Insuring LHD vehicles

#1

Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance point
of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking at the
options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in Europe. I know I
could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of features on non-UK
models might suit me better. However, a friend has just reminded me that
there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even if other features are common.

--
Chris

#2

Chris wrote:

Quote:

Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance point
of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking at the
options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in Europe. I know I
could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of features on non-UK
models might suit me better. However, a friend has just reminded me that
there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even if other features are common.

I don't think it'd be extortionate. It will be a bit more expensive, but

shouldn't be excessive.

The best thing is to try getting several quotes for both LHD and RHD
versions.

It seems like a good thing to do if you find yourself driving on the
continent a lot although you'll have to budget for converted headlamps
(I'm presuming the Picasso doesn't have switchable beams).

Rich

#3

In news:5b65kdF2pvofsU1 (AT) mid (DOT) individual.net,
Chris <discard.this (AT) tiscali (DOT) co.uk> wittered on forthwith;

Quote:

Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance
point of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking
at the options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in
Europe. I know I could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of
features on non-UK models might suit me better. However, a friend has
just reminded me that there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even
if other features are common.

There's normally no premium, although they do always ask.

--
Pete M - Using the Scouse Side of the Force -
Golf GTi Mk2 2.0 8v
Wood and Pickett Range Rover V8 Turbo
Golf GTi Mk1 (For Sale)
OMF#9

Currently listening to The White Stripes

#4

Richard Polhill wrote:

Quote:

Chris wrote:
Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance
point of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking at
the options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in Europe. I
know I could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of features on
non-UK models might suit me better. However, a friend has just reminded
me that there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even if other features
are common.

I don't think it'd be extortionate. It will be a bit more expensive, but
shouldn't be excessive.

The best thing is to try getting several quotes for both LHD and RHD
versions.

It seems like a good thing to do if you find yourself driving on the
continent a lot although you'll have to budget for converted headlamps
(I'm presuming the Picasso doesn't have switchable beams).

Rich

Thanks, Rich, and to Pete M. This sound reassuring, and I'll ask for
different quotes.

Driving throughout Europe a lot was one of the other reasons I'm considering
it. You're right that the Picasso doesn't have switchable beams (this being
the only thing I'd need to change). In fact, the cost of replacing the lamp
units (according to someone who works for a dealer at
www.citroenpicasso.org.uk) the costs are horrendous, and - more
mysteriously - different for each side! However, I'd hope those would be
absorbed if it was specified as such on the order.

--
Chris

#5

In article <5b65kdF2pvofsU1 (AT) mid (DOT) individual.net>, Chris says...

Quote:

Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance point
of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking at the
options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in Europe. I know I
could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of features on non-UK
models might suit me better. However, a friend has just reminded me that
there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even if other features are common.

Not only that, you'll have to sell it at some point and a LHD is going

to be a bitch to get rid of.

--
Conor

Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright
until you hear them speak.........

#6

Conor wrote:

Quote:

Not only that, you'll have to sell it at some point and a LHD is going
to be a bitch to get rid of.

I like 'em. Not Picassos, obviously, but left-hookers.

--
vulgarandmischevious

#7

"Chris" <discard.this (AT) tiscali (DOT) co.uk> wrote

Quote:

Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance
point
of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking at the
options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in Europe. I know I
could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of features on non-UK
models might suit me better. However, a friend has just reminded me that
there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even if other features are
common.

It makes very little difference compared to your insurance group and
postcode.

Z

#8

Quote:

Any advice on whether it's worth considering a LHD from the insurance
point of view? I'm not looking to buy an exotic model; just looking at
the options for importing a new C4 Picasso from elsewhere in Europe. I
know I could get a RHD to UK spec, but the combinations of features on
non-UK models might suit me better. However, a friend has just reminded
me that there may be hefty premiums for the LHD, even if other features
are common.
I don't think it'd be extortionate. It will be a bit more expensive, but
shouldn't be excessive.

My ex-Germany LHD Alfa 33 used to cost me an additional 10%, my ex-USA LHD
YJ Jeep probably circa +20%. My old ex-Belgium LHD mk3 Escort seemed to
make no difference to the premium. I bought them at a time when LHD meant
you got the car cheaper, unlike now when everyone is paying more for them as
they are good for 'one's second home in the sun'.

Quote:

It seems like a good thing to do if you find yourself driving on the
continent a lot although you'll have to budget for converted headlamps
(I'm presuming the Picasso doesn't have switchable beams).
Driving throughout Europe a lot was one of the other reasons I'm
considering
it. You're right that the Picasso doesn't have switchable beams (this
being
the only thing I'd need to change). In fact, the cost of replacing the
lamp
units (according to someone who works for a dealer at
www.citroenpicasso.org.uk) the costs are horrendous, and - more
mysteriously - different for each side! However, I'd hope those would be
absorbed if it was specified as such on the order.

My Alfa had a spare set of RHD lights, both front and rear, as the front
beams dip opposite ways and the rear fog light is on the opposite side. You
are best sourcing your RHD lights from a scrapyard!

To be a little different, make sure your dog sits on the (RH) passenger
seat, with his front paws on the dashboard. You WILL get lots of second
glances from other motorists!

A

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Insuring LHD vehicles

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