your appeal is being reviewed.
If your appeal is rejected, you can escalate it to an independent appeal service (POPLA) within a further 28 days.
How to Appeal a Parking Eye Fine
You can appeal either:
Online via the ParkingEye website, or
By post (recorded delivery recommended).
Make sure you clearly explain your reasons for appealing and provide as much supporting evidence as possible.
Common Grounds for Appealing a ParkingEye Fine
You may have valid grounds to appeal if:
You weren’t given a 10-minute grace period before being charged.
Your vehicle broke down and you were waiting for assistance.
You have a disability or health condition that delayed your departure.
You were pregnant or unwell at the time.
Parking signage was unclear or missing.
You experienced an emergency.
You paid for parking and have proof of payment.
You received the notice more than 14 days after the alleged offence.
You no longer owned the vehicle (for example, it was leased or returned to a subscription provider).
Always include receipts, photos, or any other documentation that supports your case.
What Happens If You Lose Your Appeal
If ParkingEye rejects your appeal, you can take it to POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals) – an independent body that reviews private parking disputes.
You must submit your POPLA appeal within 28 days.
Provide all evidence again – photos, receipts, correspondence, etc.
If POPLA sides with you, the fine is cancelled.
If they uphold ParkingEye’s decision, you’ll need to pay within 28 days.
Failing to pay after this stage could result in your case being referred to Direct Collections Bailiffs Ltd or even escalated to court, which may lead to a County Court Judgement (CCJ) that can damage your credit record.
I Never Received the Original Fine — What Should I Do?
It’s not uncommon for fines to go to an old or incorrect address, especially after moving home.
If you’ve only just learned about a ParkingEye fine via a debt collection letter:
Contact ParkingEye immediately to explain that you never received the original notice.
Contact the debt collector (such as Direct Collections Bailiffs Ltd) to request a hold on any further action while the situation is reviewed.
Provide proof of your current address and any documentation showing you didn’t receive previous correspondence.
This may allow you to reset the appeal process and resolve the issue before it escalates.
If You Have a Leased or Subscription Vehicle
If your car is leased or part of a subscription service, the fine will usually be sent to the registered keeper – your leasing or subscription company.
These companies often pass the fine to you and may add an admin fee for handling the paperwork.
If the fine is later cancelled or found to be issued in error, you can:
Request a refund of the fine from ParkingEye.
Ask the lease or subscription provider to reconsider the admin charge (though they are not legally obliged to refund it).
If you’re unsure whether your subscription includes insurance, servicing, or fine handling, check your contract – and make sure your insurance policy details reflect the correct vehicle and address.
What Is ANPR and How Does It Work?
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) is the camera technology used by companies like ParkingEye to monitor car park usage.
The cameras record vehicles entering and leaving a car park, matching this data with the DVLA’s vehicle register to issue parking charge notices.
Important: Keep Your Insurance Updated
Whenever you receive a fine, sell a car, or move home, remember to update your car insurance policy to make sure your address and vehicle details are correct.
Having the wrong address on file could affect your cover or even lead to a refused claim in the event of an accident.
You can quickly check that you’re fully protected by comparing car insurance quotes at einsure.uk – it only takes a few minutes and ensures your policy stays valid and up to date.
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. einsure.uk is not affiliated with ParkingEye or any debt collection agency. For specific queries about an outstanding ParkingEye fine, contact the company directly using the contact details above.