Premium increase: car insurance is getting more expensive again in 2026
A recent Comparis survey reveals that many car insurers are planning to increase premiums in 2026. Find out why the price of car insurance is rising here.
11.11.2025
iStock/Jinda Noipho
1. Price increases in car insurance: how much are premiums rising?
Several insurers have announced a rise in car insurance premiums in 2026. However, the providers have not disclosed how much premiums will rise.
Many insurers are indicating that premiums are rising, but they are avoiding openly stating the amount or extent of the increases.
The chart shows an index of how car insurance premiums have changed over the last 20 years. What is particularly striking is that premiums fell sharply between 2006 and 2023, but have since risen again significantly.
Comparis surveyed 13 Swiss car insurers (Allianz, AXA, Baloise, Generali, Helvetia, Mobiliar, Postfinance, Simpego, Smile, Sympany, TCS, Vaudoise and Zurich) in writing on premium changes in 2026.
You can read the full press release here (only available in German).
2. Car insurance is becoming more expensive: here’s why
Insurers are providing several reasons for increasing car insurance premiums.
Higher repair costs
One reason for the rise in premiums is what is known as “claims inflation”. In other words, repairs have become significantly more expensive due to more expensive spare parts and higher labour costs.
A Comparis analysis (only available in German) of over 300,000 claims confirms that new vehicles incur higher repair costs than older ones. This is due, for example, to modern components such as LED headlights or driver assistance systems integrated in windscreens.
These newer components are much more expensive to replace than the components in older models. Repairing them requires specialist tools, calibration and longer working hours – which noticeably drives up the overall cost.
More damage caused by severe weather
In recent years, there has been an increase in natural hazard damage as a result of storms – which in turn leads to more repairs.
3. Is it legal for car insurers to increase the premiums of existing customers?
Most insurers state in their general terms and conditions that they may adjust premiums unilaterally. In that case, the premium adjustment is effective at the beginning of the new insurance year.
The contractual terms also usually state that the insurance company must inform you 25 to 30 days before the change takes effect. This gives you time to cancel the contract if necessary.
4. What can I do about higher costs of car insurance?
Has your car insurance got more expensive? These tips may help you save money despite the increase.
1. Check your cover
Check whether you need partial or full casco insurance for your car. Full casco is usually only worthwhile for new and expensive cars. As a general rule, full casco insurance is no longer worth it once a vehicle is six years old – unless your vehicle is particularly expensive.
Also take a look at the additional options in your cover. Some of the protection may already be included in other insurance policies and is therefore unnecessary.
2. Switch car insurance
Is your car insurer raising premiums? If so, you usually have a special right of termination. The exception is if the premium increases due to your behaviour or risk.
It’s best to compare different car insurance providers before cancelling. This will help you find a cheap car insurance policy that suits you.
This article was first published on 18.08.2023
