What makes a 4x4 a classic or specialist risk?
If your 4x4 is 20 years old or it is modified to enable you to use it for off roading or green laning, then it is likely to qualify for our specialist insurance from our panel of providers.
Classic 4x4s deserve to be protected with specialist insurance. Discover what’s included with classic or specialist 4x4 cover and where to find the right policy at the right price for your classic vehicle.
These vehicles have plenty of space to bring your growing family on trips or battle rough terrain for a rugged walk with your dog in the hills. They’re perfect for towing trailers, horse boxes and caravans, below are a few more benefits of owning a classic 4x4:
- Improved traction: Four-wheel drive systems provide power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, resulting in improved traction. This is particularly beneficial in harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow, and ice. When all four wheels are powered, the vehicle is less likely to slip or skid, providing safer driving conditions. For example, if you're driving in heavy snow, a 4WD (Four Wheel Drive) vehicle can make it easier to get up a slippery hill.
- Off-road capability: 4WD vehicles excel in off-road conditions. Whether it's rocky terrain, steep hills, sand dunes, or muddy paths, the additional power provided to the wheels helps the vehicle navigate these challenging environments. For example, a 4WD truck or SUV can power through a muddy trail that a two-wheel drive vehicle would get stuck in.
- Towing capacity: Vehicles with 4WD usually have higher towing capacities. This is because the power is evenly distributed among all four wheels, providing more force to pull heavy loads. So, if you need to tow a boat, trailer, or another vehicle, a 4WD vehicle would be a more efficient choice.
- Resale value: Generally, 4WD vehicles hold their value better than their 2WD counterparts. This is due to their versatility and the high demand for 4WD vehicles, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions or rough terrains.
- Versatility: A 4WD system doesn't always need to be engaged, many vehicles offer the ability to switch between 2WD and 4WD. This allows the driver to decide when to use 4WD based on the driving conditions, making it a versatile choice for those who need both the fuel efficiency of a 2WD and the power of a 4WD.
- Enhanced performance: Four-wheel drive systems often lead to enhanced vehicle performance. Acceleration can be improved as power is supplied to all wheels, and some 4WD systems can offer better handling and cornering, especially at high speeds or in specific driving conditions.
With such a wide range of uses, these classic vehicles deserve to be protected, which is why at Lancaster Insurance Services, we’ve specially crafted car insurance plans to meet the needs of 4x4 owners.
Whether you drive a Land Rover, Nissan Terrano, or Mitsubishi Shotgun, we’ll come up with a quote based on your circumstances.
Some of the classic 4x4 vehicles that we insure are:
- Landrover 90, 88 (short wheel base)
- Landrover 109, 110 (long wheel base) Mitsubishi Shotgun
- Landrover series 1, 2 or 3
- Ex-Military vehicles*
- Isuzu Trooper Willys Jeep
- Suzuki Jimny
*When insuring an ex-military vehicle, please contact one of our customer service representatives to discuss your vehicle before taking out a policy with us.
We know that finding the ideal coverage for your big investment is time-consuming, so let us do the hard work for you!
With over decades of experience in the 4x4 market and as classic car lovers ourselves, you can be sure we’ll come up with the right policy for you.
So, get in touch with us today for a quick quote.
What is 4x4 insurance?
4x4 insurance protects your classic motor in case of accidental damage, fire, or theft. It covers your vehicle against the unexpected and helps you recoup some of the costs.
At Lancaster Insurance Services, we are classic car enthusiasts and understand just how much time and money has gone into your prized possession.
We know you’re looking for more than just affordable car insurance – you need a high-quality product and service you can trust.
Is 4x4 cover different to classic car insurance?
4x4 insurance is like regular classic car insurance in that you have the same levels of cover to choose from. You can also choose from similar extras like breakdown cover and legal protection.
The specific 4x4 cover is where the insurance plans vary most, especially when it comes to driving off-road and green laning. You’ll need to check the details of your personal car insurance policy to see what is and isn’t covered.
What’s covered by 4x4 insurance?
A comprehensive 4x4 insurance plan through Lancaster Insurance Services provides the highest level of protection for your vehicle, covering it against accidental damage, fire and theft.
You’ll get cover for off-roading and green laning and can also enjoy special discounts on your insurance if you belong to a classic car club.
Our 4x4 insurance policies come with free cover in the EU for up to 90 days and give you a choice of repairer.
You can also opt for modified 4x4 insurance in the UK if you’ve made changes to the vehicle or get laid-up cover if you’ve declared it SORN.
All Lancaster Insurance Services policies provide a 24-hour claims hotline to get you help around the clock from our helpful UK-based call centre.
Are there exclusions to 4x4 insurance?
Yes, as with all types of car insurance plans, some exclusions apply. Certain cars might not get coverage due to a low annual mileage, a high valuation, or having a young driver.
You might also find it harder to get insurance if you have previous claims and convictions. If you're looking to insure your classic vehicle and are unsure as to whether you're able to take out a policy with us here at Lancaster, please contact our team on 01480 484826.
We understand that every 4x4 is unique and so are your circumstances, which is why we always search our panel of insurers to see what’s possible for you.
How much does it cost to insure my 4x4?
Like with any classic car insurance policy, there’s no one price fits all when it comes to 4x4 cover. The car insurance quotes you get for your vehicle will depend on:
- Your age
- Your vehicle’s age
- The make and model of your 4x4
- Where you will leave it overnight and during the day
- Where you live
- Your driving history, claims and convictions
- Whether you add it to a multi-car insurance plan
- Whether it’s been modified
- Optional extras you choose to add to your cover
Contact the Lancaster Insurance Services team to get a quote by calling 01480 484826 or asking us to call you back at a time that suits you.
Why is 4x4 insurance more expensive than regular car insurance?
4x4s generally fall into higher insurance groups because:
- They’re bigger and heavier than regular cars and more capable of causing damage
- They’re more expensive to buy
- They’re more expensive to repair
- They’re more likely to be used in high risk, off-road environments
- They’re more attractive to thieves
What is green lane insurance?
Green laning is a popular pastime for many 4x4 owners, and it’s easy to see why! This adventurous pursuit involves taking your motor along unsurfaced roads – think rough terrains and winding trails – such as byways and unclassified roads.
It’s a wonderful way to explore the lesser seen parts of the UK that isn’t possible in your regular car.
Taking your 4x4 along bumps and twists means you’ll need the best possible protection in case of accidental damage, and that’s where we come in.
Green lane insurance protects your vehicle on these exhilarating drives and can get you back on the road in an emergency.
Don’t forget to tell us if you’re a member of a 4x4 club, as you may be able to get a discount on your cover.
What is off-road insurance cover?
While some might confuse green laning with off-roading, they are quite different. When you’re green laning, you stick to unpaved roads but with off-roading, you could drive literally anywhere, like through a field or woodland.
You’ll need the landowner’s permission, of course, but do you need insurance to go off-roading?
Yes, even though you won’t be driving on the road, you still need to cover your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Classic 4x4 insurance with Lancaster Insurance Services can cover your vintage vehicle both on and off the road. Give our team of specialists a call on 01480 484826 to get an insurance quote for your motor.
Can I get modified 4x4 car insurance in the UK?
If you’ve spent time and money modifying your 4x4 to be the vehicle of your dreams, you’ll want the right cover, which means speaking to the Lancaster Insurance Services team about our modified 4x4 insurance policies.
In unique circumstances like this, our expert valuation team will look at your classic car and agree its worth with you, which we guarantee you will get back if you ever need to make a total loss claim on your car insurance.
Is it worth getting a 4x4?
With more and more people trading in their smaller vehicles for a 4x4, you might be tempted yourself. These classic motors provide a few benefits over regular cars:
Great for off-roading
Not every 4x4 owner will take their classic car off-road, but if you love to head up into the mountains or take your motor to a muddy festival, you know your beast of a machine will be able to handle it.
Ideal for towing
Got a horsebox or caravan you need to tow? 4x4s are ideal for heavy duty roles like this.
More spacious
From dogs to camping gear, 4x4s give you plenty of room no matter what you need to carry.
What are the most popular 4x4s?
There’s something exhilarating about getting behind the wheel of your 4x4 and heading off-road for a rugged adventure, but which are some of the best classic 4x4s to own?
Here are some of the classic 4x4s we can cover:
- Jeep Wrangler
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Range Rover
- Land Rover Discovery
- Vauxhall Frontera
- Isuzu Trooper
- Nissan Patrol
- Mitsubishi Shogun
- Volkswagen Amarok
- Ford Ranger
Lancaster Insurance Services is committed to supporting the classic car clubs.
Owners club members may enjoy discounts off their insurance premium (the level of discount offered by each insurer differs and is subject to underwriting criteria).
Some of the classic car clubs we currently partner with include MG Owners Club, MX5 Owners Club, VW Golf MK1 Owners Club, VW T25 Club and many more.
If your club isn’t on our Classic Car Club page or wish to partner with Lancaster Insurance Services please call 01480 220065 or visit our Classic Car Club page for more details.
At Lancaster we understand that not every situation is the same, especially when it comes to Classic Cars.
That is why in addition to our Lancaster Classic Car insurance service, we can also arrange the below:
Modified Classic Car Insurance
Multi-vehicle Insurance
Wedding Car Insurance
Limited Mileage Insurance
Laid Up Cover
Two Year Agreed Valuation
If you would like to know more details regarding the above offers, please call us on please call us on 01480 484826 or click here and we’ll call you back at a time that’s best for you.
Are you passionate about Classic Cars?
Here at Lancaster, we not only provide Classic Car Insurance but we’re constantly looking for ways to support the Classic Car community at events, sponsorship's, giveaways and sharing care tips for classic vehicles.
We’ve partnered with the team at Meguiar’s to showcase one of their awesome products each month.
This time we’re featuring the Meguiar’s Ultimate Snow Foam contains a specialized Xtreme Cling foaming action that delivers an intense foam that sticks and clings to painted surfaces gently loosening road grime, dirt and contaminants.
Fine-tuned to carefully and thoroughly clean coated, waxed or sealed finishes while preserving protection and leaving a brilliant, swirl-free shine.
We will listen to your requirements for cover, and discuss the best options with our panel of expert underwriters, to see if we can cover your cherished vehicle.
Call our specialist team on 01480 484826 or we’ll call you back at a time that’s best for you and let Lancaster Insurance Services help you.
In May 2018 the Department for Transport announced that cars that were built more than 40 years ago exempt from MOT testing, with the option for owners to voluntarily have their car tested if they feel it needs checking.
Where can I find 4x4 car insurance guides and quotes?
You’ll find everything you need regarding 4x4s and car insurance for your vehicle with Lancaster Insurance Services.
We’re passionate about these classic motors and love to share our wealth of knowledge with fellow enthusiasts on our site.
To get a insurance quote for your vehicle, you can either fill out our online form, give us a call on 01480 484826, or request a call back.
Make sure you have the following information to hand before getting in touch:
- Your full name, address, date of birth, email address, and phone number
- Your employment status and details
- Your driving licence number
- Driving history (claims and convictions)
- The vehicle’s number plate and current mileage
We’ll search our panel of trusted insurers to come up with a policy that suits your needs.
Why should I insure my 4x4 with Lancaster Insurance Services?
At Lancaster Insurance Services, we’re more than just your regular car insurance provider – we’re passionate about vintage motors of all kinds and we know exactly what it takes to protect a classic 4x4.
Our helpful team will search our panel of insurers to see if we can help protect your 4x4 against accidental damage, fire, and theft.
With a wealth of knowledge and experience in the 4x4 market, we can arrange car insurance for a huge variety of 4x4 and off-road vehicles. Whether you need protection for a Volvo XC90 or car insurance for a modified motor.
What’s covered with your policy? Look at our 4x4 car insurance benefits:
- 4x4 car club member discounts available
- 24-hour claims helpline
- Choice of repairer
- Community First Response (available upon referral)
- Free EU cover up to 90 days
- Green laning and off-road car insurance
- Limited mileage discounts available
- Salvage retention
- UK-based call centre
That’s not all – our classic car insurance options don’t stop with 4x4s. If you own another vintage vehicle you need to protect, get in touch.
We have a range of policies, including:
- Modified car insurance
- Military vehicle cover
- Laid-up car protection
- Kit car insurance
- Quad bike policies
- Campervan and motorhome insurance
- Wedding car cover
- Multi car insurance
- Electric car protection
Insuring your vehicle with the experts at Lancaster Insurance Services may provide the cover your vintage motor deserves.
Is it easy to make a claim on my car insurance?
Yes. Making a claim through our 24-hour claims hotline is simple. Just give our helpful team a call on 01480 484802 and we’ll tell you everything you need to file a case and guide you through the whole process.
For stolen cars, we’ll need your unique crime reference number that you can get from the police.
For damaged 4x4s, we’ll send a surveyor to assess your car and check whether you are eligible to claim.
Limited Mileage
If you only travel a small number of miles a year, make sure you let us know.
This will may decrease the cost of your policy.
Owners Club Members
Don’t forget to let us know if you are part of a member’s club.
This will entitle you to discounts off any of our 4x4 insurance policies.
So if you’re not currently a club member, we encourage you to join one.
The savings are there for you!
Add Another Driver
Don’t forget that in some cases adding an experienced driver to your policy could reduce the cost.
Modifications
When modifications have been made to vehicles it can sometimes be hard to find a cost-effective policy.
Lancaster will always endeavour to find our best price, so make sure you tell us about all the modifications on your car.
Keep In Garage
Ensure your vehicle is kept in a secure garage overnight, this could keep the costs down.
If your vehicle is too large for a garage, which can be the case with most ex-military vehicles, keeping your car on the driveway as opposed to on a public road may help to reduce your insurance costs.
Why not try a few of these tips? You never know, you may save more than you think!
Alternatively, you can telephone us to discuss your specific classic car insurance requirements.
Get 4x4 car insurance quotes today
As classic car enthusiasts, we understand just how special every 4x4 is to their owner and want to give them the protection they deserve.
With over 20 years’ experience in 4x4 car insurance, we’re the specialists you need to find the right cover.
Are you ready to insure your 4x4 with a personalised policy?
Contact Lancaster Insurance Services today for a quick quote. Fill out your details online or speak to one of our specialists and we’ll talk you through the policies we have to offer!
Available Benefits at a Glance:
- 4x4 Car Club member discounts available
- Greenlaning & off road cover
- Community First Response*
- Choice of repairer
- Free EU cover up to 90 days
- Salvage retention
- Limit Mileage Discounts Available
- 24 Hour Claims Helpline
- UK Based Call Centre
*(available upon referral)