As October rolls around in Germany, there’s a noticeable spike in people evaluating or changing their car insurance. If you’ve ever wondered why this particular time of year sees such a flurry of activity, you’re not alone. The reality is, there are key reasons why October has become the unofficial “car insurance comparison month” in Germany. If you haven’t already reviewed your policy, it might be time to think about it. Here’s why.
The Significance of October for Car Insurance in Germany
In Germany, car insurance contracts typically run on a calendar-year basis, with the end of the policy term falling on December 31st. However, most insurance providers require a cancellation notice to be submitted by November 30th. This means that if you want to switch providers, you must notify your insurer before the end of November. Since the process of evaluating offers and making decisions takes time, many people start comparing options in October to give themselves a head start.
If you’re looking for an easy way to compare insurance offers, you can use this tarifcheck comparison portal to find the best deal according to your individual preferences.
Why Changing Car Insurance in October Makes Sense
- Price Adjustments for the New Year
Every year, car insurance providers reassess their pricing models based on multiple factors, including claims data, inflation, and changes in vehicle risk categories. Many providers release their updated premiums in October. This gives consumers a clear picture of the new rates and the opportunity to switch to a cheaper or more comprehensive provider for the upcoming year.
2. Updated Risk Classes
Each year, Germany’s GDV (Gesamtverband der Deutschen Versicherungswirtschaft) updates the regional and vehicle type risk classes. If your vehicle or your region has been reclassified into a higher risk group, your premiums could rise. Conversely, if your car or region is deemed lower-risk, you could find cheaper offers. October is when these new classifications become visible, making it the ideal time to check if your current policy is still the best deal.
If your premiums have gone up, it’s a good idea to use the tarifcheck comparison portal to find a more affordable option that still meets your coverage needs.
3. Special Offers and Discounts
Knowing that many consumers are in the market for better deals in the final months of the year, insurance companies often roll out special offers or discounted rates to entice new customers. These promotions are particularly visible in October and November. By starting your comparison early, you stand a better chance of securing these limited-time deals before they expire.
4. Bundling Opportunities
Many providers offer incentives for bundling multiple insurance products together, such as home, liability, and car insurance. October is a good time to see if your provider or a new one has advantageous bundling options that could save you money across multiple types of coverage.
5. The Impact of No-Claims Discounts
In Germany, insurers often offer no-claims discounts (Schadenfreiheitsrabatt), rewarding drivers for each year they go without filing a claim. These discounts are recalculated annually, and October is a good time to check if your driving record qualifies you for a better discount, either with your current provider or a new one. Insurers also may have different policies on how no-claims years are credited, and a switch could result in significant savings.
6. More Coverage for Less
While price is important, coverage matters too. October provides a window to compare not just costs but the actual benefits and services offered. You may find that you can get broader coverage — such as better accident assistance, windscreen protection, or coverage for damage caused by wildlife — at the same or lower cost than your current policy.
Use the tarifcheck portal to compare policies and explore whether you can get more coverage without increasing your premiums.
7. Easy Online Comparisons
In today’s digital age, comparing car insurance has never been easier. October is an excellent time to use online comparison portals like tarifcheck to swiftly get a sense of how your current policy stacks up against the competition. These tools allow you to review multiple options based on your personal situation, vehicle type, driving history, and other relevant factors. With a few clicks, you could be on your way to a better deal.
Factors to Consider When Changing Car Insurance
While October is the perfect time to explore new options, it’s essential to take into account several factors when switching your car insurance:
- Deductibles: Ensure that the deductibles (Selbstbeteiligung) for various types of coverage — such as comprehensive or collision insurance — fit your budget and needs.
- Policy Features: Look beyond price. Does the insurance cover specific risks important to you? How responsive is the customer service? Does the policy include legal protection (Rechtsschutz)?
Cancellation Terms: Be aware of how and when to properly cancel your existing policy. Missing the November 30th deadline may lock you into another year with your current insurer, even if you find a better offer.
Conclusion
With the combination of annual premium updates, special discounts, and the looming November 30th cancellation deadline, October is the optimal time for reviewing and potentially changing your car insurance in Germany. By comparing offers, you could save hundreds of euros, gain better coverage, or both. Don’t wait until it’s too late — take advantage of this yearly window and ensure your car insurance meets both your budget and your protection needs for the year ahead.
For an easy way to compare your options, use the tarifcheck portal and find the perfect insurance policy for you.
What is Tarifcheck
Tarifcheck is a trusted comparison portal that operates in partnership with Check24, one of Germany’s largest online comparison platforms. While Check24 offers a wide range of comparison services across multiple sectors, including energy, insurance, and travel, Tarifcheck specializes in insurance comparisons, helping users quickly find the best car insurance deals tailored to their individual needs. By leveraging the comprehensive databases of both platforms, Tarifcheck ensures a seamless and reliable experience for consumers looking to save on their insurance policies.
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